Baltimore may not be the biggest city in the United States, but it surely is the most abundant one in terms of parks, forests, and beautiful nature in general. These conditions make Baltimore and its outskirts one of the most picturesque places in Maryland for your leaf-peeping adventure. Read on to find out about the perfect time to visit the city and its top three fall-foliage spots.
When to go
The golden season in Maryland is super short, and Baltimore is no exception. The leaves normally start turning orange in early October. And by the time the calendar approaches the end of the month, you can witness all flora turn red, yellow, and orange. After that, leaves start falling down, ending this fairytale time of the year. Thus, the best time to visit Baltimore for fall foliage is mid- to late October.
Where to go
While many may argue that Baltimore isn't the top destination to watch rusty fall leaves, it does actually offer amazing places to enjoy the colorful season. Let’s see what there's in store.
Inner Harbor
The waterfront, located in Baltimore's Inner Harbor district, is a perfect location for your leaf-peeping trip. You can take a walk along the waterfront, enjoying the rust-colored leaves and their magnificent reflections in the water. And if you want to reach a new level of relaxation, throw a picnic there with your family or friends.
City parks
Baltimore has a terrific park system with many awesome places to feel the fall vibe. The finest destinations are Druid Hill Park with its dense forests and tree groves; Patterson Park, crowded with lush knolls, oaks, and maple trees; and Cylburn Arboretum, offering amazing views of golden gardens, woodlands, and planted trees. So pick your favorite spot or go the extra mile and visit them all—you won't regret it.
Liberty Reservoir
This destination is the farthest from Baltimore on our list. Located in a 40-minute drive from the city, Liberty Reservoir offers ideal fall-adventure conditions. The area boasts lush forests with all sorts of red, orange, and golden trees, many no-name hiking trails, and, of course, a water reservoir. Water activities include kayaking, boating, and fishing. If you're visiting the area for a short period of time, remember to book your accommodation beforehand (Baltimore is very busy this time of year).
Practical info
What are the top three fall foliage spots in Baltimore for leaf-peeping?
Baltimore has some of the most beautiful spots offering spectacular views of autumn leaves. Inner Harbor in downtown Baltimore is dotted with parks and beautiful trees. Cylburn Arboretum showcases amazing vistas of woodlands and planted trees. City Parks like Druid Hill Park, Patterson Park, and Cylburn Arboretum are also great spots for leaf-peeping, offering breathtaking views of beautiful gardens and dense forests. Show more
When is the best time to visit Baltimore for fall foliage?
Visit Baltimore for fall foliage between mid-October and late October to witness shades of orange, red, and yellow on leaves. This short period provides perfect views and photo-opportunities, and timing is crucial. Weather conditions can also affect the colors. So, tourists should always verify the foliage forecast and keep a check on the weather conditions before visiting Baltimore. Show more
What outdoor activities can I enjoy besides leaf-peeping in Baltimore during fall?
Apart from leaf-peeping, Baltimore offers many options for outdoor activities during autumn. Kayaking, boating, and fishing are popular activities at the Liberty Reservoir. Inner Harbor in Baltimore is perfect for walking along the waterfront and enjoying a picnic with family or friends. Visitors can also enjoy a walk through the parks, which are famously known as Baltimore's green lungs during fall. Show more
What is the weather like in Baltimore during fall?
Fall in Baltimore has a mild temperature ranging from the mid-50s to mid-60s Fahrenheit. Nights can be pretty chilly, and visitors must carry extra layers to keep warm. Precipitation during fall is frequent, so it is always suggested to bring an umbrella or a raincoat when visiting Baltimore during autumn. Show more
Are there any fall festivals or events taking place in Baltimore that I should know about?
Baltimore offers various fall festivals and events for visitors to attend. The Fells Point Fun Festival is famous among visitors, featuring live music, carnival rides, and delicious food. The Baltimore Running Festival incorporates a full marathon, a half-marathon, and a 5K race for running enthusiasts. The Maryland Irish Festival is another popular event. Visitors can keep an eye out for fall activities and events on local calendars while visiting Baltimore. Show more
