Things to Do in Baltimore in December
December weather, activities, events & insider tips
December Weather in Baltimore
Is December Right for You?
Advantages
- Christmas markets from early December through New Year's Eve transform the Inner Harbor and Federal Hill into magical winter wonderlands with local crafts, hot cider, and live music
- Museum season peaks in December - American Visionary Art Museum, Walters Art Museum, and Baltimore Museum of Art offer special holiday exhibitions with shorter lines and locals-only pricing at some venues
- Crab season continues strong through December with Maryland blue crabs still fresh and restaurants offering holiday crab feast specials at 20-30% below summer tourist prices
- Hotel rates drop 40-50% compared to summer peak season, with waterfront hotels offering December packages that include parking and breakfast for under $150/night
Considerations
- Daylight ends by 5:00 PM, severely limiting outdoor sightseeing time and making harbor walks feel rushed
- Chesapeake Bay boat tours and water activities shut down completely in December due to 4°C (39°F) water temperatures and frequent 24+ km/h (15+ mph) winds
- Weather is genuinely unpleasant - expect gray skies 70% of the month with bone-chilling dampness that makes the 6°C (43°F) high feel like -1°C (30°F)
Best Activities in December
Historic Harbor Indoor Museum Circuit
December is perfect for Baltimore's world-class indoor attractions. The National Aquarium maintains comfortable 22°C (72°F) temperatures while outside weather is miserable. American Visionary Art Museum and Walters Art Museum offer special holiday exhibitions. With tourist crowds gone, you'll have galleries nearly to yourself and can spend 3-4 hours per venue without feeling rushed.
Federal Hill and Fells Point Historic Walking Tours
Cold weather actually enhances these historic neighborhood walks - December's bare trees reveal architectural details hidden in summer, and you'll appreciate ducking into historic pubs every few blocks. The cobblestone streets of Fells Point look particularly atmospheric in winter light. Tours run rain or shine with indoor stops planned every 20 minutes.
Christmas Market and Holiday Light Experiences
Baltimore's German-style Christmas markets at Inner Harbor and Federal Hill run from late November through December 30th. December weather creates authentic European winter market atmosphere. Markets feature 40+ vendors selling local crafts, hot mulled wine, and Maryland specialties. Evening light displays along the harbor are spectacular in December's early darkness.
Maryland Crab House Holiday Feasts
December is still prime Maryland blue crab season, and restaurants offer special holiday crab feast menus without summer tourist markup. Heated indoor crab houses provide perfect escape from cold weather. Many venues offer December-only specialties like crab imperial stuffing and holiday crab cakes at 20-30% below peak season prices.
Fort McHenry and Federal Hill Snow Photography
December snowfall (happens 6-8 days per month) transforms Fort McHenry National Monument into a stunning winter landscape. The star-shaped fort looks spectacular against snow and gray Chesapeake Bay. Federal Hill Park offers the best harbor skyline views, especially dramatic in winter weather. Snow typically lasts 2-3 days before melting.
Heated Harbor Cruises and Indoor Boat Tours
While open-air boats shut down, several operators run heated cabin cruises through December. These 90-minute tours showcase Baltimore's maritime history while keeping passengers warm. December's clear air provides excellent skyline photography from the water. Some cruises include hot beverages and light meals.
December Events & Festivals
Miracle on 34th Street Holiday Light Display
This legendary Baltimore neighborhood transforms into a winter wonderland with elaborate house decorations, light displays, and holiday music. Free to walk through, attracts visitors from across the Mid-Atlantic. Houses compete for most creative displays.
New Year's Eve Spectacular at Inner Harbor
Baltimore's biggest annual celebration features live music, fireworks over the harbor, and midnight countdown. Multiple stages set up around Inner Harbor with local bands and food vendors. Free outdoor event with paid VIP areas available.
Walters Art Museum Winter Exhibition Opening
The museum traditionally opens major winter exhibitions in early December, often featuring holiday-themed or winter artwork. Special opening events include curator talks and holiday refreshments.