What you should know before hiring a car in Baltimore
| Baltimore city centre | ||
| Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI): 14 km from city centre | ||
Rent a car in Baltimore
Where to rent a car in Baltimore
Maryland is one of the most picturesque state capitals you can visit, when you are there it would be a crime not to take time to visit Maryland’s hidden gem: Baltimore. Hidden behind a nautical past, people often underestimate Baltimore’s appeal, writing it off as a stereotypical working-class city.
However the city embraces its history by making the harbor the epicenter of the city, hosting open-air concerts, parades entertainment and various other celebrations. Still, they welcome expansion by offering world-class museums, boutique shops and hotels and ethnically diverse restaurants in surrounding neighborhoods.
When you land at Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI) finding your car rental couldn’t be easier! When your flight to Baltimore lands, pick up your car from one of the many car rental companies which are based at the airport: choose from Enterprise, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Hertz and Thrifty. If you would prefer Alamo or National’s car rentals then it is a short shuttle ride away. To ensure you get the best deal search for your ideal car rental on liligo.com, the easiest way to find your best price.
Driving in Baltimore: what you need to know
Driving in winter requires extra care, be sure to leave plenty of time to get to your destination which will prevent you from rushing and driving recklessly. Drive slowly and allow plenty of room between you and the car in front. With an annual seasonal average of more than 20 inches of snow, Baltimore is familiar with rain, sleet and other hazardous weather, which means taking extra care is especially important when driving in this area.
Once you’ve stopped at a red light, wait a few moments before you set off again on the green light, some vehicles tend to drive through red signal lights.
There are a number of affordable garages located throughout downtown Baltimore, on a weekend you can even find free parking if you’re lucky.
Road trips from Baltimore
Deep Creek Lake
If you’re looking for some good old-fashioned family fun then head to Deep Creek Lake in Western Maryland for plenty of water activities and interesting nature – who needs to ocean eh?
Many locals and visitors flock to the lake each year, yet it still remains somewhat of a well-guided secret, here you can escape the crowds and traffic that you would find in Ocean City and really relax among nature.
Deep Lake Creek is 179 miles from Baltimore, but the drive is an experience in itself. You will drive through Frederick and Cumberland – two great spots for lunch. After that your passengers will enjoy a scenic drive and can gaze at the gorgeous architecture and church spires.
Colonial Williamsburg
The largest living history museum in the US is only 192 miles away from Baltimore. Immerse yourself in the Revolutionary city and witness the daily struggles of wartime as you engage with the local community.
You can deal with the tradespeople, debate with political figures; engage with the women and children as you explore the live action history lesson going on right in front of your eyes. Speak to them and learn their hopes and fears in an uncertain world set against the backdrop of a revolution.
Shenandoah National Park
If you’re looking for some wilderness you don’t have far to travel to reach a beautiful and tranquil national park. The Park features 196,000 acres of protected wilderness and the journey of exploration starts on Skyline Drive – a National Scenic Byway that runs the full length of the park. Make the most of your rental car as you cruise through the beautiful scenery with your windows open and music blasting. After your drive, stay the night at Big Meadows Lodge or Lewis Mountain Cabin and cook up a BBQ on the grill.