Baltimore vs DC for Teens? Best Hotels?

Question

Hi All,

Researching a December trip down to the Baltimore/DC area for NFL games.

Will be traveling with a 13 and 15 year old and trying to decide whether to stay 1 night in each city or to base ourselves in DC 2 nights and just commute to the Ravens game from DC. 2 of us will be going to the Ravens and 2 will be exploring whatever city we are based in, so I was wondering if DC is better shall we base ourselves there the whole weekend. Besides the sporting events, we would want good shopping, good restaurants, fun places for sweets/desserts, teen friendly interactive museums/experiences, observation decks, rentable city scooters for exploring...

Also, if we stay in Baltmimore for 1 night - looking for nicest hotel recommendations, preferably in walking distance to Ravens Stadium. Price is flexible, just want something that is clean, safe, maybe some luxury, maybe renovated or new, a pool would be nice but not required. I started looking and several hotels have very mixed reviews.

Thank you!

Answer

For a December trip with teens to the Baltimore/DC area, both cities offer unique experiences, but your choice may depend on convenience, interests, and logistics related to the Ravens game.

Base in DC for two nights: If you stay in DC, commuting to Baltimore for the Ravens game is feasible by Amtrak from Union Station (about 30–35 minutes each way). This option allows you to explore DC without packing and changing hotels, giving your teens access to DC’s extensive museums, shopping, and interactive activities.

Teen-friendly DC activities: The Smithsonian museums (Air & Space, American History, Natural History) are free and interactive. The International Spy Museum and Madame Tussauds can be fun for teens. Observation decks like the Washington Monument and the new The Wharf Ferris Wheel provide city views.
Shopping & food: Georgetown, CityCenterDC, and Union Market offer shopping and dining options. Look for sweet shops like Baked & Wired or Georgetown Cupcake.
Outdoor exploration: Teens can rent scooters or bikes to explore the National Mall, Tidal Basin, or along the waterfront at The Wharf.

Staying in Baltimore for one night: If you choose to stay in Baltimore near M&T Bank Stadium, it’s convenient for the Ravens game and gives you time to explore the Inner Harbor area, which is pedestrian-friendly and has shops, restaurants, and attractions like the National Aquarium.

Hotel recommendations near Ravens Stadium:
- The Four Seasons Hotel Baltimore – Luxury, clean, centrally located near the Inner Harbor, excellent service, pool available.
- Kimpton Hotel Monaco Baltimore – Stylish boutique hotel, walkable to the stadium, good for teens and families, pet-friendly if needed.
- Pendry Baltimore – Newly renovated, modern luxury, close to dining and attractions, rooftop bar with views, fitness center.
- Royal Sonesta Harbor Court – Luxury with waterfront views, indoor pool, family-friendly amenities, short Uber or Lyft to stadium.

Decision considerations: Commuting from DC to Baltimore is straightforward by train, but you’ll need to coordinate timing around the game. If minimizing transfers and hotel changes is a priority, staying all in DC and taking a day trip to the game works well. Baltimore has charm, Inner Harbor activities, and is closer to the Ravens game, but may require switching hotels and packing for just one night.

In summary, for teens interested in museums, interactive experiences, and city exploration, DC offers more variety, while Baltimore is ideal if proximity to the Ravens game is the primary concern. A hybrid approach—one night in Baltimore for the game and two nights in DC for sightseeing—could also work if you don’t mind moving hotels.