Road Trip:
Washington, D.C. to Baltimore, MD

Road-tripping from Washington, D.C. to Baltimore is an excellent way to explore the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of the Mid-Atlantic region. In this article, we'll cover the history of Baltimore, the type of car you should rent for your trip, how to get there from various points in the D.C. area, safety tips for your journey, and some of the top attractions to enjoy once you arrive.

When planning your trip to Baltimore, consider the type of car you'd like to rent. With Kyte, you have various options, including economy, sedan, SUV, and AWD vehicles. For most travelers, a comfortable sedan or economy car should suffice. If you're visiting during the winter months, an AWD or SUV may provide better traction and handling in icy or snowy conditions. Regardless of your choice, Kyte will deliver the perfect rental car to meet your needs.

The drive from Washington, D.C. to Baltimore is straightforward and should take approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes, covering a distance of 38.5 miles. To get there, simply take MD-295 N/Baltimore-Washington Parkway all the way to Baltimore. Enjoy a scenic drive and a pleasant road trip along the route.

Kyte services Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport from a handover spot near the airport. To pick up your rental car, head to the Crystal City Metro station located at 1750 S Clark St, Crystal City, Arlington, VA 22202. To get there from the airport, take the Yellow or Blue Metro Line from the Ron.Rea.Wash.National station stop, just one stop to the Crystal City Metro station. This is a 2-minute ride, and the train stops at the airport every 10 minutes (local public transit fares apply). Kyte will deliver your car to the corner of 18th and South Bell Street, just outside the metro station. For the return, please drop your car off to the Kyte Surfer at the same location.

From the Crystal City Metro station, take I-395 N to merge onto MD-295 N/Baltimore-Washington Parkway.

Unfortunately, Kyte does not yet service Dulles International Airport directly. However, you can easily take a rideshare to anywhere within Kyte's service area, either in D.C. or Arlington. Once you've arrived at your destination, follow the directions from the previous routes to get to Baltimore.

Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind during your road trip:

Obey traffic laws and follow posted speed limits.

Baltimore offers a variety of attractions for visitors to enjoy, from outdoor activities to shopping and dining. The city's diverse neighborhoods, each with its distinct charm and character, invite exploration and discovery. Stroll through the picturesque streets of Mount Vernon, marvel at the historic architecture in Fells Point, or enjoy the waterfront views at the Inner Harbor. Whether you're a history buff, a food lover, or an adventure seeker, Baltimore has something to offer everyone, ensuring a memorable and engaging experience for all who visit this vibrant and dynamic city.

Baltimore boasts an impressive array of parks and trails for hiking and biking enthusiasts, providing ample opportunities to explore the city's natural beauty and stay active during your visit. Some popular options include:

Explore the unique shops and boutiques in neighborhoods like Fells Point, Hampden, and Federal Hill, where you can find one-of-a-kind gifts, local artisan products, and fashionable clothing. These areas also host lively markets, such as the Broadway Market in Fells Point and the Cross Street Market in Federal Hill, offering fresh produce, gourmet treats, and handmade crafts.

Baltimore's food scene offers a wide range of dining options, from iconic seafood and crab cakes at renowned establishments to international cuisine representing flavors from around the world. The city's thriving restaurant scene showcases the culinary talents of innovative chefs, who create memorable dining experiences by blending local ingredients and global influences.

Baltimore is also known for its vibrant events and festivals, which showcase the city's artistic spirit and cultural diversity. One such event is the annual Artscape, the largest free arts festival in the United States. Held every July, Artscape attracts over 350,000 visitors and features more than 150 artists, designers, and craftspeople. The festival offers a wide array of activities, including live music performances, outdoor sculpture installations, art exhibitions, street theater, and hands-on workshops for all ages. Food vendors provide delicious cuisine, while a lively artist market lets you take home a piece of Baltimore's thriving arts scene.

Another popular event in Baltimore is the Maryland Film Festival, held each May. This five-day festival showcases the best in American and international independent cinema, offering a diverse selection of feature films, documentaries, and shorts. Attendees have the opportunity to meet filmmakers, participate in panel discussions, and attend workshops aimed at fostering a love for cinema and the art of filmmaking. Other notable events include the Baltimore Book Festival, which celebrates the literary arts each September, and Light City, a captivating festival of light, music, and innovation that takes place in November. No matter when you visit, Baltimore's events and festivals offer something for everyone, ensuring a memorable and engaging experience in Charm City.