In the early 19th century, Baltimore was the 3rd largest city in
the United States. As late as 1960, only New York City, Chicago,
Los Angeles, Philadelphia and Detroit had more residents. Such
early prominence explains why Baltimore has accumulated many
philanthropically-endowed cultural sites and numerous historic
sites. Though the City of Baltimore is a compact 78 square
miles, the growing 5-county metro area has a population of 2.5
million and an African American population of 750,000. Though
the TV cop show, Homicide, focuses on Fells Point scenery, that
district is actually one of the safest in the city. In fact,
overall city crime is on a downward trend since year 2000. BWI
is the only U.S. airport to have a dedicated hiker-biker trail.
In operation since 1994, this 12.5-mile scenic trail encircles
airport property and connects hikers, bicyclists, and joggers to
community resources, public transportation and area attractions.
With the Baltimore seaport more than 275 years old, it should
surprise no one