Baltimore is an independent city that is located in the center of Maryland, and is situated along the tidal area of the Patapsco River. To distinguish it from Baltimore County, Baltimore is often referred to as Baltimore City. It was founded in 1729, and has made a name for itself by being a major seaport of the United States, plus it has the benefit of being closer to the major Midwestern markets compared to other major seaports that are located on the East Coast of the United States.

A few years ago, the Inner Harbor of Baltimore was a known landing port of entry for immigrants to the United States, as well as being a major manufacturing center. Now, the harbor has become the home to Harborplace, which is a tourist center, shopping and entertainment district. It may be said that Baltimore prides its close access to the harbors so much so that most of its tourist sites are related to this feature.