600 N. Charles St.
410-396-0929

HOURS:
Wednesday thru Sunday 10-4pm

ADMISSION:
$1.00

Created by Robert Mills, who later designed the Washington D.C. monument, this 178 foot Doric column was erected in 1829 and is the first architectural monument honoring George Washington. Over a century ago, famous American author Herman Melville attributed these words to the City’s towering edifice: "Great Washington stands aloft on his towering mainmast in Baltimore, and like one of Hercules’ pillars, his column marks that point of human grandeur beyond which few mortals will go."

Strength permitting, Visitors can climb the 228 steps to the top for an interesting view of the City. However, although the monument is somewhat visually intriguing, it can be viewed at a distance from different parts of the City and it will most likely turn up in much of your touring as it lies in the heart of Mt. Vernon Place on Charles St. Moreover, a far better bird’s-eye view of the City is offered at the Top Of The World (World Trade Center, Inner Harbor).

The George Washington Monument is the kind of attraction that should be visited en route to other, more provocative sites. For example, surrounding the Monument, located in the historical Mount Vernon district, are several of Baltimore’s most popular attractions. For example, just a block or two west of the Monument is the Maryland Historical Society, a fascinating 3-floor, museum/art gallery that features authentic artifacts and historical information of the people and events that had the greatest impact on Maryland, and the country as well. Adjacent to the MHS is Antique Row, a cluster of antique shops offering patrons some hard to find collectibles. And just down the street -- on the corner of the square actually -- south of the Monument is Walters Art Gallery, one of the most unique art galleries in the state. There are also many other landmarks contigious to the Monument that note the residences of some of America’s most famed authors, such as: F. Scott Fitzgerald, John Pendleton, and Francis Scott Key.

The best means of getting to the Washington Monument if you’re coming from the Harbor is either by your own private vehicle or on foot. Just find Charles and Monument Streets and you’re there.