Traveling By Bus to Baltimore

Take a bus to Baltimore, and you’ll know how the “Charm City” mesmerises you with its beautiful waterfront views, people and experiences. Known as the birthplace of the National Anthem at Fort McHenry, Baltimore gives you a blend of history, scenic views and innovation all at one place. Whether you come from New Jersey, New York or Washington, traveling by bus is affordable, easy, and comfortable with frequent departures and helpful onboard amenities. Use this guide to plan your smooth and budget-friendly trip to Baltimore.

How to Get There: Bus To Baltimore

Megabus gives you one of the easiest and most affordable ways to book your journey and comfortably reach your destination. Take a look at our bus stop page, check our schedules and book your journey.

Megabus Popular Bus To Baltimore routes are:

Learn more about Megabus' top bus routes.

Bus Tickets To Baltimore: What To Expect?

A bus to Baltimore is the most budget-friendly way to reach the city. Standard tickets usually cost from $10, depending on the time, departure location, and the type of carrier you choose.

Here are some tips on getting a cheap bus to Baltimore:

Book 2 to 4 weeks ahead
Compare multiple bus companies
Travel Tuesday to Thursday
Consider early morning or late-night departures
Use comparison websites to find the best rate

Arriving in Baltimore: Know The Area

The Baltimore Downtown Bus Station is the main bus terminal in the city, located on Haines Street. If you’re traveling to Baltimore by bus, there’s a good chance you’ll arrive here. The station is built for efficient travel, but you’ll still find the essential facilities and comforts you need when you arrive.

The terminal sits in a walkable area close to shops, hotels, and transit connections, making onward travel simple. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) operates BaltimoreLink, the city’s local bus network, along with the free shuttle service called the Charm City Circulator, helping you reach nearby neighbourhoods and key attractions with ease.

Tips for Arriving in Baltimore

Check your bus ticket or station screens for your bay number.
The Baltimore Downtown Bus Station serves multiple carriers, and each route may depart from a different bay.
If you want to start exploring right away, you’re not far from downtown.
From the station, you can easily go to shops, hotels, and key city areas using BaltimoreLink buses or the free Charm City Circulator.
Try to keep your luggage manageable.
Although the station is convenient, navigating with heavy bags can be uncomfortable during busy hours.

What Is The Best Way To Get Around Baltimore?

The best way to get around Baltimore will be by car, whether it's your own or a rental. A range of taxis are available to drive you 10 miles north from the airport to the city's downtown area. In the city, you can board a bus operated by Maryland Transit Administration (MTA), which gives a budget-friendly way to explore “Charm City”.

One-way bus fare tickets cost between $1.80 $2.30, while a day pass is available for $4.20. Otherwise, you can get a day pass for $4.20. Keep in mind that if you plan to take a bus in Baltimore, only exact change is accepted.

Megabus Recommendation: What to Do in Baltimore?

Here are the top 5 things to do in Baltimore:

Take a water taxi ride across the Inner Harbor.
Experience the fins and fun at the National Aquarium.
Go for a picnic at Fort McHenry.
Grab Baltimore’s famous crab cakes at Lexington Market.
Visit the railroad museum.

Spring and summer are perfect for harbor cruises, Orioles games at Camden Yards, and strolling the Inner Harbor. Summer also brings outdoor festivals, rooftop dining, and waterfront activities like paddle-boating. Autumn is ideal for exploring historic neighbourhoods like Fell’s Point, visiting farmers’ markets, and enjoying mild weather along the Harborwalk.

Winter is great for museum-hopping at the National Aquarium, Walters Art Museum, and indoor food adventures at Lexington Market.

Where To Stay In Baltimore, Maryland?

After a long, tiring day of sightseeing, you’re going to need a place to crash. Baltimore is widely known for its amenities and extensive hotel accommodations. There are plenty of hotels to choose from, making a Baltimore trip accessible for any traveler.

The most lavish hotels in Baltimore would be the Lord Baltimore Hotel or the Four Seasons Baltimore, putting you in a central location to many of the city’s sights. Alternatively, many hotels, such as the Days Inn Baltimore Inner Harbor, Envy Hotel, or other rentals are available at a lower cost and offer plenty of travel options for your Baltimore trip.

Where To Shop In Baltimore?

Baltimore has history and local charm, together with some great shopping spots across the city.

Start at Lexington Market, one of America’s oldest markets, where local vendors sell everything from fresh seafood to baked goods. Then head to Broadway Market in Fell’s Point for casual bites and boutique shopping.

If you’re looking for some retail therapy, Towson Town Center, White Marsh Mall, and Arundel Mills offer major brands, dining, and entertainment. Around the Inner Harbor, you’ll also find smaller boutiques and speciality shops perfect for unique gifts, antiques, books, vinyl records, and handmade art.

Whether you prefer historic markets or modern malls, Baltimore has something for every shopper.

Nightlife in Baltimore

When the aquarium is closed and the fish are sleeping, nightlife in Baltimore comes alive. There are countless nightlife options on your Baltimore trip.

If you’re looking for some night excitement, the Howl at the Moon Baltimore provides a lively bar with duelling piano shows and giant novelty bucket-style cocktails.

For a more classic pub fare, many locals flock to Mick O’Shea’s Irish Pub for brews, whiskey, and Celtic music on weekends.

For live music fans, The Depot is an outstanding venue to round out your Baltimore trip.

Best Free Things to Do in Baltimore

Baltimore Museum of Art
American Visionary Art Museum
Stroll along Inner Harbor
Fort McHenry
Baltimore’s outdoor monuments

Even the most frugal of travelers will find something to love on their Baltimore trip. One of the greatest reasons to take a Baltimore trip is that it’s known for its free art attractions. Numerous outdoor sculptures are displayed around the city, such as the Mount Vernon Washington Monument.

Many of the museums are free to the public, and the Inner Harbor can be enjoyed without spending a dime. You can even soak in the culture on your Baltimore trip by people-watching in Fell’s Point, where it will often be buzzing with activity and local art is displayed.

Excited for your trip to Baltimore? So are we! Megabus offers the easiest, safest, and most affordable option for traveling to Baltimore. Book your ticket with Megabus and save money on bus tickets, and enjoy your trip without worrying about the journey!