MY VIRTUAL VACATIONS
  • Home
  • Blog
  • Destinations
    • Alaska Inside Passage
    • Arizona: Scottsdale and Sedona
    • Mid-Atlantic Region >
      • Baltimore, MD
      • National Harbor, MD
      • Philadelphia, PA
      • Richmond, VA
      • Washington D.C.
    • Bay Area, California
    • Florida >
      • Boca Raton >
        • Boca Raton Resort and Club
      • Fort Lauderdale
      • Key West >
        • Key West Excursions
      • Miami
      • Orlando
    • Bermuda
    • Eastern Caribbean >
      • Carambola Beach Club
    • Western Caribbean
    • Bahamas
  • Ships
    • Celebrity Cruises >
      • Celebrity Cruises Fleet
      • Celebrity Apex
      • Celebrity Beyond
      • Celebrity Equinox
      • Celebrity Reflection
      • Celebrity Silhouette
      • Celebrity Solstice
      • Celebrity Summit
      • Celebrity Constellation
    • Crystal Cruises >
      • Crystal Cruises Fleet
    • Princess Cruises Fleet
    • Norwegian Cruise Line Fleet
    • River Cruises >
      • American Cruise Lines
      • Victory Cruise Lines
    • Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
  • Cabins
    • Celebrity Cabins >
      • Deluxe Staterooms
      • Sky Suite
      • Celebrity Suite
      • Royal Suite
      • The Retreat and Michael's Club
      • Celebrity Cruises Stateroom List
    • Crystal Cabins
    • Princess Cruises
    • Royal Caribbean Cabins
    • Holland America Cabins
  • Dining
    • Hotels and Restaurants
    • Celebrity Dining >
      • Celebrity Specialty Dining >
        • Blu
        • Cafe al Bacio & Gelateria
        • Lawn Club Grill
        • Le Petite Chef
        • Le Voyage
        • Luminae >
          • Luminae for Alaska on Celebrity Solstice
        • Murano
        • The Porch
        • Rooftop Garden Grill
        • Sushi on Five
        • Tuscan Grille
        • Edge Class Dining
      • Menus
      • Celebrity Cruises Drink Packages
      • Celebrity Cruises Room Service
    • Crystal Dining
    • MSC Menus
    • Oceania Menus
    • Princess Dining
  • Entertainment
    • Celebrity Entertainment >
      • Celebrity Cruises Canyon Ranch Spa Services
      • The Alcoves
      • Celebrity Today's
      • Celebrity Cruises for Kids
      • Celebrity Cruises Exclusive Perks
    • Crystal Entertainment
    • Princess Entertainment
    • Royal Caribbean Entertainment
    • Holland America Entertainment
  • Quick Tips
    • FAQs
    • What to Pack for a Cruise
    • Which Cabin is Best for Me?
    • Excursions
    • Cruising with Groups
    • Celebrations
    • Tipping
    • Beauty Tips
    • Quiz
    • Celebrity Cruises Luggage Valet Service
    • Budgeting for Vacation
    • Travel Tip Tuesdays

A Baltimore "Stay-Cation"

8/14/2016

0 Comments

 
Baltimore is internationally known to be a great city for visitors. Famous for local seafood restaurants and terrific family activities such as the National Aquarium and Maryland Science Center, it's a popular vacation destination. However, living in the Baltimore suburbs, we don't go into the city often. So we decided to be tourists for a weekend and find out what makes Baltimore so special. ​
Royal Sonesta Harbor Court
We stayed at the Royal Sonesta Harbor Court . This hotel has always been a Baltimore landmark for upscale family travel and it's still maintaining this image today. Only a short ride to Cruise Maryland at the Port of Baltimore, it is a perfect location for a pre or post cruise stay. 
Harbor Court Hotel Staircase
This dramatic staircase is known to be one of the most beautiful photo opportunities in Baltimore.
Royal Sonesta Harbor Court Hotel Lobby
I love being greeted with fresh flowers!
From the Royal Sonesta Harbor Court, you can easily walk to most of the main attractions Baltimore has to offer. The Maryland Science Center is just a few steps away across the street. Walk a bit further the other direction and you'll find yourself by the National Aquarium, great shopping, and restaurants. ​​
Maryland Science Center
As soon as we arrived, we headed over to Harborplace for unique Maryland themed shopping and delicious fudge and candy at The Fudgery. 
Picture
McCormick is one of Baltimore's oldest companies and has become an icon. They make every kind of delicious spice and flavoring you can imagine.
Picture
Amazing assortment of fudge and candy at The Fudgery. They make the fudge right in front of you too. Just wait for the bell to clang and the fudge show is about to begin!
We stopped for a traditional seafood lunch at the iconic Rusty Scupper. It's located right on the water and has an amazing view of the Baltimore harbor. I love watching the people and boats cruising by while dining.
​After exploring a bit more, we checked into the Royal Sonesta Harbor Court Hotel. For traveling with kids, they have spacious Harborview Rooms with sofa beds or even larger Premier Suites. The suites are perfect for families who need a bit more space.  We had a Harborview Premier Suite and it was perfect. With two large bay windows overlooking the Baltimore harbor, the views were spectacular. 
Baltimore Harbor
This suite has lots of drawer and closet space, a large bar top with refrigerator (even on a stay-cation, we always have leftovers!) and a sofa bed.  There was even plenty of room to have a rollaway brought in if needed. ​
The Suite Life at Harbor Court Hotel
Recently refurbished, our suite's decor and layout are ideal for a family vacation.
Suite at Harbor Court Hotel in Baltimore
The seating area in the bay window is perfect for harbor and people watching.
And the bathroom, SERIOUSLY, the bathroom, was amazing. All marble with double sinks, a huge soaking tub, stand up shower, luxurious bath products and a huge lighted mirror...with a television in it. Yes, a TV is hidden and illuminates in the center of the mirror.  ​You can imagine the look on my boy's faces!
Picture
Fantastic bathroom along with my favorite Italian toiletries.
Picture
Just look in the middle of the mirror and enjoy a program from the soaking tub or while getting dressed.
The activities found in the hotel on the 7th floor are unbelievable. While visiting, you can definitely stay fit with an indoor swimming pool, large fitness room with up-to-date equipment, racquetball court and even a rooftop tennis court. 
Picture
Fantastic equipment in the fitness room.
Picture
Tennis with a view.
After exploring the amenities the hotel has to offer, we had worked up an appetite and were ready for dinner. We went to Explorers, the intimate restaurant and lounge on the second floor of the Harbor Court Hotel. We tried a few signature items from the menu,  as well as drinks from the extensive wine and cocktails list. I highly recommend the spicy-sweet honey chicken wings - they are unbelievably delicous.  
Explorers at Harbor Court
Night time in Baltimore offers so much to do. The Baltimore Water Taxi runs from about mid-morning to evening and can take you from the Inner Harbor to various points in the city.  The #3 Science Center stop is just a short walk from the Royal Sonesta Harbor Court Hotel. Take it over to Fell's Point for local seafood and bars, or experience the upscale restaurants and shops at the newest Harbor East area. If you've never been to Baltimore before, try the infamous Phillips Seafood Restaurant or Hard Rock Cafe.
Baltimore Harbor at Night
Whether heading on a cruise from our beautiful Cruise Maryland terminal, or visiting Baltimore for a family vacation, the Royal Sonesta Harbor Court is a perfect location and fantastic place to stay when enjoying all that our city has to offer. We are already looking forward to our next stay-cation!
Lobby of the Royal Sonesta Harbor Court Hotel
My Virtual Vacations Staycation in Baltimore, Maryland
0 Comments



Leave a Reply.

    Reviews on family cruises and vacations

    My Virtual Vacations Blog

    MyVirtualVacations

    About the Author

    Thanks for cruising by!
    ​​I'm the creator behind this blog, where I share our family’s love for travel, especially cruising. By day, I work full-time in an office—and all the time, I'm a proud mom to two amazing young men. We took our first cruise when they were energetic little boys, and I’ve included plenty of tips for traveling with kids in tow.

    With our packed work and school schedules, we cherish every holiday break and make the most of our time off. We gravitate toward cruises and luxury hotel stays, always on the lookout for family-friendly experiences that offer comfort, elegance, and a touch of indulgence—think spacious suites, gorgeous décor, excellent service, and memorable dining.

    When we're not traveling, you’ll find me enjoying local restaurants or getting creative in my own kitchen with cooking and baking.
    Start dreaming—and planning—your next luxurious getaway, whether by sea or on land, with My Virtual Vacations. I'm always happy to answer questions or offer personalized recommendations to help you make the most of your travels. Be sure to check back often for new blog posts, travel tips, and inspiration—there are always more family adventures on the horizon!
    You'll also find me on Cruise Critic boards as​ SunnyAJ.  Let's connect! ​
    JNachman Photography

    About the Photos

    Our beautiful photographs are creatively captured by my talented freelance husband/photographer located in Baltimore, MD. Click here to explore more of his work.

    Free Download!

    Picture

    Categories

    All
    Alaska
    Arizona
    Aruba
    Bay Area Calfornia
    Bermuda
    Caribbean And Bahamas
    Celebrity Cruises
    Chicago
    Cruise And Travel Tips
    Crystal Cruises
    Europe
    Fairmont Hotels
    Florida
    For Foodies
    Gaylord National Harbor
    Hilton
    Holland America
    Hyatt Hotels
    Iceland
    Kid Friendly Travel
    Kimpton
    Lago Mar Resort And Club
    Lord Baltimore Hotel
    Marriott Hotels
    Maryland
    Pennsylvania
    Princess Cruises
    Ritz Carlton Properties
    River Cruises
    Salamander Resort & Spa
    Scandinavia/Russia
    Seattle
    Sonesta
    Virginia
    Walt Disney World
    Washington D.C.
    Wedding
    Wine & Spirits

    Upcoming Adventures...

    I’m beyond excited to share that we’ll be sailing on the Celebrity Beyond again this summer! We'll be staying in The Retreat, enjoying a stunning suite and all the elevated perks that come with it. I can't wait to give you a behind-the-scenes look at the experience—so if you’ve ever considered booking a suite, stay tuned for plenty of insights and tips!

    We’re also heading to one of our favorite places--Boca Raton, Florida—for a relaxing land vacation. It’s truly our happy place, and I’ll be sharing highlights from our stay there as well.
    ​
    If you have any questions about our upcoming or past travels, don’t hesitate to reach out. I love helping others plan their dream getaways!
    ​​If you have suggestions of places My Virtual Vacations would love, reach out to us on our Submission Form. We are always looking for new spots to showcase!​

    RSS Feed

    My Virtual Vacations - Blog Directory OnToplist.com

Explore With Us

Our Blog
​
Destinations
​
Cruise Ships
​
Cruise Cabins
​Cruise Dining
Cruise Entertainment
​Quick Tips​​
​Let's Talk Cruising!
​Our Privacy Policy & Disclaimer

Notice fewer pop-ups?

That’s our way of making My Virtual Vacations a more enjoyable place to dream, plan, and explore. While we've recently cut back on ads, the cost to run the site continues to grow. If you love what we do, consider lending your support.
Click Donate Here below to find out more.
cards
Powered by paypal

Connect With Us

Work With Us

Picture
Learn more *
* Please note: All articles on My Virtual Vacations are written by me. I do not accept collaborations. Click above to learn more!
  • Home
  • Blog
  • Destinations
    • Alaska Inside Passage
    • Arizona: Scottsdale and Sedona
    • Mid-Atlantic Region >
      • Baltimore, MD
      • National Harbor, MD
      • Philadelphia, PA
      • Richmond, VA
      • Washington D.C.
    • Bay Area, California
    • Florida >
      • Boca Raton >
        • Boca Raton Resort and Club
      • Fort Lauderdale
      • Key West >
        • Key West Excursions
      • Miami
      • Orlando
    • Bermuda
    • Eastern Caribbean >
      • Carambola Beach Club
    • Western Caribbean
    • Bahamas
  • Ships
    • Celebrity Cruises >
      • Celebrity Cruises Fleet
      • Celebrity Apex
      • Celebrity Beyond
      • Celebrity Equinox
      • Celebrity Reflection
      • Celebrity Silhouette
      • Celebrity Solstice
      • Celebrity Summit
      • Celebrity Constellation
    • Crystal Cruises >
      • Crystal Cruises Fleet
    • Princess Cruises Fleet
    • Norwegian Cruise Line Fleet
    • River Cruises >
      • American Cruise Lines
      • Victory Cruise Lines
    • Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
  • Cabins
    • Celebrity Cabins >
      • Deluxe Staterooms
      • Sky Suite
      • Celebrity Suite
      • Royal Suite
      • The Retreat and Michael's Club
      • Celebrity Cruises Stateroom List
    • Crystal Cabins
    • Princess Cruises
    • Royal Caribbean Cabins
    • Holland America Cabins
  • Dining
    • Hotels and Restaurants
    • Celebrity Dining >
      • Celebrity Specialty Dining >
        • Blu
        • Cafe al Bacio & Gelateria
        • Lawn Club Grill
        • Le Petite Chef
        • Le Voyage
        • Luminae >
          • Luminae for Alaska on Celebrity Solstice
        • Murano
        • The Porch
        • Rooftop Garden Grill
        • Sushi on Five
        • Tuscan Grille
        • Edge Class Dining
      • Menus
      • Celebrity Cruises Drink Packages
      • Celebrity Cruises Room Service
    • Crystal Dining
    • MSC Menus
    • Oceania Menus
    • Princess Dining
  • Entertainment
    • Celebrity Entertainment >
      • Celebrity Cruises Canyon Ranch Spa Services
      • The Alcoves
      • Celebrity Today's
      • Celebrity Cruises for Kids
      • Celebrity Cruises Exclusive Perks
    • Crystal Entertainment
    • Princess Entertainment
    • Royal Caribbean Entertainment
    • Holland America Entertainment
  • Quick Tips
    • FAQs
    • What to Pack for a Cruise
    • Which Cabin is Best for Me?
    • Excursions
    • Cruising with Groups
    • Celebrations
    • Tipping
    • Beauty Tips
    • Quiz
    • Celebrity Cruises Luggage Valet Service
    • Budgeting for Vacation
    • Travel Tip Tuesdays