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A Much Needed Getaway to Lord Baltimore Hotel

6/27/2017

12 Comments

 
Often the last minute, spontaneous getaways are the best ones! 
Lord Baltimore Hotel

Experience Lord Baltimore Hotel in Baltimore, Maryland

We always travel as a family. But as my boys have become older, they are starting to do more on their own. This past week, our oldest was visiting his grandparents in Florida and left the rest of us back in Baltimore, Maryland. Nevertheless, work demands, errands, and appointments still haven't slowed down. So I decided the rest of us needed a getaway with some pampering also. With only days to prepare, I started searching for a close, driveable overnight getaway where we could enjoy some down time in luxurious surroundings. 
My first thought was the historic Lord Baltimore Hotel near the Inner Harbor in Baltimore. We had visited last year to see the Couture Trees and the luxury and glamour had swept me away. We were in luck and they had a reservation available for us.
For our family, we had a perfect spaciously sized corner room with two queen beds. The updated stylish decor was truly welcoming.
Lord Baltimore Hotel Room
We were excited to be staying on the select 18th floor so we could also stretch out in the Club Lounge. This was a perfect spot to catch up on emails or social media since there is complimentary high-speed wireless internet throughout the hotel. 
Lord Baltimore Hotel Club Lounge
Open seasonally during the summer months, the Lord Baltimore Hotel offers guests and local residents the spectacular rooftop LB SkyBar. Located outside on the 19th floor of the hotel, we felt like we were truly on vacation while enjoying a cocktail and gazing at one of the most mesmerizing views I've seen of the Baltimore skyline. It's the perfect place to wind down and sip a refreshing drink before or after dinner. You can even indulge in a variety of delicious bites, such as shrimp salad sliders or a charcuterie board.
LB Sky Bar Watermelon Mojito
Watermelon Mojito
LB Sky Bar
The lights of the buildings surrounding the LB SkyBar sparkled as the evening sky darkened. 
Baltimore Sky Line
I was fortunate enough to snag a reservation at Lord Baltimore Hotel's The French Kitchen. This elegant restaurant is an Open Table Diner's Choice pick and I've always wanted to go. This last minute getaway was turning into a true delight!
The French Kitchen
Being a fine dining restaurant, I was slightly nervous that my son would find something his picky palate would enjoy. But he discovered his beloved Maryland crabcakes on the menu and we were set. 
Crabcakes at The French Kitchen
Crab Cakes with Fingerling Potato Salad and Roasted Corn and Tomatoes
I love French cuisine and we took full advantage of the Executive Chef's amazing creations. They were traditional with a subtle Baltimore flair. Delicious! 
Crab and Corn Fritters at The French Kitchen
Corn and Crab Fritters
Foie Gras at The French Kitchen
Foie Gras with Cherry Port Compote
Scallops at The French Kitchen
Seared Scallops with Greens and Citrus Vinaigrette
I admit, I never end a meal without dessert and their selections were fabulous. 
Flourless Chocolate Torte at The French Kitchen
Flourless Chocolate Torte with Cherry Preserves and Kirsch Whip Cream
Pistachio Custard at The French Kitchen
Pistachio Custard
After awaking early to explore the Inner Harbor area only 7 blocks away, we returned to enjoy a leisurely late breakfast in the vibrant LB Bakery. With mouth-watering bakery items, pastries, and a refreshing coffee selection, this was a perfect end to our stay. 
Pastries at LB Bakery
Fruit Tarts and Other Pastry Selections
Breakfast at LB Bakery
Quiche Lorraine with a Caramel Macchiato
​Of course, as the hustle and bustle of our everyday life continues, you can be sure to find us back at the Lord Baltimore Hotel for another relaxing, much needed luxury getaway.
Lobby of Lord Baltimore Hotel
Picture
Tips for Last Minute Getaways 
  • Decide what you want to do. Choose one of your favorite activities when on a longer, planned vacation and use this as a focal point for a last minute getaway. 
  • Call the hotel. If they are sold out online, double check they don't have any last minute cancellations. If the rate is pricier than you were expecting, ask if they have any last minute deals.
  • ​Be flexible for dining. Destinations known for fine dining might be short on availability for last minute reservations. Try a new experience and eat earlier or later. If staying at a hotel where there are no reservations available, ask for dinner "to-go" and dine on your balcony or have a picnic. 
  • Last minute means no fuss. This is the one time I just throw my clothes in the suitcase and go.
  • Explore your own backyard. You don't have to drive far to feel like you are on vacation. We live a quick 25 minute drive away to experience the energetic vibe Baltimore has to offer.
City View of Baltimore Maryland
Disclaimer: I paid for all food, beverage, and incidentals myself. Our room was complimentary during our stay; however, as always, all opinions are completely my own.
12 Comments
Theresa link
6/29/2017 09:38:09 am

I have been wanting to plan a getaway to the Lord Baltimore Hotel! The food alone looks well worth the visit.

Reply
Alyson (My Virtual Vacations!)
6/29/2017 09:55:50 am

Hi Theresa, Thanks for reading! I am such a foodie and completely agree the food alone is worth a visit. I'd love to hear if you get a chance for a getaway there one day!

Reply
Christy
6/29/2017 03:11:31 pm

I haven't heard of this hotel? Is it the new one everyone is raving about? The food looked pretty spectacular too!

Reply
Alyson (My Virtual Vacations)
6/29/2017 03:27:36 pm

Hi Christy! This is a historic hotel but it does have a number of newer features. The LB SkyBar is open only in the summer. It's fantastic! Plus the food is truly amazing. I highly recommend if you are looking for a relaxing and fun getaway. Thanks for reading!

Reply
Tracey Crockett link
6/30/2017 01:08:38 am

This looks like a fabulous hotel. The Watermelon mojito looked so good I wanted to lick the screen. I'm not a fan of staying in hotels so close to home, but this one might make me start stashing some coins for a getaway.

Reply
Alyson (My Virtual Vacations)
6/30/2017 07:15:09 am

Hi Tracey, The watermelon mojito was sooo good! I've only recently discovered how staying close to home can still be a vacation. By eliminating extra travel time, I have more time to relax! I LOVE your stashing coins idea. :-)

Reply
Liza link
6/30/2017 06:34:54 am

That strawberry mojito is calling my name!!! Love "staycations" that allow you to explore sites not too far from home.

Reply
Alyson (My Virtual Vacations)
6/30/2017 07:17:08 am

HI Liza, That's exactly why I love staycations also. It's funny how you can live somewhere and still haven't discovered everything. Thanks for reading! (And mojitos are my favorites, too!)

Reply
Mimi Green link
6/30/2017 08:04:15 am

I need a local getaway and this sounds like the place. I always enjoy the Baltimore Harbor. Food is my love language and everything you had looks incredible. Our kids are going on vacation and this would be perfect for our staycation.

Reply
Alyson (My Virtual Vacations)
6/30/2017 08:16:06 am

Hi Mimi, Thanks for reading and I'm so happy that I may have helped you find a new spot. I am a complete foodie too and I'm certain you'll love it. Let me know if you end up visiting!

Reply
Ashley link
6/30/2017 04:49:41 pm

What a fantastic spot for a stay-cation! We love the Inner Harbor (it's where my husband proposed, 11 years ago!) This would make for a great anniversary getaway! - and that watermelon mojito looks DIVINE!

Reply
Alyson (My Virtual Vacations)
6/30/2017 06:07:15 pm

Hi Ashley, The Lord Baltimore Hotel would make a fantastic staycation! I love that you got engaged at the Inner Harbor. I think you definitely need to celebrate with a watermelon mojito at the LB SkyBar. It can be such a cozy, romantic spot!

Reply



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    ​Thanks for cruising by! ​ Along with creating this website and blog, I work in an office full-time and as a mom to two energetic young men. With our family's busy work and school schedule, we look forward to traveling during holidays. Although it seems that our family can never agree on anything, we do when it comes to vacations. We typically travel on cruises or stay at luxury hotels while enjoying upscale dining, beautiful decor, excellent service, and spacious accommodations. However, we still need family friendly and comfortable! When we are not traveling, I enjoy dining out locally, as well as cooking and baking in my own kitchen.
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