1. Brightons Orangerie Afternoon Tea, at the Harbor Court Hotel.
It might be shocking to know that one of the least expensive Afternoon Tea Parties can be had in one of the most luxurious hotels in Baltimore. But that’s a fact. Brightons Orangerie serves a complete afternoon tea in an elegant atmosphere. If you’re thinking of spoiling a true lady on her birthday, bring her to Brightons Orangerie, and let her pick her own tea and feast on fresh scones and finger sandwiches.
2. Bill Bateman’s Bistro.
For a less formal atmosphere, check out this popular Fireman’s hangout and sports bar. The food is plentiful and cheap, private rooms are available for celebrations, and most locations feature a gaming room. Perhaps your birthday boy would enjoy a few rounds on the video NASCAR track after downing the biggest burger ever made. If so, Bill Bateman’s friendly atmosphere will be perfect for your party.
3. Camden Yards.
Is the birthday girl or boy a baseball fan? If so, take your party to Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Reasonably priced tours of the ball park will entertain your guests, and it’s not hard to buy a box of hot dogs and Italian ice. If you really want to splurge, you can rent a party suite for a discount on a non-game day.
4. Baltimore Zoo.
See all the animals at the zoo, and the little penguins too. With exhibitions and lecture series’, the zoo isn’t just for kids anymore. Birthday packages are available, but it may be less expensive to go on your own, and serve your own cake after the fact.
5. Inner Harbor.
The Inner Harbor provides more venues for birthday parties than any other locale in the state. You could sit out by the boats with your picnic, make reservations for your party at one of the many restaurants overlooking the water, or take a boat tour together while you celebrate. Don’t forget the concert pavilion. And if you’re looking for something for cooler weather, consider shopping at HarborPlace and the Gallery.
6. Ladew Topiary Gardens.
One of the most beautiful sites in Maryland is just north of Baltimore. The Ladew Topiary Garden is a 22-acre thematic garden exhibition, open for guided tours. There’s a gift shop and a café located in the mansion, and it’s open year round. Admission prices are reasonable, as is the rental fee for their Tack Room, which seats 20.
8. Pimlico Race Course.
If your birthday girl loves horses, or the scent of money, consider throwing a party at Pimlico Race Track. Betting, Shopping, and first class dining are all available at Pimlico, and admission is not expensive.
9. Basignani Winery.
On beautiful days, consider a picnic in the vineyards of the Basignani winery, just north of Baltimore. Making excellent wines, available for you to taste and buy, the Basignanis kindly allow homemade picnics and events to take place on their grounds, free of charge. Romantic, rustic, and beautiful, it could make one very special birthday girl very happy. Especially if she likes dogs-the vineyard has a few lovely animals who are eager to make friends.
10. Howl at the Moon.
If you’ve never been to a dueling piano bar before, you’re in for a raucous surprise. Located in the ultra-hip Power Plant Live, at the Inner Harbor, Howl at the Moon was built for parties. With low cover charges and constant weekly specials, you’ll get your money’s worth if you throw a party here. Howl at the Moon’s piano players take the stage two at a time, and burst into noisy renditions of your favorite sing-along tunes. It’s a total entertainment experience, complete with nostalgia and kitchy fun.
