The Ivy in Baltimore
The Ivy Hotel in Baltimore is a former mansion that has been turned into a hotel and restaurant with, count 'em, 23 fireplaces, and the only Relais & Chateaux luxury property in Maryland.
You'll feel like you're staying at your eccentric (and very wealthy) uncle's country house.
To really unplug, you might consider taking the train to Baltimore, where The Ivy, located in Baltimore's Mount Vernon neighborhood, will send a driver to pick you up. When you arrive, you'll be welcomed with a glass of champagne (you can also enjoy the tea service in the sumptuous living room if you arrive in the afternoon).
Ask for a room or suite with a canopied bed and fireplace; many also have soaking tubs. (Alexandrians will be happy to note that the hotel is dog-friendly and welcomes pooches 25 pounds and under, offering dog-walking, crates and dog beds.)
Your room rate will include breakfast (try the lemon blueberry soufflé pancakes), cocktails at the Mansion Bar, afternoon tea, valet parking, private car service and more. The Ivy's restaurant, Magdalena, is helmed by Chef Mark Levy, formerly of The Point, Saranac Lake, N.Y. You can enjoy a decadent meal in the cozy wine room. Take the private car service to the Baltimore Museum of Art or the Walters Art Museum or just stay in and play Monopoly by the fire (The Ivy has loads of board games).
The Four Seasons Baltimore
Another luxurious lodging option in Baltimore is The Four Seasons Baltimore, located in the Harbor East neighborhood. Beginning in late November, the hotel offers ice skating on its fifth-floor Harbor Terrace with sweeping views of the harbor. Skaters can also enjoy popcorn, candied apples, hot toddies, apple cider and hot chocolate. Call ahead for days and hours when the rink is open; last year, it was open Thursday through Sunday. It's open to the public, but you must purchase tickets.
If you're staying at The Four Seasons, be sure to try the brunch at The Bygone, a penthouse restaurant and bar on the 29th floor with sweeping views of the Inner Harbor. To get to The Bygone, take the lobby elevator with the old-time clock overhead. Once you enter, you'll be greeted by a decor straight out of well, bygone years: Burgundy velvet drapes and palm fronds, as well as friendly service. Brunch features everything from Chesapeake Eggs Benedict and French Beignets to lox and bagels, waffles, prime rib, shrimp, and an array of desserts.
Other restaurants to try nearby include Chez Hugo, McCormick & Schmicks and The Rusty Scupper. In addition to Charm City's art museums, other activities to try include the National Aquarium, which offers half-price tickets every Friday night, from 5-8 p.m. (Adult tickets are usually $39.95 per person.)
Be sure to check Baltimore.org/events for winter happenings including craft beer festivals and chili cook-offs.
