Hot Winter Travel Deals in Baltimore

That long dry spell between New Year's and Memorial Day is upon us. What better way to stave off the winter doldrums than with a quick vacation? Vacation destinations offer great deals to entice winter travelers, and some of the year's hottest activities - and lowest hotel rates - can be had between now and spring.

Baltimore is a top destination for travelers seeking culture, excitement and fine dining … and moderate temperatures that convey winter's invigorating crispness without the bone-chilling cold that may make other cities too harsh to enjoy on foot.

"Baltimore offers visitors an accessible winter getaway perfect for those looking for a relaxing experience in a city that is easy to enjoy," said Tom Noonan, president and CEO, Baltimore Area Convention and Visitors Association. "With a walkable downtown, exciting new exhibits and affordable deals, now is the perfect time to visit Baltimore."

Hot winter happenings in Baltimore include:

Restaurant Week

Baltimore is renowned as a great dining city, with cuisines from all around the world represented in hundreds of restaurants. From Jan. 28 to Feb. 3, more than 80 restaurants throughout the city will offer prix fixe dinners for just $30.08 per person. Some will offer lunch for as little as $20.08 per person.

Body Worlds 2 and The Brain - Our Three Pound Gem

The Maryland Science Center will host a limited engagement of Body Worlds 2 and The Brain-Our Three Pound Gem beginning Feb. 2. Featuring real human bodies, the much-lauded exhibit shows details of anatomy and disease that cannot be portrayed by models alone. The technique of Plastination, invented by Dr. Gunther von Hagens, preserves the bodies and reveals detailed anatomical structures. Nearly 22 million people worldwide have already seen the Body Worlds exhibit.

Putting You on the Map

Throughout human history, maps have served as far more than mere navigational tools. Maps are an art form and a means of communication that remain as vital today as they have been for thousands of years. The Walters Art Museum will host Maps: Finding Our Place in the World, an exhibition of maps throughout history, organized by The Field Museum and the Newberry Library in Chicago. Visitors will view some of the world's greatest cartographic treasures, from maps created by the great cartographers of the Middle Ages and the age of exploration, to rarely viewed artifacts from around the world. The exhibit opens March 16.

Also beginning in March, the city will host a Festival of Maps featuring unique exhibits and public programs on the significance of maps throughout history.

Cool Hotel Deals

Finally, throughout the city top hotels are offering discounted rates and amenity-filled packages designed to warm the hearts of winter visitors to this jewel of the Chesapeake Bay. From hotels with harbor views to locations away from the crowds, hotels are offering hot incentives for a winter stay in Baltimore. Among the hot offerings: book a Baltimore Hotel Package, and receive 10 percent off any Zina's Day Spa and Salon service. And, when you book a Zina's service at the discounted price, you will also receive a complimentary Eucalyptus Steam Room and Sauna service. To book a Baltimore Hotel Package, click here.

To explore the myriad reasons to visit Baltimore this winter, log on to www.baltimore.org/winter.

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