The Inn at Henderson’s Wharf

The Inn at Henderson’s Wharf is the most charming small hotel in Fells Point and our mid-range pick for couples. It stands at the very end of Fell Street, right on the water, in a historic brick wharf building that has been converted into a boutique inn with just 38 rooms, part of Choice Hotels’ Ascend Collection of independent hotels. The setting is the draw: the harbor laps at the edge of the property, a small marina sits alongside, and some rooms look out over the water towards the Domino Sugars sign and Harbor East, while others face the quiet private courtyard. Inside, the style is warm and traditional, with exposed brick and dark wood, and the scale means service is personal, with a front desk and concierge staffed around the clock. A deluxe continental breakfast is included, which is rare in this part of town, and there is a 24-hour fitness room. Step outside and you are in the middle of Fells Point, with its taverns, oyster bars, shops and the meeting points of the food and ghost tours within a few minutes’ walk. For a romantic weekend by the water at a sensible price, it is hard to beat.

Location and getting around: the inn is at 1000 Fell Street, at the eastern tip of Fells Point, a quiet corner of the neighborhood that is still only a few minutes on foot from Thames Street and Broadway. Harbor East is about 15 minutes’ walk, and the Inner Harbor and the National Aquarium are about 25 to 30 minutes along the waterfront promenade, or a short rideshare. In the warmer months, water taxi stops in Fells Point link the neighborhood to the Inner Harbor and Fort McHenry.

Rooms: rooms come with one king, one queen or two queen beds, and the ones to book are the harbor-view rooms; the others look onto the courtyard and are quieter. Rooms are cozy rather than large, in keeping with the historic building.

Who it suits: couples, travelers who want a small, personal hotel, and anyone who wants Fells Point dining and nightlife on the doorstep. Families with young children may prefer more space.

Good to know: a deluxe continental breakfast is included. Self parking is available on site, which is a real plus in Fells Point, but ask about the cost when you book. Some packages carry a nightly destination fee that covers Wi-Fi, the fitness room and the business center. Fells Point is lively at weekends, but this end of the neighborhood is calmer at night.