The Ivy Hotel is the most romantic address in Baltimore, a small Relais and Chateaux property in a restored Victorian mansion. There is no front desk: a host greets you on arrival, which sets the tone for a stay that feels more like a private house than a hotel. Rooms are individually furnished, with fireplaces, Frette Italian sheets, hydromassage showers, designer toiletries and flat-screen TVs. The Ivy has a spa offering sports massage, body scrubs and reflexology, a garden-view bistro called Magdalena, a terrace, a garden and a library, plus billiards and an arcade game room. Room service runs around the clock, and free self-parking is a rare perk in the city, with valet available for a surcharge. It sits within reach of Johns Hopkins Hospital, the Convention Center, the National Aquarium and Camden Yards. Dogs are allowed, up to two at 25 pounds or less, with restrictions and fees. Check-in is from 16:00 and check-out before 11:00.
Location and getting around
The hotel is a peaceful retreat in the Mount Vernon area, close to downtown and within reach of the Inner Harbor attractions, with an area shuttle that helps with short trips. Guests who drive can park for free on site, which saves money against the city’s usual garage fees.
Rooms and service
The character of each room differs, so describe what you want when you book, whether a fireplace, a larger layout or a quiet corner. Babysitting is available for a surcharge, and the staff are multilingual. The hotel also has a front-desk safe, a banquet hall and dry cleaning and laundry service.
Who it suits
Couples on an anniversary, honeymooners and travelers who want a quiet, personal stay and are willing to pay for it. It is not the place for a big family or a budget trip, and the boutique scale means rooms can book up well ahead for weekends. For a romantic weekend in Baltimore, pair it with dinner at Magdalena, a visit to the Walters Art Museum and the Washington Monument a few blocks away.
Why stay here
- ✓Spa
- ✓Magdalena garden bistro
- ✓Fireplaces in rooms
- ✓Library and garden
- ✓24-hour room service
- ✓Free self-parking
- ✓Pet friendly (dogs, restrictions)
- ✓Free Wi-Fi
Good questions
Does The Ivy Hotel have a front desk?+
No, a host greets guests on arrival instead, which gives the hotel a private-house feel.
Is parking free at The Ivy Hotel?+
Self-parking is free, and valet parking is available for a surcharge.
Does The Ivy Hotel allow dogs?+
Dogs are allowed, up to two at 25 pounds or less, with restrictions and fees.
