Going to a college in a city doesn’t have to be daunting, and it doesn’t have to cost a fortune, either. With 13 college institutions, Baltimore is known for its heavy student population. Exploring Charm City is a great way to break away from campus every once in awhile and embrace the larger community around you. To help remain on budget, here are the best ways to take advantage of your student discount and make the most of your time in Baltimore—without breaking the bank.
ENTERTAINMENT
Go to a Game: Home to the Baltimore Orioles, the beautiful Oriole Park at Camden Yards offers students discounted tickets on Friday nights throughout the season. For only $10, students can enjoy the warm weather, join the lively student section, and cheer on the Orioles to change up their weekend routine (333 W. Camden St.). If baseball isn’t your favorite sport, M&T Bank Stadium, home to the Baltimore Ravens, offers student tickets at a discounted rate of $34 throughout the regular season. 1101 Russell St.
Check out an Art Museum: The American Visionary Art Museum showcases the works of visionary thinkers, and it’s full of quirks. This unique spot provides students with the discounted ticket price of $9.95 to enter and explore the mysteries of life and beyond. 800 Key Hwy.
Discover New Species at the National Aquarium: The National Aquarium in the Inner Harbor is a staple tourist attraction that all local students should visit at least once. With about 20,000 animals including birds, sharks, frogs, and turtles, the aquarium offers tons of spectacles. If that’s not convincing enough, every Friday night after 5 p.m. the aquarium highlights half-priced tickets for students. 501 E. Pratt St.
Embrace the Macabre: Learn about the life, legacy, and works of one of America’s most famous writers at the Edgar Allan Poe House & Museum. This historic landmark lets students be a part of a self-guided tour, view artifacts, and learn about his life and death in Baltimore for only $6. 203 N. Amity St.
Watch a Movie: The Senator Theater is a historic icon in Baltimore known for its timeless feel, and it should be just as well known by students for its incredible deals. Movie tickets for students are always $9, all shows on Mondays are $7, and any show before 11 a.m. costs $7 any day of the week. Just around the corner from Loyola University Maryland and up the street from Towson University and Goucher College on York Road, The Senator is a great way to clear your head and step back in time. 5904 York Rd.
Sweat it Out: Classpass workout app is perfect for someone who wants to mix up their fitness routine. A membership gives you access to thousands of gyms and workout studios across the country, including local spots like CorePower Yoga, Reflex Fitness, REV Cycle Studio, and Pilates House. Whether you want to try barre, yoga, crossfit, or cycling, Classpass makes it easy to work out on a budget without the full-time commitment to one place. Students can enjoy a two-week free trial and choose from a variety of membership options ranging from $9 to $159.
Experience the BSO: The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra offers “College Nights” throughout the year to entice the younger generation. These $10 tickets give students entry to a BSO concert and the exclusive after-party that follows, which includes free pizza, $3 beers, and the opportunity to meet the musicians. 1212 Cathedral St.
FOOD & DRINK
Embark on a Brewery Tour: Calling all beer connoisseurs! The Guinness Open Gate Brewery in Halethorpe brings a little piece of Ireland to Baltimore by brewing its own Guinness Blonde Ale, as well as other experimental flavors. Take a free, guided tour of the massive space to learn about the brewing process and indulge in the final products at the bar. An added bonus? University of Maryland students and alumni can enjoy a 20 percent discount on food and beverage and a 10 percent discount on merchandise every Tuesday throughout the month of February. 5001 Washington Blvd.
Order In: Grubhub’s online food delivery allows customers to choose from a long list of cuisines in your local area. Baltimore features Thai, Mexican, American, Indian, Mediterannean, Japanese, and French restaurants, so you never have to worry about feeling limited. If cooking or leaving the house isn’t in the cards for you, register as a student through UNiDAYS and enjoy a 20 percent discount on your delivery.
Grab a Beer: A Johns Hopkins University favorite, iBar offers incredible beer specials on Saturday nights. With a valid college ID, $1 Natty Bohs and Rolling Rocks let you enjoy your night out in Charles Village without feeling guilty about checking your bank account the next morning. 2118 Maryland Ave.
Save on Your Pregame Essentials: Purchasing alcohol can add-up quickly, so be sure to take advantage of all discount opportunities. Wells Discount Liquors on York Road provides a student discount every Thursday. By presenting a valid student ID at the counter, receive 10 percent off of your bill. 6310 York Rd.
TRAVEL
By Car: Not having a car in college doesn’t have to be a hassle, and Zipcar makes it easy for students to join. Most universities in Baltimore have designated spots for Zipcars on campus, and additional spots throughout the city. Zipcar provides you with a car, an hourly rate of $9.25, 180 miles to drive for free, and complimentary insurance and gas on all trips. While Zipcar typically costs $84 a year for members, Baltimore’s student plan is only $15.
By Bus: Heading home for the holidays is affordable for students that take Greyhound busses. With two stations in Baltimore, Station North and Pigtown, Greyhound travels to thousands of destinations across North America. Use the student advantage discount card and receive 10 percent off travel and 15 percent off shipping.