Top of the World Observation Deck

401 E. Pratt St., 410/837-4516

HOURS: Wed.–Sun. 10 a.m.–9 p.m.

COST: $5 adult, $3 child, $4 senior

Baltimore’s [1] World Trade Center, designed by architects at I. M. Pei’s firm and completed in 1977, was one of the first new buildings to rise at the then-underdeveloped Inner Harbor. Today, it’s merely one of many skyscrapers along the water, though it still claims one distinction: At a not-terribly-impressive 32 stories, it remains the world’s tallest equilaterally sided pentagonal building.

On the 27th floor is the Top of the World Observation Deck, which is without a doubt the best vantage point for a 360-degree view of Baltimore. Wander around the room to get a sense of how Baltimore spreads out from the bustle, tourism, and commerce of the Inner Harbor to the far-ranging blocks of two-story row houses that make up so much of the city.

There are mounted binoculars and maps to help orient visitors, and an elevator ride to this deck around sunset is a great way to see Charm City in a whole new light.