Tuesday, 02 June 2026 04:11

All Blacks, blue crabs, art and Chessie the monster

Tracey Johnson of Visit Baltimore at IPW Tracey Johnson of Visit Baltimore at IPW

All Black fans who converge on Baltimore for the US-based test against the Springboks in September will find a city that is easy to navigate, packed with cultural and historical attractions and even has its own version of the Lochness monster, says Tracey Johnson, communications and public relations manager with Visit Baltimore. 

‘Baltimore is walkable but water taxi is also a fun way to get around. The British used to call us pirates, so there are electric pirate boats that are fun for families and also Chessie Boats – named after the monster of Chesapeake Bay. These will still be operating around September.

‘The Maryland blue crab will be in season too so it is a good time for seafood.’

For those keen to mix their rugby with art, Johnson recommends the American Visionary Art Museum.

‘It focuses on self-taught artists so it is accessible to anybody. We see a lot of families in there as well as solo female travellers – there’s a great gift shop with well-made items at good value prices.’

For a more traditional experience, the Baltimore Museum of Art has more than 95,000 works, including the world’s largest collection of Henri Matisse. Entry is free.

The Walters Art Museum is also free and includes a rotating modern exhibition in a newly renovated historic mansion. 

The All Blacks will play in M&T Bank Stadium, home of the Baltimore Ravens NFL team. The stadium has had considerable renovations recently, with more to come.

ProMag