By: Andrew Silverstein

Historic is definitely the right word when you're talking about Charles Street in Downtown Baltimore. The age-old street has roots that predate the foundation of Baltimore itself with the once-existent Susquehannock Indian trail running right along where the street is now.

In the 1700's, The first house built in Baltimore was right on the corner of Charles and Lombard Street.

Today, Charles Street maintains much of the beautiful architecture crafted throughout its extensive and rich history.  A playground for anyone even remotely interested in beautiful, historical architecture, Charles Street plays host to a number of old, towering churches like Old St. Pauls and Basilica of the Assumption, "America's first Cathedral".

The Walters Art Museum is another noteworthy Charles Street attraction seeped in history. Built in 1909, the museum boasts an internationally-renowned collection of art art from pre-dynastic Egypt to 20th-century Europe works.

Of course, Charles Street isn't just fixated on its past. It plays host to a number of modern restaurants, shopping boutiques, and nightlife venues all along the street.

Let's Eat!, a Baltimore event on Charles Street, is an annual food festival that's free for everyone and includes cuisine from numerous Downtown Baltimore restaurants, live music, and more.

The Charles Theater is a great blend of age-old history and modern entertainment on Charles Street. Originally known as the Times Theater, the Charles Theater was built in 1939 and now shows classic, contemporary, foreign, and independent films for Baltimore residents and visitors.

Shopping options include A People United selling clothing, furniture, and crafts from Nepal, Flowers by Gina D., and Spirits of Mount Vernon, a neighborhood wine shop.

Charles Street, as you can see, is a rich blend of the past and present in Beautiful Baltimore. If you choose to visit, be sure to not rush, take it all in, and enjoy!