Curious to see what New York baseball will be like when they replace (or renovate) Yankee and Shea Stadiums? Jump the Metroliner to Baltimore, take in an afternoon at Camden Yards, then run the kids through a host of attractions within pitching distance of the model ballpark. There is no more entertaining, entirely walkable place to burn off a weekend than the Inner Harbor. Ringing the harbor are a dozen hotels (we like the Hyatt), the National Aquarium, a new children’s museum, and a mall. Outside the aquarium are three military vessels, including a World War II submarine manned by vets who will instruct your kids in torpedo-loading. It’s possible to enjoy Baltimore without eating a single crab: For instance, an easy walk east takes you to Little Italy, where the marinara might be served by a high-haired Hon’ right out of John Waters’s dreams (try Sabatino’s). The Yanks are in town all weekend (June 25, 26, and 27), so bring your mitt.
DETAILS Hyatt Regency Baltimore (800-233-1234; double rooms start at $204); Orioles advance tickets (888-848-2473); Sabatino’s (410-727-9414; entrées, $14 to $20); Baltimore Visitor’s Center (800-282-6632; www.baltimore.org); Amtrak (800-872-7245).