20 Best Architectural Buildings in Maryland: A Guide to Iconic Structures

Maryland boasts an impressive array of architectural marvels that blend history, culture, and modern design.

From ancient colonial structures to contemporary masterpieces, the state offers a diverse collection that appeals to both residents and visitors.

What makes a building truly stand out in Maryland? This article will explore 20 of the best architectural buildings in the state, showcasing the unique features and historical significance of each one.

Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast or simply curious about the state’s landmarks, this guide provides valuable insights into Maryland’s architectural heritage.

1. Baltimore Basilica

The Baltimore Basilica, also known as the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, is a historic landmark.

It was the first Roman Catholic cathedral built in the United States after the country’s founding.

Designed by Benjamin Henry Latrobe, the basilica showcases neoclassical architecture. It was constructed primarily between 1806 and 1821.

The building underwent significant restoration in 2006, preserving its architectural integrity and historical significance.

Visitors can tour the basilica and experience its serene beauty and important history.

2. B&O Railroad Museum

The B&O Railroad Museum, located in Baltimore, Maryland, exhibits historic railroad equipment.

It opened on July 4, 1953, initially called the Baltimore & Ohio Transportation Museum.

The museum’s 40-acre site, known as Mt. Clare, is a National Historic Landmark. It holds the largest collection of 19th-century locomotives and a significant Civil War railroad collection.

Visitors can explore the rich history of American railroading.

Learn more about the B&O Railroad Museum.

3. Maryland State House

The Maryland State House, located in Annapolis, is the oldest U.S. state capitol in continuous legislative use.

Built in 1772, it houses the Maryland General Assembly and the offices of the Governor and Lieutenant Governor.

The State House briefly served as the U.S. Capitol from 1783 to 1784. This is where General George Washington resigned his commission as commander-in-chief.

Renovations and restorations have preserved its historical significance. The most recent restoration occurred from 2007 to 2015.

The building’s dome, added between 1785 and 1788, is a prominent feature.

4. National Aquarium Building

The National Aquarium in Baltimore is a key landmark in Maryland’s Inner Harbor.

Designed by the interdisciplinary firm behind the New England Aquarium, it opened to the public in 1981.

This architectural masterpiece stands out with its striking design, featuring elements inspired by ships.

The aquarium holds over two million gallons of water and is home to more than 17,000 specimens, drawing 1.5 million visitors annually.

It continues to be a significant attraction and an example of successful urban redevelopment.

5. George Peabody Library

The George Peabody Library is a stunning example of architectural excellence.

Located in Baltimore, this iconic library is often referred to as a cathedral of books.

Built in 1878, the library features a striking five-story atrium. Visitors are often amazed by its intricate design and elaborate details.

The library houses 300,000 volumes in its special collections, making it a valuable resource for both students and the public.

Admission is free to all, allowing everyone to enjoy its beauty and resources.

6. Walters Art Museum

The Walters Art Museum, located in Baltimore’s Mount Vernon section, boasts a diverse collection of 36,000 objects from around the world.

Established by philanthropist Henry Walters and his father William, the museum opened to the public in 1934.

The museum’s Palazzo building, inspired by a 17th-century Genoese palace, opened its doors in 1909. This architectural gem stands as a key cultural landmark in Baltimore, offering free admission to visitors.

Discover more at the Walters Art Museum.

7. University of Maryland Campus

The University of Maryland campus is a significant landmark featuring more than 200 buildings spread across 1,300 acres.

Several iconic structures on the campus have been designed by alums from the UMD Architecture Program, such as the Edward St. John Learning and Teaching Center and the Brendan Iribe Center for Computer Science and Engineering.

The campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington, DC corridor, providing a strategic and vibrant setting for its over 35,000 undergraduate students, more than 7,000 graduate students, and a 4,000-member faculty.

8. St. Mary’s City Historic District

St. Mary’s City Historic District is a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts. This area, known as Maryland’s first capital, offers a blend of archaeological sites and colonial reconstructions.

Visitors can explore the 1676 Jacobean State House and enjoy a living history museum.

The district also features scenic views of the St. Mary’s River, making it an idyllic spot for learning and relaxation.

9. Hood College’s Coffman Chapel

Coffman Chapel at Hood College is known for its Georgian-style architecture and picturesque setting.

It seats more than 700 people and houses one of the region’s largest pipe organs with over 2,400 pipes.

The chapel’s lower level includes faculty and chaplain offices, as well as classrooms for religion and philosophy.

The Coffman Chapel is a popular venue for weddings and various spiritual events.

10. Edgar Allan Poe House

The Edgar Allan Poe House is located at 203 North Amity Street in Baltimore. It was the home of the famous writer during the 1830s.

This modest row home became a museum in 1949 and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1972.

Visitors can tour the house, seeing where Poe composed some of his notable works.

The museum features items from Poe’s life and showcases his influence on American literature, making it a must-see for literary enthusiasts.

11. Latter-Day Saints Temple

The Washington D.C. Temple, located in Kensington, Maryland, stands out for its striking architecture and spiritual significance.

It was the first temple to feature six spires since the Salt Lake Temple.

This temple is also the tallest in the Church, soaring to a height of 288 feet.

It was the 18th temple constructed and 16th operating for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, marking its presence just north of Washington, D.C.

12. Howard P. Rawlings Conservatory

The Howard P. Rawlings Conservatory, located in Druid Hill Park, Baltimore, Maryland, is a stunning example of Victorian architecture.

Opened in 1888, it showcases intricate design with its iron and glass structure.

The Palm House, the conservatory’s centerpiece, features 175 windows and towers 50 feet high.

Visitors can enjoy a diverse collection of plants, including towering palms and vibrant blooms.

Designed by George Aloysius Frederick, who also designed Baltimore City Hall, the conservatory remains a significant landmark.

It offers an educational experience with its rare and exotic plants.

13. Baltimore World Trade Center

The Baltimore World Trade Center is located on the Inner Harbor of Baltimore, Maryland. It is the world’s tallest regular pentagonal-based skyscraper.

Designed by Pei Cobb Freed & Partners, this 30-story building stands 405 feet tall.

The 27th floor features an enclosed observation level called “Top of the World,” offering a 360-degree view of the city.

For more details, visit the Baltimore World Trade Center Wikipedia page.

14. Annapolis Naval Academy Chapel

The Annapolis Naval Academy Chapel stands as a significant landmark in Annapolis, Maryland.

Built in 1908, it features a striking dome that reaches 210 feet high.

Designed by Ernest Flagg, the chapel is a central part of the Beaux-Arts campus plan.

Its grand architecture makes it a focal point both within the academy and for the city of Annapolis. Protestant and Catholic services are held here, enhancing its role in the community.

15. Senator Theater

The Senator Theatre is a historic movie theater located on York Road in Baltimore. It opened on October 5, 1939, with a screening of Spencer Tracy’s “Stanley and Livingstone.”

Designed by architect John J. Zink, the theater is noted for its Art Deco style.

It’s the oldest operating movie theater in central Maryland and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

16. Mount Vernon Place United Methodist Church

Mount Vernon Place United Methodist Church in Baltimore, Maryland, is a stunning example of Victorian Gothic architecture.

Completed in 1872, this church was designed by Thomas Dixon and Charles L. Carson.

It is known for its elaborate design and use of six different kinds of stone, including green serpentine from Baltimore County.

The church’s location near the Washington Monument makes it one of the city’s most photographed buildings. Learn more about its architecture and history.

17. Enoch Pratt Free Library

The Enoch Pratt Free Library is a historic gem in Baltimore, showcasing classical motifs in its limestone facade.

Founded by Enoch Pratt in 1882, the library is one of the oldest free public library systems in the United States.

Located on 400 Cathedral Street, it remains a beacon of community and knowledge to this day. Explore more about its historical significance here.

18. Sagamore Pendry Baltimore

The Sagamore Pendry Baltimore is a prominent hotel located on the historic Recreation Pier in Baltimore, Maryland. The building, opened in 1914, initially served as a commercial pier and a social hub for immigrants.

In 2017, after a significant renovation, it reopened as a luxury hotel with 128 rooms and modern amenities.

The Sagamore Pendry Baltimore features a trendy steakhouse, local art, and an outdoor pool with stunning views of the Inner Harbor.

19. Eastern Shore Land Conservancy Headquarters

The Eastern Shore Land Conservancy (ESLC) headquarters in Easton, Maryland, showcases modern design while honoring the area’s rural roots.

This facility features sustainable materials and innovative architectural choices.

The building also hosts community events and meetings. Its open spaces and natural light contribute to an inviting atmosphere.

20. Folger McKinsey Elementary School

Folger McKinsey Elementary School is located in Severna Park, Maryland. Established in 1958, the school has been serving the community for decades.

It educates over 600 students from kindergarten through fifth grade.

Folger McKinsey is known for providing rigorous and differentiated instruction. The school aims to create a safe and engaging learning environment for all students.

The building is on Arundel Beach Road, making it easily accessible to the local community. It has consistently received high marks, being ranked 39th among Maryland elementary schools.

Architectural Styles in Maryland

Maryland boasts a wide array of architectural styles that reflect its rich history and cultural diversity. From colonial times to the modern era, the state’s buildings showcase a blend of tradition and innovation.

Colonial Architecture

Colonial architecture in Maryland is characterized by its simplicity and symmetrical designs. Brick and wood are commonly used materials.

Many buildings feature gabled roofs, large chimneys, and small, evenly spaced windows.

Notable examples include homes in Annapolis and St. Mary’s City. These homes often have central hallways and multiple fireplaces, reflecting the needs and materials available during the colonial period.

The emphasis is on function as well as form, with a focus on Georgian elements like columns and porticoes.

Colonial buildings played a critical role in shaping Maryland’s architectural landscape, blending practicality with aesthetic appeal.

Federal Style

The Federal style emerged in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Marked by its elegant simplicity and balanced proportions, this style often incorporates decorative elements like fanlights, sidelights, and elliptical windows.

Saint Anthony’s Shrine in Emmitsburg is a prime example of Federal style architecture. Many homes in Maryland’s historic districts, such as those in Frederick, also reflect these features.

Federal architecture prioritizes symmetry and classical details, showcasing influences from ancient Roman and Greek designs.

This style is prevalent in both urban and rural settings, emphasizing refinement and grace without excessive ornamentation.

Modernist Influence

Modernist architecture in Maryland brings a fresh perspective to the state’s landscape. This style focuses on simplicity, functionality, and the use of new materials like glass and steel.

Baltimore is a key area to observe Modernist buildings, especially through projects like Baltimore Modernism, which highlights significant structures in this style.

Buildings often feature clean lines, open floor plans, and minimalistic design elements.

The influence of Modernism reflects a shift towards innovative and forward-thinking designs, breaking away from traditional architectural forms to embrace a new era of creativity and efficiency.

Prominent Architects of Maryland

Maryland has been shaped by many notable architects whose designs have significantly impacted its architectural landscape. This section highlights two key figures: John Russell Pope and Laurence Hall Fowler.

John Russell Pope

John Russell Pope was a prominent architect known for his classic and monumental designs. He designed several iconic buildings in Maryland.

One of his notable works is the Baltimore Museum of Art, which features a neoclassical design.

Pope’s designs often included grand columns and symmetrical layouts. He was influenced by classical architecture, and this is evident in his use of traditional materials and design elements.

Another significant work by Pope is the Maryland Institute College of Art. This building showcases his ability to blend functional design with aesthetic appeal. His contributions have left a lasting legacy in Maryland’s architectural heritage.

Laurence Hall Fowler

Laurence Hall Fowler was known for his residential and library designs. He made substantial contributions to Baltimore’s architectural scene, particularly with his work on private homes and public buildings.

Fowler’s design philosophy emphasized elegance and practicality. He used brick and stone materials to create structures that were both beautiful and durable.

His work often features intricate details and a refined sense of proportion.

One of his notable projects is the George Peabody Library, known for its grand interior and impressive book collections. Fowler’s designs have helped shape the character of many neighborhoods in Maryland.

His work remains highly regarded for its quality and attention to detail.