Top of the World Observation Level and Museum, Baltimore (must see)

The Top of the World Observation Level and Museum is set on the 27th floor of the World Trade Center Baltimore, a distinctive pentagonal tower rising above the Inner Harbor. Completed in 1977 and reaching 405 feet, the 30-story building remains the tallest regular pentagonal structure in the world. Designed by the firm of I. M. Pei, with principal architects Henry Cobb and Pershing Wong, it was conceived as a landmark of modern Baltimore during the city’s waterfront redevelopment.

The observation level is fully enclosed, offering a 360-degree panoramic view through floor-to-ceiling windows. From this height, the Inner Harbor unfolds clearly below, with its promenades, historic ships, and attractions such as the National Aquarium. The view extends across downtown streets and surrounding neighborhoods, making it easy to understand how the city is arranged and how its historic core connects with more recent development.

Inside, the space combines viewing with interpretation. Informational panels help identify landmarks and outline key moments in Baltimore’s history, while rotating art exhibits add a cultural element to the visit. The site also hosts the Maryland 9/11 Memorial, creating a quieter area of reflection within the observation space and linking the building’s name to a broader historical context.

Operated by the Baltimore Office of Promotion and the Arts, the observation level supports local cultural programming while remaining accessible to visitors.