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Five Reasons To Visit Baltimore For Spring Break

Not everyone can afford to travel during their spring break to exotic, tropical destinations, especially with student loans piling up. And while a week-long, non-stop party may appeal to some, the vast majority would likely prefer a more relaxing break away from the books. The Baltimore area has many options for students on spring break to both relax and have fun.

Sandy Point State Park
1100 E. College Parkway
Annapolis, Md. 21409
(410) 974-2149
www.dnr.state.md.us/sandypoint.asp

An affordable beach experience can be had without the long trek to Ocean City or Rehoboth beaches. Sandy Point State Park offers 786 acres spanning along the Chesapeake Bay, and is the site of the annual Polar Bear Plunge that raises money for Special Olympics Maryland. For $3 to $7 per person, you have access to the park and beaches. You can swim and sunbathe on the beach, go fishing or crabbing, picnic, walk the trails, rent a boat and even go camping. Be sure to make it a day trip during your spring break.

Related: Guide To A Family Trip On The Eastern Shore

Spirit of Baltimore
561 Light St.
Baltimore, Md. 21202
(410) 727-3113
www.spiritcruisesbaltimore.com

Say goodbye to the bland cafeteria and hello to elegant ambiance with the most magical view of the city, on the water. Bring family or visiting friends to cruise along the Inner Harbor's historic waterfront on the Spirit of Baltimore dinner cruise. There is a grande buffet with entertainment from singing staff and a disc jockey, so be prepared to show off your moves on the large dance floor. When you need some fresh air, check out spectacular views by taking a stroll along the deck.

Six Flags
13710 Central Ave.
Upper Marlboro, Md. 20774
(301) 249-1500
www.sixflags.com/america

During your mid-semester break, let loose by heading down to Six Flags America. Scream away the stresses of school from atop roller coasters and thrill rides. Step into the comic book world in the Gotham City section with the 200-foot plunge on Superman: Ride of Steel and the Batwing coaster equipped with seats that tilt backward so you really feel like you're flying. Of course, there are the more mild classics, like the carousel, bumper cars and spinning tea cups. Reopening for the season in April, Hurricane Harbor allows you to cool off with water slides, a lazy river and a wave pool.

Power Plant Live!
34 Market Place
Baltimore, Md. 21202
(410) 727-5483
www.powerplantlive.com

Just because you're away from college doesn't mean the party stops completely. Power Plant Live! is filled with various dining and entertainment options. You have your choice of restaurants, night clubs, beer gardens, tequila bars and more. Sing along by the piano bar in Howl at the Moon and laugh out loud at the Comedy Factory. And if you never made it to the Las Vegas hotel and casino, you can still rock and roll at the Hard Rock Cafe. Special events at the Power Plant include a Mardi Gras festival on March 1 and concerts by various artists, including Ani DiFranco on April 26.

Related: Best Sightseeing Tours In Baltimore

About Faces Day Spa
1501 S. Clinton St., Suite 300
Baltimore, Md. 21224
(410) 675-0099
www.aboutfacesdayspa.com

Before heading back to school, remember to indulge by treating yourself to a day at the spa. Whether you're in need of a massage, facial, manicure, pedicure or haircut, About Faces in Canton has it all with a breathtaking, harbor view. Take full advantage of the relaxation room, complete with comfortable lounge chairs, plush blankets and snacks. After all of those mid-terms, you deserve it.

Pam Smith graduated from Penn State with a B.A. in English and a passion for writing. Her adaptive nature led her to work in the scientific, energy supply, and business industries while writing on a multitude of topics for various online media. Pam currently resides in Baltimore County. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.

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