Want to lift a glass to history at the Rye? Check out the US Ghost Adventures Tour of Haunted Baltimore for more about this historically-inspired bar.
There’s tons of culture to dig up in Baltimore, from its famous Maryland blue crabs to its frequent presence on the silver screen. But few dare to look deep into its spookier history.Â
Founded initially as an eastern seaport town, Baltimore was known in its early days for its fishing industry and its strategic wartime location along the Patapsco River. Seeing as the city’s earlier inhabitants were sailors and soldiers, it quickly developed a reputation for having a rough and rowdy charm.Â
One of the best places to learn more about Baltimore’s history is through the lens of some of its oldest and most haunted saloons, like the Rye. After all, what better place to share ghost stories than over a pint with other history-minded saloon-goers?Â
Much of Baltimore’s history is still deeply entrenched in the older neighborhoods, particularly Fell’s Point. The point sits along the harbor and was home to many of Baltimore’s more adventure-seeking residents of yesteryear.Â
Fell’s Point is overflowing with well-preserved sites once frequented by these sailors and maritime soldiers, in particular some of their favorite old saloons. In fact, you can still pull up a barstool at many of them if you’re passing through and in need of a cold drink and a good tale.Â
If you’re lucky, you might even meet one of these original regulars. Rumors circulate that the sailors and soldiers of this bygone era still haunt these historic sites, making them all the more thrilling to visit.
Established in 2011, the Rye’s menu and aesthetic pay homage to its Fell’s Point location. This historic neighborhood has been home to some of the nation’s oldest and most revered saloons, and Rye wants to honor that piece of Baltimore’s past.Â
The bar is in the same location as the famed old Whistling Oyster, which had a reputation for attracting odd clientele—including ones not of this world.Â
The old manager at the Oyster has stated she knew ghosts lurked in the bar, given the numer of strange noises, missing objects, and other spooky incidents. Considering its location by the harbor, it’s possible these are simply soldiers and sailors trying to get another round before the last call.
The Rye has taken up residence in this same strange place, but who knows if a change of owners also meant a change of clientele.Â
The whole bar is an homage to a bygone era. With signature cocktails and decor designed to replicate the tastes of the Prohibition Era, this bar is the perfect place to come if you want to feel as though you’ve returned to the Baltimore of another century.Â
If you’re up for more stories about this port city’s rough and rowdy past, join US Ghost Adventures on a haunted tour of Baltimore. Rye is just one of many iconic stops in a city filled with sailors’ old haunts and favorite saloons.Â
Since 2013, US Ghost Adventures has offered entertaining, historical, and authentic ghost tours of America’s most haunted cities. We deliver fun yet honest accounts of hauntings across the nation for curious people of all ages. Our ghost stories are based on historical research, but that doesn’t mean they won’t send a chill down your spine.
This video gives you a small taste of what you might experience on your ghost tour — subscribe to our YouTube Channel for more.
US Ghost Adventures also offers virtual tours, a self-guided mobile app, and an Alexa voice app.