Catching a cab in any city can be an excruciating task, but in Baltimore the water taxis line up on the docks to bring visitors from port to port in the Inner Harbor and surrounding areas.

These unique boats are about the size of a minibus, allowing passengers to travel to a variety of stops throughout the entire day for a flat fee. The cost is approximately $5, and most companies also hand out coupons for area attractions. In addition to making traveling more efficient and relaxing, it touts the city’s attractions and reminds riders of Baltimore’s shipping industry as they enjoy this urban renewal story.

Since its settlement in 1729, Baltimore has been a vital seaport to fishermen and merchants. The day’s catch can be purchased at markets and eaten at a variety of restaurants. Ships filled with cargo line up along the section of the harbor where warehouses nudge the docks. Many of these structures are faceless, but the Domino Sugar sign in grand neon lights with a vessel parked outside demonstrates that goods are still transported the old-fashioned way — in ships as opposed to the tractor-trailers we see every day on Interstate 95.

Urban renewal has been kind to Baltimore, as attested by the historic area known as Fells Point which still maintains its cobblestone streets, quaint restaurants and shops.

Don’t be surprised if you come across a police station on Thames Street and find the men in blue missing. They are no longer fighting crime. This “station” was originally a warehouse that served as the set of the television show “Homicide, Life on the Streets.”

Residents still talk about the show’s filming in the city and how a local man — Barry Levinson — brought the fictional yet realistic tale into homes week after week. They also smile and offer friendly suggestions of the sights one must see while in the area, such as the antique and craft shops.

A short ride from Fells Point is Fort McHenry, the inspiration for our national anthem.

While walking around the fort, you can see the cannons that once were used to defend it from invasion during war. Inside, bunks are lined up, each sleeping four uncomfortably. On the other side of the room are a desk and the cooking area.

If you walk down the stairs of one of the buildings, you’ll see the prison for Southern sympathizers during the Civil War. The only light in this cavelike structure is from a small, barred window.

Surrounding the fort is a park area that overlooks the water. From here one can see all of Baltimore. In the heart of the Inner Harbor is a mix of 1990s entertainment and traditional museums.

The USS Constellation sits in the harbor, the only Civil War-era vessel still afloat. The grand wooden vessel, once used to foil slave trading, is now a museum that tells its story while displaying the clothes, food and weapons used by its crew.

A headset delivers a walking tour of the ship, explaining that after the Civil War it was used to transport food to Ireland during the famine and for naval academy exercises.

The Maryland Science Center is a short walk along the boardwalk from the USS Constellation; you can also get there by water taxi.

The center makes learning about science fun with interactive displays such as allowing participants to use their body to understand energy. An interactive arcade teaches about the senses. In addition, there are the Davis Planetarium and IMAX movie theater.

Along the boardwalk is a variety of eateries ranging in price and cuisine. In Maine, we brag about lobster. In Maryland, it’s crabs. From seafood to a hamburger, there’s something for everyone, including several theme restaurants.

Hard Rock Cafe provides the opportunity to dine while viewing rock ‘n’ roll memorabilia. Its cinematic counterpart, Planet Hollywood, serves up a variety of dishes while displaying props and costumes from old and new movies.

The die-hard sports fan will prefer the harbor’s newest attraction, the ESPN Zone. The sports channel has opened an eatery and sports arena. Interactive games such as rock climbing, baseball and football can be played upstairs as one waits for a table in the restaurant. In addition, there are skeet ball and video games. It’s not necessary to eat at the Zone, where unique gear from every sport is also an attraction. Items such as hockey helmets, signed jerseys and the dirt from every baseball park are on display.

After dinner there’s still plenty to do. Many of the attractions are open late; one can walk along the boardwalk and check out the boats or just sit back and listen to the musicians play. You can take a harbor cruise, or hop back on the taxi for a moonlit ride to its many stops.

For more information call the Baltimore Area Convention and Visitors Center at (800) 282-6632.