Pier Six Pavilion in the Inner Harbor

Tucked away on a spit of land steps from attractions such as the National Aquarium, the Maryland Science Center, ESPN Zone and Harborplace, the concert venue Pier Six Pavilion is a fabulous place to see a show. One of the chief assets of the 4,200-capacity pavilion, since its inception in 1981, has been its proximity to so many attractions.

But its location isn’t just convenient, it’s drop-dead gorgeous as well. The multi-spired canopy construction rises dramatically above a narrow waterway that leads into the Inner Harbor. With water on either side, harbor breezes keep concert-goers cool even during the dog days of August.

In recent years Annapolis-based Rams Head, owners of the Rams Head Tavern and Rams Head Live! concert presenter, have taken over the management of the facility bringing in an edgy line up of shows and top-notch food and beverage.

All concerts are rain or shine, which is fine for ticket holder with seats. All seats are covered but those with tickets for grassy lawn area will get wet. The venue’s season, weather permitting, runs from April 1 to October 31.

While location has been the strong point of the city-owned facility, management and talent bookings have not. But in spring 2006, Rams Head signed a one-year deal to take over its operation. The combination of the relatively short contract and the fact the deal was struck too late to capitalize on the summer festival season left Pier Six mostly dormant in 2006.

But then in early 2007, Rams Head—along with business partners The Cordish Company, Infinity Broadcasting and the Bethel AME Church—inked a new deal with the city to operate Pier Six for 10 years. And, just like that, a new musical hotspot was reborn in Baltimore.

The pavilion, which has played host to a range of genres including rock, jazz, R&B and classical over the years, is hard to miss thanks to its unique Teflon-covered nylon roof. The current facility, built in 1991 for $4.9 million, replaced a smaller pavilion built 10 years earlier. The existing structure has six masts that rise 70 feet, and side openings, where Baltimore’s panorama unfolds, are 30 feet high. A new stage, new signage and a refurbished backstage green room have been added by the new management team.

Pier Six Pavilion
731 Eastern Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21202

Tickets

Restrictions

• Permitted: pillows, blankets, small tote-type umbrellas
• Prohibited: Weapons, glass containers, beverages, cameras, recording devices, food, coolers, pets, lawn chairs.
• All bags will be searched.
• Exit and re-entry is not permitted.
• No smoking under the pavilion or on the lawn.
• All shows must end by 11 p.m.

Parking

Many Inner Harbor parking garages are an easy walk to Pier Six. More Inner Harbor Parking Resources.