Ascend Hotel Collection, part of Choice Hotels International, has announced its debut in Baltimore today with three boutique hotels in the waterfront neighborhoods of Inner Harbor and historic Fells Point.

The properties – Inn at Henderson’s Wharf, Pier 5 and Admiral Fell Inn – expand Ascend Hotel Collection’s lineup to 80 independent hotels. Today’s news comes on the heels of the announcement last month that the fast-growing portfolio has added boutique hotels in Napa Valley, Sedona, Carmel and New Orleans. The momentum continues, with 30 signed agreements for additional properties in such premier destinations as Las Vegas, Aruba, Miami, Orlando and Cape Cod.

The group’s new Baltimore hotels are owned and managed by Meyer Jabara Hotels, an award-winning hospitality company that owns and operates more than 20 lodgings in 13 states.

“Since its launch just a little more than four years ago, Ascend Hotel Collection has had incredible growth, adding distinctive properties operated by some of the top companies in the industry,” said Michael Murphy, senior vice president of upscale brands at Choice Hotels. “Our latest additions are true to the Ascend DNA. Within walking distance to great restaurants, nightlife and attractions, these exceptional hotels showcase the best of the local culture and go out of their way to help guests feel in the know about all that this city has to offer.”

Ascend Hotel Collection properties are located in top business and leisure destinations in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, Europe and Central America. Murphy attributes the portfolio’s rapid expansion to its significant member benefits. Hotels maintain their independent brand identity and local character, while gaining the firepower of the Choice Hotels global distribution, sales, marketing and technology platforms.

Inn at Henderson’s Wharf, Pier 5 and Admiral Fell Inn offer: complimentary shuttle service; free Wi-Fi; use of the nearby MAC Pool & Wellness Center; state-of-the-art meeting and event space; and specialists to customize dream weddings, vacations, meetings and events. Both Pier 5 and Admiral Fell Inn are pet-friendly hotels.

Ascend Hotel Collection, www.ascendcollection.com