NDC’s Map of Baltimore Hidden Gems

Looking for new spots to explore in Baltimore City? We asked our team about their favorite hidden gems, with a community focus. Here’s our list!

Linked locations below. You may also download the map as PDF (location key included). It makes a good poster!

1. CYLBURN ARBORETUM — Perfect for a picnic and hike.
2. PLANTATION PARK HEIGHTS — Urban farm having a positive impact in their community.
3. DRUID HILL PARK — The 3rd oldest established park in the US, home to the Rawlings Conservatory and Botanic Gardens.
4. RASH FIELD PARK — Creative playground on the inner harbor with a skate park.
5. HERRING RUN AND LAKE MONTEBELLO — Bike this six mile trail and reservoir loop.
6. REAL FOOD FARM — Growing fresh produce on eight acres to improve neighborhood access to healthy food and experience-based education.

7. CITY SEEDS — Exceptional catering by workforce development program for economically-rising men and women.
8. BALTIMORE FARMERS MARKET — A Sunday farmers market located underneath the Jones Falls Expressway, with handmade goods.
9. 32ND STREET FARMERS MARKET — A year round, Saturday farmers market in Waverly that has fresh food and hot meals.
10. CHARM CITY MEADWORKS — Relaxed brewhouse preparing craft mead and homemade pizzas.
11. MOTZI — This bakery locally sources their grains and has pay-what-you-can pricing.
12. BLACKSAUCE KITCHEN — A mobile kitchen known for delicious biscuits and barbeque.
13. LEXINGTON MARKET — A 200+ year old public market with amazing food stalls and outdoor plaza.
14. RED EMMA’S — Cooperative radical bookstore with vegan cafe. They host book talks and events.

15. GREEDY READS — Cool bookstore with different book clubs. They often read and invite local authors.
16. GOOD NEIGHBOR — Curated goods, design-forward hotel, inspired meals, and community events.
17. POTTERS GUILD OF BALTIMORE — Ceramics classes, studio space, and gallery of local artists.
18. OPEN WORKS — Maryland’s largest makerspace with an incredible community, this nonprofit provides access to all sorts of fun tools, from bandsaws to lasercutters.
19. STATION NORTH TOOL LIBRARY — They offer affordable, sliding scale membership and host cool classes like knife-making and woodworking.
20. MICA OPEN STUDIES CLASSES — This art college offers great courses on anything from design to figure drawing.
21. CURRENT SPACE — This gallery has unique exhibitions and performances, with an outdoor bar.
22. 2640 SPACE — Previously a church, the venue now hosts concerts, film screenings, performances, and markets.
23. CREATIVE ALLIANCE — Performance space showcasing theater, art, films, and dance with two bars.
24. SECOND CHANCE — Discover reclaimed, good-as-new appliances and antique goods.
25. BIKEMORE — This bike advocacy org hosts a monthly city-wide bike party and other events.
26. SHAKE & BAKE — This family fun center has both bowling and roller skating under one roof.
27. GREAT BLACKS IN WAX — Features prominent African-American and other black historical figures.

28. PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE BLACK ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT — In the 1940s-60s, this was the place to see the latest musicians and singers perform. Today, the District aims to preserve and build on that history.
29. BROMO TOWER A & E DISTRICT — Named for the iconic Bromo Seltzer Arts Tower, it boasts countless music venues, theaters, and galleries.
30. HIGHLANDTOWN A & E DISTRICT — As the 2nd largest A&E District in Maryland, it’s known for eclectic events, parades, and vibrant art.
31. STATION NORTH A & E DISTRICT — Known for mural-covered storefronts, creator spaces, and historic theaters.
32. LAURAVILLE / HAMILTON BUSINESS DISTRICT — Vibrant commercial area with a range of small local businesses, from retail and restaurants to art and events.