Baltimore, Maryland, is known for its rich history, beautiful waterfront and (though on the Mason-Dixon line) southern hospitality. But the harbor-side city is known for one other thing, too: diverse and distinctive neighborhoods, all of which offer individual vibes and entertaining amenities.
Baltimore neighborhoods are many and varied, and most are full of a wide range of residents. Interested in learning more about some of the coolest areas in Maryland's largest city? Take a look at this guide to some of the most popular Baltimore neighborhoods:
Once referred to as "Inner Harbor East," this relatively new neighborhood is located right along the waterfront. It's the perfect spot for anyone who likes to be in the thick of things.
Harbor East has tons of recreation, shopping and dining options (including some of the best doughnuts you'll ever have from the Gypsy Queen Cafe food truck on Central Avenue). The neighborhood is also known for its bustling nightlife, and is a popular area for young professionals to spend time.
Another waterfront town, Canton is just east of Harbor East and Fell's Point. Its brick row houses and community vibe make it seem like a residential suburb in the midst of a big city.
Canton Square is definitely the hub of this neighborhood, with plenty of small shops, restaurants, and cafes, many of which have been around for years. Canton Square is walkable and picturesque. On warm spring and summer days, you can walk near the water at Canton Waterfront Park, just a few blocks down Linwood Avenue.
Otterbein is a relatively small and quiet neighborhood, but it's the ideal spot to enjoy some of Baltimore's top attractions.
Adjacent to many of the busiest neighborhoods in the city (including Federal Hill and Inner Harbor), Otterbein is a short distance from museums, restaurants, and shopping, while still retaining a somewhat quaint and residential vibe.
Like most other waterfront communities in Baltimore, Fell's Point has been around for centuries, which means it has plenty of Old-World charm (like cobblestone streets and 18th-century storefronts) mixed in with its new-age amenities.
This central neighborhood is located between Inner Harbor and Canton, and it's another hub of great shopping and delicious food, whether you're in the mood for fine dining or a hole-in-the-wall pub.
Think of Federal Hill as Fell's Point's older and more sophisticated brother. It has all of the historic charm and recreation opportunities, but it's just a bit more expensive to live in the area.
However, that doesn't keep Federal Hill from being a fun destination for visitors and tourists, both of whom love wandering in and out of the area's many shops and boutiques and visiting the Cross Street Market for lunch. On sunny days, head over to Federal Hill Park for some beautiful harbor views.
Hampden is known for being one of the most unique and funky Baltimore neighborhoods, with its several locally owned boutiques, shops, restaurants, and cafes along "The Avenue," and its diverse population of residents.
The artsy neighborhood also has several studios and galleries, along with some fun festivals like the quirky "HonFest" in June and the area's art and music festival "HampdenFest" in September.
Charles Village is home to Johns Hopkins University, so the neighborhood has a pretty young college vibe. This is especially strong along Saint Paul Street, where students go to visit the many restaurants and bars.
Charles Village is also known for its Baltimore Museum of Art and some beautiful Painted Lady Victorian houses that rival the ones across the country in San Francisco.