Print

Mount Vernon

Just north of downtown lies the genteel enclave of Mount Vernon, once home to Baltimore’s gilded age elite and now the heart of Baltimore’s arts and culture community.

While Washington D.C. is home to a more famous landmark, the nation’s first monument to George Washington sits proudly at the center of Mount Vernon square. What were once the grand mansions of Baltimore’s 19th century industrialists are now museums, galleries, shops and restaurants, beckoning visitors to the neighborhood’s many fine museums and arts institutions to linger a bit longer. Take in the masterpieces of Raphael, El Greco and Bernini as well as an overwhelming array of Asian and African antiquities at the Walters Art Museum.

In sharp contrast, the Contemporary Museum exhibits avant garde works of modern and installation art just next door. Stroll across the street to the spiraling heights and ornamental ironwork of the Peabody Library’s Grand Cathedral of Books, a five story marvel.

Also nestled in Mount Vernon is America’s first Catholic Cathedral, meticulously restored just last year beyond its original glory. Stroll the neighborhood on your own or as part of a guided tour and let the impressive architecture and manicured public gardens transport you to a bygone era.