A Tour of Pigtown
Pigtown, also known as Washington Village, is a hip, historic community that neighbors the Inner Harbor, Camden Yards and M&T Bank Stadium. Here's how to make the most of your Pigtown explorations.
Pigtown’s name dates back to the late 1800s when pigs were herded through the streets on the way to the slaughterhouse. Today, Pigtown is one of the most culturally and economically diverse neighborhoods in Baltimore. It borders classic Charm City destinations such as the Inner Harbor, Camden Yards and M&T Bank Stadium, and local businesses range from upscale eateries to quaint bookshops and renowned tattoo parlors. It’s also home to the annual Pigtown Festival, a September block party featuring delicious food, live music and the “Squeakness” Pig Race.
Things to Do in Pigtown
In recent years, Pigtown’s main street, along Washington Boulevard, has developed into a hot spot for dining, shopping and even dancing! While walking along this vibrant row, wander into SCRAP B-more, a creative reuse center which has diverted over 19 tons of waste from landfills, and Official Haute Mess, a Black-owned fashion boutique. Grab a cup of coffee from Culinary Architecture before browsing the comprehensive collection at Charm City Books—a cozy two-story bookstore that also sells locally-made goods like stickers and stationary.
If you’re looking to get a little more active, take a stroll in Carroll Park, the third oldest park in Baltimore, and run, skate, play golf or enjoy a picnic on the green. If you visit on the first Friday of the month, attend the Save Your Soul dance party in the basement of Lithuanian Hall. Or, take a Lindy Hop class at Mobtown Ballroom, a 19th-century church turned club and concert hall.
History buffs will enjoy visiting one of Pigtown’s many surrounding museums, including the B&O Railroad Museum, the Babe Ruth Birthplace Museum and Mount Clare Museum House.
Pigtown Restaurants
Baltimore is a city of contradictions, and no neighborhood exemplifies that spirit more than Pigtown, where fast-casual eateries are just steps away from upscale destinations. Here’s where you can grab a bite to eat and rest your feet in Pigtown.
Events in Pigtown
There are several annual events and festivals in Pigtown/Washington Village. Get a true feel for the neighborhood at these can’t-miss events.
Annual Pigtown Festival
This annual carnival-themed event benefits Pigtown Main Street, a local revitalization organization. During the festival, you can buy raffle tickets to support your favorite pig in the “Squeakness,” or the Running of the Pigs. Non-pig-specific activities include listening to live music, spectating the pie-eating contests, playing in the pumpkin patch, and more.
Corks and Cocktails
You’ll have an “oinking” good time at this event, hosted in an elegant Pigtown courtyard. Get to know neighborhood residents and business owners while sampling fine wines, craft beers and light fare from around the region.
NYE Bash at Mobtown Ballroom
“Swing” in the New Year at Mobtown Ballroom, whose annual celebration features music from a live brass band, a complimentary champagne toast and, of course, lots of dancing! Grab your boogie shoes and prepare to welcome another year from the dance floor.
