A Tour of Hampden
This quintessential Baltimore neighborhood is home to some of the best restaurants, shops and art all along one main drag. Here’s how to make a day of your Hampden explorations.
Originally built around the Jones Falls mills to provide homes for the millworkers, this north Baltimore neighborhood began transforming in the 90s, when artists began to take root. Hampden’s main drag, 36th Street aka “The Avenue,” is a great place to grab a bite, share a beer, check out some hip boutiques and vintage shops and immerse yourself in the overall vibe of this ecclectic neighborhood.
Things To Do in Hampden
Most of the action is around Hampden’s main drag 36th Street, known as The Avenue, where you’ll find plenty of locally-owned shops and restaurants such as Doubledutch Boutique, Atomic Books, Bazaar, Lovelyarns, Bluebird Cocktail Room and Zissimos Bar. The neighborhood is especially famous for its abundance of vintage stores, including Balto and Charlotte Elliott.
When you need a pick me up, check out the coffee and pastries offered at the neighborhood’s many coffee shops, including Artifact, Good Neighbor, Catalog and Common Ground. And those seeking a sweet treat should stop at Dangerously Delicious Pies, Baltimore in a Box Ice Cream or Tia’s Italian Ice. During the summer months, be sure to grab a snowball from Quality Snowballs outside The Food Market. Try it the Baltimore way with egg custard and marshmallow!
A short drive away from The Avenue, the Union Collective has something for everyone, from sampling what’s on tap at Union Craft Brewing, Wine Collective or Baltimore Spirits Company to rock climbing at Movement and touring The Charmery ice cream factory.
Download a map and learn about the neighborhood’s history by taking the self-guided Greater Hampden Heritage Alliance Walking Tour, and stop by the nearby Baltimore Streetcar Museum. On a sunny day, enjoy the local parks and trails such as Roosevelt or Wyman Park and the Jones Falls or Stony Run trail.
Hampden Restaurants
It’s not hard to find great food in Baltimore, and Hampden is no exception. Here are just a few great places to eat in Hampden if you’re looking for a break from your exploration.
Hampden Shopping
Hampden has plenty of local shopping options. Check out these Hampden shops.
Events in Hampden
There are several annual events and festivals in Hampden. Get a true feel for the neighborhood at these can’t-miss events.
Hampden Highlights
This annual summer festival brings the Hampden community together for a day of celebration, neighborhood investment and fundraising for local nonprofits. “Highlights” include four performance stages, art installations, food vendors and pop-ups from makers and local charities.
Miracle on 34th Street
A tradition begun by local couple Bob Hosier and Darlene Hughes, the entire block of 34th Street lights up for the holidays with classic and topical festive decor, including the famous hubcap Christmas tree and bicycle wheel snowman.
