I never thought I could enjoy living in a city as much as I’ve enjoyed living in Baltimore. Coming from a smaller town, I was initially hesitant to consider schools located in the middle of a larger city; however, after living here for nearly eight months, I think it’s safe to say I’ve been charmed by Charm City.
Without further ado, here are a few of my favorite places and experiences from the past few months.
Museo de Arte de Baltimore
The Baltimore Museum of Art sits right beside the Homewood campus, frequently hosts events, and showcases temporary exhibits. Whether or not you’re an art history or visual arts major or minor, it’s a great place to decompress or hang out with friends while exploring the art on display. In February, I had an amazing time going to Amy Sherald’s “American Sublime” with two of my friends. I recommend going to the BMA’s newly opened exhibit, which will be up until September 6 of this year.
Cajou
Do you have a milk allergy? Are you vegan? Are you—like me—lactose intolerant? Most importantly, do you like ice cream? If you answered yes to any of those questions, Cajou might be the place for you. It’s a completely plant-based creamery and cafe located in Mount Vernon. I am not exaggerating when I say it is the best ice cream I have ever had. Even if you do enjoy dairy, I recommend giving Cajou a try. And, for all of my Horchata lovers, make sure to order the Horchata milkshake—and maybe even buy a pint of the ice cream itself!
Comic Con
As a lover of superheroes, comics, and manga, I could not miss out on a chance to attend Baltimore’s Comic Con. Well-known authors and illustrators from all over came to host panels and answer questions. Last year I got a chance to hear from Jamal Igle, who wrote the 2010s Supergirl comics. Additionally, emerging artists had a chance to showcase and sell their work. It was during the con that I learned about the fairly new series, Roots of Madness by Stephanie Williams (Fun fact: She co-authors the Nubia: Queen of the Amazons series). Tickets for this year’s con (September 25–27) are on sale now!
Ekiben
My first taste of Baltimore was Ekiben’s seasonal soft shell crab sandwich. It was one of the best things I’ve eaten. I have since eaten Ekiben a few more times (I highly recommend the Neighborhood Bird Bun Sandwich) and have yet to be disappointed. I recommend trying Ekiben at one of its three locations in the city. Note: Each menu differs slightly.
Farmers Market
Around a 15-minute walk from campus, the 32nd Street Farmers Market is worth dragging yourself out of bed for on Saturday mornings. Whether you want fresh produce to cook on your own, to taste shredded oxtails, or to buy accessories and clothes from some of the other vendors, buying at the farmers market is a great way to support your neighbors!
inner harbor Firework Show
If you ever spend New Year’s in Baltimore, check out the Inner Harbor New Year’s Eve Firework Show! Last year, I took a bus down to the harbor with two friends. We were welcomed into 2026 by the waterfront. Although it was freezing cold, there was quite the crowd—adults, young adults, and kids all standing or sitting to watch the fireworks light up the sky. I remember being worried that the city lights might overshadow the fireworks. Thankfully, I was wrong. The fireworks were big and bright. They were shooting off from boats in the middle of the harbor in quick succession, dozens of colors—purple, red, pink, green…bursting and lighting up the sky. They were definitely worth the chill.
Tip: Don’t forget to charge your heated jacket!
Inner Harbor Christmas Village
The Inner Harbor Christmas Village is held from late November until Christmas Eve. It has a German market layout, where vendors sell jewelry, knits, foods, ornaments, and other items. There’s also music! Although there are some shops located inside (as is the main stage), most of the vendors are outside, right in front of the harbor, so dress accordingly if you plan on staying long—especially if you intend to stand in line for the Ferris wheel!
Kong Pocha
Kong Pocha, one of the most frequented dining locations for Hopkins students, is a Korean restaurant about a seven-minute drive from campus. If you ever join the Hopkins’ Tutorial Project, this is probably where you’re going to be eating with your pod (fellow tutors). The staff is kind and the service is fast despite how busy the restaurant can get. I highly recommend their seafood pancakes.
Lexington Market
Located in downtown Baltimore, the Lexington Market is another good place to hang out, attend events, and grab a bite to eat! I was just there with a friend today marveling at the variety of vendors and the open-floor layout. I was glad to finally find a place that serves freshly brewed sweet tea. I was also able to buy two beautiful, handmade waist beads—I’m definitely going back for more. The definition of a place with a good ‘vibe,’ once you go, it’s somewhere you can’t wait to return to.
Miracle on 34th Street
Perhaps the cutest and most charming thing I’ve seen in Baltimore thus far, 34th Street goes all out for Christmas (and Hanukkah)! Most of the houses on the street decorate the exterior of their homes and invite visitors to take a look. Some open up their porches; others put out little books for guests to write their names or well wishes. If my younger brothers visit during the winter, I’ll be taking them there.
Mount Everest
My favorite Baltimore restaurant, Mount Everest in Hampden, has delicious and affordable Indian/Nepalese food and an amazing staff. I love their lamb saag and every time I think of their mango lassi I feel like running to Hampden—including right now although I just went yesterday.
No Land Beyond
Would you believe me if I told you there’s a place you can get access to unlimited board and card games for just $5? No Land Beyond is that place, and it’s just a 17-minute bus ride from campus. I went for the first time a few weeks ago to celebrate one of my friends’ birthdays. We spent hours playing games and eating pizza—price not included. I don’t think it’d be possible to play every game there even if you had ten years, let alone four, but I plan on trying!
Orioles Game
I am not the biggest sports fan, but I had an amazing time at Camden Yards. It’s a very exciting environment, the music is upbeat, as are the fans. The food is pretty good, albeit expensive—I highly recommend the cotton candy. I think any baseball fan would have a nice time, and for those of you who aren’t into baseball, consider trying it out with a group of friends. Sometimes games can be more interesting to watch in person.
Peabody Heights Brewery
Once again, I’m not the biggest sports fan, but even I had to see this year’s halftime show. The Peabody Heights Brewery is a laidback, family-friendly venue that hosts various monthly events (including art markets!) and has an arcade out back. Although they usually close early on Sundays, they remained open this year for the show. They had good food, a calm environment, and a quality projector screen. If you’re looking for a place to watch the game next year, consider the Brewery.
Red Emma’s
Half cafe, half bookstore, Red Emma’s is always buzzing with activity. Throughout the month, Red Emma’s hosts book talks, open-mics, and creative and informational events. The Free School Classroom located downstairs can be reserved for events. Last semester I participated in a documentary watch-discussion hosted by a socialist group. Red Emma’s is also my favorite off-campus study spot—although they occasionally blast rock music.
Fun fact: The menu is entirely plant-based.
The Club Car
The Club Car is a lively but laid back, queer drag bar near downtown Baltimore. Last semester I attended the queer history presentation they hosted. The event was very informative and concluded with amazing drag performances by three queens—one of whom owns the bar!
Walters Museum of Art
Although farther from campus than the Baltimore Museum of Art, the Walter’s Museum of Art can be easily reached by taking the JHMI shuttle up to the Mount Vernon neighborhood. It is extremely close to the Peabody Institute. Like the BMA, the Walter’s Museum is free and open to the public. Its sculpture collection is beautiful as is the architecture of the building itself.
As long as this list may seem, it doesn’t even scratch the surface of all that Baltimore has to offer. These past few months have been some of the liveliest and most fun of my life, and these places and experiences have contributed to many of the friendships I’ve made at Hopkins. Baltimore is truly a city that has something for everyone, and I encourage all of you to take your time exploring it and making wonderful memories of your own.
