Explore Baltimore

An independent bookstore for readers with eccentric tastes, come by Atomic Books if you feel like swapping your textbook for indie comics, zines, or other small-press treasures. It’s also the only place where you can send fan mail to filmmaker/Baltimore native John Waters (he swings by to pick it up).

The twinkly lights over Belvedere Square set the scene for a fun date night or evening with family visiting from out of town. Catch a flick at the historic Senator Theatre, dine at one of the many restaurants, or de-stress with a manicure or martial arts class. There’s always something happening each season, like Summer Sounds and the Tree Lighting and Nutcracker in the winter.

There’s no need to leave Baltimore to immerse yourself in a lively Latine community. Dig into an empanada or try Peru’s signature dish, lomo saltado, at Chicken Rico. Peruse markets like Hecho en Baltimore to find beautiful, handmade crafts. For other ways to get involved, CIELO (Creative Immigrant Educators of Latin Origin) offers programs like Tianquiztli, a marketplace with local artisans and a cooking competition, and Artesanas, a group made up of Latin American women who honor their roots by demonstrating, sharing, and teaching traditional crafts.

Science fiction and fantasy enthusiasts should look no further than the Baltimore Science Fiction Society (BSFS). Mingle with folks who appreciate the genre in all its forms whether that’s by joining the writer’s circle or attending a movie screening, author reading, or book discussion. And don’t miss BSFS’ biggest annual event: Balticon. For more than 50 years, it has been the premier fan-run Sci-Fi convention in the Mid-Atlantic region—featuring everyone from award-winning authors and publishers to Twitch live-streamers, cosplay experts, renowned scientists, and tech innovators.

Icons loom large in the National Great Blacks in Wax Museum—the only wax museum in the U.S. that’s dedicated to Black historical figures. Featuring more than 150 life-like statues along with their stories, the museum is committed to studying and preserving African American history. It’s a cultural institution like no other.

If you’ve got a sweet tooth, then you’re in luck! Sip on a milkshake from Lost in the 50’s Diner or have a “proper British experience” at Emma’s Tea Spot. The Hamilton-Lauraville neighborhood features family-owned businesses like Fenwick Bakery and Woodlea Bakery, which have served traditional desserts for generations alongside newer spots, such as Maillard Patisserie, which specializes in Vienoisserie as well as classic American baked goods.

Dive into the history of Baltimore from a hands-on perspective at the Baltimore Museum of Industry. These exhibits tell the stories of workers and entrepreneurs, those whose ideas and efforts ushered Baltimore into a manufacturing powerhouse. As a major industrial center, the city is home to the first passenger railway, oldest gas company, and first traffic light in the U.S. as well as many other inventions.

He’s not just a sustainably powered, semi-autonomous trash interceptor—he’s a local celebrity with his own merch. Mr. Trash Wheel keeps the Inner Harbor water litter-free using solar and hydro power, all while rocking a pair of googly eyes. Who knew an ocean-cleanup project conceived by Hopkins students could be so adorable? See what Hopkins is doing to create a sustainable campus.

Baltimore is less than an hour away from Annapolis—Maryland’s state capital—and just a short train ride to Washington, DC. Exploring the (free) Smithsonian museums, historic monuments, or our new Bloomberg Center (located on the same street as the White House and the U.S. Capitol) are great reasons for a day trip. If you feel like extending your stay, you can spend a semester living and working in the capital through Hopkins Semester DC.

Each year, Hopkins unites activists and political leaders at our Foreign Affairs Symposium, which is now part of the Hopkins Lecture Series.

Once home to the sailors, captains, and merchants of Baltimore’s past, Fells Point is packed with local history, live music, and waterfront restaurants. Support our local indie record store, The Sound Garden, by attending a listening party or adding to your vinyl collection. On the other side of The Square, you can get dressed up for The Pendry and enjoy a meal at one of the poshest restaurants in town.

Arch Social is the oldest continuously operating Black men’s social club in the U.S. Originally founded out of a necessity for brotherhood in the midst of segregation, it was considered the cultural heart of Black Baltimore. Now, it serves as a hub for a new generation of activists, artists, entrepreneurs, and patrons.

Challenge your definition of art at the American Visionary Art Museum. This gallery specializes in original exhibits that boldly meld art, science, philosophy, humor, and social justice. Each work is created by a self-taught artist, usually without formal training. You’ll find intuitive art that’s both awe-inspiring and head-scratching as well as a unique gift shop jam-packed with curiosities.

Founded in 1782 and still going strong in its original location, Lexington Market boasts more than 100 vendors. Stroll through to learn about its storied history, try a famous jumbo lump crabcake from Faidley’s, or shop for produce grown by local farmers. Don’t miss this opportunity to say you’ve shopped at the oldest public market in the U.S.

The George Peabody Library is consistently ranked among the most beautiful libraries in the world, and it’s part of the Hopkins network. A massive skylight soars over six tiers of cast-iron balconies and a collection of more than 300,000 volumes dating from the Renaissance through the 19th century. The sprawling anthology includes first editions by Poe; Hawthorne; Melville; Baltimore’s own H. L. Mencken; early editions of Don Quixote; and a first edition of Darwin’s “Origin of the Species.”

In Graffiti Alley, brick walls and garage doors transform into color-splattered canvases, making it one of the most instagrammable spots in the city. Check back often, as no mural stays the same for long.

Hampden is the quirky neighborhood that inspired the John Waters film “Hairspray” and is within walking distance of campus. In today’s Hampden, you can walk down “The Avenue” and grab a slice of Dangerously Delicious Pie, browse through vintage and oddities shops, or enjoy DIY time at the Craft Castle. 

For all the Tracy Turnblads out there, get your song-and-dance fix through student orgs like The Barnstormers or The Rocky Horror Picture Show. 

Across the Inner Harbor from Fells Point, you’ll find Fort McHenry—the site of the 1814 Battle of Baltimore and other historic battles. The fort, shaped like a giant star, is a favorite destination of professional and amateur historians, and its grassy lawns are the perfect place to take a walk, fly a kite, and enjoy beautiful views of the harbor.

For the student-journalists behind the “Johns Hopkins News-Letter,” history is happening now.

There’s nothing like sharing a bushel of steamed crabs with friends at a waterfront crab deck; it’s a Maryland tradition. For Baltimoreans, learning to pick a crab starts as young as learning their ABCs. So, grab a bib, a wooden mallet, and get ready for a blast of Old Bay seasoning as you dig in.

The Maryland Zoo is home to more than 1,500 animals, including the most successful breeding colony of endangered African black-footed penguins in North America. After an up-close animal hang, spend a day in the surrounding 745-acre Druid Hill Park—one of the first large public parks in America and a great place for a tennis match, frisbee tournament, or splash in the pool.

Incubators aren’t just for baby animals: The Social Innovation Lab is an early-stage incubator founded by Hopkins students for entrepreneurs across the university and Baltimore.

Remington, Charles Village, and Hampden are neighborhoods near campus that have much to offer to the culinarily curious. From Korean BBQ and Egyptian street food to boba tea and cheesesteak empanadas, fulfilling cravings of all kinds is convenient and affordable.

Hop on the light rail, pick from over 60 bus routes, grab an electric scooter, or take a water taxi—Baltimore is full of public transportation options. The Charm City Circulator is a free downtown bus system for residents and visitors. Hopkins also provides free shuttles, day and night, around the Homewood campus, East Baltimore campus, Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, and the surrounding vicinity.

Mount Vernon is Baltimore’s preeminent historic arts district. Its 19th-century architecture and cobblestone streets are home to the Peabody Institute, the (free) Walters Art Museum, and the towering 178-foot Washington Monument (yes, it’s climbable). We recommend grabbing a beverage from Ceremony Coffee Roasters and enjoying it in the tulip-lined park.

Head to Mount Vernon in May for Flower Mart, an annual Baltimore festival where you’ll have to try the iconic lemon stick.

Check out “The Peabody Ballroom Experience,” a collaboration between Hopkins and Baltimore’s ballroom and voguing community.

Ride a dragon boat, surround yourself with seven species of sharks at the National Aquarium (don’t worry, they’re behind glass), or nerd out at the Maryland Science Center. Just across the harbor, discover the enchanting American Visionary Arts Museum, home to Fifi, the giant kinetic sculpture poodle.

Explore more downtown favorites by checking out Tess G.’s tips for exploring Baltimore on a budget.

Borrow a car and hit the road: Ocean City, MD is an easy weekend trip just three hours away. Blue Jays can dip their toes in the Atlantic Ocean, ride a pier-side rollercoaster, and gorge on delicious boardwalk snacks. Add these to your bucket list: Thrasher’s French fries, Fractured Prune donuts, and Fisher’s caramel popcorn. And keep an eye out for “scopes” folks to get photos of you and your friends in mini telescopes—a memorable souvenir!

Hikers and nature lovers have plenty of options: colorful deciduous landscapes, beautiful waterways, and many state park campgrounds are just a short drive from campus. Blue Jays can trek a little farther to Western Maryland for sweeping mountain views and historic towns like Frederick and Harpers Ferry. 

You’ll find the Experiential Education team at the Ralph S. O’Connor Recreation Center offers a variety of outdoor events including hiking and canoeing, as well as sailing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. You can also rent equipment for your own adventures!

Pimlico Race Course is home to the Preakness Stakes—the second “jewel” in Thoroughbred Horseracing’s Triple Crown. The sprawling venue, which also hosts the annual Moonrise Festival, is the second oldest horse racing track in the United States—an important landmark to Maryland’s rich equestrian heritage. The first few weeks of May are always buzzing with excitement and quirky traditions as the city prepares for the big event at “Old Hilltop.”

Edgar Allan Poe: writer, poet, master of the macabre, and Baltimore’s “favorite son.” 

While there’s no shortage of legend surrounding the life of this infamous literary pioneer, one thing is for sure: his influence on our imagination is never-ending. Visit his original home-turned-museum on North Amity Street to see where he wrote some of his most celebrated works.

A favorite for dog walkers, lunch-goers, and pick-up sports, Patterson Park’s 137 acres feature an ice rink, boat lake, and the iconic Pagoda—a Victorian-era observation tower that offers fantastic views of the surrounding neighborhoods. Nearby, students can try their hand at Duckpin bowling, chow down on tasty pizza at Johnny Rad’s, and pop in for a screening at the Creative Alliance gallery and theatre.

In Baltimore, you can pair any color with black as long as it’s purple or orange. Cheering on the home team is a great way to spend a night in the city. Head down to Camden Yards (Go Orioles!) for fun giveaways like bucket hats, Baltimore-based food vendors inside the stadium, and the seventh inning stretch sing-along. If you’re part of the Ravens Flock, we’ll see you at M&T Stadium (Go Ravens!) for welcoming tailgates, Navy flyovers, and wristband light shows.

Karaoke-lovers and hesitant performers agree, there’s still no better way to spend a Friday night than with a group of friends in a private karaoke room in the Mount Vernon neighborhood. Belt it out at Aloha between bites of sushi or get a little swanky in one of three karaoke rooms at Hotel Revival.  

Consider yourself an Ariana Grande or are interested in meeting some new karaoke partners? Join one of Hopkins’ 13 on-campus a capella groups. 

Climb aboard and learn the ropes on these 19th-century military vessels. In addition to daytime tours, the ships host overnight adventures for groups where you sleep in hammocks, take part in a submarine scavenger hunt, and get the full experience of a sailor’s life.

This trendy food hall features ten stalls that answer the ultimate question: What are you in the mood for? If it’s something savory, get a chicken sando or a sushi burrito. Craving something sweet? Help yourself to a scoop of cult-favorite Honey Graham ice cream from Taharka Bros. Plus, R House has a pop-up kitchen that regularly rotates between local vendors, so there’s always something new to try! Depending on the day of the week, there’s also trivia, salsa and bachata dancing, and live music.

This performing arts center is the spot for live entertainment. Built in 1894, the Lyric is where you can catch the hottest comedy and musical acts in town. Three blocks away you’ll find the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra. There, you can listen to classical compositions or something more contemporary—like the “Star Wars” score as the film plays on a large screen. Theatre Project, a historic black box theater, is also nearby and where you can watch contemporary theater and dance performances year-round.

Mark your calendar for some of Maryland’s major music festivals: All Things Go, Moonrise, Ocean’s Calling, Love Groove, and Reggae Rise Up.

Billie Holiday grew up in Baltimore and became one of the greatest jazz vocalists of all time. This statue, located in the Pennsylvania Avenue Black Arts and Entertainment District, honors “Lady Day” by depicting a famous performance of her historic song “Strange Fruit.” She used to grace venues along Penn Ave. like the prestigious Royal Theater, which was a must-play stage for the biggest African American stars of the ’40s, ’50s, and ’60s. The Black Arts and Entertainment District is full of other cultural landmarks that are designated Baltimore National Heritage Areas.

Got the jazz bug? Consider joining a student group like the Jazz Band or Jazz Ensemble.

Pit beef—Maryland’s BBQ of choice—was first enjoyed by working-class neighborhoods in the 1970s, especially on Baltimore’s eastside. These days, you can enjoy a delicious pit beef sandwich at a backyard BBQ, roadside stand, or at the annual Maryland State Fair.

The Hippodrome Theatre brings the best of Broadway and world-class entertainment to downtown Baltimore. It first opened in 1914 as a movie palace with vaudeville acts. Now, you can watch your favorite Tony-winning productions the way they’re meant to—in person. 

Want to see a Broadway show without breaking the bank? Hop Art is a free program for Blue Jays that pays for your admission and transportation to select performances each semester.

The Maryland Science Center sits on the Inner Harbor and offers much to do for the curious. Feed your imagination with interactive exhibits from the Davis Planetarium to the Dinosaur Mysteries or even try your hand at making furniture in the Shed.

Fells Point: quaint by day, haunted by night. Grab your bravest buddies and sign up for the infamous Ghost Walk to learn about the spirits that roam Baltimore’s waterfront. While you’re out and about, we recommend trying some oysters from Thames Street Oyster House or building the burger of your dreams at Abbey Burger (anyone want to try camel meat?).

Creative Alliance is a multilingual and residential theater and community arts space where students can participate in hands-on workshops. Learn how to start your own fashion line, practice papel picado (the Mexican art of intricate papercutting), or give belly dancing a try. Their Creativity Center is a new building across the street that features a teaching kitchen, dance studio, and classrooms for an array of programs. The Great Halloween Lantern Parade & Festival, Marquee Ball, and Tianquiztli are some of the biggest events that Creative Alliance hosts.

Every December, a single block in north Baltimore’s Hampden neighborhood collaborates on an annual spectacle known as “Miracle on 34th Street.” Christmas lights, inflatables, flamingos, and artistic sculptures (don’t miss the hubcap tree!) decorate row homes, and the entire block shuts down for holiday revelry.

Baltimore’s favorite treat is the snowball; no contest. With a refreshing consistency somewhere between shaved ice and a snow cone—and strange-but-delicious flavors like Egg Custard, Skylite, and Tiger’s Blood—you’ll find yourself flocking to a roadside snowball stands the moment the clock strikes summer. And yes, we like to top our snowballs with marshmallow cream.

For more warm-weather treats, Spring Fair is Hopkins’ highly anticipated annual festival featuring games, contests, food, drinks, and live music. Some of our past concert headliners include Flo Milli, Kehlani, and Meek Mill. 

What do the Goucher Gopher, Towson Tiger, and Loyola Greyhound all have in common? They’re mascots for a few of Hopkins’ neighboring colleges. Day and night, Baltimore is brimming with college town energy, creativity, and fun.

Check out the convenient, free shuttle available from Collegetown Network that connects Hopkins to universities across Baltimore.

Visit Edgar Allen Poe’s grave at night if you dare. Baltimore’s “favorite son” is entombed at Westminster Hall. His original grave is marked by a raven, a nod to his famous titular poem. 

The Department of Philosophy at Hopkins sponsors a magazine called “The Raven,” which features original philosophy written for intellectually curious readers with or without academic training in the discipline.

Give “clubbing” a new meaning with an evening of TopGolf. At this premier sports entertainment complex, you and your friends can take aim at the giant outfield targets (the high-tech balls score themselves!) and see just how hard you can swing.

The Station North Arts District is where you’ll find live and unscripted comedy shows at the Baltimore Improv Group, indie and blockbuster films at the historic Charles Theatre (get to your movie early for a cute, on-screen doggie surprise), and many styles of dance at Mobtown Ballroom.

For laughs on the Homewood campus, get involved with the Buttered Nibblets (improv), Throat Culture (sketch writing), or the Stand-Up Comedy Club.

Where else can you enjoy freshly roasted coffee, local ice cream, and a 20,000 square foot rock climbing gym? Only at Union Collective, an old warehouse retrofitted to accommodate some of Baltimore’s most beloved and independently owned businesses.

Wanna get outside the gym? The Johns Hopkins Outdoors Club runs trips during the academic year that include backpacking, rock climbing, canoeing, caving, and mountain biking.

The Canton waterfront area has much to offer in the way of shopping, dining, nightlife, and recreation. Meet new canine friends at the dog park, watch giant ships as they enter the harbor, or eat your way through the many restaurants—just don’t miss the free, Thursday-night concert series between June and September at Canton Waterfront Park. 

Stop by Bmore Licks to try a scoop of chocolate and vanilla ice cream (two flavors a certain president once ordered from here).

What began as an open-air market in 1845 is now a modern food exploratorium. You can try local seafood, vegan take out, French crepes, and classic Maryland pit beef sandwiches—all under one roof! Given the market’s closeness to M&T Stadium, you’ll have no trouble finding some football festivities to join!