Baltimore County is a popular area of Maryland to call home, with a population of over 850,000! The county features a multitude of restaurants, bars, coffee shops, parks, and more. Whether you’re considering making a move to the area or you’re just passing through — here are some of the best spots to check off your bucket list while you’re here!
The Best Coffee Shops in Baltimore County
Need a quick energy fix in the morning? Try out these local coffee shops and roasters, where you’ll find the finest beans and brews in Baltimore County.
Café Los Sueños
Where? 2740 Huntingdon Avenue Unit B
This unique roastery has a one-of-a-kind connection with the source. Roaster Carlos Payes was born in the mountains of El Salvador, where he grew up working in the coffee fields. Upon immigrating to the United States, Carlos crafted his very own American dream when he launched his roastery in a farmers market in D.C. Check out the handcrafted beverages at this specialty shop in Baltimore, serving up fresh pastries, cold brews, lattes, hot chocolates and more. The interior is calm, minimalistic, and perfect for catching up on some work or reading a few chapters of your latest novel.
Bird in Hand
Where? 11 East 33rd Street
This dual coffee and bookstore has been serving Baltimore’s Charles Village neighborhood since 2016. All food and drinks are sourced locally, so you can feel good about your purchases. Enjoy coffee sourced from a local queer, worker-owned roaster based in Baltimore — Thread Coffee. Whether you want to keep it classic with a pour-over or enjoy a sweeter beverage, such as an espresso-based latte, flat white, cappuccino, or shakerato, Bird in Hand is excited to serve you. House-made syrups include honey, maple, mint, mocha, and caramel. Customize your coffee to your heart’s content or opt for a specialty drink, such as a mint matcha or a ginger cardamom lemonade.
Where to Wine & Dine in Baltimore County
If the craving for fresh seafood strikes, then you can head to the Rusty Scupper Restaurant & Bar for beautiful views and delectable bites. Want to enjoy a romantic dinner out? Baltimore County’s La Cuchara has you covered for date night!
Wicked Sisters
Where? 3845 Falls Road
Wicked Sisters is known for their fine American fare. Situated in the heart of Hampden’s food scene, you can always swing by for new, fresh, and inventive takes on amazing dishes you’ll be raving about for weeks to come. The restaurant features two bars, as well as social and intimate dining settings. Enjoy craft cocktails, bourbon, crushes, and a multitude of both local and national beers on tap. The menu kicks off with a Wicked Charcuterie option, as well as small plates like the lobster ravioli, tuna tartare, and pumpkin whipped feta. Order the short ribs, the shrimp & grits, or the almond-crusted swordfish as an entree and try to save room for an ooey gooey chocolate chip skillet cookie for dessert!
La Cuchara
Where? 3600 Clipper Mill Road
La Cuchara has been inspired by the foods and cultures found in the Basque region of northern Spain and southern France. The menu features seasonal, simple, and ingredient-driven plates using quality ingredients from both the land and sea. The menu is reprinted daily to reflect the best available seasonal ingredients while allowing guests to partake in a new and interesting experience each and every visit. The restaurant encourages communal eating and drinking with a large central bar and a wood-burning grill and has been consistently rated as a top restaurant in Baltimore!
Rusty Scupper Restaurant & Bar
Where? 402 Key Highway
Indulge in harbor-side drinking at the Rusty Scupper Restaurant & Bar. This is one of Baltimore County’s best brunches, as well as a solid spot for a business lunch or a dinner out with friends and family. Securing Diners’ Choice 2024 from OpenTable, any area foodie will want to check out the restaurant and bar during a tour of the county. There are levels situated above the water, which boasts unique views from every table. The dining room seats up to 270, along with a 75-seat bar and a 142-seat topside deck with sweeping views. Dig into seasonal fresh seafood offerings and experience attentive service that is consistently delivered each time you dine.
Where to Indulge in a Sweet Treat in Baltimore County
If your sweet tooth is back with a vengeance, you’re in luck! Baltimore County is brimming with sweet shops, ice cream stores, bakeries, and more. Whether you’re more chocolate or vanilla, cinnamon roll, or chocolate croissant — it doesn’t matter! You can have it all.
The Charmery
Where? 801 West 36th Street
If you believe in finding happiness through ice cream, The Charmery invites you to visit for a double scoop of handcrafted, original, super-premium, and fully delicious ice cream. The current flavor lineup includes Maryland Mud, Malty Vanilla Chip, Mint Mountain, Salty Caramel, Old Bay Caramel, Bonita Apple Butter, Wish You Were Beer and so many more! Mix and match the flavors that are calling your name or keep your cone classic with a scoop of Tell Tale Chocolate or Pure Vanilla. There’s no going wrong when you order from The Charmery, so visit often and work your way through the flavors.
Bonjour
Where? 6070 Falls Road #2233
Bonjour has a range of decadent indulgences, such as breakfast sweets, savory delights, and just desserts. Whether you’re in the mood for cinnamon rolls, danishes, muffins, croissants, or a slice of the deep dish quiche — Bonjour has you covered. Enjoy the cozy front porch while you dig into French baked goods or pair your biscotti with a frothy cappuccino. Single-serve desserts are perfect when that sweet tooth is calling, allowing you to dig into mango mousse, creme brûlée, apple tatin, bread pudding, coffee cheesecake, and more. Go ahead and mix and match your favorites and enjoy a sweet feast! No judgments.
BMORE LICKS
Where? 2437 Eastern Avenue
If you’re on a quest to sample some of Baltimore’s best homemade ice cream, BMORE LICKS should be on your list. This family-owned ice cream shop is situated on Patterson Park in the Canton neighborhood in Baltimore. This is the only shop in the state with more than 100 handmade soft-serve flavors available every single day! Each flavor is made to order and there are 30 rotating flavors of premium, homemade hard ice cream that is made on-site. Customize your milkshakes or opt for a sundae. There are even vegan and non-dairy options available, so everyone is welcome at this local ice cream shop and you won’t leave disappointed!
Baltimore County’s Parks & Green Spaces
You don’t have to pick up a new outdoor hobby to enjoy these local parks. Whether you want to enjoy a round of disc golf or you simply want to lounge in the grass with a good book — these green spaces in Baltimore County are the perfect spots to sit back, relax, and breathe in the fresh air.
Druid Hill Park
Where? 900 Druid Park Lake Drive
Druid Hill Park is one of the first large public parks in the country and also boasts being Baltimore’s first large municipal park. With over 745 acres, there is plenty of space to explore. Amenities at Druid Hill Park include playgrounds, basketball courts, tennis courts, a disc golf course, greenhouses, picnic groves and pavilions, a zen garden, and a 1.5-mile loop trail around the Druid Reservoir that’s popular for walking, biking, and running. The park is home to the oldest Victorian glass conservatory in the country, the Howard P. Rawlings Conservatory and Botanic Gardens. The green space is within convenient proximity to the Maryland Zoo, the Jones Fall Trail, and the Mondawmin Mall — so you can keep your adventures rolling throughout the city.
Canton Waterfront Park
Where? 3001 Boston Street
Baltimore’s Canton Waterfront Park is situated between Boston Street and the Baltimore Harbor. There are eight acres of stunning views of the harbor and the recreational area is easily accessible. Whether you want to cast a line from the pier or lay out a blanket for a picnic in the shade, the park can’t be beat on a warm summer afternoon. Festivals and community events are hosted at the park throughout the year and you can catch views of the Blue Angels Air Show and the ships making their way into the Inner Harbor. Additional park amenities include Chesapeake Bay access, multi-use trails, free parking, a boat ramp, and the Korean War Memorial.
Points of Interest in Baltimore County
Surprise the kids with a trip to the ever-exciting Port Discovery Children’s Museum or treat the family to a zoo day at one of the best in the country! Baltimore is also home to the National Aquarium, which boasts thousands of species waiting to be discovered.
National Aquarium
Where? 501 East Pratt Street
This non-profit public aquarium will transport visitors to the underwater wonders of the world. Consistently ranked as one of the nation’s top aquariums, this is a must for area families and visitors who want to spend the afternoon meandering through unique exhibits where they can discover bustling aquatic life. The aquarium features thousands of species in award-winning habitats, including sharks, dolphins, exotic fish, and an extensive collection of plants and animals such as crocodiles, birds, reptiles, and more! A visit to the aquarium is memorable for any age, so grab your tickets today!
Port Discovery Children’s Museum
Where? 35 Market Place
Want to surprise the family with the best day ever? A trip to the Port Discovery Children’s Museum is a good place to start. Explore three floors of endless activities for kids under 8. Visitors will have a blast playing with new friends and engaging with interactive exhibits, entertaining programs, and more while they discover and learn. Make sure to check out the museum’s famous four-story SkyClimber. Caregivers won’t be bored at this children’s museum, either! There are a multitude of opportunities to have fun with your kiddo as they explore the 80,000 square feet of museum space. There is also an indoor sports court, role-playing exhibits and a giant pretend cargo ship!
The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore
Where? 1 Safari Place
The Maryland Zoo contained 745 acres in the heart of Baltimore. This expansive park feels like a secret find in an otherwise bustling city. The zoo is home to over 1,500 animals from 200 species, which is impressive for visitors of all ages! The Maryland Zoo is one of the country’s oldest zoos, dating all the way back to 1876. Plan your perfect day at the zoo and meet animals such as the black-tailed prairie dog, the African spoonbill, the red-tailed guenon, and the adorable miniature donkeys! Daily activities fluctuate but may include penguin feeding, education stations, elephant keeper chats, and more.
Interested in Learning More About Maryland’s Baltimore County? Let Us Help!
If Baltimore County sounds like it could be home sweet home, we’d love to hear from you! Our team can show you what’s on the market and whether this Maryland county would be the best spot to put down roots for you and your family. With so many restaurants to eat at, coffee shops to drink at, and parks to explore — come visit Baltimore County and see what makes it special.