Baltimore is somewhat of a shopper’s paradise with a huge variety of shopping destinations that satisfy the most die-hard buyer and the most frugal window shopper at the same time. For those looking for places to visit in Baltimore for shopping national retailers, a trip to Inner Harbor will satisfy your craving. Looking for something a bit unusual, both Mount Vernon and Fells Point are loaded with specialty stores and fine boutiques brimming with unique items. Antique shoppers have probably already heard about Antique Row on Howard Street; it’s well noted and worth visiting for those quality items they just don’t make anymore.
Lexington Market
The Lexington Market has been in operation remarkably since 1782, longer than any other in the region, offering shoppers the staple items necessary for regular home cooking and some specialty foods that make dining a complete delight. It’s not your traditional shopping destination, but it’s a really nice twist on a day spent shopping. If you’re travelling and don’t have the luxury of a kitchenette at your disposal, use the Lexington Market as one of the most extensive buffets around. Select some fresh off the vine foods for a family picnic.
Hampden
Not actually a shopping centre, Hampden is a quaint part of the city known to some as the “real Baltimore”. Its older charming homes and neighbourly atmosphere lend a unique flair to the streets’ stores. The community is well aware of the history that supports the local tourist industry and works diligently to keep this Hampden feeling alive and strong.
Another reason Hampden is such a popular place for shoppers is all of the other visitors treats the region has to offer. Within walking distance are a couple of art museums, the Baltimore zoo, Notre Dame College and other attractions that can keep the rest of the family occupied for a long time.
Owings Mills Mall
Owings Mills Mall has everything you could ever want for the mall rat group. It’s the complete and total mall experience that you’ve come to love and think of as home. Wear your shopping shoes because you can spend the entire day shopping at your favourite stores, with JCPenney and Macy’s serving as the anchor stores. There is no need to really stop shopping when it comes to mealtimes; there is a food court and some well-known sit-down restaurants that let you give your weary feet a rest. Kids will enjoy Arcade Alley and stay out of your hair for several hours.
Towson Town Centre
Towson Town Centre is for mall shoppers who want to kick it up a notch. More stores and better choices is the name of the game at Towson. After having undergone an expansive renovation that spanned several years, Towson unveiled its new and improved retail heaven. High end, upscale stores line the hallways of this four-story structure, with Nordstrom and Macy’s serving as the anchors. In addition to some of the more exclusive chain retail outlets, you’ll find a few unique retail options that further make this a destination shopping experience. Food choices are the standard boxes that live in mall areas, but the renovated food court is more than adequate if you’d like to get it on the fly.
Broadway Market and Fells Point
Another active marketplace is the Broadway Market which is simply loaded with local flavour. Situated in Fells Point, the Broadway Market should be scheduled as a lunch stop as you’re exploring the stores of Fells Point. Fells Point is one of the top places to visit in Baltimore for shopping as it is packed with wonderfully eclectic stores perfect for gift purchases or just a few little treats for yourself. You will find everything except mass-produced charmless pieces that can be found in the malls. Unique souvenirs and one-of-a-kind keepsakes are definitely to be found at Fells Point and Broadway Market.
Mount Vernon and Antique Row
Another section of Baltimore steeped in history and charm offers shoppers a paradise of stores that just can’t be found anywhere else. With a backdrop of 19th Century architecture and a gentle touch of parks littered throughout, the atmosphere couldn’t be more inviting and more appropriate for the boutiques and specialty stores lining the streets. In addition, the Mount Vernon area offers shoppers some added entertainment with world-class restaurants, many festivals and a hopping nightlife. You can easily spend an entire day occupying your time with numerous activities and never get bored.
For at least 100 years, Antique Row in Mt Vernon has been drawing antique aficionados to this part of the city. Whether you know what you’re doing and you’re going to put that research to use, scooping up the best deal or a perfect piece for your home, you’ll be thrilled with the sheer amount of products and the variety of stores in Antique Row. You could probably spend so much time shopping there that you become an antique yourself.
So are there places to visit in Baltimore for shopping? Sure Yeah!
If you’re a shopaholic and headed to the Baltimore area, bring your credit cards because they’re sure to get a workout. This city is packed full of shopping destinations to keep you occupied. And if you’ve got other family members to worry about, most shopping destinations offer alternatives for non-shoppers, or they’re close to cultural areas with tons of other options.
Don’t forget to take a stroll at the Inner Harbor. Water side, enjoy the open air and relax during sunset.
