Welcome to my new neighborhood series where each month I will be featuring a different neighborhood in the Baltimore area. Each neighborhood in Baltimore is unique in its own way so it is easy to see why we call our home Charm City. I’ll be featuring a little bit of history and fun facts, highlighting local businesses and residents, and showcasing some of the styles of homes that can be found in each neighborhood. I hope you will enjoy each month’s feature and discover something about our great city that you may not have known.
A Little Bit of History
A few minutes north of downtown is the idyllic neighborhood of Roland Park. Dating back to 1891 and now deemed a certified historical district, it was designed by The Roland Park Company’s Edward Bouton and acclaimed landscape design firm, Olmstead Brothers as one of America’s earliest planned garden suburbs. The community was designed to blend with the existing topography of the land in order to preserve the natural beauty of the surrounding area. As you drive through, many of the tree-lined streets twist and turn throughout the community, and if you take a drive down Edgevale Road, you’ll notice many of the homes sited high off the road and seemingly carved into the hill. It is one of the first developments with a community association and special deed restrictions on use. At the time, a majority of homes in the Baltimore area did not have indoor plumbing, however, it was required of any home built in Roland Park. This beautiful neighborhood remains one of the most esteemed neighborhoods in Baltimore City.
The Homes
Although you can find a variety of homes including one-bedroom condos, townhomes, cottages, and bungalows, Roland Park is most recognized for its grand Colonial Revival, Tudor Revival, and Arts and Crafts style homes. Every time I drive down Roland Avenue, I find myself peeking through the trees at each home to see if I can notice a cool new detail.
A Fun Fact
A little-known fact is that there are hidden Footpaths in Roland Park that connect the streets throughout the neighborhood allowing residents the ability to enjoy the quiet nature of the community by foot. Designed by Frederick Law Olmstead Jr. they were originally used as walking paths for pedestrians where roads couldn’t be built in the community. Featuring names like Briar Path, Tulip Path, and Sunset Path among others, they are a peaceful respite within the city limits.
Click here to discover a map detailing locations of all 18 footpaths. How many have you explored?
What’s Nearby
Roland Park is thought to be one of the more family-friendly neighborhoods due to its close proximity to many of the top private schools in the area. With its easy access to I83, residents enjoy being within 10 minutes of downtown and other local events and activities.
The Boy’s Latin School of Maryland
Where to Eat
Home to many of Baltimore’s iconic restaurants, Roland Park offers residents a variety of casual to upscale dining, including one of my personal favorite restaurants in the city, Petite Louis.
Baltimore’s original and celebrated Miss Shirley’s of Roland Park.
Almost synonymous with Roland Park is everyone’s favorite French bistro Petit Louis.
Johnny’s, a sister restaurant of Petit Louis offers delightful regional dishes with a modern twist.
Not just bagels, Roland Park Bagels is a local favorite for breakfast and lunch.
The quintessential local grocer, Eddie’s of Roland Park also has great lunch options from the deli.
Whether at breakfast or lunch, you’re guaranteed to run into someone you know at The Corner Pantry.
Local Businesses
While the majority of Roland Park is residential, there are many small businesses that are well loved by the community.
Crimson & Clover Floral Boutique gorgeous arrangements for your home or events.
Social Studio Art an art studio offering classes for all ages.
Love Me Two Times Consignment Boutique specializing in luxury designers.
ReDeux Consignment Boutique featuring high-end brands.
Vogue Revisited Consignment Boutique serving the community for 20+ years.
Eddie Jacobs specializing in quality, traditional men’s attire.
Shananigans Toys find something fun for the Little in your life.
Schneider Paint and Hardware & The Carriage House for small hardware, garden supplies, and plants.
