Fall is a wonderful time of year to take a picturesque driving tour of the Greenspring area in Maryland. The area is a perfect, smaller scale representation of Baltimore city and the Mid-Atlantic region. There are several destinations near Gramercy Mansion to discover, including local shops, gardens, churches, and historic mansions. Our suggested driving tour of the Greenspring area includes something for everyone. If you are interested in history, stop by Fort Garrison, which is where Captain Oldton established Maryland’s first garrison with his group of men in the 18th century.
Cloisters Mansion
If you are interested in grand buildings and the Renaissance era, visit Cloisters Mansion. Built in the 1930’s, this beautiful mansion features Tudor architecture and stone on the exterior and spiral staircases and large fireplaces on the interior. The exterior is open for viewing Tuesday-Saturday and the interior can be viewed by appointment. Some other mansions to visit nearby include Villa Place and the Baptist Home. Visit the following website for more information on Cloisters Mansion: Cloisters Mansion
St. Thomas Church
For those drawn to religious history, St. Thomas’ Church is a great place to visit. Built in 1745, this was the first real location in the area for people to attend church. This lovely building features brick structure, a gallery that used to be for slaves and indentured servants, and even a stained-glass window that is dedicated to Alexander J. Cassatt Stewart, a child from Gramercy. For more details, visit the following website: St. Thomas Church.
There are several scenic byways near the Greenspring area as well. One of these is located on Falls Road in Baltimore. This driving tour provides scenic views of rural landscapes, rolling green countryside, historic attractions, luxury homes, and the Baltimore cityscape. Some attractions include the Baltimore Streetcar Museum, Charm City Cakes, and the Oregon Ridge Nature Center. Click here for details
The Horses and Hounds scenic byway is another popular choice. Located in Cockeysville where fox hunts and steeplechases continue to be popular activities, this driving tour is perfect for those who want a relaxing, slow-paced adventure. Some attractions include steeplechase courts, St. John’s Episcopal Church, Ladew Topiary Gardens, and the Gunpowder Falls State Park, where one can engage in activities such as hiking and bird watching. Click here for details
Margot Amelia, executive director of the Maryland Office of Tourism, stated, “Driving tours are extremely popular among visitors to Maryland, especially in the fall when Mother Nature puts on a colorful show.” During your stay at Gramercy, take advantage of one of these driving tours during the gorgeous fall season!
Tags: architecture, church, driving tour, Fall, Falls Road, Greenspring, history, Horses and Hounds, mansion, scenery