No need to hop on a plane or drive hundreds of miles north for fall leaf-peeping when nature’s spectacular colors grace the countryside right here in Maryland. If you have a few free hours on a lovely autumn day, take the scenic route.
Fall Foliage Scenic Drive near Baltimore
Travel the Falls Road scenic route from city to country and enjoy the history, sights and tastes of Baltimore along the way.
- Begin your exploration at the heart of the city with a first stop at the Baltimore Streetcar Museum (1901 Falls Road). Take a ride on an original Baltimore streetcar, browse the historical displays and gift shop.
- Venture north on Falls Road towards 36th Street and the Avenue in Hampden. The “Baltimore hon” vibe of this fun and eclectic neighborhood was made famous by John Waters’ films. Home to many locally owned restaurants and shops, you’re sure to find something unique to taste or take home with you.
- Continue north past Mt. Washington’s tree-lined streets and charming cafes to the neighborhood of Bare Hills, home to Cylburn Arboretum. The garden, trails and nature museum are always free to visit and open to the public. Cylburn’s 150-year-old collection of trees and shrubs range from native to exotic and quite a sight for fall foliage gazing.
- As you travel further north through historic Rockland, pass lovely stone estates with manicured lawns in the residential areas on the outskirts of the city. The Cloisters Castle, perched atop a hill on 60 wooded acres in Lutherville, was built in 1932 by art collector Sumner and Dudrea Parker to showcase their vast collection of medieval artwork and artifacts.
- Skirt the castle and wind along Hillside Drive to Greenspring Ave, turn right and then left onto Greenspring Valley Road to make your way to visit us at Gramercy Mansion, our lovely and secluded B&B on 45 acres of woodlands and gardens in historic Stevenson. Stay for the night or just for a garden stroll. Greenspring Valley is also home to the idyllic campuses of Maryvale Preparatory School, St. Paul’s School and other historic private institutions.
- As you follow the road further north to the Butler area, take in the stunning surroundings and farmlands in Maryland’s horse country, home to steeple chase racing and the Oregon Ridge Nature Center. Explore the fall trails in vibrant autumn color, the nature exhibits and gift shop.
- For more nature adventuring and fall foliage views, continue north along the Falls Road corridor to Gunpowder Falls State Park and Prettyboy Reservoir. There you can fish, kayak, and hike to your heart’s content.
“Everyone must take time to sit and watch the leaves turn.” ~Elizabeth Lawrence
So take the afternoon off… that chore list can wait. In a few short weeks, the colorful fall foliage will be just a memory. Make it a good one!
Tags: fall foliage