Explore Baltimore's Vibrant Arts and Entertainment Districts

Baltimore is a city bursting with creativity, culture and endless possibilities for entertainment. As you plan your next visit to Charm City, let us introduce you to a side of Baltimore that truly embodies its artistic soul — the Arts and Entertainment districts. These four districts — Bromo, Highlandtown, Station North, and Pennsylvania Avenue — each possess a unique charm while collectively breathing life into the city's arts and entertainment scene. When you stay with us at Rachael's Dowry Bed and Breakfast, carve out some time in your itinerary to explore these vibrant, creative parts of Baltimore.

The Bromo Tower Arts and Entertainment District, or simply Bromo, is an 11-block stretch that boasts a rich history intertwined with its artistic endeavors. Named after the historic Bromo Seltzer Tower that's been part of the city skyline since 1911, this district serves as a hub for visual and performing arts. The area is home to more than 30 galleries, music venues and theaters, including the historic Hippodrome Theatre. Factor in its collectives, unique retail and street festivals, like the Bromo Art Walk, and you’ll always have a reason to return.

In Southeast Baltimore, the Highlandtown Arts and Entertainment District, known as Highlandtown Arts or ha!, is a haven for creativity and diversity, as evidenced by its multitude of galleries and shops, such as Highlandtown Gallery, Crystal Moll Gallery and 3402 Art. Here, painters, jewelry makers, woodworkers and artists of all kinds work alongside restaurateurs and culinary artists to welcome patrons to their galleries and restaurants during First Friday Art Walks. Numerous murals and public art installations, like the 14-foot BUS sign in front of the Creative Alliance, are a testament to the neighborhood's artistic spirit.

Station North Arts and Entertainment District, just north of downtown Baltimore, was the dubbed the city's first official arts district in 2002 and continues to rise as a dynamic hub for artistic expression and innovation. Formerly a bustling transportation hub and home to the landmark Penn Station, this neighborhood has undergone a remarkable transformation into a haven for artists, musicians and entrepreneurs. Amid the mural-covered storefronts and rowhomes you'll find an abundance of galleries, including Gallery CA, New Door Creative, ICA Baltimore. Catch a flick at the historic Charles Theatre, an arthouse movie theater that once served as the power house and car barn for the Baltimore City Passenger Railway.

The Pennsylvania Avenue Black Arts and Entertainment District is the city's newest arts district in West Baltimore and celebrates African American culture and heritage through art, music and activism. Pennsylvania Avenue was once home to the Royal Theater, which hosted entertainers like Cab Calloway, Billie Holiday, Ray Charles and James Brown. While it was demolished in 1971, you can still visit the monument to this entertainment jewel, as well as a statue of Baltimore jazz legend Billie Holiday. Today, the Community Heritage Corporation works to connect people to the history and culture of the Pennsylvania Avenue corridor  and aims to revitalize the community’s deep-rooted assets into a thriving economic engine that will fuel the district for years to come.

Beyond their individuality, these four districts collectively embody Baltimore's unwavering commitment to fostering artistic expression, cultural diversity and community engagement. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in the creative energy of a bustling art walk, explore the history of jazz and literary legends, or enjoy a performance in an intimate venue, Baltimore’s Arts and Entertainment Districts have something for everyone.