Six Historic Baltimore Public Markets

When you plan your itinerary for your next visit to Baltimore, your must-see list will probably include some of Charm City's biggest attractions – a trip to the National Aquarium, a day at Camden Yards to take in an Orioles baseball game, a relaxing cruise around Inner Harbor. We love all of these things, too. But if you really want to explore a place that's a reflection of Baltimore's history and culture, that brings a diversity of people together, and that showcases some of the most delicious local food, then you'll want to check out one (or more) of Baltimore's historic public markets.

Your first stop should be Lexington Market, which is just a few blocks from Rachael's Dowry B&B. Opened in 1782, it is America's oldest market – almost as old as America itself. With a history that spans nine generations, Lexington Market today is a vibrant collection of 130 merchants – from small eateries to stands selling fish, produce, meat and baked goods – housed in the East Market building at the intersection of Paca and Lexington streets. Shoppers from miles around come for the quality, freshness and variety of food. Some of the stands are legends in their own right, like the crab cakes at Faidley's, the cookies at Berger's Bakery, or the fried chicken at Park's. Construction is underway on the new South Market building opening in the fall of 2022, with an additional 45 vendor stalls that will propel this historic market for another 250 years.

If famous Lexington Market is the hub, then these five other public markets scattered throughout Baltimore's neighborhoods are the spokes. The markets feature a wide range of products, including local produce, high-quality meats, fresh seafood, regional specialties and authentic ethnic delicacies. These are Federal Hill's Cross Street Market, Broadway Market in Fell's Point, Northeast Market, Hollins Market and Avenue Market. Whether you're a daily shopper or an occasional patron, Baltimore's public markets have and will continue to satisfy a diverse community with locally sourced and delicious foods all in one spot. Come see why we believe great markets make a great city.

Bonus: While it's not a historic city-owned market house, the Baltimore Farmers' Market and Bazaar is definitely worth adding to this list of quintessential Baltimore marketplaces. Returning in 2022 for its 45th year, the farmers' market sets up shop every Sunday from 7 a.m. to noon underneath the Jones Fall Expressway (I-83) at Holliday and Saratoga streets. It is Maryland's largest produce-only market, and you'll be in awe at vast quantity of seasonal fruits and vegetables, locally raised poultry, fresh-caught seafood, baked goods, dairy products and more. The bazaar offers an assortment of handcrafted goods from local artisans, including bath and body products, jewelry, apparel, home furnishings, and original works of art. The farmers' market's Sunday hours make it the perfect final stop before heading back home after a great weekend getaway in Baltimore.