Summer in Baltimore Family Bucket List

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For many Baltimore families, the arrival of summer in Maryland means tons of sun & fun!  

However, adding a baby to your warm-weather adventures can seem overwhelming. Keeping up with naps and feeding, monitoring sun exposure, and all the extra ‘stuff’ you’re suddenly hauling everywhere can make exiting your home feel more like a chore and less like an enriching experience.

Never fear! Having a baby doesn’t mean you have to skip all the amazing things Baltimore has to offer this summer. You might even find out that watching your little one take in the world around them in new ways is the very best part of each outing. Check out our Summer in Baltimore Family Bucket List! And when you’re done then head over here for tips on how to get out of the house with a baby without hauling everything (and the kitchen sink).

Attend a Summer Festival

Various dates

Baltimore is booming with festivals this summer! Whether you’re looking to enrich yourself in heritage and culture, check out the local flavors, or get some shopping in- there’s a festival for you. Come and enjoy the sights, then leave when baby has had enough. Baltimore Pride, Cherry Hill Art & Music, Baltimore Washington One Caribbean Carnival, and AFRAM are a few of our favorites!

Relax at the Movies

Thursdays in July | 9:00 PM | Federal Hill Park

Going to see a movie is one thing new parents usually remove from their repertoire fairly quickly. Summer in Baltimore means outdoor movie nights, opening a world of possibilities to families! Flicks on the Hill is put on by the American Visionary Art Museum and is FREE to the public. Plan to arrive a little early and bring your own blanket. Movie choices range from the classics like Raiders of the Lost Ark to family favorites like The Princess and
the Frog, so there’s something for everyone! Plus visit the museum for free from 5-9pm!

Visit a Museum

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One of the biggest benefits of living in a city as diverse as Baltimore is the variety of museums available to us! When you’re ready to get inside out of the heat (or rain as it so often happens), visiting a museum is a great idea for all ages. Try wearing your baby in a carrier and leaving the stroller at home for this one – you’ll navigate the exhibits more easily and keep curious fingers safely away from anything not meant for exploring! Bonus: Most Baltimore area museums are free admission for the under-two crowd! Check out the Baltimore Museum of Art and grab brunch at Gertrude’s while you’re there, take a ride on a streetcar at the Baltimore Streetcar Museum, or enjoy drop-in art sessions at the Walters Art Museum.

Bask on the Beach

All summer | 8:00 AM – Sunset | Gunpowder Falls State Park: Hammerman Area

One thing Marylanders do well is the beach!  While our beloved OC is a favorite for many, the long drive and busy nature of this beach can make it a no-go for families with babies. Get your fix of sun & sand by visiting a state park this summer instead! Hammerman beach is a beautiful strip of sand on the Chesapeake.

You’ll have to leave Baltimore for this one, but the drive to this treasure off of Route 40 is under an hour. Easy parking and large bathroom/shower facilities are both located mere steps from the actual beach, making this an easy day trip even if you’re hauling a lot of beach necessities along. Grab a snowball at the snack bar or pack a picnic and eat in the (ample) shaded picnic areas. Early mornings and weekdays are often the least busiest times to visit this beach, but weekends feature a shop with paddleboards and kayaks for rent. Kids in car seats are always free admission!

No matter what you decide to do this season, get out and about in and around Baltimore and have fun! Getting into the habit of bringing baby along for activities sets you up for a lifetime of memory making. Little ones may not always remember the things we do at this age, but you’ll never regret the time spent together.

Top 10: Summer Fun for Baltimore Families (updated for 2025)

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Looking for summer fun for Baltimore families?

We are so excited that summer is upon us! Baltimore is a hot spot for summer fun to do with your children.

See what we did there? ;-)

Doulas of Baltimore is here to share with you 5 great outdoor activities to do with the whole family. And we’ve got 5 great indoor suggestions to do on those days when you want to cool down. Here we go:

 

1. Summer Sounds at the Square

Baltimore families love this concert series at Belvedere Square in north Baltimore City. Food, music, and lots of kid-friendly activities! There are four Friday evening concerts this summer – The Betty White Stripes on June 20, Mambo Combo on July 18, Rufus Roundtree & the BMore Brass Factory on August 15, and The New Romance on September 19.

 

 

flicksfromthehill

2. Flicks from the Hill

American Visionary Art Museum hosts “Flicks from the Hill” on Thursday summer nights. There are food trucks and pre-film activities. Plus the museum is open to enjoy for free from 5-9pm on flick nights!

 

wtmd

3. WTMD First Thursday Concerts

If it’s more live music you’re craving, head downtown to WTMD’s First Thursday Concert series! WTMD hosts live family friendly concerts on the first Thursday of the month at Canton Waterfront Park, all summer long. This year will be kicked off on June 5 by Craig Finn, Brandi & the Alexanders, Rex Pax Bring a picnic and enjoy!

 

 

westshorepark

4. Waterfront Parks around the Inner Harbor

Downtown features several waterfront parks around the Inner Harbor. West Shore Park features a great law and “splash pad” for the kids to enjoy. There are free waterfront wellness classes, too!

 

 

zoo5. The Maryland Zoo 

You can never go wrong with a visit to the zoo. The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore is a delight! There is much to learn about the animals, the park, and the many ways the zoo participates in conservations efforts. This summer the Zoo is hosting a Summer Solstice Twilight Stroll – bring the whole family for an evening walk or check out the Wild Water Splash Days!

 

Had enough of the Baltimore heat? Head inside to these great locations!

 

6. The Walters Art Museum

The Walters Art Museum is a fun and educational place for the little ones! Rooms full of armor, mummies and Egyptian artifacts, and much more. Don’t miss the Chamber of Wonders – hours could be spent there alone!

aquarium

7. National Aquarium

The aquarium is the perfect way to cool down on a hot summer day! It’s a bigger investment than many of our favorites. And so worth it if you can make a day of it! Pop in for a showing of Shark: A 4D Experience to meet some of the world’s strangest sharks up close. From the reefs of Australia, up to the beautifully updated upland rainforest, and down the dark ramp with sharks – let’s just say everyone will sleep well at the end of the day! 

enochpratt

8. Enoch Pratt Free Public Library

With locations across the city, in addition to the gorgeous downtown main branch, Baltimore’s free public libraries also offers special events including computer basics, chess, and parent/child reading groups. Join them for Summer Break Baltimore, a fun and free reading program to encourage literacy all summer long!

9. Maryland Science Center at Baltimore’s Inner Harbor

Great for a day trip (you can even head right over to the West Shore Park for some splashing when you’re done!). The Science Center also offers tons of fun summer programs! 

b&o

10. B&O Railroad Museum

Last but certainly not least with the preschool set – A historic museum that includes kid zones and train rides! Fun for everyone!

What do you recommend for summer fun for Baltimore families??

For more suggestions, check out our Baltimore Summer Bucket List from a few years ago!

Parks in Baltimore | A Parent’s Guide

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Heading out as the weather warms? Parks in Baltimore are easy to find but which ones are best for your little one? As Postpartum support for families, we’re no strangers to visiting local parks with newborns! We pulled together our favorite parks with some pro tips and key features in this complete guide to Baby and Toddler-friendly parks.

New mother in Baltimore strolls parks during the springtime with her newborn baby during postpartum.

Newborn/Infant-Friendly Parks in Baltimore

1. Patterson Park

Address: 27 S Patterson Park Ave, Baltimore, MD 21231
Neighborhood: Patterson Park
Key Features: Baby swings, toddler playground, spray pool (seasonal), shaded paths.
Parent Pro Tips:

  • Visit the spray pool weekday mornings to avoid crowds.
  • Grab a drink or snacks at Corner Juice Bar (just outside the park).
  • Stroller hack: Use the eastern entrance (Lombard & Linwood) for quick playground access.

Safety Features:

  • Fenced playground areas with soft flooring.
  • Shaded benches near play zones for easy supervision.
  • Seasonal restrooms available.

2. Cylburn Arboretum

Address: 4915 Greenspring Ave, Baltimore, MD 21209
Neighborhood: Cylburn
Key Features: Gardens, gentle trails, nature programs.
Parent Pro Tips:

  • Bring a baby carrier for unpaved garden paths (strollers work on main trails).
  • Visit in spring for blooming magnolias and kid-friendly birdwatching.
  • Pack snacks and water bottles!

Safety Features:

  • Wide, shaded paths minimize sun exposure.
  • Quiet atmosphere with minimal traffic.
  • Limited restrooms (plan ahead!).

3. Lake Roland Park

Address: 1000 Lakeside Dr, Baltimore, MD 21210
Neighborhood: Roland Park
Key Features: Lake boardwalk, nature center, accessible trails.
Parent Pro Tips:

  • Check the Nature Center calendar for toddler-friendly events like “Nature Book Club”.
  • Park at the Robert E. Lee Park entrance for stroller-friendly boardwalk access.
  • Feed ducks responsibly (bring birdseed, not bread!).

Safety Features:

  • Boardwalk has railings and is stroller-safe.
  • Restrooms at the Nature Center (open daily).

4. Oregon Ridge Park

Address: 13401 Beaver Dam Rd, Cockeysville, MD 21030
Neighborhood: Cockeysville
Key Features: Nature center, meadows, hiking trails.
Parent Pro Tips:

  • Weekdays are quieter—ideal for toddler explorers.
  • Bring a picnic blanket for the meadow area (ample space for crawlers!).
  • Skip the steeper trails; stick to the Beech Tree Trail.

Safety Features:

  • Play areas are away from water hazards.
  • Restrooms at the Nature Center (open daily).
  • Wildlife sightings common—keep little ones close!

Nonbinary parents join their baby in the sunshine at parks in Baltimore, Maryland.

Older Baby/Toddler-Friendly Parks in Baltimore

5. Druid Hill Park

Address: 3001 East Dr, Baltimore, MD 21217
Neighborhood: Druid Hill
Key Features: Maryland Zoo, splash pads, playgrounds.
Parent Pro Tips:

  • Arrive at the zoo by 10 AM to beat crowds and heat.
  • Use the Jones Falls Trail (stroller-friendly) to connect to nearby parks.
  • Splash pad opens Memorial Day—bring towels, sunscreen, and water shoes!

Safety Features:

  • Playgrounds have soft turf and fencing.
  • Restrooms and changing stations at the zoo.

6. Gwynns Falls Trail

Address: Main trailhead at 1900 Annapolis Rd, Baltimore, MD 21230
Neighborhood: Gwynns Falls/Leakin Park
Key Features: Streamside trails, playgrounds, bridges.
Parent Pro Tips:

  • Start at the Winans Meadow Trailhead (easy parking, playground nearby).
  • Avoid trails after heavy rain—muddy and slippery!
  • Pack a carrier for younger babies—some paths are narrow.

Safety Features:

  • Guardrails near streams in most sections.
  • Limited restrooms.

7. Leakin Park

Address: 1900 Eagle Dr, Baltimore, MD 21207
Neighborhood: Gwynns Falls/Leakin Park
Key Features: Carter Memorial Playground, Winans Meadow Loop.
Parent Pro Tips:

  • The playground is shaded in the afternoon—perfect for summer.
  • Park near Carter Playground for quick access to restrooms.
  • Try the Winans Meadow Loop for a stroller-friendly nature walk.

Safety Features:

  • Playground has rubberized flooring and low-height equipment.
  • Ample parking and well-marked trails.

8. West Shore Park

Address: 401 Light St, Baltimore, MD 21202
Neighborhood: Inner Harbor
Key Features: Open lawn, events, Inner Harbor proximity.
Parent Pro Tips:

  • Combine with a visit to the National Aquarium.
  • Weekday afternoons tend to be less crowded.
  • No shade? Bring a pop-up tent for baby!

Safety Features:

  • Flat, paved surfaces ideal for new walkers.
  • Restrooms at nearby.

9. Federal Hill Park

Address: 300 Warren Ave, Baltimore, MD 21230
Neighborhood: Federal Hill
Key Features: Playground, harbor views, historic site.
Parent Pro Tips:

  • Use the ramp on Warren Ave for stroller access to the summit.
  • Grab post-park pizza at Matthew’s Pizza (oldest in the U.S.!).
  • Sunset views are stunning but crowded—opt for mornings.

Safety Features:

No matter what park you choose, getting outside with baby is always a great idea! Fresh air and sunshine are great for your little one and movement like walking with a stroller helps you as well. With parks in Baltimore that feature playgrounds, splash pads, and even a zoo, there isn’t a shortage of things to do (and these aren’t even all the parks in Baltimore!)

Did we miss your favorite park? Drop us a comment!

Coffee Shops in Baltimore | 5 Baby Friendly Spots

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When the urge for a sweet treat hits you can always rely on Coffee Shops in Baltimore! We love supporting locally-owned and operated businesses so we rounded up a few non-corporate gems for you to try. We’ve collected a handful of our favorites from across the metro so hopefully one is right by you!

Of course, on the topic of coffee shops, we’re often asked, “Can I drink caffeine while I breastfeed?”

The answer is yes!

Studies have been done on the safety of coffee consumption during breastfeeding and overall the concensus is that generally anywhere from 200 to 300 mg of caffeine can be safely consumed by the nursing parent. If you find your baby reacts to it, of course, you can cut back or eliminate it. Talk with your baby’s pediatrician to make the call that is right for you.

Red Emma’s – Website

 

Neighborhood: Waverly
Address: 3128 Greenmount Avenue, Baltimore, MD

Established in 2004, Red Emma’s is a worker cooperative that combines a radical bookstore, café, and community events space. The café offers vegan meals and coffee sourced from locally-owned Thread Coffee Roasters. Regular events, including author readings and live music, foster community engagement. This multilevel space serves as a hub for social justice movements in Baltimore and is the perfect place to enjoy with your baby.

High Grounds Coffee Roasters – Website

 

Neighborhood: Highlandtown
Address: 3201 Eastern Avenue, Baltimore, MD

High Grounds Coffee Roasters is a family-owned establishment known for their excellent coffee which is roasted in-house using fluid bed roasters (a very unique method!). They offer a variety of blends and single-origin coffees which are always fresh and flavorful. You can enjoy a cozy atmosphere with your baby with coffee-based drinks, a selection of teas, and locally sourced pastries.

Common Ground – Website

 

Neighborhood: Hampden
Address: 819 West 36th Street, Baltimore, MD

For nearly 25 years, Common Ground served as a beloved gathering spot in Hampden, offering high-quality coffee and a variety of in-house baked goods. Known for its smoothies, particularly the chai peanut butter-banana blend, and a range of vegan options, it was a community staple. In July 2023, the café unexpectedly closed but the employees worked together to bring it back as a worker-owned cooperative. This beautiful space is a beacon of hope and continues to provide an excellent spot for relaxing to this day.

Order & Chaos Coffee – Website

 

Neighborhood: Federal Hill
Address: 1410 Key Highway, Baltimore, MD

Opened in 2016, Order & Chaos Coffee offers a vibrant atmosphere with a modern design. This spot is known for its specialty drinks and unique “walking waffles,” making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors. A back study area houses communal tables and whiteboards which are great for those working from home or wanting to host meetups. The shop operates with convenient hours, focusing on early risers and weekend adventurers.

OneDo Coffee Roasters – Website

 

Neighborhood: Canton
Address: 913 South Lakewood Avenue, Baltimore, MD

OneDo Coffee Roasters is a family-owned coffee shop that roasts its beans in-house, ensuring a fresh and flavorful experience. We love that the café emphasizes sustainability by using recyclable paper bags for their coffee products. In addition to a variety of coffee beverages, OneDo offers teas, including black, oolong, green, white, and herbal options. The inviting space also offers baked goods and lunch options from local Baltimore businesses.

We love that the coffee scene here is vibrant and flourishing. Coffee shops in Baltimore aren’t hard to find! We love to support local as much as possible and these shops have our hearts. With the weather warming up, pop baby in a stroller and enjoy the springtime temps! Enjoy some movement, fresh air, and warming temperatures all with a delicious coffee in hand.

Carrot Fertility: A Guide to Flexible Coverage

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In recent years, fertility benefits have become an important and sought-after part of employee benefits packages. Carrot Fertility is a global fertility benefits provider that helps employers support their employees with reproductive health services. Whether you’re considering fertility treatments, egg or sperm freezing, adoption, or surrogacy, they offer financial and educational support to make these journeys more accessible.

What is Carrot Fertility?

Carrot Fertility is an employer-sponsored benefit program that provides financial assistance and expert guidance for reproductive health and family journeys. Unlike traditional health insurance plans, Carrot offers more flexible coverage tailored to a wide range of fertility and reproductive needs, including:

  • Fertility treatments (IVF, IUI, egg freezing, etc.)
  • Adoption and surrogacy support
  • Pregnancy and postpartum care (hint: that means us!)
  • Menopause and hormonal health support
  • LGBTQ+ family assistance

An expectant LGBTQ+ couple lounges together.

Who Can Benefit from Coverage?

Carrot Fertility is designed for individuals and families at various stages of their reproductive health journey. The program is particularly beneficial for:

  • Employees seeking treatments like IVF or egg freezing
  • LGBTQ+ individuals or couples looking to expand their families through surrogacy or adoption
  • Individuals with medical conditions that could affect reproductive health
  • Those who want to preserve their eggs or sperm for future family planning
  • Employees experiencing menopause or hormonal changes and seeking specialized care

By offering this type of coverage, companies can show a commitment to employee well-being, inclusivity, and work-life balance. Many businesses are adding these benefits to attract and retain top talent.

 

How to Apply for Carrot Fertility Benefits

If your employer provides Carrot Fertility as part of its benefits package, applying is simple:

  1. Check Your Eligibility – Log into your company’s benefits portal or contact HR to confirm benefits are available to you.
  2. Sign Up – If eligible, you’ll receive access to the Carrot platform, where you can explore your available benefits.
  3. Consult with the Experts – Connect with fertility specialists, adoption advisors, or hormonal health consultants for guidance on your next steps.
  4. Use Carrot Benefits – Depending on your employer’s plan, you’ll receive financial assistance, reimbursements, or direct payments for eligible services.

For those whose employers do not yet offer these benefits, consider advocating for it in your company’s benefits package by discussing it with your HR department. You could also request it directly from their website!

Hands on a keyboard search for fertility options in Baltimore.

Does Doulas of Baltimore work with Carrot?

Yes! We have had the pleasure of caring for many families whose employers provide coverage for families. If you’d like more information, please reach out to us and we’ll discuss your options!

Conclusion

Carrot Fertility has created a simple solution for companies to support reproductive health and family planning. By offering financial assistance, expert guidance, and a broad range of services, Carrot makes care more accessible to employees of participating companies worldwide. If you’re considering fertility treatments, family planning, or reproductive health support, ask if your employer provides Carrot Fertility and take advantage of the benefits available to you!