Parks in Baltimore | A Parent’s Guide
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.
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!
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:
- Playground has railings and is fully fenced.
- Restrooms nearby at the American Visionary Art Museum.
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!
