A Bit on Federal Hill

Well-known for its charming and historic row homes, the busy and beautiful Federal Hill Park, a bustling commercial district (Federal Hill Main Street), a very strong public elementary school (Federal Hill Prep), and easy access to the jobs of downtown Baltimore, Federal Hill is one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in the city.

  These gracious homes face Federal Hill Park.

This woman is taking an early morning stroll with her baby and dog past colorful alley houses that sit atop much-coveted garages.  The compact mix of uses in Federal Hill means that people can get to many of their daily destinations by walking, bicycling, or taking transit.  According to Walkscore.com, Federal Hill is the most walkable neighborhood in Baltimore, scoring 97 out of 100 possible points.

Introduced in 2010, the Charm City Circulator is very popular with residents - who prefer not to drive if they can help it - and tourists.  It also helps business owners by providing employees with reliable, direct, and FREE public transportation.

I took this photo while walking to work near the Inner Harbor's Science Center.  People traveling to and from Federal Hill on their way to work and school keep the bike lanes hopping.
Bicycling aficionados take note: Baltimore has an ever expanding network of biking facilities.

I am cheating a little bit.  For those of you familiar with South Baltimore, you know that this picture features Riverside Park, not Federal Hill.  However, it is one of my favorite pictures because it shows a dad pedaling his child to a local pool (either in Federal Hill or Riverside Park), using the Fort Avenue bike lane to do so. 

Federal Hill Park serves as a popular neighborhood spot for walking dogs, catching favorite movies on summer nights at "Flicks From the Hill", sponsored by the American Visionary Art Museum, and having impromptu gatherings with neighbors.

Another favorite activity ... burning calories on the steps leading to the park, which are far superior to a treadmill.

Federal Hill Park boasts a postcard-perfect view of Baltimore's distinctive skyline.

Goodbye from Federal Hill!