Resources_files/resource guide update

Transcription

Resources_files/resource guide update
Member Businesses
Orlee Glazer, REALTOR
Associate Broker of Long and Foster Real Estate Inc Cell: 410-215-8054 Office:
410-825-6400
Email: orlee@longandfoster.com
http://orleeglazer.lnfre.com/" \n _blankhttp://orleeglazer.lnfre.com
Rebecca Kipe
RSK Photography
www.rskphotography.shutterfly.com
Email: rskphotography@yahoo.com
Phone: (703) 338-8967 (cell)
Family pictures, senior pictures and portraits, mostly outdoors. Decorative
photography for sale through website.
Monica Leigh
MM Leigh Photograpy "Day in the Life" moment-capturing photojournalism for
your event and portrait needs
http://mmleighphotography.shutterfly.com
Email: mmleigh@gmail.com
Phone 410-469-0566
Rina Rhyne
Phone: (919) 539-1292
vaishnavrina@yahoo.com
I develop MS Access databases for below market prices for small businesses and
non-profit agencies. Two other services I offer are development of PowerPoint
presentations and training on MS Office applications.
Vanessa Sciortino,
D.D.S., P.A. 325 Hospital Drive, #101 Glen Burnie, MD 21061 (410) 768-4488
Stephanie Neufeld
http://citycharmer.com
Alternative and Specialty Food Stores, Markets, and Farms
Belvedere Market
529 E. Belvedere Avenue
Baltimore, MD
(410) 464-9773
Located at Belvedere Square, which is in itself a shopping destination. Has several
tenants in one large market. Atwater's has stellar homemade soups and sandwiches, as
well as a phenomenal bakery if you ever need to bring an impressive dessert to someone's
house. Eat in or take out. Cierello Fine foods is an Italian market with prepared foods as
well as basic ingredients (homemade mozzarella and gnocchi are standouts), and a
butcher with superb cuts of meat. Planet Produce has some nice local and often organic
produce. There's also a sushi bar, a chocolatier, and a wine bar which gets very crowded
on weekend evenings.
Recommended by Juliane M. (2010), Julie B. (2009)
Ceriello Fine Italian Foods
525 E. Belvedere Avenue
Baltimore, MD
(410) 532-1840
See above listing for Belvedere Market.
Edmart
1427 Reisterstown Road
Baltimore, MD 21208
(410) 486- 5558
www.edmartdeli.com
For those from NY/NJ who miss good deli (since Baltimore has a huge dearth of good
delis), this is the best place I've found in all of Baltimore. It's not eat-in, just an oldfashioned deli counter in Pikesville with great pastrami and corn beef, superb half-sour
pickles, and very good rainbow cake.
Recommended by Julie B. (2009)
Fresh Market
2510 Quarry Lake Dr
Baltimore, MD 21209
838 Dulaney Valley Road
Towson, MD 21204
(410) 580-1930
www.thefreshmarket.com
It has a mix of organic/specialty foods kind of like Whole Foods.
Recommended by Tong-Yi Y. (2009)
H. Mart
800 N. Rolling Road
Catonsville, MD
(443) 612-9020
www.hmart.com
Great place to pick up fresh and cheap produce as well as a variety of Asian specialty
items.
Recommended by Tong-Yi Y. (2009)
This is primarily a Korean market, but I have found most of what I need for Japanese
cooking as well. There is also a small food kiosk in the back selling Korean meals and a
house wares section.
Recommended by Hilary P. (2009)
La Union Market III
714 York Road
Towson, MD
(410) 296-5940
This little market has fresh produce (small section), fresh cheese/dairy products (small
section) and imported food items from all over Latin America. Their selection of
Mexican food items is very small since the local community is mainly non-Mexican but
my husband and I often find some goodies there that remind us of the Southwest. Enjoy!
Recommended by Paloma G. (2008)
Santoni's Marketplace & Catering
4854 Butler Road
Glyndon, MD
(410) 833-6610
www.santonis.com
Fabulous prepared food section, and the bakery is to die for. On spring/summer/fall
weekends, they have pit beef in the parking lot.
Recommended by Julie B. (2009)
Trader Joe's
several locations
www.traderjoes.com
This is a great store offering a perfect selection of everything you need. They have a lot
of organic food and the prices are very reasonable. They also offer a great variety of
flowers.
Recommended by Juliane M. (2010)
We love Trader Joe's - it's great for all kinds of things including nuts, snacks,
cheese, prepared foods and easy lunch items for work. An added bonus - samples,
balloons and stickers for the kids! My kids actually ask to go there.
Recommended by Lisa P. (2009)
Trinacria Macaroni Works
406 N. Paca Street
Baltimore, MD
(410) 685-7285
This small market is just north of Lexington Market. They sell fresh pasta, olive oil in
bulk, cannoli shells, cookies, and Italian wine. If you are a serious cook, you should
definitely visit.
Recommended by Hilary P. (2009)
Wegmans
122 Shawan Road
Hunt Valley, MD
www.wegmans.com
(410) 773-3900
An upscale grocery store with a fabulous bakery and prepared foods section. They have a
very diverse cheese section. This is a good place for the serious cook to find unusual
ingredients.
Recommended by Hilary P. (2009)
Whole Foods Market
Harbor East
1001 Fleet Street
Baltimore, MD 21202
(410) 528-1640
Mount Washington
1330 Smith Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21209
(410) 532-6700
www.wholefoodsmarket.com
Great not only as full-service grocery stores with organic and gourmet products, but also
for a quick and healthy breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Great salad bar, hot bar, soup,
prepared entrees, and the like. They each have a comfortable place to sit down. The
Mount Washington store is larger and caters to children better (with small carts for them
to shop with and a lot of Kids Club activities.) Harbor East validates parking for two
hours (enter on Aliceanna).
Recommended by Rebecca S. (2008)
The Wine Source
3601 Elm Avenue
Baltimore, Maryland 21211
(410) 467-7777
www.the-wine-source.com
A great wine store for prices and recommendations. They will give you a case discount
on a single bottle if you sign up at the register.
Recommended by Erin A. (2008)
Arts and Culture
American Visionary Art Museum
800 Key Highway
Baltimore, MD
www.avam.org
This museum is a national repository for artwork created by self-taught artists whose
work arose from a personal vision.
We have been members. They have incredible events throughout the year like the "Bra
Ball" to benefit mammography funding to those who can't afford it. The Kinetic
Sculpture race is also fantastic. They also have art classes like "Baltimore screen
painting" and "Happy shiny things".
Recommended by Kimberly O. (2010)
Baltimore Clayworks
5707 Smith Avenue
Baltimore, MD
www.baltimoreclayworks.org
This non-profit ceramic art center offers 24 classes/week; holds exhibitions; rents studio
space; sells clay art and functional pottery; has fire, gas, electric, and wood kilns;
conducts workshops; hosts visiting artists and provides resources on technical issues and
ceramic art.
Baltimore Museum of Art
10 Art Museum Drive
Baltimore, MD
www.artbma.org
An array of art from different cultures, time periods, and genres. Child-friendly, with
family programs and creative interpretation materials. Free general admission.
Baltimore Museum of Industry
1415 Key Highway
Baltimore, MD
www.thebmi.org
The Baltimore Museum of Industry educates the public about the vital role of industry in
the history, culture and economy of this region.
Baltimore Opera
Lyric Opera House
110 W. Mt. Royal Avenue
Baltimore, MD
www.balimoreopera.com
The Baltimore Opera Company closed its doors in 2009, leaving Baltimore without a
grand opera company. While this has been a tremendous loss for Baltimore opera fans,
patrons and the city at large, there are other exciting options to experience opera in the
area. The website is devoted to promoting opera in the Baltimore Metropolitan area as
well as keeping you up-to-date on any exciting developments that will bring grand opera
back to our city.
Baltimore Public Works Museum
751 Eastern Avenue
Baltimore, MD
www.ce.jhu.edu/mdcive/public.htm
Exhibits cover such topics as city water supply, waste disposal, and road and bridge
construction. Among the main attractions are "Construction Site," an interactive display
for children, and "Streetscape," a life-size recreation of utilities running beneath the street.
Baltimore Streetcar Museum
1901 Falls Rd.
Baltimore, MD
(410) 547-0264
www.baltimoremd.com/streetcar
Take unlimited rides on original Baltimore streetcars while listening to information from
knowledgeable operators. The museum also offers streetcar displays and a guided
carhouse tour.
Baltimore Symphony Orchestra
1212 Cathedral Street
Baltimore, MD
www.bsomusic.org
Hosts a variety of concerts featuring celebrity guests, jazz ensembles, classical music and
holiday themes. Majority of concerts are held at the Meyerhoff Symphony Hall. Several
age-appropriate, midweek concerts for children. For a complete listing of children's
concerts, see www.bsokids.com.
B&O Railroad Museum
901 W. Pratt St.
Baltimore, MD 21223
2711 Maryland Avenue
Ellicott City, MD 21043
Phone: 410-461-1945
www.borail.org
Home of the oldest and most comprehensive collection of railroad history in the Western
Hemisphere. The collection of locomotives and rolling stock is on display inside a
completely restored roundhouse. Train rides are offered Tuesdays through Sundays, April
through December, and are included in the price of admission.
Center Stage
700 N. Calvert Street
Baltimore, MD
www.centerstage.org
A leader in the regional theater movement. They have a program in which children can
enjoy theater-related activities while parents watch a matinee.
Everyman Theatre
1727 N. Charles Street
Baltimore, MD
www.everymantheatre.org
High-quality professional theatre in an intimate house.
Jewish Museum of Maryland
15 Lloyd Street
Baltimore, MD
www.jhsm.org
America 's leading museum of regional Jewish history. Campus includes the historic
Lloyd Street and B'nai Israel Synagogues and a modern building with changing
exhibition galleries, research library and museum shop.
Maryland Art Place
8 Market Pl # 100
Baltimore, MD 21202
www.mdartplace.org
Non-profit center for contemporary arts.
Maryland Fire Museum
1301 York Road
Lutherville, MD
www.firemuseummd.org
Admission: $12 adults; $5 children over 2.
Open only on Saturdays May through December, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Open Wednesdays-Saturday in June, July, August, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sunday 1p.m. – 4p.m.
Over fifty fire trucks are on display, and are complemented by a broad range of special
exhibits such as a working fire alarm telegraph system, badge and uniform displays, and
Baltimore’s High Pressure Pumping System.
Maryland Historical Society
201 W. Monument Street
Baltimore, MD
www.mdhs.org
The state's oldest cultural institution. Younger audiences benefit from theater, craft and
history workshops on the weekends.
Maryland Science Center
601 Light Street
Baltimore, MD
www.mdsci.org
Exhibits and educational programs that cultivate interest in science. Also visit the IMAX
theater, planetarium with a 50-foot dome, and the Kids Room, for children up to 8 years
with a chaperone.
The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore
Druid Hill Park
Baltimore, MD
www.marylandzoo.org
In addition to the thousands of animals, kids will have fun at America's #1 rated
Children's zoo, petting area, ride-on train, merry-go-round and more! Visit the Zoo and
meet more than 2,000 animals – including chimpanzees, elephants, leopards, and more!
The Zoo is open March 1-December 31, has free parking and very reasonably priced
memberships.
The zoo membership includes free entrance to the Baltimore Aquarium, Science Center,
B&O Railroad Museum, as well as Port Discovery Museum for the month of Jan-Feb
(eventually also in March) when the Zoo is closed. These are great places to enjoy in the
winter!
Recommended by Juliane M. (2010)
For $2 you can feed a giraffe!! It goes by quickly so have the camera ready before your
kids reach for the giraffe! I definitely got a thrill seeing a giraffe closeup, and of course,
the kids loved it as well!
Recommended by Sheila G. (2009)
It's laid out perfectly for kids, the exhibits are close to each other and close to the
viewer. It's also nice and flat, so easy to get around all day with strollers and children.
Recommended by Rebecca K. (2009)
The National Aquarium in Baltimore
501 E. Pratt Street
Baltimore, MD
www.aqua.org
Self-guided tour through 5 levels of numerous species of aquatic life; the center of which
is a large tank containing stingrays and sharks. Feeding times posted in the lobby.
Admission includes a dolphin show. Food court on ground level and additional food
venues are available seasonally. Long waits or time delay for tickets are not unusual.
The membership also includes free entrance to the Aquarium in D.C.!
Recommended by Juliane M. (2010)
The National Great Blacks In Wax Museum
1601-03 East North Ave.
Baltimore, MD
(410) 563-3404
www.greatblacksinwax.org
The wax museum is committed solely to the study and preservation of African American
history and presents life-size, life-like wax figures highlighting historical and
contemporary personalities of African ancestry. Displays on themes such as slavery, the
underground railroad, the Buffalo Soldiers and the civil rights era.
National Zoo
3001 Connecticut Ave., NW
Washington, DC 20008
nationalzoo.si.edu
Part of the Smithsonian Institution, the zoo is location in the Adams Morgan
neighborhood of DC. The zoo is open every day except December 25th.
Port Discovery
35 Market Place
Baltimore, MD
www.portdiscovery.org
The Children's Museum in Baltimore offers three floors of interactive, educational
exhibits and programs for children ages 2-12 years old. Special areas for children under
the age of 4 include “The Diner,” a realistic 50's style diner where kids can cook and
serve food to their parents and ring up their order at the cash register. An indoor soccer
field allows kids and parents a chance to practice their kicks year-round. In the Fill’er Up
Station children can pack the car and fill it with gas. A Sensation Station is designed for
the youngest visitors to explore sensory stimulating activities. Special events such as
storytimes and musical performances are scheduled periodically.
Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History and Culture
830 E. Pratt St.
Baltimore, MD
(443) 263-1800
www.africanamericanculture.org
The largest African American museum on the East Coast. Includes a 2,000-seat theater,
an oral history studio, classrooms and exhibition space. The Inaugural Exhibition of the
museum explores three areas: Family and Community, Labor that Built a Nation, and
Arts and Enlightenment.
Shriver Hall Concert Series
3400 N. Charles Street
Baltimore, MD
www.shriverconcerts.org
Chamber music concert series.
Top of the World Observation Level
World Trade Center
401 E. Pratt Street, 21202
(410) 837-8439
www.viewbaltimore.org
The four sided glass-enclosed observation deck is the perfect vantage point from which to
see almost any area of the city. Telescopes are available for closer views of the sights.
The Walters Art Museum
600 N. Charles Street
Baltimore, MD
www.thewalters.org
The museum's collection, encompassing 55 centuries of art from around the world,
includes more than 30,000 objects. Beautiful works by Monet, Faberge, Delacroix, and
Raphael. General admission is free. Walters family festivals are free, daylong
celebrations of art for children and art lovers of all ages. Free weekly family art activities.
Open late with special activities on the first Friday of the month.
Auto Service
Brentwood Automotive
1035 W. 41st Street Baltimore, MD 21211
(410) 889-6748 or toll free1800 IMPORTS
www.brentwoodauto.com
Originally went to Monument Street Auto and was not happy at all with their work. Was
referred to Brentwood via the previous referral list. Very honest and thorough. We have a
VW Passat and a Mercury Sable. They have techs who specialize in various models.
Recommended by Rebecca P. (2009)
Fieden Brothers' Service Center
1831-35 Bank St.
Baltimore, MD
(410) 276-2725
If you live anywhere near Fells Point, this is the place to go. City Paper said it well: "The
Fieden Brothers team always seems angry when we see them. But their anger seems to be
directed toward their customers' cars—not their customers themselves—for giving their
customers grief. These mechanics are like good dentists: You hate to have to go, but at
least they're fast, painless, and they'll give you the satisfaction of showing you the part
they had to replace and explain to you why it had to be replaced."
Recommended by Amy E. (2008)
Hollenshade's Auto Service
1501 East Joppa Road
Towson, MD
(410) 828-5750
www.hollenshades.com
Hollenshade's is where I take the car when I'm at work and need a quick oil change. They
are quick and they do great work. I know they are good about other repairs.
Recommended by Heather S. (2009)
Klausmeier and Sons
9502 Belair Road
Baltimore, MD 21236
(410) 256-5468
I have been going to Klausmeier for at least 15 years. When I brought my 88 Honda
Civic in for expensive work basically to replace everything for a third time (the car was
14 years old), they told me to stop wasting money on the repairs and buy a new car. Why
would they do that when they make money off the repairs?
Recommended by Heather S. (2009)
Mark's Body Shop
4025 Mortimer Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21215
(410) 358-5155
www.marksbodyshop.com
They are great! They are meticulous and have great customer service.
Recommended by Erin A. (2008)
Orchard Auto
8809 Orchard Tree Lane
Towson, MD
(410) 339-7397
Mark Arenberg is the owner and he really knows his stuff! His father was also a
physician so he understands the lifestyle of doctor's family. He also knows how some
people hesitate sometimes to announce that you or your husband is a doctor because you
think you'll get charged more! Mark's rates are very competitive and his work is
extremely thorough. Check him out.
Recommended by Paloma G. (2008)
Paul's Automotive
6320 Falls Road
Baltimore, MD 21209
(410) 825-2224
www.paulsauto.com
We've used them for almost 8 years now and they've done a great job . . . even telling us
when we should stop paying for repairs on my husband's old Jeep and sell it. They've
been great about fitting us in at the last minute for oil changes and for fixing a flat tire
when I've run over a nail. And, last Christmas Eve they stayed late to tow my car to their
shop and get me a new battery for my car, which had suddenly died that morning! Need I
say more?
Recommended by Tong-Yi Y. (2008)
Babysitting
JHMA Members:
Other babysitters recommended:
Jagruti "Mimi" Desai
(908) 487-8816
My aunt Mimi works at the Johns Hopkins daycare and has been working in childcare for
about 15 years. She babysits on the evening and weekends in the city and suburbs at your
home or hers. Several JHMA members know her so feel free to email the listserve for a
reference.
Recommended by Rina R. (2009)
Caroline Esclapez
carolineesclapez@hotmail.com
443-255-1595
I know Caroline from my book club. She is French, but came to Baltimore as an AuPair
14 years ago. She worked for 4 years as an AuPair. She now has a fulltime job at IYF and
misses being around kids. Her availability is week nights and weekends.
As a lifetime animal lover and MDSPCA volunteer since 2004, she also pet-sit regularly.
Babysitting Rate: $15/hour
Pet-sitting Rate: Upon request.
Recommended by Juliane M. (2010)
JHU Program - Parents in a Pinch
We have used Parents in a Pinch. Overall, I think it's a great service. You can contact
Sandy Jenkins in the WorkLife department at Hopkins and she will get you enrolled in
the program. Her email is: HYPERLINK
"http://groups.yahoo.com/group/jhma/post?postID=LG6Yrtf8jmZLrIowJJbObm6OgLyf
GMC2_NMOqIDmOSeNfeSI897T8zTfPZ9tgtVQ-jrmHi0syzo" sljenkins@jhu.edu and
her phone number is: 443-997-7000 . It was very easy for us. Then, you call parents in a
pinch directly and tell them the times and days you need a sitter - and mention that you
are affiliated with Johns Hopkins. They will then have the sitter contact you directly for
directions and detailed information about the job. The sitter we had the first time was
great, so we were able to request her subsequently for babysitting. As others have
mentioned, you pay the sitter directly at the end of the day ($14/hour for one child and I
think it's $15/hour for 2 kids). Then, you fill out a reimbursement request form and
parents in a pinch will mail you a refund check. We also pay $8/hour. The only
downside to this service that I have found it that they really do need 24 hours notice.
Recommended by Anne G. (2010)
I used it once - it is very helpful and reliable, but there is some paperwork at the outset,
and it was difficult for me to get to the right office, but it worked in the end. I ended up
getting started at 1-800-688-4697 to fill out the forms. They will tell you who to contact
at JHU depending on which department.
Even if you're a stay-home parent, they will help out if you need to go to the doctor or
take another child, etc., up to 10 times a year, I think. The sitter was fine; she didn't go
above and beyond, but I felt good about her. She had worked with them for nine years.
They have a stringent application process for sitters.
It cost me $8 an hour for the sitter (JHU subsidized the other $6).You can call the day
before - even on the weekend - and they will come through. There is a four-hour
minimum that I hadn't been aware of ...
Recommended by Katja E. (2010)
We have used Parents in a Pinch often. We have 3 school aged children. Because I work
as a teacher, it is difficult for me to take time off. Since we moved to the area last year,
we really didn't have any good babysitting options. P in a P provides a great service to
the couple who both work.
Recommended by Mary A. (2009)
Auto Service
Brentwood Automotive
1035 W. 41st Street Baltimore, MD 21211
(410) 889-6748 or toll free1800 IMPORTS
www.brentwoodauto.com
Originally went to Monument Street Auto and was not happy at all with their work. Was
referred to Brentwood via the previous referral list. Very honest and thorough. We have a
VW Passat and a Mercury Sable. They have techs who specialize in various models.
Recommended by Rebecca P. (2009)
Fieden Brothers' Service Center
1831-35 Bank St.
Baltimore, MD
(410) 276-2725
If you live anywhere near Fells Point, this is the place to go. City Paper said it well: "The
Fieden Brothers team always seems angry when we see them. But their anger seems to be
directed toward their customers' cars—not their customers themselves—for giving their
customers grief. These mechanics are like good dentists: You hate to have to go, but at
least they're fast, painless, and they'll give you the satisfaction of showing you the part
they had to replace and explain to you why it had to be replaced."
Recommended by Amy E. (2008)
Hollenshade's Auto Service
1501 East Joppa Road
Towson, MD
(410) 828-5750
www.hollenshades.com
Hollenshade's is where I take the car when I'm at work and need a quick oil change. They
are quick and they do great work. I know they are good about other repairs.
Recommended by Heather S. (2009)
Klausmeier and Sons
9502 Belair Road
Baltimore, MD 21236
(410) 256-5468
I have been going to Klausmeier for at least 15 years. When I brought my 88 Honda
Civic in for expensive work basically to replace everything for a third time (the car was
14 years old), they told me to stop wasting money on the repairs and buy a new car. Why
would they do that when they make money off the repairs?
Recommended by Heather S. (2009)
Mark's Body Shop
4025 Mortimer Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21215
(410) 358-5155
www.marksbodyshop.com
They are great! They are meticulous and have great customer service.
Recommended by Erin A. (2008)
Orchard Auto
8809 Orchard Tree Lane
Towson, MD
(410) 339-7397
Mark Arenberg is the owner and he really knows his stuff! His father was also a
physician so he understands the lifestyle of doctor's family. He also knows how some
people hesitate sometimes to announce that you or your husband is a doctor because you
think you'll get charged more! Mark's rates are very competitive and his work is
extremely thorough. Check him out.
Recommended by Paloma G. (2008)
Paul's Automotive
6320 Falls Road
Baltimore, MD 21209
(410) 825-2224
www.paulsauto.com
We've used them for almost 8 years now and they've done a great job . . . even telling us
when we should stop paying for repairs on my husband's old Jeep and sell it. They've
been great about fitting us in at the last minute for oil changes and for fixing a flat tire
when I've run over a nail. And, last Christmas Eve they stayed late to tow my car to their
shop and get me a new battery for my car, which had suddenly died that morning! Need I
say more?
Recommended by Tong-Yi Y. (2008)
Babysitting
JHMA Members:
Other babysitters recommended:
Jagruti "Mimi" Desai
(908) 487-8816
My aunt Mimi works at the Johns Hopkins daycare and has been working in childcare for
about 15 years. She babysits on the evening and weekends in the city and suburbs at your
home or hers. Several JHMA members know her so feel free to email the listserve for a
reference.
Recommended by Rina R. (2009)
Caroline Esclapez
carolineesclapez@hotmail.com
443-255-1595
I know Caroline from my book club. She is French, but came to Baltimore as an AuPair
14 years ago. She worked for 4 years as an AuPair. She now has a fulltime job at IYF and
misses being around kids. Her availability is week nights and weekends.
As a lifetime animal lover and MDSPCA volunteer since 2004, she also pet-sit regularly.
Babysitting Rate: $15/hour
Pet-sitting Rate: Upon request.
Recommended by Juliane M. (2010)
JHU Program - Parents in a Pinch
We have used Parents in a Pinch. Overall, I think it's a great service. You can contact
Sandy Jenkins in the WorkLife department at Hopkins and she will get you enrolled in
the program. Her email is: HYPERLINK
"http://groups.yahoo.com/group/jhma/post?postID=LG6Yrtf8jmZLrIowJJbObm6OgLyf
GMC2_NMOqIDmOSeNfeSI897T8zTfPZ9tgtVQ-jrmHi0syzo" sljenkins@jhu.edu and
her phone number is: 443-997-7000 . It was very easy for us. Then, you call parents in a
pinch directly and tell them the times and days you need a sitter - and mention that you
are affiliated with Johns Hopkins. They will then have the sitter contact you directly for
directions and detailed information about the job. The sitter we had the first time was
great, so we were able to request her subsequently for babysitting. As others have
mentioned, you pay the sitter directly at the end of the day ($14/hour for one child and I
think it's $15/hour for 2 kids). Then, you fill out a reimbursement request form and
parents in a pinch will mail you a refund check. We also pay $8/hour. The only
downside to this service that I have found it that they really do need 24 hours notice.
Recommended by Anne G. (2010)
I used it once - it is very helpful and reliable, but there is some paperwork at the outset,
and it was difficult for me to get to the right office, but it worked in the end. I ended up
getting started at 1-800-688-4697 to fill out the forms. They will tell you who to contact
at JHU depending on which department.
Even if you're a stay-home parent, they will help out if you need to go to the doctor or
take another child, etc., up to 10 times a year, I think. The sitter was fine; she didn't go
above and beyond, but I felt good about her. She had worked with them for nine years.
They have a stringent application process for sitters.
It cost me $8 an hour for the sitter (JHU subsidized the other $6).You can call the day
before - even on the weekend - and they will come through. There is a four-hour
minimum that I hadn't been aware of ...
Recommended by Katja E. (2010)
We have used Parents in a Pinch often. We have 3 school aged children. Because I work
as a teacher, it is difficult for me to take time off. Since we moved to the area last year,
we really didn't have any good babysitting options. P in a P provides a great service to
the couple who both work.
Recommended by Mary A. (2009)
Carpeting
A+ Carpet
9110 Red Branch Rd, Suite P
Columbia, MD 21045
(410) 418-9888
www.apluscarpet.com
A friend of ours owns A+ Carpet out here in Columbia. They do carpet, hardwood,
laminate, and Duraceramic tiles. We have had them do all our carpet and the afore
mentioned tiles in our bathrooms (which I love and they are quick to install and much
less expensive). He has his own install crew. I've recommended his company several
times to friends too -- they always does a great job and their prices are really low. The
nice thing too, is that if there is a problem they will take care of it right away rather than
having to deal with a subcontractor situation like with Home Depot/Lowes.
Recommended by Monica B. (2009)
Empire Today
1879 Lamonte Ave.
Suite B
Odenton MD 21113
800-588-2300
www.empiretoday.com
We used Empire (the funny old man commercials) for our carpet. It was nice because
they come to you with samples. They came installed the carpet very quickly and
efficiently. They did a beautiful job. I think they do other flooring as well and you might
be able to get a deal. Definitely negotiate with them because they kept lowering the
price.
Recommended by Erin A. (2009)
Jim Boyd's Flooring America
12 W Aylesbury Rd
Lutherville Timonium, MD 21093
(410) 667-0620
They have a remnant room in the back with some really good prices (especially if you
want neutral :). It is also full-service and has all kinds of wall-to-wall carpet and area
rugs. They were fast and nice!
Recommended by Sharen B. (2009)
Charities
Baltimore City Public Schools
www.bcps.k12.md.us
You don't have to live here long to figure out that the public schools need our help and
our money! Contact the principal of a nearby school to find out about their needs:
working with middle school or elementary students who don't know how to read,
fulfilling items on a teacher's wish list, purchasing books for the school library, working
on greening or playground projects. These schools, their students, and their teachers have
many more needs than the system is able to meet. Consider public charter schools as
well. (I know Patterson Park Public Charter School, for example, is very open to
volunteers in a variety of capacities.) Recommended by Rebecca S. (2008)
Baltimore Freecycle Group
groups.yahoo.com/group/freecyclebaltimore
“The Freecycle NetworkTM is made up of 4141 groups with 4004479 members across
the globe. It's a grassroots and entirely nonprofit movement of people who are giving
(and getting) stuff for free in their own towns. Membership is free, and everything posted
must be FREE, legal and appropriate for all ages.” In other words, search for items you
would like and make arrangements to pick them up at other members’ house. And give
away your items too! (2008)
The Book Thing of Baltimore
3001 Vineyard Lane
Baltimore, MD
(410) 662-5631
www.bookthing.org
Great place to give books that have nowhere else to go, and get some free ones in return.
Huge warehouse-type space that has thousands of books for the public to take, free. Some
days have more interesting choices than others - you can't call and ask what they have in
stock, so you just go and take your chances. Open weekends only for getting books, dropoff is all week long. They desperately need kids' books.
Recommended by Julie B. (2009)
CASA of Harford County (Court Appointed Special Advocate)
The Circuit Court for Harford County
101 South Main Street, Suite 303
Bel Air, MD 21014
www.casaofharfordcounty.org
Harford County CASA volunteers are assigned to the case of a child who is within the
CASA volunteers conduct thorough research on the background of the case, reviewing
documents, interviewing everyone involved, including the child. They make reports to
the court, recommending what they believe is best for the child, providing the master
or judge with information that will help them make an informed decision. CASA
volunteers can be instrumental in assuring that a child or family receives services which
During the life of a case, a CASA volunteer monitors the child's situation to make sure
he or she remains safe. CASA volunteers may be the only constant the child knows as
they move through the labyrinth of the child welfare system.
Recommended by Rebecca P.
House of Ruth
2201 Argonne Drive
Baltimore, MD
(410) 889-0840
www.hruth.org
Battered women's shelter. They need and take all sorts of donations. We gave them the
old washer and dryer in the house that we bought when we moved to Baltimore, since we
had our own. They were courteous and timely in picking them up and also installed the
replacements. Recommended by Rebecca S. (2008)
(2009)
!
Children's Activities
Also see listings for museums in Arts and Culture.
Baltimore County Department of Recreation and Parks
(410) 887-3871
www.baltimorecountymd.gov/Agencies/recreation/programdivision/index.html
The best way to find what you're looking for is to visit their website. This will provide a
list of what activities are available in your area.
Recommended by Sally W. (2008)
Baltimore County Public Library
www.bcplonline.org
We have been to the baby boosters storytime in the Towson Library a lot and they also
offer storytimes for toddlers and preschoolers. They have a little fenced play area in the
back of the children´s section where babies and toddlers can also play anytime.
Recommended by Philippa M. (2011)
Check the website for free children's story times and family activities at the various
branches. Everyone with kids under five should visit located at the Rosedale
branch Storyville (also see “Storyville” listed below). It is a 2,240 square-foot childsized village that includes a library, a two-story
house, theater, store, Chesapeake Bay waterfront for toddlers, baby garden and
construction site. Each area is furnished with books and engaging materials and activities
which promote language and literacy, as well as other vital school readiness skills.
Recommended by Erin R. (2009)
Charm City Karate
50 Scott Adam Road, Suite 103
Cockeysville, MD
(410) 628-4994
www.charmcitykarate.com
Great place for kids to learn karate starting at age 4. The emphasis is on discipline and
having fun, not on fighting. Formal belt training begins in the 6 and above classes.
Recommended by Tong-Yi Y. (2008)
The Children of the World Co-op
P.O. Box 26215
Baltimore, MD 21210-0115
(410) 377-5900
www.cotwcoop.org
COTW Co-op is an international playgroup for children ages one to four with their
parents or caregivers. It is housed in the Cathedral of the Incarnation at University
Parkway and St. Paul Street, right in the backyard of The Johns Hopkins University
Homewood Campus.
Recommended by Erin R. (2008)
Downtown Baltimore Family Alliance
PO Box 38917
Baltimore, MD 21231
www.dbfam.org
This nonprofit that focuses on fostering and promoting family life in downtown
neighborhoods from Canton to Locust Point offers year-round free family events,
including an Easter Egg Hunt in Patterson Park, Fall Children's Festival in the Inner
Harbor, Downtown Family Pool Party (for members), Family Restaurant Nights at local
eateries, and the like. Check their website for up-to-date listings.
Recommended by Rebecca S. (2009)
Family Fun Day (at area malls)*
Stories and songs. Some days they have special guests, which include jugglers, puppets,
magic and the band Milk Shake.
Towson Town Center - Fridays 10 a.m.
Macy's Court - Level 3
825 Dulaney Valley Road Towson, Maryland 21204-1010
(410) 494-8800
Whitemarsh Mall - Tuesdays 10 a.m. Entertainment Court on the Lower Level in front of
the Macy's Home store.
8200 Perry Hall Blvd Baltimore, Maryland 21236-4901
(410) 931-7100
The Mall in Columbia - Thursdays 10 a.m. Lord & Taylor Court
10300 Little Patuxent Parkway Columbia, Maryland 21044
(410) 730-3300
*Family Fun Day is held at other area malls as well.
Check the website of the mall closest to you.
Coppermine Fieldhouse / Gerstung
1400 Coppermine Terrace
Baltimore, MD
(410) 337-7781
www.gerstung.com
My neighbor's daughter loves their gymnastics and dance programs as well as their
summer camp. They also have other programs such as rock climbing, fencing, and
archery.
Recommended by Tong-Yi Y. (2008)
Hoppin Tots Children's Gym
6241 Falls Road
Baltimore, MD 21209
(410)-337-7012
www.hoppintotsgym.com
They offer 45-minute parent-participation classes, 1-hour gymnastics classes without
parents, and 1-1/2 and 2-hour drop-off programs. The programs offer age-appropriate
tumbling, balance beam, climbing, and trampoline, as well as circle time singing. The
theme and the equipment setup changes every week.
Recommended by Erin R. (2008)
Joe Palanzo's Kenpo Karate
1400B Reisterstown Road
Pikesville, MD
(410) 484-7122
www.pikesvillemartialarts.com
My neighbor's daughter loves their program, which also begins at age 4. They also run a
weekly summer camp program which I've heard raves about.
Recommended by Tong-Yi Y. (2008)
My daughter and I took a Mommy&Me class there. The cost was reasonable and the
class was fun.
Recommended by Sally W. (2008)
The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore
Located in Druid Hill Park
www.marylandzoo.org
One of the best values in Baltimore. Only $99 for a family membership (2 adults plus
children 21 & under per visit), and when the zoo is closed in Jan/Feb, you can use your
membership for free admission to other area attractions. They may differ every year but
have included the aquarium, science center, Port Discovery, and the B&O Railroad
Museum.
Recommended by Monica L. (2010)
Mother Goose on the Loose at Enoch Pratt Free Library
www.prattlibrary.org/calendar/atpratt.aspx?id=14230&mark=goose
Recommended by Susanne B. (2009)
Music Together of Charm City
7115 Rodgers Ct
Baltimore, MD 21212-1524
(410) 825-3881
www.musictogethercharmcity.com
Music Together is a family-style music class designed for children ages birth through
kindergarten. Each class has 6-12 registered children plus their parent(s), and everyone
participates. Classes are 45 minutes long, and there are a variety of fun songs and
activities throughout. My kids absolutely love going, and they get so much out of it!
Classes are offered at different times throughout the week; many are held in Roland Park.
Recommended by Jennifer B. (2010)
We are taking music together classes in Towson:
www.itsgroovybaby.com
There are several locations around Towson, Lutherville and Pikesville. My daughter also
loves going there and learned singing, dancing and making music before she was a year
old! Parents get two CDs to take home and listen to the songs there, song book and an
informative and insightful parent education DVD based on extensive and detailed
research.
Recommended by Philippa M. (2011)
My Gym Children’s Fitness Center
www.my-gym.com
My Gym has an extraordinary program and facility for kids 6 weeks thru 13 years of age.
There are locations in Bel Air, Columbia, Owings Mills, and Timonium. The weekly
classes incorporate music, dance, relays, games, special rides, gymnastics, sports and
more. Membership also includes a weekly free play time! Both of my kids enjoyed the
Mommy and me classes.
Recommended by Pam L. (2009)
Peabody Preparatory
21 E. Mount Vernon Place
Baltimore, MD
410-234-4500
www.peabody.jhu.edu/prep
We have done the toddler and three-year-olds music classes at Peabody Preparatory,
which is the community program of the Johns Hopkins Peabody Conservatory. The
teachers are leaders in the field (often Ph.D.s, with a focus in early childhood music), so
parents are usually provided with an academic perspective on music education and
training for little ones (which I find interesting). It's very expensive, but is a fun outing
for both kids and parents. If you take a class in Mount Vernon on Saturdays, it can also
make for a fun and full morning, since the Walters Museum is free and the main Enoch
Pratt Library branch is a few blocks away. Peabody also offers dance classes and
instrumental instruction.
Recommended by Rebecca S. (2008)
Petting Farms in Maryland
www.mda.state.md.us/md_products/agritourism_sites-farms/petting_farms.php
Recommended by Susanne B. (2009)
Port Discovery
35 Market Place
Baltimore, MD 21202
(410) 727-8120
Port Discovery is a children´s museum with three floors of interactive, educational
exhibits and ever-changing programs for children ages birth through 10. For Babies they
have a separate room, “Tot Trails”, where they can explore and play. They offer different
types of memberships which are really worth using them. The family membership can
easily be shared by 3 families. It´s a great place where you can spend several hours to
have a fun day.
Recommended by Philippa M. (2011)
Rebounders Gymnastics Center
7 W. Aylesbury Road, # A
Timonium, MD 21093
(410) 252 -3374
www.rebounders.com
The staff is extremely helpful and understands little children. I love the atmosphere.
Recommended by Rebecca K. (2009)
Great fun – the kids just love it – I loved the mommy and me class, too! The drop-off
program is a bit expensive when comparing it to pre-school.
Recommended by Jo-Ann B. (2008)
I absolutely recommend Rebounders Gymnastics! Especially if you have a child between
2 and 5 years old. The Kangaroos drop-off pre-school is wonderful! My kids also loved
the Tiggers classes (mommy and me) too!
Recommended by Tara C. (2008)
Storyville (at BCPL Rosedale branch and Woodlawn branch)
6105 Kenwood Avenue
Baltimore, Maryland 21237-2097
(410) 887-0512
info@bcplstoryville.org
www.bcplstoryville.org/storyville_home.html
or
1811 Woodlawn Drive
Woodlawn, Maryland 21207
410-887-1336
This is an amazing wonderland filled with activities for children ages 0-5. And it’s free!
Recommended by Rebecca P. (2009)
A true treasure! It's like a free children's museum where children can touch, pretend, and
play. For birth through age 5. Sometimes there can be a wait to get in, but there is a
separate children's section where you can wait, and they hold events as well.
Recommended by Monica L. (2009)
They just opened a new Storyville location at the BCPL Woodlawn branch in March
2010. I had no idea it had opened and had always considered the Rosedale branch too out
of the way for us. I took my kids for the first time on Monday and they had a great time.
Recommended by Lisa P. (2010)
SWIMMING
Free Swim Lessons
http://www.jcc.org/SWIM/494
Recommended by Rebecca P. (2010)
Kids First Swim School
www.kidsfirstswimschools.com
(different locations)
My children swim at Kids First in Cockeysville and we have been very happy with their
method (kick first) and the young energetic teachers. We have private lessons (Caleb is a
great teacher) so can't comment on group lessons, sorry, but I hear they have all types of
groups (like you finding a couple of friends and creating your own private group). They
also have different locations in case Cockeysville is too far.
Recommended by Saori F. (2010)
We also used Kids First Swim School (in Cockeysville) for both of my older boys. They
have a good swim instruction system and a very friendly staff.
Recommended by Tong-Yi Y. (2010)
Meadowbrook Swim Club
5600 Cottonworth Avenue
Baltimore, MD
(410) 433-8300
www.mpswimschool.com
We took Get-Wet swim lessons there and my daughter just loved it. They have a great
program for babies for 30 Minutes a week 6 weeks long to get used to the water.
Recommended by Philippa M. (2011)
I higly recommend the Michael Phelps Swim School (near the Whole Foods at Smith
Avenue.
Recommended by Silvia M. (2010)
Another popular swim school with many types of programs throughout the day. Lots of
previous JHH families have also joined their swim club especially during the summer
months. They also have adult exercise/fitness program there as well.
Recommended by Tong-Yi Y. (2008)
They have reasonably-priced, short-term swim classes for a parent to take with babies
and toddlers (in the warm therapy pool!), as well as private and semi-private lessons for
children. Your experience will depend on your teacher, so ask around and ask to switch if
you aren't happy with your teacher (this happened to us). Call for a schedule, and sign up
early, since their classes tend to fill.
Recommended by Rebecca S. (2008)
Mt. Washington Swim Club
2300 Enslow Avenue Baltimore, MD 21209
(410) 367-0110
http://mwia.org/downloads/swim-club-2010.pdf
We LOVE Mt. Washington Swim Club. It's a great pool with lots of shade and a super
cute kids area. It's often hard to get a spot if you are not in the pool "zone" (or whatever
it's called).
Recommended by Mary P. (2010)
The Painting Workshop
Mt. Washington Village
1605 Sulgrave Avenue
Baltimore, Maryland 21209
or
317 Main St .
Reisterstown MD 21136
http://www.thepaintingworkshop.com/
This is cool for kids who like to paint, etc and is in Mt. Wash. Village!
Recommended by Rebecce P. (2010)
Ultimate Play Zone
10626 York Rd, Ste. J-L
Cockeysville, MD 21030
(410) 628-PLAY (7529)
www.ultimateplayzone.com
My son loves playing on the seven huge inflatable play stations, magic castle, and pirate
ship. The facility is new and clean. Also drop-in play is offered several day a week and
only costs $7/child for two hours (parents and children under age two are free!).
Recommended by Erin R. (2009)
Weber’s Farm
2526 Proctor Lane
(410) 668-4488
www.weberscidermillfarm.com
Apple picking, hayrides, farm animals, scarecrow making and hay maze are all some of
the fall activities offered at the farm. Produce, jams and jellies, baked goods and crafts for
sale throughout the season, and of course, a large selection of pumpkins for Halloween.
Recommended by Erin R. (2008)
Also: pick-up a copy of Baltimore's Child
www.baltimoreschild.com
Cleaning Service
Cleaning Authority
(410) 663-3283
We use The Cleaning Authority and they have been great--very professional and
thorough. We have used several people since we've been in Baltimore and they are
definitely the best. They also use "green" products so the house doesn't smell like
chemicals when you come home.
Recommended by Joelle M. (2010)
The best part about the Cleaning Authority is that they are always on time, never cancel,
and are insured and bonded. I just let them in and then leave and go to work and come
home to a clean house. I've used them for 4 years now. They are also the best on
rescheduling around my schedule.
Recommended by Kimberly O. (2010)
I also use the Cleaning Authority. They are affordable and professional. Some things that
they do in addition to the norm: spot clean windows, dust ceiling fans, and take out trash.
Recommended by Pam L. (2010)
I met the owner and the team assigned to me has come twice already and they are very
thorough and conscientious and I'm glad I'm using them - professional and the
employees are insured/bonded and been in business for 6 years. I definitely recommend
them!
Recommended by Hilary Y. (2009)
Judy´s Home Cleaning Service
2038 Wildlife Drive
Windsor Mill, Maryland 21244
(443) 415-0009
judyflowers57@yahoo.com
http://judyshomecleaningservice.com/
My friend, Judy Flowers, owns her own house cleaning business. She does large and
small jobs, move-ins and move-outs, and she uses all green cleaning products made by
Shaklee. I can attest to her character and work ethic. She is extremely trustworthy and
reliable, and I highly recommend her for any help with your homes.
Recommended by Ranjini J. (2012)
Millennium Cleaning Service
(410) 258-7344
28 Clematis Court
Owings Mills, MD 21117
My aunt, Beverley Pennie, owns this cleaning business. She uses only Melaleuca
products which smell great and are environmentally friendly.
Recommended by Greer C. (2009)
TMS Cleaning
(410) 529-7725
5633 Gunpowder Road
White Marsh, MD 21162
They are family-owned and operated with reasonable prices. They will clean monthly,
every other week, or for special occasions. They charge $75 per visit to clean my house
every other week. They also change the sheets on my beds, and I know many cleaning
services won't do that.
Recommended by Sally W. (2008)
Computer Repair
Restore Computer Repair
8701 Harford Rd
Baltimore, MD 21234
443-725-5050
www.restorecomputerrepair.com
It's a home-based business, and the owner's name is Sam. He had the most competitive
rates we found for the recovery of the data on our laptop's crashed motherboard.
However, he also is willing to trade parts for labor, so in our case we paid no cash for his
services, we just gave him the old laptop. Recommended by Greer C. (2009)
!
Consignment Stores & Sales
Bows and Britches
140 Bond Street
Bel Air, MD 21014
(410) 838-6469
www.bowsandbritches.com
I’ve made a decent amount of money with this shop and have also bought some great
things from there. They do clothes, toys, equipment, books, videos, etc.
Recommended by Rebecca P. (2009)
Best Dressed Sale
Operated by The Women's Board of The Johns Hopkins Hospital
The Evergreen Museum & Library's Carriage House
4545 N. Charles Street
Baltimore, MD 21210
(410) 955-9341
jhhwb@jhmi.edu
www.womensboard.jhmi.edu/bds_buyers.cfm
held annually in October
This sale is one of The Women's Board's biggest events raising $500,000 for patient care.
Donate gently used clothing or shop for (even designer) clothes, shoes, jewelry, and
accessories.
Recommended by Monica L. (2010)
Carry On Shop
Operated by The Women's Board of The Johns Hopkins Hospital
1830 East Monument Street, Baltimore, MD 21287
(410) 955-8719
Mon thru Fri 8:30am - 3:30pm
From their website (http://womensboard.jhmi.edu/cos.cfm):
The Carry On Shop offers thrifty shoppers an ever-changing inventory of "gently used"
merchandise. Choose from antiques and estate items, furniture and home accessories,
kitchen items (dishes, glassware), electronics, and books. You'll also find jewelry,
handbags, and clothing for the whole family. Hanover Uniforms and Dansko shoes are
available for Hopkins employees. They are located on The Johns Hopkins Hospital
campus.
Recommended by Monica L. (2010)
Elephant's Trunk
317 Main St
Reisterstown, MD 21136
(410) 517-1200
This store has the cutest things out front but I have not used their consignment yet.
Recommended by Paloma G. (2008)
Kid to Kid
556 Cranbrook Road
Baltimore, Maryland 21030
(410) 667-0360
www.baltimore.kidtokid.com
Recommended by Susanne B. (2009)
Kids Clothing Exchange of Baltimore
www.pinevalleyswim.com/kidsclothingexchange.html
A fabulous bi-annual consignment sale offered in the spring and fall at Pine Valley Swim
Club.
Recommended by Monica L. (2010)
Ladybugs & Fireflies
1049 S. Charles Street
Baltimore, MD
(410) 244-0472
This is a really cute children's consignment shop that recently opened in Federal Hill and
is owned by nice people. Great customer service. Their selection isn't enormous, but is of
generally good quality-probably lots of castoffs from well-heeled Federal Hill families.
They also have shoes, books, coats, costumes, baby gear (high chairs, strollers), and toys.
Probably a good place to drop off used clothes as well.
Recommended by Rebecca S. (2008)
Little Lamb Consignment
5002 Lawndale Ave # A
Baltimore, MD 21210
(410) 433-9086
Recommended by Philippa M. (2012)
The Lily Pad of Towson
6909 York Road
Baltimore, MD 21212
410-377-0025
www.lilypadoftowson.com
A consignment store with very cute children´s clothes. They also sell baby gear and little
gifts and also wrap them. There is a little playstation for children to play.
Recommended by Philippa M. (2012)
The Tot Spot
10811 Reisterstown Rd
Owings Mills, MD 21117
(410) 654-1147
Everything is clean and well organized and its very enticing to shop there. It’s not
crowded like the others. The owner is super friendly and welcoming of all things for drop
off year round.
Recommended by Paloma G. (2008)
Tot Swap Consignment Sale
www.totswap.net
This is one of the biggest children's consignment sales in the area. You can get lots of
great gently used kids items at the sale. You can find out more at the website!
Recommended by Lisa P. (2009)
Tried But True
10744 York Road
Cockeysville, MD
(410) 666-9265
When I moved here I went there first but I found the staff to be a bit rude with me
because I didn't have an appointment. Before showing up, I tried to make one and never
got a call back for the messages I left weeks prior. When I shopped there, it was very
crowded and hard to get someone's attention to help. They are a busy operation and voted
Best in Baltimore many years in a row. Probably for their selection and the quick
turnaround... Anyhow, they squeezed me in when I showed up with a trunk full of baby
equipment... it sold quickly. They take clothes but only on hangers. And if they are up to
capacity, they take only clothes with tags still on it. Call ahead to find out when they are
taking winter or spring drop offs! Also call ahead to find out when they have their great
clearance sales!
Recommended by Paloma G. (2008)
Vogue Revisited
4002 Roland Avenue
Baltimore, MD
(410) 235-4140
www.voguerevisited.com
Recommended by Susanne B. (2009)
Contractors/Home Improvement
Artur Kasperski
(443)-392-6440
arturworks@yahoo.com
I just had my kitchen remodeled and want to recommend my contractor, Artur Kasperski.
I can't say enough good things about Artur. He is honest, reliable, responsible, hardworking, and very much a perfectionist. He is very proud of the work he does and will do
what it takes to make sure you are satisfied with the work that has been done. He is also
very efficient and fast - our kitchen took about 2.5- 3 weeks to finish.
Recommended by Cindy L.V. 2012
Area Roofing & Siding Co.
Ste 113, 16201 Trade Zone Avenue
Upper Marlboro, MD
(301) 350-3300
Toll Free: 800-211-8445
www.arearoofingandsiding.com
They replaced all of our windows. The representative was friendly, the crew was on-time,
they cleaned up nicely after the work, and the windows look and work great.
Recommended by Erin R. (2009)
Canton Kitchens
3211 Eastern Ave
Baltimore, MD 21224
(410) 537-5870
www.cantonkitchens.com
Our very own former JHMA member, Danielle Burger, has been fabulous with designing
and overseeing our kitchen remodel. Budget wise...Canton Kitchens' prices for cabinets
has been the lowest of all the bids.
Recommended by Orlee G. (2008)
Charis Home Improvement
8003 Hog Neck Road
Pasadena, MD 21122
(410) 987-3576
(301)399-4902
www.charishomeimprovement.com
I use Dave Wandel with Charis Home Improvement for any outside work. His wife is the
owner and Dave (a little shaggy) does all the quotes. He is awesome. He has done a
bunch of things for us and I refer his name to my clients as well.
Recommended by Heather S. (2010)
Chesapeake PermaGlaze
Barry and Andrea Wilson
607 N. Shamrock Rd.
Bel Air, MD 21014
(443) 739-7320/(443) 739-6320
Tub reglazing. They make it look like new!
Recommended by Amy E. (2008)
Ed
edsrepairs@yahoo.com
Ed is an amazing handyman who will come last minute even for the slightest thing you
need done. One time, he came over to put together a bookshelf for my son that only took
30 minutes. His rates are very reasonable and he is a dependable and trustworthy man.
Recommended by Leslie E. (2012)
Kyle Cusick
(443) 392-7031
Handyman. He can fix plumbing, heating, cooling, appliances, etc. He charges $50/hr for
most work but will give you an estimate and work with you to make choices to keep the
expenses down. He also has some people he subcontracts for bigger jobs. This is a side
job for him so he only works evenings and weekends. He recently removed all of our
kitchen cabinets and sealed all the holes/spaces under the floorboards. Great work and
fast!
Recommended by Paloma G. (2009)
Mike Dalgleish
(443) 904-7972
He painted two rooms in our house and did a great job. His prices are very reasonable
with a typical room costing around $200.
Recommended by Joelle M. (2009)
Fick Bros. Roofing and Exterior Remodeling Company
1200 E. 25th Street
Baltimore, MD 21218
(410)889 5525
www.fickbros.com
This company has been in Baltimore for about 40 years and has won some awards from
the Better Business Bureau. They are very professional and reasonably priced. Fick Bros.
has replaced a number of aging roofs in my neighborhood (Rodgers Forge). My neighbor
is one of the "brothers" and is without a doubt one of the nicest guys you'll ever
meet! This company also is contracted to clean our gutters every couple of months and
does a very thorough job. Recommended by Blair V. (2009)
Gutters Parrish
(443) 467-3285
We have a slate roof, and after the snowstorm of 2010, we needed some shingles replaced
as well as our downed gutters. When everyone else gave us an estimate of ~$3800, this
company did all the same work for $1400.
Recommended by Paloma L. (2010)
Ron Janeski
(410) 303-3014
He never did work for us since we decided to wait on some redecorating, but he was very
kind and professional when he came to give us an estimate and others in the group have
been very happy with his work. Painting and finish work (crown molding, etc.)
Recommended by Tong-Yi Y. (2008)
Gene Mazzili
(410) 218-2756
He specializes in older homes and does most of his work in the Canton/Fells Point area.
We live elsewhere, but he was happy to come to us. He reinstalled a cabinet and patched
a large hole in our kitchen wall after we had some plumbing pipes replaced. He did a
great job, offered a fair price, and was pleasant to have around the house. I plan to use
him again for other projects.
Recommended by Hilary P. (2009)
Sheldon and Sons, Inc.
443-576-3005
www.sheldonandsons.com
They painted our kitchen and the exterior of our town home and did a great job. They
were very professional and got the job done right and on time.
Recommended by Erin R. (2008)
Supreme Heating and Air Conditioning
200 Greenland Beach Rd
Baltimore, MD 21226
(410) 647-3578
I think there is another company out there with a similar name. This is a smaller
company, good service. If I remember correctly, in the beginning you leave a message
and they'll call you back. We've been very happy with them. They come twice a year to
do a service call.
Recommended by Rebecca K. (2009)
William J Theiss & Son
4251 Harford Rd
Baltimore, MD 21214
(410) 426-7946
www.superpages.com/bp/Baltimore-MD/William-J-Theiss-Son-L0004861190.htm
This place sells bathroom plumbing stuff for old colonials in our area (that you probably
won't be able to find anywhere else, like the bathroom faucets!).
Recommended by Paloma L. (2010)
Dentists
Dr. Rezan Ahmad
Johns Hopkins Hospital
(410) 955-6662
He does a good job with your typical dental work and he is friendly. You do have to
make a daytime appointment though and not during lunch.
Recommended by Rina R. (2009)
Dr. Stuart Blumenthal
2324 West Joppa Road, Suite 430
Lutherville, MD
(410) 321-0200
www.hoppyteeth.com
A pediatric and special needs dentist whose staff really made things easy for my
daughter's first dental visit. The hygienist talked her through every single step so that she
wouldn't be scared – "now I'm going to put this funny thing on my face (a mask)," – and
let her put the gloves on and hold the instruments. They take kids starting at about 21⁄2.
Recommended by Rebecca S. (2008)
You know a pediatric dentist is good when your kids (ages 3 and almost 6) both look
forward to going to the dentist. Alex didn't even flinch when he had fillings done at age 2.
Recommended by Tong-Yi Y. (2008)
Dr. Ronald Carter
6301 N Charles Street, Suite 7
Baltimore, MD
(410) 377-3104
He accepts Blue Cross/Blue Shield, so you don't have to pay anything up front. You will
get a small bill for anything that is not covered.
Recommended by Sally W. (2008)
Dr. Allen Dworkin
5100 Falls Road, #266S
Baltimore, MD 21210
(410) 435-8400
Both of my older children have seen him, and he makes them feel very at ease.
Recommended by Sally W. (2008)
Cramer and Noorani Orthodontics
Located in Glen Burnie (410) 761-9180
White Marsh (410) 931-3350
and Bel Air (410) 879-1180
www.greatsmileforyou.com
Provides the highest quality orthodontic care in a friendly, comfortable environment.
Recommended by Vanessa S. (2009)
ENDODONTICS, P.A. (root canals, etc.)
4 different locations
www.marylandendo.com
Dr. Simoneaux did a great job with my root canal.
Recommended by Rebecca P. (2009)
Dr. Kelly Foster and Dr. Jon Lookinbill
Timonium Dental 110 W. Timonium Road, Suite 2A
Timonium, MD
(410) 252-1200
Great practice that is both kid and adult friendly.
Recommended by Tong-Yi Y. (2008)
I am very happy with the care we are receiving.
Recommended by Jo-Ann B. (2009)
Dr. Kohn and Dr. Ballinger Dentistry for Kids
Specializing in infants, children, and young adults
100 Sarks Valley Rd., Suite C
Hunt Valley, MD 21152
(410) 771-8200
thedentistforkids@comcast.net
This is the BEST experience I've ever had! My son went for his first dental appointment
when he turned 3 and Dr. Kohn was amazing! She's been featured in various magazines
and has a wonderful practice that includes TV sets at each station, toys, stickers, movies,
and fun dental gadgets. She is gentle, friendly, very talented at getting kids to relax and
enjoy the experience. She has a private consultation with the child/parent at the first visit
too. The waiting room has video game stations for older kids and a clubhouse for younger
kids. You'll love her approach to dentistry!
Recommended by Paloma G. (2008)
Dr. Stanley Markowitz
8813 Waltham Woods Rd
Baltimore, MD 21234
(410) 882-2100
I use him for my Invisalign treatment. He has offices in several places (one at the
Harbor). They are quick so it’s easy to get in-out during lunch. I had to transfer my
treatment to him from out of state and he charged me a reasonable price for this.
Recommended by Rina R. (2009)
Mandel, Keiser and Joesph, LLP (periodontics and implants)
Bruce P. Mandel, D.D.S.
Mark Keiser, D.D.S.
Peter E. Joseph, D.D.S.
66 Painters Mill Road, Ste. 100
Owings Mills, MD 21117
(410) 363-3780
8114 Sandpiper Circle,
Baltimore, MD 12136
(410) 931-1000
www.implantandperiomd.com
Dr. Joseph did a great job with my implant.
Recommended by Rebecca P. (2009)
Dr. Robert S. Minch
Greenspring Station
10751 Falls Road, Suite 435
Lutherville, MD
(410) 321-5777
www.drminch.com
Does regular and cosmetic dentistry. A lot of continuing education. He has very cushy
hours for a dentist. Hopkins dental insurance will not cover his expenses (he probably is
on the high end for charges)
Recommended by Jill H. (2008)
Dr. Joann Salerno
Towsontown Dental Associates
7801 York Rd #218
Baltimore, MD 21204
(410) 583-7744
Very good service. Mainly for adults but they have a kid section too.
Recommended by Paloma G. (2008)
Their pediatric dentist is very sweet and accommodating to children. I would recommend
her to anyone.
Recommended by Rebecca K. (2009)
Dr. Neel Satpute
Greenspring Pediatric Dentistry
2700 Quarry Lake Drive, Suite 190
Baltimore, MD 21209
(410) 484-4401
www.greenspringpediatricdentistry.com
Neel is awesome! He is very warm, gentle and friendly. He connects really well with the
kids, as does his staff. His office is very colorful with lots of fun toys and books for the
kids, and they get a goodie bag when they leave. Our daughter first went to see him when
she was just over 1 year old and loves going there. Additionally, Neel is a member of
JHMA.
Recommended by Rebecca P. (2009)
Dr. Neel is an excellent pediatric dentist. My 3 kids absolutely adore him and ask when
they can go to the dentist again! Very clean office with good toys to play with and
friendly staff. Dr. Neel is very personable and always has a smile on his face!
Recommended by Blair V. (2009)
Dr. Vanessa Sciortino
325 Hospital Drive #101
Glen Burnie, MD 21061
410-768-4488
She is a JHMA member, extremely gentle (gentlest dentist I've ever been to), great with
adults and kids, and accepts the hospital's dental insurance. We've been friends since our
husbands were in medical school together back at Case Western Reserve University in
the early 00s. Her husband is now a resident at Hopkins. Great goody bags and well
worth the drive. Smile brightly! Recommended by Monica L. (2009)
Dr. Gary Reznik, family dentistry
2015 Emmorton Road, Suite 201
Bel Air, MD 21012
(410) 879-9111
Solo practice. Never have to wait. Great staff/assistants. He always figures out what’s
going on when I have difficulties. He also does work with implants/crowns.
Recommended by Rebecca P. (2009)
University of Maryland Dental School Clinic
(410) 706-2940 I’ve been going to U MD Dental School for over 6 years now. They are
cheaper than most dentists since they are a school (they also take Blue Cross, the Hopkins
Dental Insurance Plan). Keep in mind that every two years, you may get someone
different. Also, make your appointments early since they get very booked and your first
appointment is always a consultation before you can start to go regularly. I go for a
regular cleaning every six months, and then they take care of cavities and any other
issues. Recommended by Orlee G. (2009)
Mehdi Zmandi D.D.S.
Advanced Dental Care
120 Sister Pierre Drive # 503
Towson, MD 21204
(410) 825-7500
Recommended by Philippa M. (2012)
Dry Cleaners/Tailors
Harbor East Cleaners
1001 Fleet Street
Baltimore, MD
(410) 230-9495
I only go occasionally, but they are quick, professional, and not overly expensive (though
probably not the cheapest). I've never had to wait in line. They also do tailoring. Park in
the Whole Foods lot and do some grocery shopping at the same time (or park on the
street, though parking is not always easy to find).
Recommended by Rebecca S. (2008)
Price-Less Dry Cleaners
8101 Loch Raven Boulevard
Towson, MD
(410) 296-5180
Shirts $0.97, always ready on time.
Recommended by Jo-Ann B. (2008)
Royal Cleaners
1011 Saint Paul St
Baltimore, MD 21202 (
410) 332-1760
They are cheap and quick. They lost a belt from a shirt once but were so nice about it and
really searched for it - they called me when they found it a couple weeks later and
apologized.
Recommended by Rina R. (2009)
Zips
2155 York Road
Timonium, MD
(410) 252-6222
more locations
www.321zips.com
$1.85 any dry cleaning, $1.09 to launder a shirt. Cash only, pre-paid. If you get there
before 9 a.m., it will be ready after 5 p.m. Zips was started by the man who started
Southwest Airlines.
Recommended by Jo-Ann B. (2008)
!
Electricians
J. Lee Gurley and Sons Inc.
7554 Belair Road
Nottingham, MD 21236
(410) 668-9627
The cheapest estimates we found. The workers are extremely polite and make sure not to
leave any mess.
Recommended by Jo-Ann B. (2008)
R.F. Electrical Services
410-426-9875
Robert Filer has been my electrician for years. He is prompt, honest and does great
work! He gives FREE estimates and is licensed and insured. Tell him I sent you!
Recommended by Orlee G. (2008)
James Hopkins
(410) 979-0083.
His crew did a good job and came quickly. I am not sure on his prices comparatively, but
it is worth a call. Recommended by Mabrey M. (2008)
Farmer’s Markets, Farms, Community Supported Agriculture (CSA)
Farmers’ Markets
Directory of Maryland Farmers' Markets
www.mda.state.md.us/md_products/farmers_market_dir.php
Baltimore Farmers’ Market
Under the Jones Falls Expressway at Holliday and Saratoga Streets, near downtown
Baltimore Sunday: 8:00 a.m. to Noon (or sell out) May 4 - December 21 (410) 752-8632
(Carole Simon)
bop.org/market/index.html WIC Coupons It's hard to find (under an expressway- you
can't exactly Mapquest it), but worth it. Large and fun, but of manageable size.
Recommended by Rebecca S. (2008)
This is the crown jewel of Baltimore. Gets more and more crowded every year, and you
will run into no less than twelve people that you know. Fabulous fresh, local produce,
prepared foods, baked goods, plants and flowers, as well as an art market and occasional
music performers. Kids will happily sit in their strollers and eat the fresh ice cream from
a local dairy farm, while mom and dad do some serious grocery shopping. Local
politician Keifer Mitchell has a fresh-squeezed orange juice stand!
Recommended by Julie B. (2009)
Beyond fresh fruits and veggies, there are fresh cheeses, milk, seafood, nuts. You can
also make a morning of it by having breakfast here at one of the stands that cook food on
the spot. It gets pretty crowded, but it's worth going. You can take the Metro to Shot
Tower and walk or you can drive – you can typically find a parking spot without too
much trouble.
Recommended by Rina R. (2009)
A huge array of wonderful foods of all sorts. Also has some local jewelry, pottery, etc.
Lots of fun to hang out and drink coffee, grab breakfast/lunch, people watch, and of
course get great local foods. Best to take babies/toddlers in a pack but can also bring
strollers. Not a great place for dogs, since it's pretty crowded.
Recommended by Rebecca P. (2009)
32nd Street / Waverly Farmers’ Market
400 Block E. 32nd Street Baltimore, MD (410) 889-6388 Held Saturdays in Charles
Village, 7am until noon year round. A classic farmer's market, with plenty of vendors and
nearby street parking.
Recommended by Rebecca S. (2008)
Farms
See listing for Weber’s Farm under Children’s Activities.
Community Supported Agriculture (CSA)
CSA Directory
www.futureharvestcasa.org/csa.html
Calvert Farm CSA
Rising Sun, Cecil County www.calvertfarm.com
Recommended by Amy E. (2008)
One Straw Farm CSA
19718 Kirkwood Shop Road
White Hall, MD 21161
(410)343.1828
www.onestrawfarm.com
This is the largest organic farm in Maryland and provides produce for many area
restaurants that emphasize locally grown fruits and vegetables. It has many pick-up
locations, including the downtown farmers’ market and the Waverly farmers’ market. At
those locations, and some others, you can pick out your own items. Half shares are also
available. I enjoyed it as an opportunity to cook seasonally and try vegetables I don’t
usually buy. It is cheaper than buying the organic produce individually on a weekly basis,
but is not cheaper than conventional produce.
Recommended by Hilary P. (2009)
!
Festivals
Artscape
July 17-19, 2009
Mount Royal Avenue & Cathedral Street / Charles Street
Bolton Hill neighborhood & Station North Arts & Entertainment District
A good landmark to help with directions is the Lyric Opera House,
140 West Mt. Royal Avenue, 21201, www.lyricoperahouse.com
www.artscape.org
This might be Baltimore's biggest fair. It stretches all across Midtown from Penn Station,
over 83, to the Lyric Opera House. WONDERFUL art vendors – you'll see some unique
stuff – from all over the country with many local artists. Food vendors & concerts as
well.
Maryland Film Festival
107 E. Read Street Baltimore, MD www.mdfilmfest.com Four-day event that offers
screenings of about 100 films in various theatres, including Charles Theatre, the
Orpheum in Fells Point, Johns Hopkins University's Shriver Hall and the National
Aquarium. Hours vary each year, but the festival usually takes place in April. Ticket
prices vary. A great event for families. One whole quad is a kids' quad complete with
games and rides. There's even a kids' section with a Ferris wheel and a whacky
installation art section. Great fun for the whole family.
Recommended by Monica L. (2009)
Spring Fair
April
Johns Hopkins Homewood Campus
3400 N. Charles St
Mattin Suite 210
Baltimore, MD 21218
(410) 516-7692
www.jhuspringfair.com
Food vendors, beer garden, art vendors, games & contests, live concerts. Completely
organized by students who do a bag-up job.
Recommended by Monica L. (2009)
The Toddler Fair
June/July
The Montessori School
10807 Tony Drive
Lutherville, MD 21093
The Toddler Fair is a great resource for finding out about activities for babies and
children. There are lots of vendors, business and entertainment. It is sponsored by
Baltimore's Child.
Recommended by Sharen B. (2009)
!
Finance
Finance: Accountants
Jeff Stoller
1014 Ingleside Ave
Catonsville, MD 21228
410-747-3520
We have used him the past three years (after finding him in the Resource Guide) and he's
great.
Recommended by Robyn B. (2009)
Jim Moro
54 Scott Adam Rd, #101
Cockeysville, MD
410-666-8644
I am a part-time bookkeeper for a company who uses Jim Moro's office. I can second this
recommendation of Martin/Wight & Company. I work most directly with Mindie
Warner, and she is fabulous.
Recommended by Hilary P. (2009)
Finance: Banks
M&T Bank
Carol Harten
Branch Manager (York Rd and Burke Ave branches)
York Road Branch
6304 1/2 York Road
Baltimore, MD 21212
(410) 464-3040
charten@mtb.com
Russell A. Jensen
Financial Consultant of M&T Securities, Inc.
M&T Investment Group
405 Washington Avenue
Towson, MD 21204
(410) 512-4327
(410) 596-0680cell
rjensen@mtb.com
I recommend my branch manager at M&T bank, Carol Harten. She manages both the
Burke and York Branches in Towson. She is really nice and if you tell her I
recommended you, she may throw in free checks or something. Anyhow, this bank
has Fantastic/Extraordinary (at least for us compared to living in LA and dealing with
never knowing your banker) customer service. Also M&T provides financial advisors
free of charge. We moved all of our IRA/401k/403b investments there and Russell Jensen
is the best. He was at the Towson city center branch across from city hall/post office but I
think he isn't there full time anymore since he got promoted. Overall, M&T has surpassed
our expectations. This recommendation excludes their lending department as we have
secured our home and auto purchases from other lenders.
Recommended by Paloma G. (2009)
Finance: Estate Planning
Constandin ("Gus") Alivizatos
111 S Calvert St,
Baltimore, MD 21202
(410) 385-5397
User friendly and inexpensive estate planning services. Gus came to our house and
explained everything. Downtown.
Recommended by Rebecca S. (2008)
Finance: General Financial Advisors
Martin/Wight and Company Insurance and Investments
11350 McCormick Rd., Executive Plaza IV, Suite 200
Hunt Valley, MD
(410) 785-7654 or (888) 633-1719
www.martin-wight.com
Recommended in previous directory. We use Brian Martin for all of our investment and
life insurance needs. He specializes in advising doctors on what to do with their unique
debt-to-income-potential ratios. He's also a sponsor of JHMA.
Recommended by Rebecca P. (2009), Monica L. (2010)
We had a financial advisor previously who did not understand why my husband was
working so hard for so little with so much education! When we switched to Brian, he not
only understands the position we are in currently but also understands our future. He has
a great philosophy and we feel very confident with him and look forward to working with
him beyond Hopkins years.
Recommended by Orlee G. (2009)
Finance: Insurance Brokers
Gary Wirth
Maury, Donnelly, & Parr
24 Commerce Street
Baltimore, MD
(410) 547-3262
Gary is an insurance broker (home, auto, life, and health) who works with a number of
different insurance companies, and he was able to find us the best rate around when we
were shopping for homeowner's insurance. He's professional and reliable – he always
gets back to us promptly with quotes and information and was extremely attentive when
there was a communication snafu between our mortgage and insurance companies after
we first bought our house. He's also very knowledgeable and informative about what sort
of coverage an individual or family needs, and I've never felt any pressure to buy. There's
no hard-sell. He's a long-time Baltimore resident who is raising his family here, and you
get from him the small-town service component, while also getting insured by a large
company (we ended up with Travelers Insurance) at a great rate. We've worked with him
exclusively over the phone.
Recommended by Rebecca S. (2008)
Martin/Wight and Company Insurance and Investments
(see General Financial Advisors)
Finance: Mortgage Brokers
Fred Matvias
when recommended: National City Mortgage, a division of National City Bank,
now works at Fifth Third Bank (www.53.com)
He is out of Chicago, but does mortgages nationwide. We have used him twice (last 2
purchases) and he can be pushed to get really low rates (we did Lending Tree both times,
and then asked him for a rate lower then the lowest offered and got it.) He is also very
fast & responsive.
Recommended by Anna R. (2008)
Maryland Mortgage Program
www.mmprogram.org
All Community Development Administration (CDA) mortgage products have low, fixed
interest rates and are available with down payment and closing cost assistance. It takes 45
days to close once you apply. Hopkins employees also get incentive $ for down payment
or closing costs from the state of MD, but residents do not qualify.
Recommended by Paloma L. (2010)
Prosperity Mortgage
Pat Cusack and Heather Sozio (JHMA)
Home Mortgage Consultant
1312 Bellona Ave
Lutherville, MD 21093
410-307-6312
What a great team! Heather is JHMAer and understands resident and fellow life. They
have done 3 mortgages for us and 1 refinance. Everything went smoothly. Their estimates
are accurate and they always close on time. We will continue to use them and recommend
them.
Recommended by Orlee G. (2009)
SunTrust Mortgage
David Baca
410-729-6309 fax 410-729-8851
1111 Benfield Blvd., Suite 230
Millersville, MD 21108
http://www.suntrustmortgage.com/dbaca
SunTrust has a special Doctor Loan that offers 100% financing. Can't beat that!
http://suntrustmortgageproducts.com/special.asp#Doctor-Loan-Program
Recommended by Monica L. (2010)
Greenhouses/Nurseries
Radebaugh Florist and Greenhouse
120 E. Burke Avenue
Baltimore, MD
(410) 825-4300
www.radebaugh.com
This place is fabulous: family run with very healthy, reasonably priced plants, a great
selection, and courteous and expert advice. A good place to start if you're new to
Maryland and have no idea what will grow here – when I follow their suggestions, my
plants thrive, and I've never had any problems with any of the plants I've purchased here.
An especially good place to get annuals (pansies, impatiens, etc.) They have beautiful
poinsettias around the holidays, as well as greenery and berries for decorating (indoor or
out). Bring cash, since they have a cash and carry discount. They also have a florist.
Recommended by Rebecca S. (2008)
River Hill Garden Center
12165 Clarksville Pike
Clarksville, MD
(410) 531-3303
As nice as they get! A bit spendy, but it is an absolute treat to go there if you are into
gardening at all.
Recommended by Monica H. (2008)
Simonds Nursery
5701 Deer Park Road
Reisterstown, MD
(410) 833-5077
www.simondsnursery.com
I have only bought pumpkins from them, so I can't really speak for the flowers/plants, but
the people who work there are very nice and not at all pushy. In October, they have an
"all you can carry" pumpkin sale for $15. They have a very pretty nursery with a very
tempting selection of plants/flowers.
Recommended by Rita W. (2008)
!
Health Clubs/Gyms/Working Out
Bally’s
www.ballyfitness.com
Several locations in Baltimore area.
Bally's has a location in Towson which is not a huge facility however it is never too
crowded and has flexible membership options for people who are only here a year.
Recommended by Michelle F. (2009)
Brick Bodies & Lynne Bricks
http://www.brickbodies.com/
(several locations, chain of coed and women-only health clubs located in Baltimore)
This is a great club also offering wonderful childcare for a reasonable price. I like the
women-only club at Belvedere square. It has a very comfortable atmosphere and they
offer many different classes and group exercises, even pilates and yoga throughout the
day if you get tired of the cardio equipment! It is great to get some work-out knowing
that your child is enjoying a great playgroup at the same time.
Recommended by Juliane M. (2010)
Charm City Yoga
http://www.charmcityyoga.com/
(several locations, I like Towson)
Right off the circle in Towson, they offer many classes throughout the day to fit your
schedule. My favorite classes are the hot yoga classes where the room is heated to 90
degrees for a 90 minute workout. This is not Bikram yoga as the series of poses is
different every time. One of the things I like about this place is that you can pay per class
instead of a monthly fee (although that is also an option). I recommend the community
classes that only cost $6.
Recommended by Monica L. (2010)
O’Connor Recreation Center
Hopkins Homewood Campus
3400 N. Charles Street
Baltimore, MD 21218
(410) 516-5229
web.jhu.edu/recreation
This gym serves students, faculty, and staff at the Homewood Campus. House staff at the
medical campus are eligible to join for $15/month. If your spouse joins, you can also join
at the same rate. There is a cardio room with weight machines, a more serious weight
room with free weights, a pool, a running track, racket ball courts and a climbing wall.
No child care or other fancy amenities. Because it serves an academic community, it isn’t
super crowded in the early evening like so many other gyms. A class pass is available
that lets you drop in to any fitness class for an entire semester. For early risers, the
biggest drawback is that they don’t open until 10 am on the weekend.
Recommended by Hilary P. (2009)
YMCA
http://www.ymaryland.org/
Several locations, these probably the closest for our members:
Towson, 33rd St branches
Recommended by Monica L. (2010)
!
Hiking and Camping
Also see listings for parks including hiking trails.
Hagerstown / Antietam Battlefield KOA
11759 Snug Harbor Lane
Williamsport, MD 21795
(301) 223-7571
Fax: (301) 223-5061
hagkoa@hotmail.com
koa.com/where/md/20145/
We love KOAs. They're a great place to go camping with the family. They always have
playgrounds and family-friendly events on the weekends. We have two little ones, so we
still rent a Kamping Kabin to sleep in but put up a tent in the front yard to play in. The
Kabin is also handy in case the weather is not wonderful. This particular KOA is family
run (like most) and has a river where you can go canoeing, a game room, an in-ground
pool, an outdoor movie theater complete with popcorn, mini golf (homemade), hayrides,
a cafe, a store, and a playground. Removed from civilization enough to feel like you're
camping but near enough for groceries, restaurants, shopping, entertainment if you so
desire. Keep in mind that this is the kind of place where you make friends with those
camping around you (kids play together, you share firewood, etc). There are many RV
"campers" who live there for months on end and all know each other. If you want a
remote, private camping experience, KOAs are probably not your best option.
Recommended by Monica L. (2009, 2010)
Lake Roland
near the northern city/county line
This network of trails between Falls Road and Lake Roland is popular with dog owners
and families. You can access the area from near Lake Roland Dam and Robert E. Lee
Park or from Falls Road. To reach the trailhead on Falls Road, park by guardrail at the
bend in the road south of Ruxton. On weekends, there will be plenty of other cars there to
help you spot it. The beginning of the trail from Falls Road is packed earth that is
appropriate for a stroller. The section between Lake Roland and Robert E. Lee Park
includes a steep incline (that isn’t obvious from the Lake Roland side). I believe dogs are
allowed off leash in the park.
Recommended by Hilary P. (2009)
Home Inspectors
Anderson Home Inspectors
Doug Gillette
(410) 661-6200
www.andersonhomeinspection.net
I’ve recommended Doug for the past 5 years. He is thorough and explains not only what
is wrong with the house but how to maintain it as well. He also gives a great binder with
all the details from the inspection as well as a home maintained kit.
Recommended by Orlee G. (2009)
ELITE Home Inspections of Maryland
Baltimore MD
(410) 504-9650
mike@homeinspectormaryland.com
www.homeinspectormaryland.com
My friend (and neighbor) owns this company. Mike is an honest, down-to-earth guy who
is very cool and tells it like it is. Highly recommended!
Recommended by Rebecca P. (2009)
Stephen R. Dallmus, Inc.
Home Inspections
410-323-7600
dallmus2inspect@yahoo.com
We used Steve for our home inspection and were very happy with his work, advice, and
professionalism. He was very thorough and honest.
Recommended by Monica L. (2010)
Jewelers
Radcliffe Jewelers
Towson Town Center, Suite 196
Towson, MD 21204
(410) 321-6590
1848 Reisterstown Road
Baltimore, Maryland 21208
(410) 484-2900
www.radcliffejewelers.com
My husband got my engagement ring here. He was very happy with his experience with
them.
Recommended by Lisa P. (2008)
Radcliffe Jewelers has two locations, one on Reisterstown Rd. Equally as great! One nice
thing about the Reisterstown location is that it is not in a mall so parking is very easy!
Ask for Todd Brown - he is the best!
Recommended by Michelle F. (2009)
International Gem and Jewelry Show
120 Derwood Circle
Rockville, MD 20850
www.intergem.net
I have gone with a number of people to the International Gem and Jewelry Shows to
purchase jewelry (engagement rings, wedding jewelry, etc.). The show comes to both
Baltimore and DC a few times a year. Don't expect the greatest service, but you can
negotiate great deals on all kinds of jewelry.
Recommended by Lisa P. (2008)
Parks
There are many wonderful parks and trails to explore in Maryland. A few good websites
to check out are:
Anne Arundel County: www.aacounty.org/RecParks
Baltimore City: www.ci.baltimore.md.us/government/recnparks
Baltimore County:
www.baltimorecountymd.gov/Directory/Recreation/Directory_Recreation_Parks
Harford County: www.harfordcountymd.gov/Parks_rec
Howard County: www.co.ho.md.us/RAP/RAP_HomePage.htm
MD State Park Service: www.dnr.state.md.us/publiclands
Anita Leight Park at Otter Creek Point
700 Otter Point Road, Abingdon, MD 21009
www.otterpointcreek.org
This is an amazing estuary center. It is off route 40 in Abingdon and is worth the drive.
They have many family activities year round including critter feeding time and family
nature walks.
Recommended by Kimberly O. (2008)
Annie’s Playground
864 Smith Lane Fallston, MD 21047
www.anniesplayground.net
A beautiful park with unique features including a treehouse, amphitheater/outdoor
classroom, puppet theatre, dragon and elephant slides, baseball area and Memorial
Garden. Surrounding the playground are sports complex, walking trails, and several
picnic areas. It is a bit tricky to find (see website for directions) and there is no shade.
Recommended by Erin R. (2008)
Baltimore and Annapolis Trail
(410) 222-6244
www.bikewashington.org
Paved 10 foot wide surface, set within a corridor of parkland over 13 miles long.
Stretches along the route of the old B & A Short Line Railroad. Take BW Parkway to
Dorsey Road. Can park for free in the baseball field.
Centennial Park
10000 Route 108 (Main/South)
4800 Woodland Road (East)
4651 Centennial Lane (West)
9801 Old Annapolis Road (North)
Ellicott City, MD 21042
410-313-7271
www.howardcountymd.gov/departments.aspx?id=1822
Large park with 4 entrances. Multiple playing fields, tennis courts, playgrounds, picnic
areas, & boat house. They have concerts in the summer, a huge lake, and paddle boats.
Cylburn Arboretum
4915 Greenspring Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21209
(410)-367-2217
www.cylburnassociation.org
Cylburn Arboretum is a nature preserve encompassing 207 acres of woodlands featuring
a large selection of gardens and trees, nature trails, greenhouses, and a historical mansion.
Special children’s events such as guided nature walks are scheduled throughout the
summer.
Recommended by Erin R. (2008)
Druid Hill Playground
2600 Madison Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21217
A large and well-maintained playground is located on the reservoir side of Druid Hill
Park overlooking the beautiful lake and fountain. To access the playground, enter Druid
Hill Park and follow the signs for the Baltimore Safety City. The playground is on the hill
directly above the Safety City (a miniature model of Baltimore used to teach traffic safety
to Baltimore City students). Benches and picnic tables as well as pavilions and grills are
available nearby.
Federal Hill Park
800 Battery Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21230
From the top of Federal Hill, you can see Baltimore's gorgeous cityscape. A fenced play
area with swings, slides and a large sandbox is sized appropriately for toddlers. Dogs
have their own separate fenced area nearby.
"Kenilworth" (Riderwood Hills) Park
910 Kenilworth Avenue
Towson, MD
(410) 887-5913
Nice playground area shaded by lots of trees with a few picnic tables as well. Next to
Kenilworth Mall.
Kinder Farm Park
Millersville, MD
(410) 222-6115
www.kinderfarmpark.org
Park offers trails (both natural and paved) for hiking/biking, playgrounds, picnic areas
and fishing ponds.
Ladew Topiary Gardens
3535 Jarrettsville Pike
Monkton, Maryland 21111
(410)-557-9570
www.ladewgardens.com
Ladew Gardens contains 15 thematic "garden rooms" as well as manor house (guided
tours available) and a 1.5 mile trail through the woods and fields of the Ladew property.
Hannah More Park
12035 Reisterstown Road
Baltimore, MD 21136
www.reisterstownrec.com/dog.htm
Dog Park, Pavilions, Picnic Area, Playground, Skate park, Ball Fields, Restrooms
We love to take our dog and toddler there. Dog park is members only, which you can
find out about on the website. Everything else is open to the public.
Recommended by Rebecca P. (2009)
Mays Chapel Park
12550 Roundwood Road
Cockeysville, MD (
410) 887-7734
Located behind Grauls Market. 2 soccer/lacrosse fields, walking trails and a gazebo. No
playground just yet.
Meadowood Regional Park
10650 Falls Road
Lutherville, MD
(410) 887-3678
Built primarily for soccer and other sports but also has a wonderful playground, a
bike/walking/running path, plenty of benches and covered picnic areas with barbeque
grills.
Mt. Vernon Children’s Park
1221 N. Calvert St.
Baltimore, MD 21202
www.mountvernonchildrenspark.org
Small water spray park, big sand box (covered when not in use), slides, seesaw, hedge
maze.
Recommended by Erin R. (2008)
Northern Central Railroad Trail (NCRT)
www.dnr.maryland.gov/greenways/ncrt_trail.html
Extends 20 miles, stretching from Ashland Road in the Hunt Valley area to the MD/PA
border. The trail is 10 feet wide with a stone dust surface. Activities on the trail include
hiking, jogging, bicycle and horseback riding. The trail also provides access for fishing.
Parking areas from Monkton south are often filled.
Northwest Regional Park
4515 Deer Park Road
Owings Mills, MD
(410) 887-6747
Big soccer field, a great playground for the kids to play and plenty of parking.
North Point State Park
(410) 592-2897
www.dnr.state.md.us/publiclands/central/northpoint.html
Big jetty to fish off of, throw rocks, look for bottle glass, swim in summer. Nice sandbeach with a rocky shoreline.
Oregon Ridge Park
13401/13555 Beaver Dam Road
Cockeysville, MD
(410) 887-1815
www.oregonridge.org
Playground with picnic tables has a nearby parking lot, large climbing toy with lots of
slides; no shade. Restrooms available. There is also a beach and nature center nearby.
Patapsco Valley State Park
Catonsville, MD
(410) 461-5005
This park has 5 developed recreational areas, hiking, fishing, camping, canoeing,
horseback and mountain bike trails, as well as picnic areas. We really like the recycled
tire park.
Patterson Park
27 South Patterson Park Avenue
Baltimore, MD (
410) 276-3676
www.pattersonpark.com
Large Baltimore City park by Canton, Fells Prospect, and Butcher's Hill. Great
playgrounds, tennis courts, ice rink, duck pond, covered picnic areas. Dogs welcome-lots
of room to run. Swimming pool undergoing renovation as of 2006.
Robert E. Lee Park
Falls Road & Lakeside Drive
Baltimore, MD
(410) 396-7931
A wonderful place to let your dog & kids run, running/mountain-biking trails, on a
reservoir... no swings or slides, but plenty of sticks, rocks and acorns to throw into the
water.
Rocks State Park
3318 Rocks Chrome Hill Road
Jarrettsville, MD
(410) 557-7994
Fishing, hiking, picnicking, canoeing, tubing, bow hunting, rock climbing and repelling.
Playgrounds, shelters, and comfort stations are available at each of the 3 picnic areas.
Rodgers Forge Tot Lot
South side Dunkirk Road/West side Blenheim Road at Bellona Avenue A popular
playground in the community of Rodgers Forge offers large play areas designed for
toddlers with separate equipment for older children. The most popular aspects of this
playground are the large sandbox and the collection of toys donated by the local
community.
Recommended by Erin R. (2008)
Seminary Park
1414 Burton Avenue
Timonium, MD
(410) 887-7684
Seminary Avenue to Burton Avenue and stay left. Pavilion, playground, tennis courts,
ball field, restrooms.
Sherwood Gardens
Stratford & Greenway Roads
(410) 785-0444
If going south on St. Paul, take a left at Stratford. A lovely formal garden and a great
place for picnics. Spectacular in the spring when the tulips bloom.
Stadium Playground
900 E. 33rd St.
Baltimore, MD 21218
www.stadiumplayground.org
Neighborhood children helped to design this playground and volunteers from the area
supervised the construction. The massive wooden playground features swings, castles,
bridges, towers, a volcano, and a crab! There is a designated "tot" area and a more
challenging obstacle course for the older children. The playground is 70 percent
handicapped accessible. There are benches and a gazebo nearby.
Stoney Run Park
Corner of Linkwood Road. and Coldspring Lane., Baltimore, MD 21210
A well-equipped, high-quality playground, with shade and benches. No bathrooms. Park
on Overhill (cross-street Linkwood) and follow the bicycle path to get there.
West Towson Park
Joppa Road and Central Avenue
(410) 887-5913
Located in downtown Towson, off Bosley and Joppa heading West. Right behind a
Senior center. Has a great playground – similar to Rodgers Forge, but not as big. Has
soccer field and basketball ball courts. Highly recommended!
Recommended by Purvi S. (2009)
Pest Control
Command Pest Service LLC
7301 Belair Road
Baltimore, MD
(410) 668-2769
$125 goes a long way.
Recommended by Amy E. (2008)
Pet Boarding/Sitting
BEK Petsitting, LLC
(443) 870-3294
(410) 419-6130
www.bekpets.com
Brandy and her business partner Kim have been taking care of our Goldendoodle for the
last year. They walk him every day and also help out when we go out of town. They also
walk several other dogs in my neighborhood. They are extremely reliable, flexible and
reasonably priced. They dote on the animals they are with and truly give them lots of
love, attention, and quality time. They serve many areas. I can’t say enough good things
about Brandy and Kim.
Recommended by Rebecca P. (2009)
Country Comfort Kennels
2102 Mount Horeb Road
Street, MD 21154
(410) 692-5055
www.countrycomfortkennels.com
I cannot say enough wonderful things about this kennel. I have a German Shepherd who
requires quite a bit of attention. This kennel offers "camp activities" during the day for
your pet. They have indoor/outdoor runs. They also offer grooming services. The staff is
friendly, and they genuinely love seeing my dog when he arrives. I highly recommend
them!
Recommended by Sally W. (2008)
Deer Park Kennels
4815 Wards Chapel Road
Owings Mills, MD 21117 (
410) 655-8330
www.deerparkkennels.com
Ellie’s home away from home! We travel all the time and always take Ellie there and she
goes there happily and comes home happy too. Deer Park is like family to us. Just
mention Ellie Glazer and your pet will be treated like family!
Recommended by Orlee G. (2009)
Walk the Dog
www.walkthedogbaltimore.com
(410) 366 0499
They are $13 a walk which is pretty good for a dog walker (I paid $20 in Philly), and
they're really reliable. Our dog does well with them.
Recommended by Emily P. (2009)
Dog House Girls
3238 Elliott Street
Baltimore, MD 21224
(410) 276-1284
doghousegirls@yahoo.com
www.doghousegirls.com
When I went in labor, I e-mailed the owner last minute and she came over and fed and
walked our dog for us. That is true customer service! She charges a reasonable rate.
Recommended by Leslie E. (2012)
Photographers
Blair Blanks Photography
(410) 427-9504
www.blairblanks.com
Blair specializes in maternity, newborn, and children portraits. She was great with my children. She is
so calm and laid-back that my children hardly noticed her photographing them as they explored her
studio and fun props. The resulting portraits are, of course, a few of my most treasured possessions.
Recommended by Judith S. (2008)
This is a great photographer who lives in Rodgers Forge. She moved here from Texas a few years ago.
She has 2 kids and operates out of her new studio in Towson near the library. We took our 5-month-old
daughter there during the summer and were very satisfied with her artistic work and the quality of the
prints. She lets you view all the proofs online and make your order in 3 days for a discount. Relatives
can also order. You get the prints 3 weeks after your order is complete.
Recommended by Paloma G. (2008)
Rebecca Kipe
www.rskphotography.shutterfly.com
Fellow JHMA photographer, Rebecca Kipe, specializes in nature, travel, landscape, and
portrait photography. Check out her website.
Recommended by Monica L. (2009)
Monica Leigh
www.mmleighphotography.shutterfly.com
mmleigh@gmail.com
410-469-0566
MM Leigh Photograpy "Day in the Life" moment-capturing photojournalism for your event and portrait needs
Stanley Rudick
www.photoreflect.com/pr3/store.aspx?p=34241
Local, professional photographer who specializes in sports and event photography but
also does family portraits. Reasonable prices and package options.
Recommended by
Monica L. (2009)
Physical Therapy
Robert Cohen
2324 W Joppa Road # 100
Lutherville, MD 21093
(410) 321-9292
He is a manual physical therapist and was able to help heal a two year old SI joint injury
that my medical doctor and chiropractor could not help. He physically works on you for
the entire appointment and works serious magic! If you have a chronic injury that no one
else has been able to fix, try Bob. He is expensive, but totally worth it.
Recommended by Joelle M. (2009)
Physicians
(Cardiologists, Dermatologists, Fertility Specialists , Internists, Obstetrician/
Gynecologists, Ophthalmologists, Otolaryngologists – Ear, Nose and Throat ,
Pediatricians, Plastic Surgeons )
Cardiologists
Carlos S. Ince, Jr. Midatlantic Cardiovascular
3333 N Calvert St # 500
Baltimore, MD 21218-6502
(410)-644-5111
I really liked Dr. Ince. He trained at Hopkins for residency and fellowship, and readily
put me at ease. I'd highly recommend him to anyone; however, I'm not sure where his
operating privileges are. I'm guessing St. Agnes, as that is the closest hospital. That might
be an issue if you only have Hopkins insurance.
Recommended by Robyn B. (2008)
Thomas Traill Johns Hopkins Outpatient Center
601 N. Caroline Street Baltimore, MD
(410)-502-0550
Very friendly. Excellent care.
Recommended by Jo-Ann B. (2008)
Dermatologists
Barbara Honig MD and Associates
1777 Reisterstown Road Suite 108
Pikesville, MD 21208
(410) 580-2880
Risa Jampel
21 Crossroads Drive, Suite 325
Owings Mills, MD
(410) 356-0171
They're both excellent. They take EHP.
Recommended by Amy K. (2008)
Risa Jampel is great, although I have never been to see her. I called once, and they said
they are not taking new patients. However her husband, Henry, is a Glaucoma attending
at Wilmer so if you let her know you are Hopkins/Wilmer resident/spouse of - she will
see you.
Recommended by Michelle F. (2009)
Fertility Specialists
Johns Hopkins Fertility Group
Hopkins Greenspring Station 10755 Falls Road
Lutherville, MD (410) 583-2749 The nurses are great and very helpful; the doctors are
fabulous.
Recommended by Jo-Ann B. (2008)
Eugene Katz
GBMC Fertility Center
6569 North Charles Street Suite 406
Towson, MD 21204
(410) 512-8300
He has good statistics and a nice personality.
Recommended by Vanessa S. (2008)
Internists
Todd Baldanza
Hopkins Greenspring Station
10753 Falls Rd Ste 225
Lutherville Timonium, MD 21093
(410) 583-2844
Dr. Baldanza and his staff are wonderful. On top of being professional they are super nice
people! They also do all blood work in their office so you don't have to even leave the
office suite!
Recommended by Michelle F. (2009)
Rameen James Molavi
Hopkins Greenspring Station
10753 Falls Rd Suite 470
Lutherville Timonium, MD 21093
(410) 583-7112
Dr. Molavi is very warm and personable. He was very thorough, patient, and attentive.
Recommended by Rita W. (2008)
Nancy Codori, MD, MPH
University Health Services Health Center (Hopkins)
401 N Caroline Street
Baltimore MD 21231
(410) 955-7584
On our health plan, we get free care (i.e. no co-pay) at the Health Center on the medical
campus. You can do your well-woman and general check-up in a single visit, because the
same doctor is doing both check-ups anyway. I love Dr. Codori. She’s very personable
and really focused on preventive care. Once you are her patient, she will answer nonurgent health questions via email. If you will be on the medical campus anyway, be sure
to use the outpatient pharmacy on Monument Street. We get five dollars off any
prescription, so generics are only five dollars total. Dr. Codori made sure I knew that
when she gave me my scripts.
Recommended by Hilary P. (2009)
Obstetrician/Gynecologists
Margaret Cyzeski, MD
Perinatal Associates
6565 N Charles St
Baltimore, MD 21204
(443) 849-2568
Dr. Cyzeski is gentle, mild-mannered, soft-spoken, patient, and methodical. She was a
great OB throughout the pregnancy because she helped both my husband and me feel
relaxed and confident about the pregnancy. She delivered our first baby by c-section. We
appreciated her so much!
Recommended by Greer C. (2009)
Dr. Facciolo
Capital Women's Care
7505 Osler Drive, Suite 402
Towson, Maryland 21204
(410) 339-7447
The entire practice is great. They no longer accept EHP but they do accept Blue Cross
Blue Shield. They have an office in Towson and Bel Air and deliver at St. Joseph's
Medical Center. Dr. Facciolo has a wonderful bedside manner and is always willing to
answer any questions/concerns.
Recommended by Jill H. (2008)
Kamal Hamod
Hopkins Greenspring Station
10753 Falls Road Suite 345
Lutherville Timonium, MD 21093
(410) 847-3500
He has delivered three of my four children, and he's fantastic!
Recommended by Sally W. (2008)
OB/GYN Specialists of MD
5 Park Center Court, Suite 303
Owings Mills, MD
(410) 356-2935
Harold Hettleman was my GYN in my pre-kids days. Allan Rubin was my OB for my
first pregnancy in 2004. They've both since joined this practice. For my second
pregnancy, I dealt with almost all the doctors at this practice on a rotating basis. While I
certainly prefer some of the doctors over the others, I'm generally pretty happy with them
as a whole. Lutherville office also.
Recommended by Lisa P. (2008)
Dr. Scott Supplee
Greater Baltimore Medical Center
6569 North Charles Street Suite 610
Towson, MD 21204
(410) 821-7676
I was recommended Scott Supplee through the JHMA and love him. He's at GBMC, solo
practice, delivers 85% of his babies. Everyone in the office knows all the patients. Great
bedside manner.
Recommended by Anna R. (2009)
Carla J. Weisman, M.D.
Sinai OB/GYN Associates
2435 West Belvedere Avenue Suite 33
Baltimore, MD 21215
(410) 601-5530
She’s terrific. Recommended by Amy E. (2009)
Johns Hopkins Group
410-5032-3200.
I had a fantastic experience with the OB clinic as well as delivering there.
Recommended by Lesie E. (2012)
Ophthalmologists
Stuart Dankner
Dankner Fiergans Eye Associates
2 Hamill Road, Suite 345
Baltimore, MD
(410) 433-8488
One of the few pediatric ophthalmologists that I know of in the area. Treats very young
children, from my 21 month old to my 4 year old. Has several locations – the two most
relevant are probably the one listed for Baltimore and also a location in Clarksville (for
those of us in Columbia).
Recommended by Robyn B. (2009)
Otolaryngologists (Ear, Nose & Throat)
Howard Hessan and Anthony Hammond
3449 Wilkens Ave Suite 200
Baltimore, MD 21229
(410) 525-3818
or
4801 Dorsey Hall Drive, Suite 204
Ellicott City, MD 21042
(410) 730-5773
I've seen both of these ENTs for both pediatric and adult hearing problems. Dr.
Hammond is older and doesn't do surgery anymore so for pediatric issues I'd recommend
Dr. Hessan. I'd recommend both highly. They were thorough, patient, and incredibly
proficient. Dr. Hessan is great with kids. He's one of the few doctors my son will sit and
let check out his ears (and since he had to get tubes, we've had a lot of doctors poking in
them).
Recommended by Robyn B. (2008)
Brian Kaplan
Ear, Nose and Throat Associates Physicians Pavilion East at GBMC
6565 North Charles Street Suite 601
Towson, MD 21204
(410) 821-5151
I went to see Dr. Kaplan for my toddler, and he was very good. He is good with kids,
even though he and the practice serve patients of all ages. He spent a lot of time with us,
answering all of my questions very patiently.
Recommended by Rita W. (2008)
Pediatricians
Many auxiliary members go to one of the two large practices of mostly Hopkins-trained
pediatricians listed below. Both have several physicians and are highly recommended.
Individual pediatricians are not listed, as some of them are not accepting new patients.
Call to set up an appointment with an available physician. If you are expecting, set up a
pre-natal visit – it costs $40 and is not covered by insurance but is worth it. This amount
will be deducted from your first pediatric appointment with your newborn. The two
practices are:
Maryland Pediatric Group,
10807 Falls Road, Ste 200,
Lutherville,
(410) 321-9393
Pavilion Pediatrics,
Hopkins Green Spring Station,
(410) 583-2955
Dr. Alan Lake
The Maryland Pediatric Group, L.L.C. Pediatric Consultants, P.A.
10807 Falls Road, Suite 200
Lutherville, MD 21093
(410) 321-9393
Recommended by Jill H. (2008)
Dr. Jonathan Surell
Main Street Pediatrics
515 Fairmount Ave # 200 (located behind Towson Mall)
Towson, MD 21286
(410) 494-1369
Dr. Surell is from Maryland. Studied at the University of Maryland. He is extremely
personable. The office staff is helpful and they have evening hours/sick clinic as well.
One of the nurses at Hopkins (that my husband works with) recommended the practice to
us. I have not met the rest of the practitioners; however I have heard great things about
them all.
Recommended by Purvi S. (2009)
Dr. Julie Yeh
6565 North Charles Street, Suite 306
Baltimore, MD 21204
(443) 849-8010
We found a great pediatrician at GBMC that is covered by Hopkins EHP insurance. She
is a graduate of Stanford Medical School and has 2 kids of her own. You'll have to leave
a message with your name and your kids ages in order for her to see if she can add you to
her patient list. Not sure why but anyhow, she is great and so is her staff!
Recommended by Paloma G. (2008)
Pediatric Center
700 Geipe Rd, Suite 210
Baltimore, MD 21228
(443) 451-1600
or
8900 Columbia 100 Pkwy
Columbia, MD 21045
(410) 740-3600
Although my sons typically see Dr. Saini, I'd recommend almost anyone in this practice
(we've seen most of them at one time or another). The Catonsville office has Saturday
hours for immunizations and emergencies, which is a really nice feature.
Recommended by Robyn B. (2009)
Johns Hopkins Community Physicians - Canton Crossing
1501 S. Clinton Street, Suite #200
Baltimore, MD 21224
(410) 522-9940
We are really impressed by Dr. Crocetti. He is a very knowledge doctor. He is the Chief
of Pediatrics at Johns Hopkins.
Recommended by Leslie E. (2012)
Plastic Surgeons
Paul Manson
Hopkins Outpatient Center
601 North Caroline Street Suite 8152
Baltimore, MD 21287
(410) 955-6897
I just had a mole removed, but he does a variety of procedures – I think exclusively
without residents. He's nice, efficient, professional, affable, and I was told by the
receptionist that he "babies" his patients. (Sounds good to me! : )
Recommended by Rebecca S. (2008)
!
Plumbers
Atlantic Mechanical
www.atlantic-mechanical.com
(410) 484-4595
Call Tess or Mike. They also took care of our AC issues
Recommended by Monica L. (2009)
Edward Linsenmeyer & Sons Plumbing & Heating
Randallstown, MD 21133
(410) 922-8172
Ed has done a few plumbing projects for us, and we have been very happy. He is very
reliable and knowledgeable. He was not the cheapest quote but was the most dependable.
Recommended by Erin R. (2008)
Saffer Plumbing
8925 Old Harford Road
Parkville, MD 21234
(410)-665-4238
(410)-882-0132
We've used them a number of times in the past and have been impressed with their
responsiveness. And, as of a couple of years back when we last did any price
comparisons, they had reasonable rates.
Recommended by Tong Y. (2009)
We have use Saffer Plumbing for numerous jobs and they are great. Sometimes they
seem slow to get back to you but they are very thorough and fair priced.
Recommended by Erin A. (2009)
T & P Plumbing Services, Inc.
8229 Ever Green Dr.
Parkville, MD 21234
410-538-8235
Very professional, have been available the day I called or the next day. I have only
worked with Matt, but I believe there are others that work for the company.
Recommended by Jill H. (2008)
Realtors
Orlee Glazer
Long and Foster
1312 Bellona Avenue
Lutherville, MD 21093
(410) 215-8054 (cell)
orlee@longandfoster.com
Orlee's husband is a resident at Hopkins, and she is very knowledgeable about the
specific needs of families of residents and fellows. She's great at working with families
who are coming from out of town and might not have a lot of time to go look at property
or who don't know where to start looking (like us!). Orlee is so knowledgeable about the
area and is happy to answer questions. She can even tell you the best route to the
hospital! You really can't go wrong with Orlee!
Recommended by Joelle M. (2008)
Marty Welsh
Daniel Lloyd & Associates
6031 University Blvd Ste 100
Ellicott City, MD
(410) 740-7100
(410) 963-6102
www.martywelsh.com
He sold our condo a couple of years ago. We thought he was excellent – professional,
straightforward, smart, full of clever tips. But the reason to hire him over the swarm of
other realtors out there if you are selling your place is that he charges an amazing 4%
commission (in comparison to the typical 6% commission) as a seller's agent. He takes
1% and the buyer's agent gets the full 3% – so there is no haggling involved. If you
happen to find a buyer for your place who is not working with a realtor, then he only
charges a 1% total commission. He saved us a big chunk of cash! He is associated with
"Daniel Lloyd and Associates" (a tiny but national discount realtor).
Recommended by Monica H. (2008)
Glenn and Fabiola Holden
Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc.
1425 Liberty Road, Eldersburg MD 21784
(410) 409-0283
They went above and beyond for us when we were purchasing our home this spring. Fab
was available 24/7, toured and took pictures of properties for us when we couldn't make
it up to Maryland from out of state, and was just on top of every step of the process. Fab
also works at Hopkins so she knows the medical lifestyle. Their priority is making sure
you find the right home, not pushing you into any old sale, so we would definitely use
them again!
Recommended by Lisa V. (2010)
Kathleen Williams
Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc.
Lutherville, MD 21093
(410)583-9400
We worked with Kathleen when we bought our house. She was great! She knows the
Towson, Lutherville, Timonium areas really well.
Recommended by Jill H. (2008)
Religious Organizations/Institutions
Corpus Christi Catholic Parish
110 West Lafayette Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21217
(in Bolton Hill)
www.corpuschristibaltimore.org
Very socially progressive, open, and warm community. The church also runs a
community center that provides free lunches and holiday meals to the local community.
The pastor, who was the driving force behind the church, has just recently left, but we
have hope that the church community will continue to maintain its values and spirit.
Recommended by Cindy V. (2010)
Downtown Baltimore Jewish Family Network
dbjfn.groupsite.com
amyeisner@gmail.com
The organization helps downtown Jews connect and initiates family-oriented Jewish
events downtown. We welcome families with and without children, non-traditional
families, and multi-faith families. Members include Reconstructionist, Reform,
Conservative, and Orthodox Jews, Israelis and Americans, lifelong urbanites and former
suburbanites, Jewish and non-Jewish parents of Jewish children, religious and nonreligious individuals. The 60-family network was founded by JHMA member Amy
Eisner in 2008 and held a series of Shabbat dinners and other gatherings throughout the
year.
Recommended by Amy E. (2009)
Greater Baltimore Temple (Hindu-Jain)
2909 Bloom Road
Finksburg, MD
(410) 861-8387
www.baltimoretemple.org
The temple is a little out of the way but it is a nice, peaceful place. They have lots of
activities for kids and families who are interested.
Recommended by Rina R. (2009)
JCC of Greater Baltimore
Ben and Esther Rosenbloom JCC on the Weinberg Campus
3506 Gwynnbrook Avenue
Owings Mills, MD 21117
(410) 356-5200
or
Harry and Jeanette Weinberg JCC
5700 Park Heights Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21215
(410) 542-4900
www.jcc.org
There are 2 locations. They both have a ton of great programs (for individuals and
families). The Park Heights JCC is more on the frum side. They both have excellent day
care and preschool programs.
Recommended by Rebecca P. (2009)
Perry Hall Baptist Church
3919 Schroeder Avenue
Perry Hall, MD 21128
410-256-8880
www.perryhallbaptist.org
The church has a traditional service at 9:15 am and a contemporary service at 10:30 am
with a nursery and Sunday school classes offered for children during both services. The
church also has an AWANA program held on Wednesday nights from 6:45-8:30pm.
Recommended by Sally W.(2008)
Streetlite Christian Fellowship
1121 Riverside Avenue
Baltimore, MD
(410) 539-4106
www.streetlite.com
Very family-friendly church in Federal Hill. Casual services, including a Saturday
evening service. Good presence in the community and strong commitment to social good.
Recommended by Rebecca S. (2008)
Towson Unitarian Universalist Church
1710 Dulaney Valley Road
Lutherville, MD 21093-9705
(410) 825-6045
www.towsonuuc.org
Towson Unitarian Universalist Church is a freethinking, warm and friendly
environment. It has allowed me to learn about many different faiths/religions while
expanding my own spirituality. It is also a great outlet for community service.
Recommended by Mabrey M. (2009)
Steven
410-653-3255.
For those that need a bris (circumcision ceremony), Steven is a wonderful Mohel
Recommended by Lesie E. (2012)
Organic Restaurants/Cafes - serving locally grown and/or organic foods
Source: www.jhsph.edu/bin/o/k/green_living_guide_2009.pdf
Aldo’s Ristorante Italiano
Little Italy: 306 South High Street;
410-727-0700
www.aldositaly.com
Though some ingredients are flown in from Italy, Chef Aldo Vitale is committed to using
local, seasonal produce when possible at his sophisticated Italian eatery.
Atwater’s
Belvedere Square: 529 E. Belvedere Ave;
410-323-2396
or
Towson: 798 Kenilworth Dr, Towson;
410-938-8775
One Straw and other local farms supply vegetables for Atwater’s, and meat comes from
nearby Springfield Farm. Atwater’s uses pastured eggs from Springfield Farm, fresh-churned
butter and buttermilk from Trickling Springs, organic pastry flour from Lindley Mills, and
fruit from local farmers’ markets.
The Black Olive
Fells Point: 814 S. Bond St;
410-276-7141
www.theblackolive.com
The owners of this restaurant in a newly renovated Fells Point townhome have demonstrated
consistent concern for the environment and their community by using pro- duce from One
Straw Farm, as well as organic flour, sugar, milk, and eggs in their dishes.
Bluebird Artisanal Coffee Roasters
4401 Eastern Ave
Baltimore, MD 21224
(410) 675 2424
This local coffee roaster with a facility in Greektown sells shade-grown and sustainablecertified coffee beans. Visit the website to find out where you can buy this coffee!
Bohème Café
www.bohemecafe.com
Inner Harbor: 400 E. Pratt Street;
410-347-9898
Just across from the aquarium, this café features local, organic veggies from One Straw Farm.
Chameleon Café
Lauraville: 4341 Harford Road;
410-254-2376
www.thechameleoncafe.com
This café features a distinctive menu that showcases local ingredients and traditional regional
recipes.
Uses organic and local ingredients, featuring several local farms on its menu, and is part of
the hamilton crop circle which composts restaurant waste and grows vegetables for area
restaurants and shelters.
Recommended by Molly R. (2010)
Clementine
5420 Harford Rd.,
Baltimore 21214, MD
410-444-1497
http://www.bmoreclementine.com/
Very delicious. "Fancy pants comfort food with a cross cultural twist." They cure and make
all their own meats and feature local and organic produce.
Recommended by Molly R. (2010)
The Dogwood and Dogwood Deli
Hampden: 911 W. 36th Street
Baltimore, Maryland, 21211
410-889-0952
www.dogwoodbaltimore.com
Street-level on The Avenue in Hamden, Dogwood Deli offers soups, sandwiches, and salads
for quick bites, Downstairs, The Dogwood features a more formal, full- service dining
experience. Produce and meat come from nearby Springfield Farms, Gardener’s Gourmet,
Reid’s Orchard, and One Straw Farm.
Gertrude’s
inside Baltimore Museum of Art: 10 Art Museum Drive
Baltimore, MD 21218
(410)889 3399
www.johnshields.com/restaurant/rest/gertrudes.html
One Straw Farm is among the local produce providers for this museum eatery.
Hamilton Tavern
5517 Harford Road
Baltimore, MD
http://hamiltontavern.com/
This is a nice tavern atmosphere with good burgers, onion rings and beer. I am including it in
the organic section because they are a strong supporter of the Hamilton Crop Circle, through
which they compost their waste and they have planted the roof into a big garden!
Recommended by Molly R. (2010)
The Helmand
Mt. Vernon: 806 North Charles Street
Baltimore, Maryland 21201
(410) 752-0311
www.helmand.com
Much of the exotic Afghani fare served at The Helmand is prepared with locally grown
vegetables from a nearby farm.
Golden West Café
Hampden: 1105 W 36th Street
Baltimore, MD 21211
www.goldenwestcafe.com
This funky restaurant gets eggs and beef from nearby Springfield Farms and maple syrup
from a small pro- ducer in Pennsylvania.
Pitango Gelato
Fells Point: 802 South Broadway
Baltimore, MD 21231
410-702-5828
www.pitangogelato.com
For milk, cream, and eggs, Pitango looks to local dairy farm, Spring Wood Organic Farm,
where animals are fed all-natural diets. In addition, sorbets are made with seasonal, locallygrown organic fruit whenever possible.
Soup’s On at Rose’s Cookies
Hampden: 842 W. 36th St.
Baltimore, MD 21211
(410)235-9801
Mon-Thur: 11-5; Fri-Sat: 11-6
SOUP'S ON IS MY FAVORITE!!
Water Table
Inner Harbor: 202 E. Pratt Street
Baltimore MD 21202
(410)685-8439
www.marriottmodules.com/restaurant/hotels/hotel-information/travel/bwish-renaissanceharborplace-hotel/bwish_watertable/
Seasonal, local produce and seafood are the corner- stones of the menu at this elegant
downtown restaurant overlooking the Inner Harbor.
Woodberry Kitchen
Clipper Mill, 2010 Clipper Park Road
Baltimore, MD 21211
410-464-8000
www.woodberrykitchen.com
This chic new restaurant emphasizes its “farm-to-table” philosophy, getting ingredients from
One Straw Farm, Trickling Springs Creamery, Springfield Farm, and over ten other local
suppliers.
The Yabba Pot
Lower Charles Village: 2431 St. Paul Street;
410-662- TOFU (8638)
The Yabba Pot’s unique vegetarian and vegan meals with all-natural, often local, ingredients
distinguishes them from other less creative veggie offerings in town. Owner Skai Davis, also
runs Empress Catering, a ve- gan catering business, and opened a natural foods co- op next
door (with produce from One Straw Farm!).
Zeke’s Coffee
4607 Harford Rd
Baltimore, Maryland 21214
www.zekescoffee.com
Since 2005, Zeke’s Coffee has offered high-quality, locally-roasted coffee--including 14
organic and fair- trade varieties--to Baltimore customers. Look for Zeke’s Coffee at the 32nd
St. and Baltimore Farmers’ Markets, and go to the website for more locations.
Zia’s
Towson: 13 Allegheny Avenue
Towson, MD 21204
410-296-0799
www.ziascafe.com
Committed to wholesome ingredients, Zia’s gets organic veggies and meat from nearby
Springfield, Applegate, and Bell and Evans’ Farms.
!
Restaurants
Also check out “Organic Restaurants/Cafés” for locally grown and/or organic food!
Akbar
823 N. Charles St.
Baltimore, MD 21201
(410) 539-0944
www.akbar-restaurant.com
Great Indian food, reasonable prices, good portions. I always go home stuffed.
Recommended by Monica L. (2009)
Great Indian restaurant, across the street from Helmand in Mt. Vernon. Looks fancy, but
prices are very reasonable and they're kid friendly. Food is better and cheaper than the
Ambassador, which is supposedly the best Indian restaurant in Baltimore.
Recommended Julie B. (2009)
An Poitin Stil
2323 York Road
Timonium, MD
(410) 560-7900
www.thestill.net
Good Irish fare, great crab cakes.
Recommended by Jo-Ann B. (2008)
Atwater's
Belvedere Square: 529 E. Belvedere Ave;
410-323-2396
or
Towson: 798 Kenilworth Dr, Towson;
410-938-8775
The people who run this place are definite foodies. The soup is amazing, as are the
salads. It's hearty, made fresh daily, and a great value for the money. It's in the Belvedere
Market (an actual market), so it's a definite eat-and-run sort of experience, and there are
only a few tables. I like sitting at the counter, where you can watch them at work
preparing the food.
Recommended by Rebecca S. (2008)
Bahama Breeze
100 E Joppa Rd
Towson, MD 21286
(410) 821-7090
www.bahamabreeze.com
Adjacent to the Towson mall. Very large menu selection (seafood, chicken, ribs, burger,
etc), huge portions, reasonable price. Sort of a Caribbean "Cheesecake Factory." Very
lively, casual ambience; huge bar and outdoor seating in nice weather. No
reservations/call ahead and lines are long on weekends. They have free valet parking.
Recommended by Julie B. (2009)
Bert’s
3105 St. Paul Street
Baltimore, MD
(410) 235-2501
Bert's (formerly Rocky Run) is not as kid-friendly anymore...more just a SPORTS BAR.
Recommended by Susanne B. (2008)
The Black Olive Restaurant
Fells Point: 814 S. Bond St;
410-276-7141
www.theblackolive.com
Excellent place to dine if you like seafood - particularly fish. Great area to walk around
as well (Fells Point).
Recommended by Rebecca P. (2009)
Blue Point Crab House
11412 Reisterstown Road
Owings Mills, MD
(410) 363-8444
www.bluepoint2go.com
We've gotten carryout crabs here. Very reasonably priced and great, heavy crabs.
Recommended by Lisa P. (2008)
Brewer's Art
1106 N. Charles Street
Baltimore, MD
410-547-6925
www.thebrewersart.com
Great place to sample tons of beers and hide in a bat cave while you chat with friends.
Recommended by Monica L. (2009)
Cafe Hon
1002 W. 36th Street
Baltimore, MD
(410) 243-1230
www.cafehon.com
This Hampden place has become a Baltimore icon. Seen the bumper sticker, "Peace,
hon"? Great place for brunch.
Recommended by Monica L. (2009)
Captain Harvey's
11510 Reisterstown Road
Owings Mills, MD
(410) 356-7550
www.captainharveys.com
Casual eat in and carry out crabs.
Recommended by Lisa P. (2008)
Charleston
1000 Lancaster St # 1E
Baltimore, MD 21202
(410) 332-7373
www.charlestonrestaurant.com
Hands down, the gourmet treat of Baltimore. Super expensive (cheapest option is around
$90 person without drinks) but if your parents want to give you money for a nice
birthday/anniversary dinner, this is the place to spend it. Food is just phenomenal.
Recommended by Julie B. (2009)
Charles Village Pub (CVP) Towson
19 West Pennsylvania Ave.
Towson, MD 21204
(410) 821-8155
www.cvptowson.com/towson.htm
This is a very low-key and non-discript local pub but they have the best broiled crabcake
sandwiches around! Every Monday they are only $6.95. After going a few weeks in a
row the bartender remembers us by name and brings our order right up!
Recommended by Janet M. (2010)
Crystal Thai
9191 Reisterstown Rd
Owings Mills
(410) 581-0444
Random Thai restaurant in the back of a strip mall on Reisterstown Rd, but cheap and
very good.
Recommended Julie B. (2009)
Donna's
several locations
www.donnas.com
Donna’s is my go-to restaurant for lunch and dinners. I love their sandwiches and soup
and their wine selection is fabulous. The Cross Keys location has a great outdoor patio
great for a lunch in the sun.
Recommended by Orlee G. (2009)
DiPasquale's
3700 Gough Street
Baltimore, MD
410-276-6787
www.dipasquales.com
Terrific, authentic Italian sandwiches and specialty market in Highlandtown. It doesn't
look like anything from the outside, but when you step inside and look around you realize
it's a special place. Then the people treat you well. Then you bite into that bread . . . .
Recommended by Amy E. (2008)
Elkridge Furnace Inn
5745 Furnace Avenue
Elkridge, MD
(410) 379-9336
www.elkridgefurnaceinn.com
Really old mansion with great history and stunning grounds. They will tell you
compelling ghost stories about the place if you ask. Good food – menu changes monthly.
It is a pricey, special occasion place – a great place for a special brunch, when you can
take advantage of the aforementioned surroundings, and are less likely to run into any
ghosts :). I would feel comfortable taking children for brunch but not dinner.
Recommended by Monica H. (2008)
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
720 Aliceanna St
Baltimore, MD 21202
(410) 332-1666
www.flemingssteakhouse.com
Elegant dining room and delicious food. Great for a special night out. On Sundays they
have a prime rib dinner special for $33.95/person that includes 12 oz. prime rib with trio
of sauces, and your choice of a side dish, salad and dessert. The side dishes and desserts
are definitely big enough for two people.
Recommended by Erin R. (2008)
Franco Zeppi
2400 Boston Street, Suite 120
Baltimore, MD
(410) 522-7700
There is no easier place to eat with kids. You order at a counter, and the food is ready
pretty quickly. They have a very tasteful dining room, large, comfortable booths that are
spread out, and plenty of room for children to run around since it usually isn't very
crowded. I find that some of the food is great and some is just okay. We found their
regular spaghetti and meatballs to be bland, but we all love the Chicken Cacciatore (over
penne) and sandwiches (chicken or meatball parmesan). Their pizza comes whole or by
the slice. In general, the menu items range from simple to really elegant, and entrees
range in price as well ($6-$15). They also serve alcohol.
Recommended by Rebecca S. (2008)
Goldberg's Bagels
1500 Reisterstown Road
Baltimore, MD 21208
(410) 415-7001
Best bagels and lox in Baltimore, as well as other Jewish deli/bakery type food. Overrun
by Orthodox Jews at all times. You'll feel like everyone's staring if you go in a tank top
and capris in summer, but they're not. Really. Etiquette note: The bins of bagel pieces
next to the sinks aren't free samples – they're for religious ritual. The Orthodox must
wash hands before eating, and after washing they must eat bread before they're allowed to
speak again.
Recommended Julie B. (2009)
Golden West Café
1105 W. 36th Street
Baltimore, MD
(410) 889-8891
www.goldenwestcafe.com
True Hampden atmosphere and décor. Love their sweet potato fries and they have
fabulously fun martinis!
Recommended by Orlee G. (2009)
Greg's Bagels
519 E. Belvedere Avenue
Baltimore, MD
(410) 323-9463
First-rate bagels and lox at Belvedere Square. The bagels are medium-sized and have
great bite. The lox is top quality. And they're always experimenting. The chocolate chip
and black pepper bagel may not be for everyone, but the Moroccan lox is a must.
Recommended by Amy E. (2008)
The Helmand
806 N. Charles Street
Baltimore, MD
(410) 752-0311
www.helmand.com
The Helmand is a long time favorite – great food, for those special-but-not-too-special
occasions. Reasonable prices. I've never seen a lot of kids there. Mt. Vernon.
Recommended by Monica H. (2008, also a favorite of Monica L. (2010)
It is our favorite place to take out of towners. G food, great price, great atmosphere, yet
kid friendly.
Recommended by Julie B. (2009)
Henninger's Tavern
1812 Bank Street
Baltimore, MD
(410) 342-2172
www.henningerstavern.com
A neighborhood rowhouse tavern on a quiet block with separate bar and dining area,
great décor, in Upper Fells Point. Probably my favorite restaurant in Baltimore, because
the food is good but unpretentious and well-priced, and the place reeks of atmosphere.
Very intimate setting, and the food is very fresh. I like the crabcakes, the caprese salad,
and the fish specials (it's a small menu; they also have beef and chicken, but I think the
fish is best). Wine is reasonably priced, and they do have some less expensive dinner
choices if you don't want to splurge – Maryland crab soup with a salad, or an appetizer
portion of crabcakes, would run just over $10. Definitely not a good place for kids on a
weekend night (tables are very close together), but we've brought our daughter when
we've gone early or on an off night, and it's fine. They just started serving what they call
TV dinners (bar only), and they look amazing: a homestyle entrée like meatloaf,
vegetable, roll, and cupcake for something like $10, served on a tin tray. Not open a few
days of the week, so call ahead. Perfect for out of town guests – before or after dinner,
you can walk through Fells Point, through the shops and along the water.
Recommended by Rebecca S. (2008)
Holy Frejoles
908 W 36th St
Baltimore, MD 21211
(410) 235-2326
www.citypaper.com/eat/place.asp?id=1760
Super fun, funky place in Hampden with great, cheap Mexican food. Not like typical,
cheap, not-so-good Mexican food, but rather delicious, mouth-watering, keep-youcoming-back-for-more food. Also great margaritas. Check out daily specials. Be prepared
to wait. Even though they expanded this place three-fold by adding a huge bar (it used to
be just the tiny hallway where booths still exist, and it was BYOB), there are still only
about 20 tables.
Recommended by Monica L. (2009)
Ikea Cafeteria
8352 Honeygo Boulevard
Baltimore, MD
(410) 931-5400
www.ikea.com/us/en/store/baltimore/restaura
Food is admittedly not wonderful, but much of it is solidly decent, and it makes for a
really comfortable, easy, cheap, healthy meal with kids. It's not usually crowded, and
they have toys to entertain children, so everyone can relax. Nice place of refuge from a
long day of shopping in the White Marsh area. I believe they also offer baby food. Ikea
also has a supervised play area where you can drop off your kids (they have to be tall
enough but not too tall; most kids are by 3 years old, I would guess) for free for awhile
while you shop or eat – sounds like a night!
Recommended by Rebecca S. (2008)
Jack's Bistro
Canton neighborhood
3123 Elliott Street
Baltimore, MD 21224-4911
(410) 878-6542
www.jacksbistro.net
Jack's Bistro is a chic restaurant -- perfect for a night out on the town. Food is
contemporary, innovative American cuisine. Their Mac+Cheese+Chocolate appetizer is
to die for, as is the Fried S'mores dessert! Not a place to bring kids, so enjoy grownup
time if you go. Nice beer/wine selection. Be sure to call for reservations!
Recommended by Jennifer B. (2010)
Jasmine Asian Bistro
2592 Quarry Lake Drive
Shops at Quarry Lake
Baltimore, MD 21209
(410) 484-5170
Good food, generous portions and a large menu offering a variety of
several Asian cuisines including sushi, Thai, Korean, Chinese and Malaysian.
Recommended by Erin R. (2008)
Koko's Pub
4301 Harford Road
Baltimore, MD 21214
(410) 426-3519
www.kocospub.com
Definitely the best crab cakes. A small area for kids to play while you wait for your food.
This is where we take visiting friends and family for crab cakes and it is always a winner.
Good idea to make a reservation, but it is casual.
Recommended by Molly R. (2010)
Mango Grove
6365 Dobbin Road
Columbia, MD
(410) 884-3426
www.themangogrove.net
Interesting and consistently good authentic vegetarian food. Reasonable, children very
welcome.
Recommended by Monica H. (2008)
Mari Luna
102 Reisterstown Road
Pikesville, MD
(410) 486-9910
www.mariluna.com
Fabulous Mexican restaurant in Pikesville. Cheap and plentiful food, excellent free chips
and salsa, very lively atmosphere, very kid friendly. Can get crowded on weekends. They
just opened a second restaurant up the road (1010 Reisterstown Rd) called Mari Luna
Latin Grille, which I think is supposed to be slightly upper scale.
Recommended by Julie B. (2009)
The Melting Pot
418 York Road
Towson, MD
(410) 821-6358
www.meltingpot.com/towson/welcome
A good fondue-style restaurant.
Recommended by Jo-Ann B. (2008)
Olive's & Sesame
12 W. Pennsylvania Avenue
Towson, MD
(410) 494-4944
Japanese/Chinese & sushi Bar, good food, large portions.
Recommended by Jo-Ann B. (2008)
Papermoon Diner
227 W 29th St., 21211
(410) 889-4444
Interesting decorations that include Barbie dolls, action figures and mannequins give
children something to look at while they wait for their meals. One of our favorite
breakfast spots!
Recommended by Erin R. (2008)
Open late (used to be 24 hours). Take a look at their website for idea of how funky
works: http://www.papermoondiner24.com/
Recommended by Monica L. (2010)
Pazo
1425 Aliceanna Street
Baltimore, MD 21231
(410) 534-7296
www.pazorestaurant.com
Fabulous tapas restaurant – one of our faves in all of Baltimore. Excellent food, very
atmospheric, the wait staff are always perfect. Can be more or less expensive, depending
on how you order. The only downside is that after 7 pm, they play extremely loud music
and you can't hear each other talk. Kids allowed, but not really kid friendly (go between 5
and 6 if bringing little ones, when it's not crowded).
Recommended by Julie B. (2009)
Peter's Inn
504 South Ann St.
Fells Point, MD 21231
(410) 675-7313
www.petersinn.com
One of our FAVORITE restaurants. Peter's Inn is a small dive, typical of the corner bars
here in Baltimore. However, they do NOT serve typical bar food here. Their food is
upscale, gourmet type food for about $15 per plate. Their cheddar cheese or gorgonzola
grits (depending on the week) are to die for, and even their salad and garlic bread is
delicious. Get there early on a Friday or Saturday or you will be waiting awhile for a seat.
Get there too late though, and they may run out of food! I bring all of my out of town
guests here, to give them what I think is a real Baltimore treat.
Recommended by Cindy V. (2009)
Petit Louis Bistro
4800 Roland Avenue
Baltimore, MD
(410) 366-9393
www.petitlouis.com
Wow! French food by famed Baltimore chef Cindy Wolf (also owns Charleston and
Pazo). Amazing service, extensive wine list, casual but intimate atmosphere, and truly
high-quality food. A great place to share with friends or family who appreciate good
food. Not cheap, but not insanely expensive either.
Recommended by Rebecca S. (2008), Emily P. (2009)
Pho Dat Thanh
9400 Snowden River Parkway
Columbia, MD
(410) 381-3839
www.phodatthanh.com
Casual, inexpensive, excellent Vietnamese. Kids are fine.
Recommended by Monica H. (2008)
Poulet
2346 W Joppa Road
Timonium, MD
(410) 339-3900
An upscale Boston Market. Great chicken and sides and fabulous homemade ice cream.
Recommended by Orlee G. (2009)
RA Sushi
1390 Lancaster Street (Harbor East area)
Baltimore, MD 21231-3300
(410) 522-3200
www.rasushi.com
This is my husband's and my favorite place for sushi and Japanese food. For the best
deals, we only go during their happy hour Monday-Saturday 3-7pm when most sushi and
all appetizers are half off. They also have great drink specials too. The modern decor,
convenient location to Harbor East, and spacious dining and bar area makes it a cool and
comfortable place to enjoy a night out!
Recommended by Janet M. (2010)
Red Brick Station
8149 Honeygo Boulevard
Baltimore, MD
(410) 931-7827
www.redbrickstation.com
Good American fare, specials every night of the week. White Marsh.
Recommended by Jo-Ann B. (2008)
Red Maple
930 N. Charles Street
Baltimore, MD
(410) 547-0149
www.930redmaple.com
When I first walked into the long, narrow, modernist interior, this New Yorker saw a
Royalton wannabe and expected a cold shoulder and mediocre food. But the food was
great and the service friendly.
Recommended by Amy E. (2008)
Red Robin
1238 Putty Hill Avenue
Towson, MD 21286
(410) 823-4224
www.redrobin.com
Excellent beef/chicken burgers, great shakes, bottomless fries.
Recommended by Jo-Ann B. (2008)
It is super kid-friendly.
Recommended by Monica L. (2009)
Roy's
720 Aliceanna St # B
Baltimore, MD 21202
(410) 659-0099
www.roysrestaurant.com
Fabulous Hawaiian fusion, amazing selection of funky gourmet seafood dishes.
Expensive but reasonable for the quality of food. Good occasion restaurant.
Recommended by Julie B. (2009)
Ryan's Daughter
600 E. Belvedere Avenue
Baltimore, MD
(410) 464-1000
www.rdirishpub.com
Wonderful Irish food and great ambience in Belvedere Square. Moderately priced. Live
music on weekends, Open Mic Wednesdays, Sunday Brunch, and everyday happy hour.
Sit for dinner, enjoy a brew in a large chair by the fire, or gather friends in a private
dining room.
Recommended by Monica L. (2009), Juliane M. (2010)
A great place for a cozy dinner or gathering with friends. We love the atmosphere...cozy,
some fireplaces in the winter, nice tables for chatting – and the food is delicious.
Recommended by Rebecca K. (2009)
Sakura Japanese Steak House
10040 Baltimore National Pike
Ellicott City, MD
(410) 203-0755
www.sakurasteakhouse.com
One of those places where entertaining chefs cook up a lot of stuff in front of you. Great
for larger gatherings and kids. My kids are usually entranced by the chef's antics, and the
sound of frying drowns out any wails.
Recommended by Monica H. (2008)
Samos
600 Oldham Street
Baltimore, MD
(410) 675-5292
www.samosrestaurant.com
We love getting takeout here. Greek salad, chicken souvlaki, and tzatziki (yogurt sauce
with pita). Phones are busy and lines are often long on weekends. Highlandtown.
Recommended by Rebecca S. (2008)
Simon's of Butcher's Hill
2031 E. Fairmount Avenue
Baltimore, MD
(410) 522-4477
Indispensable bar and restaurant in Butcher's Hill. A great place to eat and drink with
neighbors, friends, parents – you can even bring the baby and still feel like you're getting
some time out.
Recommended by Amy E. (2008)
Sushi Hana
6080 Falls Rd # 11
Baltimore, MD 21209
(410) 377-4228
or
6 E. Pennsylvania Ave.
Towson, MD 21286
(410) 823-0372
www.sushihanabaltimore.com
Our favorite sushi restaurant. High quality. Basic rolls are reasonably priced, special rolls
can get pricey. The spicy tuna roll is a house specialty, to die for. Very kid friendly.
Towson location has long lines on weekends.
Recommended by Julie B. (2009)
And if you ask, they'll even give the kids pellets to feed the fish!
Recommended by Monica L. (2010)
Delicious Sushi – we often order to take out!
Recommended by Juliane M. (2010)
Tapas Teatro
1711 N. Charles Street
Baltimore, MD
(410) 332-0110
www.tapasteatro.com
Good tapas, next to the Charles Theater. Not as good as Pazo, but a little cheaper. Very
small, limited seating. You can bring kids, but it's not a good idea.
Recommended by Julie B. (2009)
Taste of China
219 E Baltimore St
Baltimore, MD 21202
Phone: (410) 659-5466
www.tasteofchinamenu.com
Right by the Hopkins medical campus – great place from which to ask the resident/fellow
to get last-minute takeout. Looks sketchy, and it's nothing special, but it's dirt, dirt cheap
($5 for a full meal at dinner) and is fresh, with good cuts of meat and nice vegetables in
the Chinese dishes. Great option for discount dinner in a flash. (Have never eaten in.)
Recommended by Rebecca S. (2008)
Thai Arroy
1019 Light Street
Baltimore, MD
(410) 385-8587
www.thaiarroy.com
Great Thai food, BYOB and cheap! But make a reservation and be on time! It’s a small
joint and very popular. Make sure to leave time for parking.
Recommended by Orlee G. (2009)
Thir-tea First Street Café and Tearoom
414 E 31st Street
Baltimore, MD 21218
(410) 889-7112
www.thir-teafirststreetcafeandtearoom.com
The downstairs café offers ala carte ordering and a buffet on Saturdays. You can also
reserve a room upstairs for afternoon tea service. The tea service is wonderful with fancy
sandwiches, scones and cookies. I was actually disappointed with the quality of the tea I
had, but the food was so good that I will definitely go back.
Recommended by Hilary P. (2009)
Wine Market
921 E. Fort Ave, Suite 135
Baltimore, MD
(410) 244-6166
www.the-wine-market.com
We keep coming back to this place when we get a rare evening alone. They have an
extensive list of wines by the glass – we like to order 3 oz. glasses so we can taste a
variety. We've actually never ordered the entrees (they're expensive and easy to pass over
in favor of other things), but their appetizers and small plates are amazing: goat cheese
with green tomatoes, mixed olives, roasted potatoes, etc. Federal Hill/Locust Point.
Recommended by Rebecca S. (2008)
Woodberry Kitchen
Clipper Mill, 2010 Clipper Park Road
Baltimore, MD 21211
410-464-8000
www.woodberrykitchen.com
Woodberry Kitchen features the seasonal best from local growers and emphasizes
organic meats and sustainable agriculture. Their goal is to nourish and delight their guests
with cooking grounded in the traditions and ingredients of the Chesapeake region. The
atmosphere in this old mill is very cozy and the food is just delicious. It is a little pricy,
but worth the great kitchen.
Recommended by Juliane M. (2010)
Actually woodberry kitchen has a phenomenal kids menu and neat old fashioned high
chairs, and are very kid friendly witj crayon packets and menus you can color. we eat
there all the time and the brunch on sunday is out of this world.
Recommended by Julie B. (2009)
Woody's Rum Bar
Secret entrance through Slainte Irish Pub on Thames Street
Historic Fells Point
Baltimore, MD 21231
(410) 563-6800
www.woodysrumbar.com
We love sipping their island-themed cocktails on the deck overlooking a beautiful view
of the waterfront at Fells Point. Their reasonably-priced Caribbean menu ($8-$14)
includes jerk chicken, fish tacos, coconut shrimp, burgers, wings, sweet potato fries,
yum! They have good happy hour specials and sometimes live music. Get there early
because it's a pretty small dining area. Enjoy Mon!
Recommended by Janet M. (2010)
Salons, Spas and Massage
About Faces Day Spa & Salon
894 Kenilworth Drive
Baltimore, MD
(410) 828-8666
www.aboutfacesdayspa.com
They have great facials and twice a year they have a week where all their products are
20% off.
Recommended by Erin A. (2009)
or
Festival At Woodholme
1809 Reisterstown Road
Pikesville, MD 21208
(410) 602-0888
I had a number of prenatal massages here. I felt very relaxed and pampered.
Recommended by Erin R. (2008)
All About ME Salon & Spa
27 W. Chesapeake Avenue
Towson, MD 21204
(410) 828-8929
www.allaboutmedayspa.com
Sherin is great for hair and eyebrow waxing. She is fabulous with curly hair. They do
great manicures and pedicures as well. The salon is well priced for their services and
everyone is very friendly. I have had to bring my son with me several times and they do
not mind.
Recommended by Jill H. (2008)
Apsara Day Spa
6400 Baltimore National Pike
Catonsville MD 21228
(410)744-4600
www.apsaradayspa.com
Full-service salon, including threading. One of the few places to get threading done in
Baltimore. It gets busy, so expect to wait a bit for threading since it is only by walk-in.
You can call for an appointment for most other services.
Recommended by Rina R. (2009)
Bedford Springs Resort
Bedford, PA 15522
(814) 623-8100, Toll-free (866) 623-8176
www.bedfordspringsresort.com
Beautifully renovated historic site. A great retreat whether you take advantage of the spa
or not...though the baths are memorable. Pleasant hiking even in winter. Very expensive.
Recommended by Amy E. (2009)
Hair Cuttery
Towson Town Center
825 Dulaney Valley Road
Towson, MD 21204
(410) 337-9841
www.haircuttery.com
For eyebrow threading, make an appointment with Bhindu. She does not work at Hair
Cuttery on Thursdays, Saturdays or Sundays, I think. You can also call her cell at (410)
303-7754. She actually does not mind seeing people at her home in Lutherville. She has
an area in her basement set up for haircuts/color/eyebrows, etc. I have not had my haircut
by her, though.
Recommended by Purvi S. (2009)
Neha Threading Salon and Spa
1430 Reisterstown Road
Pikesville MD 21208
(410) 653-2769
www.nehathreading.com
This salon is great. Neha owns the business, does all the threading, and offers an array of
other services through new hires she's made in her salon. Last time I went, I saw
Stephanie Rawlings-Blake, President of Baltimore City Council there.
Recommended by Paloma G. (2009)
Salon 36 Kids
1496 Reisterstown Rd., Suite 219
Pikesville, MD 21208
(410) 580-KIDS
www.salon36kids.com
I am so glad we took our 2-year-old son here for his first haircut. There are TVs at each
hair station, every kids’ movie you would want, a train set, two castles, a play kitchen,
and tons of fun kids bath & beauty products. We purchased the first haircut package,
which included the cut, photo, locket of hair, special keepsake certificate, and frame for
$25. Our stylist ended up cutting my son’s hair in the chair, at the train table and then at
the play kitchen!
Recommended by Erin R. (2008)
Salon Laurie
5910 Falls Road
Baltimore, MD
(410) 464-1500
www.salonlaurie.com
It's an adult salon that also does a good job with children's cuts. For a kid's cut, they are
fast, professional, and reasonably priced.
Recommended by Rebecca S. (2008)
Studio 1612
1501 Sulgrave Avenue
Baltimore, MD
(410) 664-3010
www.studio1612.com
Lesley gave me the best haircut I have gotten in Baltimore. A little pricey but definitely
worth it.
Recommended by Erin A. (2009)
Since I’ve moved to Baltimore, I’ve tried many salons and highly recommend them.
Leslie is wonderful! Also a great place to get waxed…reasonably priced and clean.
Recommended by Orlee G. (2009)
Tenpachi
1722 Eastern Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21231
410-522-0074
www.tenpachisalons.com
A great place for the hubby to get a consistently good, cheap haircut.
Recommended by Erin A. (2009)
My husband is a die hard fan. With his crazy schedule he is always able to get an
appointment and they have great prices!
Recommended by Orlee G. (2009)
Usha Beauty Salon
209 E Joppa Rd
Towson, MD 21286
(410) 832-8742
www.ushasalon.com
They do great eyebrows (great mani and pedi too).
Recommended by Annie T. (2009)
If you have the time, wait the extra few minutes for Usha herself – she is the best!
Recommended by Lisa G. (2009)
Zoom Day Spa
505 S. Ellwood Ave
Baltimore, MD 21224
(410) 342-7799
www.zoomdayspa.com
I searched for someone to give me a good cut and went to Zoom Day Spa in Canton. I
saw Patty and she gave me the best cut of my life (so far) for only $40. Go see Patti
for amazing layers! Be sure to only ask for Patti.
Recommended by Leslie E. (2012)
Schools – Preschools, Daycares, Elementary Schools and Private Schools
Preschools/Daycares/Kindergarten
Ascension Lutheran Nursery School and Kindergarten
7601 York Road
Baltimore, MD
(410) 825-1725
www.ascensiontowson.org
We love this school and its teachers. One of my sons has attended their nursery school
and is now in their Kindergarten program. Another is in their nursery school now and
they are being so careful with him and his allergies. The nursery school program is half
day with the option to add some afternoon classes two days a week.
Recommended by Tong-Yi Y. (2010)
Baltimore Hebrew (Reform)
7401 Park Heights Ave
Baltimore, MD 21208
(410)-764-1587
www.bhcong.org
They have a full time/full day or part day preschool program 2 years + and a day school,
which are discounted for members.
Recommended by Michelle F. (2009)
Beth El Preschool and Infant/Toddler Care (Beth El Congregation)
8101 Park Heights Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21208
(410) 484-0411
www.bethelbalto.com
We're very happy with this preschool. Most of the teachers and administrators have
twenty or more years experience. They're very casual and chilled out, but there's also a
comprehensive curriculum for the 2 to 4 year olds, as well as the pre-K and kindergarten
classes. They offer late 2s, i.e. if you have a November baby, you can start them in a 2s
class in September instead of waiting until February as at most places. My favorite thing,
though, is they have extremely flexible preschool schedules (you can do any combination
of days of the week, any number of hours, from 7:30 am to 6 pm). If Judaica in the
curriculum would offend you, then it's not the place for you – but many of the families
aren't Jewish. Also, they close for all Jewish holidays, including closing early on Friday
afternoons all winter (for shabbat). We didn't use the infant/toddler care, but friends who
do say it's excellent.
Recommended by Julie B. (2009)
Bridges Montessori
1105 Providence Rd
Towson, MD 21286
(410) 337-7003
This preschool is Baltimore's best kept secret. It’s a wonderful little school with just 38
kids, 2 classrooms, 1 playroom, outdoor garden and playground, and the nicest teachers
in the world. They offer a program for 2.5-6 year olds and siblings get priority enrollment
and a discount. They offer kindergarten too. The school day schedule can be M-Th or MF until noon, after lunch, or 3pm. They offer before and aftercare from 7am -5:30. The
cost is competitive with other preschools in the county but much more affordable than
some of the "bigger" Montessori schools. Call the director Jennifer Bridges for more
information. Her cell phone is on the voice message on the school voicemail. You apply
in November for the following school year.
Recommended by Paloma G. (2008), Sharen B. (2010)
Brown Memorial Weekday School
6200 N. Charles Street
Baltimore, Maryland 21212
(410)-377-7232
bmwpc.org
Recommended by Tong-Yi Y. (2009)
Cedarcroft School
419 Cedarcroft Road
Baltimore, MD 21212
(410) 435-0905
www.cedarcroftschool.com
Our son (2.5 years old) will be starting at Cedarcroft in the fall three mornings a week for
three hours each day. The school accepts children 2.5 years old – kindergarten. Potty
training required.
Recommended by Erin R. (2008)
Central Presbyterian Church Preschool (CPCP)
7308 York Road
Towson, MD 21204
(410)823-6164
www.centralpcpreschool.org
Two of my kids go to preschool here (one in Pre-K and the other in a 2's class). I have
nothing but great things to say about the teachers, director, and program. The program is
Christian-based and has a very nurturing environment.
Recommended by Blair V. (2009)
A Child's Place
College of Norte Dame
4701 N. Charles Street
Baltimore, MD
(410) 532-5399
www.ndm.edu/about/lifelong-learning/a-childs-place/
Children age 3 – kindergarten (they will accept a few kids under 3, based on maturity,
whose birthdays are after Sept 1. **Must be toilet trained.) The school takes advantage
of its location on the College of Norte Dame campus by taking many walks and "field
trips" to other campus buildings. The only option is full day, full time (drop off between
7:30 and 9 and pick-up 4:00-5:30). This is great for full-time, working parents who want
their children to consistently be with the same group of children. (Unlike many schools
we looked into that either cannot accommodate full time or where our child would have
been one of the few enrolling for "early drop off," "extended day" AND "lunch bridge"...)
The staff at A Child's Place are mature (many have been with the school many years) and
caring. Monthly tuition is around $900. I'd recommend applying before December for fall
enrollment.
Recommended by Mary P. (2009)
Childtime Learning Center
31 Hopkins Plaza
Baltimore, MD 21201
(410) 962-2742
www.childtime.com/our-schools/baltimore-md-0821/
Childtime has an excellent facility, calm atmosphere, and wonderful infant room
caretakers. It is right in the middle cost-wise for a daycare center in the city, but the care
and facility are top-notch, so it is a good value after considering the options. We have
been very pleased with everything about the center. There are times where parking is
tricky, which is the only complaint I have ever heard from a parent there. It is well worth
a visit, especially if you work downtown. The center is right near the harbor.
Recommended by Jaime Z. (2009)
Church of the Redeemer Parish Day School
5603 N. Charles Street
Baltimore, Maryland 21210
(410) 435-9510
http://www.redeemeronline.com/parish-day-school.html
My son attends the Church of the Redeemer Parish Day School on Charles Street and
loves it. I can't say enough wonderful things about the school, the teachers and the
programs they offer! There is more information on their Web site!
Recommended by Katherine F. (2009)
DBCC - Downtown Baltimore Child Care Center
237 N. Arch Street
Baltimore, MD 21201
(410)659-0515
www.dbcckids.org
I recommend DBCC. Their Mt. Vernon location is closing at the end of the summer
2010, so all the kids will be at the University Center location. They have programs for
infants up to pre-K, and are open from 7:30 am to 6 pm. They have a play-based
curriculum, which has been perfect for my twins. They are well-organized, the facilities
are great, and the teachers are very kind and thoughtful. They provide hot breakfast
every day and afternoon snack, but you must bring your own lunch.
Recommended by Alexis M. (2010)
Holy Cross Preschool
8516 Loch Raven Boulevard
Towson, Maryland,
21286-2303
(410) 825 – 7905
http://www.holycrosstowson.com/
Small classes and loving teachers. Both of my boys attended. Several different part-time
morning options for ages 2-4 including a 5-day 4s option. They even have a one-day class
for 2s if you just want an introduction. Close to Target shopping center in Towson.
Director=Nancie. Mention my name!
Recommended by Monica L. (2010)
Idlewylde United Methodist Preschool
1000 Regester Ave
Baltimore, MD 21239
(410) 377-9691
My son goes to Idlewylde United Methodist Preschool on Regester in
Stoneleigh/Towson. It is a great program and affordable - two mornings a week, 9 to
noon, for three year olds for about $100 a month. Connie Henning, the director, is
assisted by two teachers, a ratio of 1:6, and there are some other Hopkins people who
take their children there. It is a high energy program with structure, learning, outdoor
play, and field trips and things for parents to participate in along the way if you like.
Recommended by Katja E. (2009)
Jewish Community Center
Judi Gillis (contact)
Harry and Jeanette Weinberg JCC
5700 Park Heights Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21215
(410) 542-4900
www.jcc.org
Alex has been there since he was three months old and loves it. They have part-time and
full-time daycare and pre-school options.
Recommended by Jill H. (2008)
Johns Hopkins Bright Horizons
98 N. Broadway Street
Baltimore, MD
(410) 614-4111
www.jhbrighthorizons.org
The Johns Hopkins Family Center has been great for us for infant and toddler day care.
It's run by Bright Horizons, which has over 600 centers worldwide and was recently
listed by Fortune Magazine as one of the 100 Best Companies To Work For. And the
place does seem well run, though they're looking for a new director and making some
other improvements. Every child has a primary caregiver, but it's also nice that there are
many people around; it makes for a richer experience and more friendships. All of the
furniture is top quality, and the center consists of bright, cozy rooms arranged around a
large atrium, with an outdoor playground as well. Financial assistance may be available
from Johns Hopkins.
Recommended by Amy E. (2008)
La Petite Academy at GBMC Hospital
6701 N. Charles St
Towson, MD 21204
(877) 861-5078
http://www.lapetite.com
Phone: 410-828-4386
My son and daughter attend La Petite Academy at. I highly recommend it. GBMC
personnel have preference for admission but it is open to everyone. And for preschool
they usually have a few openings.
Recommended by Silvia M. (2010)
Northeast Christian Preschool
7515 Harford Road
Baltimore, MD 21234
(410) 254-2668
Convenient for residents of Perry Hall, White Marsh, and Towson.
They offer a 3 and 4-year-old program. The 3-year-old program meets on Tuesdays and
Thursdays from 9-11:30 a.m., and the 4-year-old program meets on Monday, Wednesday
and Friday mornings from 9-11:30 a.m. There is also a program that meets five days a
week.
Recommended by Sally W. (2008)
St. Paul 's Plus
11232 Falls Road
Brooklandville, MD
(410) 823-6323
spsfg.org
This coed preschool (age two through kindergarten) is associated with St. Paul's School
for Girls. The campus is gorgeous and pastoral, and the kids have plenty of room in the
classrooms and outside. They have excellent teacher retention and more enrichment than
I could ever imagine: French, Spanish, computers, art, music, science, Rebounders
Gymnastics (all outside teachers). Still, at least for the two-year olds (all we've done so
far), they are not too "academic." They don't push kids to learn too much too fast. The
school and PTA go the extra mile in planning field trips, holiday parties, and the like.
They do part-time as well as full-time care and are very accommodating of different
schedules (you must go a full day, but can do something different like Tuesdays and
Fridays – whereas most places will make you do TTh or MWF).
Recommended by Rebecca S. (2008)
Woodbrook Early Education Center
25 Stevenson Lane
Baltimore, MD 21212
(410) 377-8918
http://www.weecenter.net/
Recommended by Tong-Yi Y. (2009)
Private Schools
Bryn Mawr
109 W. Melrose Avenue
Baltimore, MD
(410) 323-8800
www.brynmawrschool.org
They have a coed, full-day "Little School" and a girls' school that goes through high
school. We have not attended, but I toured the Little School and think it would be a
wonderful environment for a child. It is expensive, but has a great reputation – it can take
years to get off of the waiting list, so get on early if you think you might be interested!
Recommended by Rebecca S. (2008)
Schools - Public Elementary and Secondary
Hampton Elementary School
1115 Charmuth Road
Lutherville , MD 21093
(410)-887-3205
We love Hampton Elementary school. The principal and teachers are excellent.
With 3 boys at Hampton
Recommended by Mary A. (2010)
Howard County Public Schools
www.hcpss.org/schools/
There are 39 elementary schools in the county. Lots of them are good. But the ones below
are high performing schools and are convenient for getting to Hopkins. Not too far
south, except for clarksville, but you can get from 32 straight on to 95 N, I know people
who work at hopkins who live out there and say that it only takes them 30 min. Schools
that I considered were, Bellows Springs, Centennial Lane, Clarksville, Clemens Crossing,
Ilchester, Northfield, St. John's Lane, Thunderhill, Worthington, and Veterans
Elementary.
Recommended by Durriya M. (2010)
Mt. Washington Elementary
1801 Sulgrave Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21209
(410) 396-6354
www.mtwashingtonelementary.com
I know many shy away from City schools – but our little public elementary school, Mt.
Washington Elementary, is excellent! The community is very involved in the school and
recently built a new, gorgeous outdoor classroom space. The teachers are very invested.
At Mt. Washington your kids will get a great education in a racially and economically
diverse community. Kids graduating from Mt. Washington Elementary go to Roland Park
Middle, another excellent city school.
Recommended by Mary P. (2009)
Patterson Park Public Charter School
27 North Lakewood Avenue
Baltimore, MD
(410) 558-1230
www.pppcs.org
This is one of Baltimore's new public charter schools. It is located in Southeast Baltimore
(near Patterson Park, north of Canton and Fells Point, very close to Hopkins), but is citywide (any student in Baltimore City can apply to attend). The school is just getting off the
ground and faces all of the logistical challenges of any new institution, but is doing great.
It has a project-based curriculum, is very community-minded, and is committed to the
arts (as well as the usual suspects: science, math, reading, etc.). There is an amazing
group of volunteers involved with the school, and the student body is genuinely diverse,
economically and racially. Parents are required to volunteer a reasonable number of hours
yearly to the school. The school will probably be adding Pre-K in another year and will
eventually go through eighth grade (as of 2005, it's K-4). If you have a school-aged child
in Baltimore City and are not happy with your public school, it would definitely be worth
your time to visit PPPCS and consider it as an option.
Recommended by Rebecca S. (2008)
Rodgers Forge Elementary School
250 Dumbarton Rd.
Baltimore, MD 21212
410-887-3582
http://schools.bcps.org/schools/ces/rforge/
The sole reason that we moved to Rodgers Forge when we moved to Baltimore was for
this elementary school. I have a current 3rd grader and a soon-to-be kindergarten child. I
have not regretted paying the slightly higher rent in this neighborhood so my children can
attend this school! Amazing parent participation, great principal, excellent test scores,
very pleased with the teachers that I have encountered. As of right now, there is a serious
overcrowding issue, but that should be resolved with the building of the new West
Towson Elementary School (slated to open 2010).
Recommended by Blair V. (2009)
Timonium Elementary School
2001 Eastridge Road
Timonium, MD
(410) 887-7661
http://schools.bcps.org/schools/ces/timoniumes/
Though my children are not yet in the public school system, we did move to our
neighborhood because of the research I did on the public schools.
Jo-Ann B. (2008)
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Veterinarians
Cat Hospital at Towson
6701 York Road
Baltimore, MD
(410) 377-7900
www.catdoc.com
Recommended by Jill H. (2008)
CityPets Veterinary Care & Wellness
1212 S. Charles Street
Baltimore MD 21230
(410) 752-7122
www.citypetsvet.com
We just started bringing our dog to CityPet Vet and Wellness. It is very clean and the
staff is friendly and attentive.
Recommended by Danielle B. (2009)
Falls Road Animal Hospital
6314 Falls Road
Baltimore, MD
(410) 825-9100
http://fallsroad.com/
Dr. Sand has taken care of our miniature schnauzer (and us!) when she was having
seizures, needed a hernia repair and for routine exams. Sometimes we wait a while to be
seen but it has been worth it.
Recommended by Erin R. (2008)
Healing Wheels Family Vet
Dr. Bonnie Silverman
Reisterstown, MD21136
(410) 499-7592
Dr. Silverman comes to your home for check ups, etc. She has been caring for Hoogie,
our 5-year-old Goldendoodle, for the last 3 years. It's less stressful for Hoogie and more
convenient for us.
Recommended by Rebecca P. (2010)
Northwind Animal Hospital
10016 Harford Rd Baltimore, MD 21234
(410) 668-4806
Recommended by Heather S. (2009)
Old Court Animal Hospital
1709 Reisterstown Rd.
Pikesville, MD 21208
(410) 486-6900
www.oldcourtanimalhospital.com
Old Court Animal Hospital recently changed owners. We love the new vet, Dr. Susan
DeLeon. She is so kind and definitely cares for the animals in her care. She listens to our
concerns and works with us for an appropriate treatment for our ancient and handicapped
dogs. The staff is great too.
Recommended by Mabrey M. (2009)
Perry Hall Animal Hospital
9022 Belair Road
Perry Hall, MD 21236
(410) 256-4888
www.animalhospitalofperryhall.com
They've been taking care of our German Shepherd for 6 years and have done a great job.
The staff is friendly and helpful.
Recommended by Sally W. (2008)
Stevenson Village Veterinary
46 E. Sudbrook Lane
Pikesville, MD 21208
(410) 484-4041
www.stevensonvillagevet.com
Dr. Feinberg was recommended to me by my grandfather and long-time Baltimore vet.
He is wonderful, and we’ve taken our precious Ellie there for 5 years now.
Recommended by Orlee G. (2009)
Vinson Animal Hospital
1030 York Rd
Towson, MD 21204
(410) 828-7676
Recommended by Heather S. (2009)
Boston Animal Clinic
2304 Boston Street
Baltimore, MD 21224
410-522-9090
http://bostonstreetvet.com
They have fair rates (not inexpensive but not pricey) but did a really good job with my
Golden. He was neutered there as well. We like to see Dr. Brubelo.
Recommended by Leslie E. (2012)
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