When autumn arrives in Maryland, Baltimore the blooming color of everything is a sight to behold. The city’s parks, tree-lined neighborhoods, and historic streets transform into a rich tapestry of reds, golds, and oranges.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or rediscovering your hometown, the season brings endless things to do in Baltimore, from strolls through parks to community celebrations filled with live music, food, and local art.
Here’s where to find the most scenic fall foliage in Baltimore, and the must-see festivals that bring the city’s lively spirit to life.
Just a 10-minute drive from The Ivy Hotel, Patterson Park is one of Charm City’s most beloved green spaces and a favorite spot to take in fall foliage in Baltimore. Stretching over 130 acres in the middle of the city, the park becomes a dazzling palette of fall shades in October and November.
Take a walk around the park’s tree-lined pathways, where oaks and maples create a stunning canopy overhead. The historic Pagoda, perched on a hill at the park’s eastern edge, offers one of the best panoramic views of the city, especially when the leaves are at their peak. The park’s pond, walking trails, and open lawns also make it a great spot for an afternoon picnic or a peaceful escape from city life.
Locals often pair their Patterson Park visit with a stop in nearby Fells Point, where waterfront views and cozy cafés make the perfect ending to a fall day.
For guests of The Ivy Hotel looking to experience Maryland’s autumn beauty, Valley Overlook in the Hollofield area of Patapsco Valley State Park is just a half-hour rideshare away and undeniably stunning. The overlook offers breathtaking views of rolling hills blanketed in shades of amber, gold, and crimson, a picture-perfect glimpse of the season at its peak. After soaking in the scenery, head to nearby Ellicott City’s historic Main Street, where cozy cafés, antique shops, and locally owned boutiques invite you to linger.
It’s a wonderful way to spend a crisp fall afternoon, surrounded by the colors, flavors, and charm that make Baltimore so captivating this time of year.
For another tranquil encounter with nature, Cylburn Arboretum is a must-visit. Located about 15 minutes from The Ivy Hotel, this 200-acre urban oasis in North Baltimore is one of the city’s most stunning locations for fall foliage in Baltimore.
The arboretum’s grounds feature wooded trails, formal gardens, and meadows dotted with brilliant bursts of seasonal color. Maple, oak, and dogwood trees create a breathtaking landscape of reds and golds.
Beyond the parks and waterfront, Baltimore’s fall calendar is packed with local festivals and cultural celebrations that highlight the season’s best flavors, art, and community charm.
For a family-friendly outing, the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore, located about 10 minutes from The Ivy Hotel, hosts fall-themed events with hayrides, seasonal food vendors, and animal encounters. The zoo’s sprawling Druid Hill Park grounds also offer vibrant fall color, making it another scenic spot to enjoy the season.
In late October and early November, Baltimore’s farmers’ markets, including the one under the Jones Falls Expressway, overflow with pumpkins, apples, and locally made treats. Whether you’re picking up fresh cider or simply soaking in the festive atmosphere, these markets provide an authentic taste of Baltimore’s harvest spirit.
After a day spent exploring parks, festivals, and waterfront neighborhoods, retreat to the elegance of The Ivy Hotel, where warmth and comfort await. Enjoy tea by the fire, relax in the courtyard with a glass of wine, or indulge in dinner at the hotel’s acclaimed restaurant, Magdalena, which often features seasonal ingredients that celebrate the flavors of fall.
Book your stay today so you won’t miss any of the fall fun in Baltimore!