Pikesville Travel Guide

Explore the best things to do in Pikesville, Maryland, including hiking/biking routes, culture and customs, food and drink scene, safety measures, transportation options, and nearby excursions.


Introduction to Pikesville

Pikesville is a census-designated place in Baltimore County, Maryland, in the United States of America. The town, located in central Maryland, is known for its vibrant culture, scenic beauty, hiking/biking trails, and rich history. It is a perfect destination for travelers looking for a unique blend of outdoor recreation and cultural attractions.

List of Places to Visit in Pikesville

There are plenty of attractions to explore in Pikesville that cater to a range of interests. Here are some must-visit destinations in Pikesville.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Baltimore Museum of Art: The museum houses over 95,000 art pieces of local and international art spanning the ages, including the largest collection of works by French artist Henri Matisse outside of France.

  • Pimlico Race Course: Home to the annual Preakness Stakes horse race, the Pimlico Race Course is a historical site that dates back to 1870. Tourists can visit the grounds and experience the rich history of the racecourse.

  • Green Spring Valley Historic District: The historic district featuring over 50 buildings dating back to the 19th century gives visitors a glimpse into Maryland’s architectural and cultural heritage.

Natural Attractions of Pikesville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Meadowood Regional Park: The park is a serene escape from the hustle-bustle of city life, featuring offers hiking trails, picnic pavilions, ball fields, and a disc-golf course.

  • Lake Roland Park: A 503-acre park features a 1.3-mile loop trail around Lake Roland. The park offers various activities such as fishing, hiking, birdwatching, and kayaking. On occasions, visitors can attend free concerts here.

  • The Oregon Ridge Nature Center: Located at Oregon Ridge Park, the nature center offers various educational programs focused on nature and environmental education, along with hiking trails, and playgrounds.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Pikesville

Pikesville is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts with plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore. Here are some routes that you should try out during your visit:

  • Jones Falls Trail: A 10-mile trail that stretches from the inner harbor of Baltimore into the heart of the north-central Maryland suburbs, it is a popular destination for bicyclists, walkers, runners, and bird-watchers.

  • Lake Roland Park Heritage Trail: A 2.4-mile trail that encircles Lake Roland, a 100-acre blue water lake located near the center of the park. The trail offers visitors breathtaking views of nature.

  • Avalon/Gwynns Falls Trail: A 20.7-mile trail that runs alongside the Gwynns Falls stream valley. The trail offers panoramic views of waterfalls, historic landmarks, and other natural attractions.

Best Things to Do in Pikesville: Activities and Tours

Pikesville offers visitors plenty of activities and tours to explore. Here are some of the best things to do in Pikesville:

  • Tour the Pimlico Race Course: Visitors can take a guided tour of the Pimlico Race Course and learn about the history of the famous Preakness Stakes, horse racing, and the track’s significance in American culture.

  • Explore the Baltimore Museum of Art: The Baltimore Museum of Art is home to a diverse collection of artworks that date from ancient times to the contemporary era. Throughout the year, the museum hosts various exhibitions, talks, and events aimed at promoting art culture.

  • Visit the Cylburn Arboretum: This 207-acre park provides a chance for visitors to explore the beautiful gardens, greenhouses, and various walking trails. The park is particularly famous for its extensive flower gardens, including the Japanese and azalea gardens.

Week-Long Itinerary for Pikesville

Here is a suggested week-long itinerary to explore the best of Pikesville.

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the Baltimore Museum of Art
Day 2 Hike the Jones Falls Trail
Day 3 Tour the historic Pimlico Race Course
Day 4 Take a leisurely hike at Lake Roland Park
Day 5 Visit the Cylburn Arboretum
Day 6 Explore the Green Spring Valley Historic District
Day 7 Bike the Avalon/Gwynns Falls Trail

Food and Drink Scene of Pikesville

Pikesville boasts several diverse restaurants that offer delicious treats and local specialties. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Crab cakes: A Maryland classic, crab cakes are a must-try dish while visiting Pikesville. Henningers Tavern, a 150-year-old restaurant in Pikesville, is famous for their crab cakes.

  • Old Bay Wings: Another Maryland specialty, the wings are marinated in Old Bay seasoning, a commonly used seafood seasoning in Maryland.

  • Stuffed Ham Sandwich: This Pikesville delicacy features a ham that is stuffed with kale and onions before being baked. You can try one of these sandwiches from Pikesville favorite, Cinko’s.

Local Beverages

  • Natty Boh: National Bohemian, famously known as Natty Boh, is a Baltimore-brewed beer and a local favorite.

  • Elderberry Wine: Linganore Winecellars, located near Pikesville, produces a range of award-winning wines, including Elderberry Wine.

Where to Stay in Pikesville: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Pikesville offers several accommodation options that cater to a range of budgets and preferences.

  • Doubletree by Hilton: A mid-range hotel located in the heart of Pikesville, the Doubletree by Hilton offers comfortable rooms, a fitness center, a pool, and an on-site restaurant.

  • Pikesville Guest Suites: These luxurious guest suites offer comfortable beds, full-size kitchens, and on-site laundry facilities. They are located near some of Pikesville’s most popular attractions, making them perfect for an extended stay.

  • Holiday Inn Express: A budget option with affordable rooms, the Holiday Inn Express offers a complimentary breakfast bar, a pool, and free Wi-Fi.

What to Buy in Pikesville: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Baltimore Streetcar Museum: Bring a piece of history home with you by picking up a souvenir from the Baltimore Streetcar Museum, which is home to a collection of historic streetcars that once operated in Baltimore.

  • Crab Mallets: These wooden mallets are used to crack open Maryland crabs and make for a perfect souvenir or gift.

Local Culture and Customs of Pikesville

Pikesville has a rich cultural heritage influenced by its Jewish and African American communities. Some cultural customs unique to Pikesville are:

  • Appreciation of art: Pikesville is home to several art galleries and centers, and citizens of Pikesville are proud of the town’s artistic roots.

  • Celebration of local cuisine: Maryland-style cuisine is celebrated in Pikesville, giving visitors an opportunity to relish delicious treats ranging from crab cakes to Old Bay Wings.

Best Time to Visit Pikesville

The best time to visit Pikesville is between September and November when the weather is mild, and the leaves are changing colors. Spring and summer are also beautiful with plenty of greenery and sunny weather. However, peak summer months (June, July, and August) could be crowded and hot, so it’s best to plan accordingly.

Do’s and Don’ts of Pikesville

Do:

  • Do visit the local markets and farms: Pikesville has several farmers’ markets and farms, such as the Santoni’s Marketplace & Catering, which are perfect for foodies and those looking to explore the local delicacies.

  • Do dress appropriately for the weather: Pikesville weather can be unpredictable, so it’s best to dress with layers and bring appropriate shoes for hiking trails.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter: Pikesville is known for its pristine natural landscape that visitors should maintain by not littering and disposing of trash properly.

  • Don’t skip out on the local cuisine: Pikesville is famous for its Maryland-style cuisine, especially its crab cakes, which visitors should try during their stay.

Safety and Health

Safety in Pikesville

Pikesville is generally safe, but visitors should take standard safety precautions to ensure their well-being.

Health in Pikesville

Pikesville has excellent healthcare facilities and hospitals, such as the Northwest Hospital Center, that provide quality treatment and care.

Getting to Pikesville: Transportation Options and Logistics

Pikesville is easily accessible via various transportation modes.

Airports Near Pikesville

The nearest major airport to Pikesville is the Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport, which is a 30-minute drive from Pikesville.

Bus Stations Near Pikesville

Pikesville is served by several bus stations, including the Greyhound bus station and the Maryland Transit Administration.

Other Options

Rental cars and taxis are readily available for tourists traveling to Pikesville.

How to Get Around in Pikesville

Biking and walking are the easiest and most convenient ways to explore Pikesville. However, the town also offers various transportation options, such as buses and taxis, for those who prefer not to or are not able to walk or bike.

Where to Go Next from Pikesville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Pikesville is located near several must-visit destinations, such as:

  • Baltimore: Located only 20 minutes away, Baltimore has plenty of tourist attractions and places to explore such as the Baltimore Inner Harbor and the National Aquarium.

  • Washington D.C.: The capital city is only an hour away from Pikesville and boasts several monuments, museums, and cultural attractions to explore.

  • Annapolis: A one-hour drive from Pikesville, Annapolis is the Capital City and is known for its charming colonial architecture, sailing regattas, and fresh seafood.

Conclusion

Pikesville, Maryland, is a destination that offers visitors a unique blend of outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and history. With its vibrant food scene, scenic hiking/biking routes, and must-visit landmarks, Pikesville is perfect for travelers looking for a balance between outdoor recreation and city life’s cultural delights.