Whether you’re going for an evening jog or just want to spend the day outdoors, Canton and the nearby Brewers Hill have stunning views and fun things to do around every corner.
The heart of Canton lies in O’Donnell Square Park and seeing how it only stretches a few blocks, you may think it’s not a lot. But that is where you would be wrong for these few blocks comprise everything that people love about Baltimore – from the charming to the bizarre.
Pass the traditional brick row houses with marble stoops and you’ll be minutes away from the area’s two landmark breweries and the picturesque Canton waterfront. Keep your eyes peeled for the bright Mr. Boh sign winking down at you!
Canton is recognized as a U.S. Historic District as well as in the U.S. National Register of Historic Places, and rightfully so! Use this guide to see the best of their landmarks and attractions while in Baltimore.
Tips for Visiting Canton/ Brewers Hill
- It’s only a five-minute walk from Canton Waterfront Park to O’Donnell Square Park, and almost everything else there is to see and do lies between these two points. You’ll need a few hours, at most, to experience Canton and Brewers Hill.
- There are over fifteen different restaurants, pubs, and eateries in O’Donnell Square Park – plan on eating there.
Parking in Canton/ Brewers Hill
There is streetside parking in Canton but make sure to read the signs before you park. Some sections are strictly for the residents that live there and require special permits.
Canton Waterfront Park Parking Lot – Free
- Address: Korean Veterans Memorial Blvd, Baltimore, MD 21224
- Rates: FREE
3400 Boston Street Parking
- Address: 3400 Boston St, Baltimore, MD 21224
- Rates: Rates range from free to $15 depending on the time.
Things to do in Canton/Brewers Hill
O’Donnell Square Park
Quaint and quintessentially Baltimore in every way, O’Donnell Square Park is a two-block square lined with shops, restaurants, bars, and cafes. It can get lively at night and on weekends and it’s a fun spot to just chill with some friends, have a few drinks, and catch a bite to eat.
Wander a bit off the park and keep your eyes peeled for the beautiful architecture that houses the Canton branch of the Enoch Pratt Free Library as well as the Church on the Square. You’ll see more of the traditional brick row houses, painted screens, and marble stoops that Baltimore architecture is known for.
Canton Waterfront Park/ Maryland Korean War Memorial
The Canton Waterfront Park and Maryland Korean War Memorial are fairly new additions to the neighborhood, having only been developed in the 2000s. Baltimoreans love to go there for a daily jog or to walk their pets.
It’s a great spot to have picnics, too; pack up some food, grab a bottle of wine and a blanket, and go enjoy the day with scenic views of the harbor. During the summer, there are tons of free performances and concerts held there for that perfect summer picnic vibe.
Other park amenities include two marinas, a public boat launch, and a fishing pier!
WTMD’s First Thursdays
The first Thursdays of every month from May to September transforms the Canton Waterfront Park to WTMD’s First Thursdays by Brewers Hill. The festival happens rain or shine and includes free outdoor concert performances, tons of local food and drink vendors, and an overall good time for the entire family.
This is a great opportunity to see several artists and bands live and on stage. In the past, there have been performances by Jah Works, Strand of Oaks, Emily Wolfe, and local rock gods, Super City.
Annual Events in Canton/ Brewers Hill
Canton and Brewers Hill is home to many annual festivals that are worth attending! Check out some of my faves below.
Seafood Festival (September)
There are so many seafood festivals in Maryland but this specific one held annually at the Canton Waterfront Park attracts hundreds of people. The combination of the lush park and the scenic views added to all of the fresh, delicious seafood that is available is exquisite.
You can feast on lobster bisque, shrimp salad, crab cakes, local oysters, and more. There are also drink stalls, cooking demos, family-friendly games, and live music for everyone to enjoy!
Baltimore Harbor 4th of July Fireworks (July)
While the Inner Harbor or Federal Hill are often the most popular places to view the 4th of July fireworks, people forget that you get a spectacular vantage point from Canton Waterfront Park. You’ll be right by the water and have unobstructed views of the fireworks and it won’t be as congested as the Inner Harbor or Federal Hill – a win all around!
Light Night Canton (November)
Head on over to O’Donnell Square Park for their annual Light Night Canton festival that is fun for the entire family. There are light installations and shows, live music, performances, a dance tent, arts and crafts stalls, food and drink vendors, and a designated Kid Zone full of games.
Grab a Bite to Eat
There are some restaurants and eateries in Canton and Brewers Hill that have made a believer out of me such as their famous corner eatery, Dangerously Delicious Pies – a pie filled with vegan chili or lump crab? Yes, please! Here are a couple more you shouldn’t skip:
Nacho Mamas (Canton)
Nacho Mamas is a quirky cantina that serves delicious Mexican food with a twist. The garlic shrimp tossed in their secret blend of spices and their steak and shrimp fajitas satisfy every culinary craving.
El Bufalo Tequila Bar + Kitchen
This restaurant has a really exciting menu that has been influenced by countries all over the world. Pair your tequila shots with Korean beef lettuce wraps, chicken tikka masala tacos, or a carnitas burrito.
Canton Pretzel Store
This isn’t like your Auntie Anne’s (though they are delicious!); imagine fresh pretzels baked with crab dip seasoned with Old Bay. Try their cinnamon sugar soft pretzel if you have a sweet tooth and pair it with one of their fresh fruit smoothies or a milkshake!
