Greenspring

As you enter Greenspring, hear the Eastern Bluebird's conversational warbles and the American Goldfinch's relaxing songs. Bordering over 100 acres of urban woodlands, Greenspring brings the serenity of nature to Baltimore City. Despite its quiet atmosphere and wealth of greenery, the neighborhood offers convenient access to city amenities and attractions. As Blake Batema of Garner + Co explains, “It’s a mix between being close to a lot of stuff and having a lot of beautiful scenery.”

Less than 5 miles from downtown and 4 miles from the Baltimore County line, the neighborhood balances two different ways of life. Inventory in the community mainly consists of row houses and duplexes that span city blocks, though the occasional street is sprinkled with single-family homes and a suburban feel. Trees shade the narrow sidewalks and compact lawns. Some homes feature recent paint jobs with vibrant front doors serving as a color pop, while others maintain their original early-to-mid 20th-century style. Turnkey two-bedroom homes cost between $123,000 and $220,000, while larger homes range from $170,000 to $360,000. To earn sweat equity, purchase a home in as-is condition for between $22,000 and $109,000.

During the school year, students can attend Park Heights Academy before transitioning to Pimlico Elementary/Middle, rated C-minus by Niche. For high school, students choose where to attend. One option within walking distance is Baltimore Polytechnic Institute, locally known as Poly, which boasts an A rating from Niche and ranks as No. 6 for Best Public High School Teachers in Baltimore Area. With a curriculum focused heavily on science, technology, engineering and math, the school prepares students for college and the future. Poly offers Advanced Placement courses, an honors program, and Air Force JROTC.

Before you settle in for the evening, make your way through Woodberry Woods to access Cold Spring Park, a connection point along the Jones Falls Trail. Walk along the 10-mile paved walkway to gander at fleabanes, wineberries and wild teasel. For additional recreational activities, head less than a mile south to Druid Hill. Across its 745 acres, the park includes a pool, tennis courts, disc golf, basketball courts, and a playground. On days when it’s too cold to be outside, experience African history right in the neighborhood at the Sankofa Children’s Museum of African Culture. Don’t be fooled by the name—with its interactive exhibits and musical performances, the museum brings entertainment and education for all ages.

While you won’t find restaurants within Greenspring, you will find a wealth of them 2 miles away. Catch the bus on Park Heights Ave and travel into Hampden for the most popular eateries in Baltimore City. Order the cast iron steak for dinner and finish the night with vanilla bean crème brûlée at The Food Market. According to local food critics, this spot includes high-quality ingredients and caters to those with dietary restrictions.

Hampden isn’t the only place worth visiting nearby. Reach larger shopping districts like Owings Mills within 10 miles of the neighborhood. “Greenspring ties into a ton of stuff not too far away in the county. It’s close to the city center, where you can branch out to a bunch of places nearby. It’s a beautiful area,” Batema says. Whether you are looking to stock up at Costco or find your favorite snack at Trader Joe’s, the neighborhood can connect you to exactly what you’re looking for. Alternatively, for a quick stop close to home, Save a Lot and Rite Aid provide the essentials you need just a block away. To walk the line between suburban life and city convenience, come to Greenspring.

Written By

Alicia Swain

Photography Contributed By

Ren Dodge

Video By

Sara Warthen