Irvington - Baltimore, MD Area Guide

At one time, residents of Irvington referred to the neighborhood as "Skulltown" because of the three sizable cemeteries within its boundaries. Irvington proudly displays much of its history to this day with mid-century architecture and the historic landmarks placed throughout the neighborhood, including the church at 4113 Frederick Avenue whose decorative walls once housed the Irvington Theatre.

Head east into downtown Baltimore if you're looking to experience some of the many museums and art galleries the city contains. Open on Saturday and Sunday from May through December each year, the Edgar Allan Poe House gives visitors a look into the home where the famous author once lived.

Located at 600 Charles Street in Baltimore's Mount Vernon Cultural District, the Walters Art Museum opens its doors free to the public Wednesday through Sunday each week. The thousands of pieces within this gallery span over 55 centuries of international culture.

Just because Irvington packs a lot of history and residential blocks within its borders does not mean the locals don't have places to cut loose and enjoy an evening out. Frederick Avenue provides Irvington residents with a number of traditional American restaurants and low-key bars, and nearby Baltimore neighborhoods ensure more entertainment is never far away.

If you're in search of a unique dining experience, travel south into Arbutus and check out Taste of Aloha. Burger lovers need to try the Kanak Attack Burger, though don't ask them to hold the pepperjack cheese, as the chefs at Taste of Aloha do not allow it. Meals at Aloha are surprisingly affordable, though to get the most bang for your buck without sacrificing flavor, stop by during lunch hours and order a lunch plate.

With its beginnings as a speak-easy during the prohibition era, Kibby's Restaurant and Lounge still retains much of its old-fashioned charm. Shrimp lovers must not miss out on the shrimp salad, said by many to be one of the best in all of Baltimore. The lounge in the back makes for a classic dive bar hang-out, and sports fans can enjoy the trophy case packed full of Colts and Orioles memorabilia.

The fun in Irvington continues well into the night in its many restaurant and bar combination establishments. Head north from the neighborhood to Caton Castle, one of the last true jazz clubs left in the country. Catch an amazing live show while enjoying some great food, drinks and exceptional service. Be sure to check out their website to see a list of upcoming performances.

Route 144, also known as Frederick Avenue, runs through northern Irvington, and major thruway Wilkens Avenue borders the neighborhood to the south, making for easy access by car throughout the city and beyond.

In addition to Uber and Lyft services, a number of Baltimore taxi cab companies offer services to the neighborhood and can be easily hailed along major streets. The Maryland Transit Administration provides Irvington with bus stops along Yale, Wilkens and Frederick Avenues.

Cheap public parking can be found on major roads in Irvington. The neighborhood lacks designated biking lanes, unfortunately, though the area is very walkable.

Head north of Irvington along Hilton Street for a great place to spend a sunny afternoon with the family. The expansive greenspace of Daisy Field is freely accessible to the public. The trees lend natural beauty to the area, and the meadow makes for a great place to have a picnic or play fetch with the dog. Bring some friends along to shoot hoops at the nearby basketball court.

The Sowebo Arts and Music Festival can be found on the corner of Arlington and Hollins Street in the neighborhood of Hollins Market. Bringing the surrounding community together in May of each year, the festival is free to the public and a great place to bring along the whole family. With three stages of rotating live music, regional art displays, interactive children's activities and local vendors selling food and drink, Sowebo Arts and Music Festival has something for everyone.

The average cost of living in Irvington comes out to 6 percent lower than Baltimore's average, and a month's rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the neighborhood averages $650. A day pass for the MTA, granting access to both the bus routes and metro subway, costs $3.50. A pint at most Irvington pubs costs around $5. Baltimore gas prices hover around 3 percent above the national average.

Irvington residents can expect to do most of their local shopping along Frederick or Wilkens Avenue. If you're looking for a place to buy the latest in designer brands, head east along Wilkens Avenue into Hollins Market. E-Z Mart and 7-Eleven make up the local convenience store options, and you can head southwest along Wilkens to reach the nearest supermarket, Giant.

If you love searching high and low for bargains and hidden treasures, Collins Avenue Thrift just north of Frederick Avenue has what you're looking for. In addition to men’s, ladies’ and children's clothing, Collins Avenue Thrift sells furniture, electrical equipment and appliances. Those who love to spend an afternoon curled up with a book should stop by as well, as Collins Avenue Thrift has a large selection of books that updates frequently.

East of Irvington on 1835 Washington Boulevard, DeBois Textile Mill Outlet specializes in fabrics and vintage clothing. Those who love to work to find that perfect piece they're looking for can pour over the large bins of vintage fashion pieces separated by style and type. Fabric sales happen often, so check back if you're looking to buy in bulk.

Head northeast into downtown Baltimore to pay a visit to The Baltimore Farmers' Market & Bazaar and support local growers, butchers and crafters. The largest producers-only market in Maryland, The Baltimore Farmers' Market & Bazaar opens in April and runs through December each year.