One of Baltimore’s oldest urban parks is a hub of community life and the perfect place to relax, play or picnic.
Lovingly nicknamed the “Best Backyard in Baltimore,” Patterson Park encompasses green fields, paved walkways, playgrounds and pavilions. Local residents use the park year-round for athletics matches, sporting events and live music concerts. Come here on a sunny day to enjoy a picnic with family and friends.
Learn about the history of the area. The park was constructed in the 19th century on a plot of land owned by William Patterson, after whom the park is named. The area had originally served as a stronghold against invasion by British troops during the War of 1812 and was later used as a base for troops again during the Civil War.
Make your way to the park’s Pagoda, built in 1891 and designed in the Victorian style of the day. Admire its Oriental architecture, which reflects William Patterson’s link to the silk trade in China. Visit on a Sunday between April and October to climb to the top to enjoy the view over the park.
Stroll around the Boat Lake, used by many for fishing and bird watching. Continue on to the Marble Fountain, the park’s first architectural installation, erected in 1865 and restored to its former glory through a series of renovation projects.
Take a dip in the public swimming pool, open during spring and summer. The pool features a toddlers’ swimming area and lap pool and hosts swimming lessons and aqua aerobics. Visitors over the age of 3 are required to pay an entrance fee to use the pool.
Throughout fall and winter (October to March), the Dominic Mimi DiPietro Family Skating Center is a hive of activity, offering public skating sessions, broomball and sled hockey events. Watch a local ice hockey game and warm up next to the fireplace with a drink from the refreshment stand. Fees apply for admission and skate rental.
Paterson Park is located in southeast Baltimore City, between East Baltimore Street and Eastern Avenue. Reach the park easily by car and use the public parking available nearby. Alternatively, ride a bus on one of several local routes.
