Baltimore LGBT Visitors Guide 2012 by Baltimore Gay Life

2012 EDITION

VISITORS GUIDE

Baltimore LGBT Visitors Guide 2012

WHAT’S INSIDE THIS VISITORS GUIDE

6 The GLCCB

30 Baltimore Map

50 Activities

55 Calendar

Baltimore’s LGBT Community Center

8 Safe Spaces

Introducing the Bmoreinclusive Project

Complete overview of the Baltimore City area

Sporting, support and social groups

A full year of activities across the city

44 Neighborhoods

52 Congregations

58 Essentials

Baltimore’s LGBTfriendly communitities

Welcoming faiths and denominations

12 John Waters 13 Mary L. Washington, Ph.D. 25 Rev. Mother Meredith Moise 25 Rahne Alexander

Important information for visitors

26 John Shields 36 Shawnna Alexander 36 Charlie Mumford

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this publication. The GLCCB/Gay Life assume no responsibility for the correctness of information published herein. Copyright 2012 by The GLCCB/Gay Life. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the written consent of The GLCCB/Gay Life.

Baltimore LGBT Visitors Guide 2012

TO BALTIMORE, MARYLAND In this first annual LGBT Visitors Guide to Baltimore, you will find tons of useful information about how to locate welcoming establishments during your visit to Charm City. Discover where to dine—from the casual to upscale—throughout the city. Find out about our town’s best museums, galleries, theaters, and other attractions, many of which are recognized as some of the country’s best. Check out great shops in many neighborhoods as well as an array of area nightlife. Learn about LGBT meet-ups, recreational and social groups, bowlers, bridge players, yoga studios, and gyms. You can also find a long list of welcoming religious congregations, as well as several support groups that meet throughout any given week. Hear from prominent Baltimoreans on how they entertain their LGBT visitors: see which bars Filmmaker John Waters frequents with his friends; learn about Delegate Mary Washington’s favorite about-town activities; find out where Chef John Shields likes to eat; and see what season reflects Baltimore’s best, according to Queer Cultural Ambassador Rahne Alexander. Don’t forget to check out our Calendar of Events, which includes annual festivals and fairs, 2012 theatrical events, and regular LGBT-happenings about town. While we list over 200 restaurants, shops, bars, attractions, hotels, congregations and groups, there are many, many more welcoming establishments we did not include. How did we choose these? Simply put, we asked around. We talked to our partners and friends, we interviewed neighborhood associations, GLCCB staff and board, and some of our strongest supporters. We even slipped in a few of our personal favorites. And with all of the friendly places that didn’t make the cut—we’ll be sure to highlight them in future editions of the LGBT Visitors Guide, giving you all the more reason to come back! With all of these great suggestions, we were able to create the first of many annual LGBT guides to help you plan your Baltimore vacation. We thank Visit Baltimore—the city’s official destination marketing organization—for launching its LGBT tourism marketing campaign several years ago and for its generous support of this guide. We hope you have a wonderfully welcoming visit. Enjoy your stay!

The Staff & Board of the GLCCB

The GLCCB, 241 W. Chase St. Baltimore, MD 21201 The Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender Community Center of Baltimore and Central Maryland (GLCCB) publishes Gay Life, produces Baltimore Pride, and provides numerous other services to Baltimore’s LGBT community. Learn more at GLCCB.org or by calling 410.837.5445.

Baltimore LGBT Visitors Guide 2012

Gay Life has been a free publication of the GLCCB since 1977. We distribute approximately 10,000 copies of each issue throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. Gay Life offers insightful and engaging coverage on local events, conversations with visiting celebrities, and in depth explorations of important topics that affect the LGBT community. Visit us at BaltimoreGayLife.com or call 410.837.7748. Editor Maggie Beetz

Advertising Sabre Chase

Art Director M. Cory Burgess

Contributors Anthony Moll, Doug Rose, Gary Wolnitzek

BALTIMORE’S LGBT COMMUNITY CENTER

n 1977—less than 10 years after the Stonewall riots in New York—the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Community Center of Baltimore and Central Maryland (GLCCB) was founded. At the time, Baltimore was by no means a stranger to LGBT activism. During the late ‘60s and early ‘70s a number of lesbian journals began publication in Baltimore. In 1972, the Baltimore Chapter of the Metropolitan Community Church (MCC) was established. There were also groups for AfricanAmerican lesbians and, in 1973, gay and lesbian Catholics. Gay student groups at local universities and the Baltimore Pride rally both appeared in 1975. That spring, the Baltimore Gay Alliance (BGA) had its first meeting. The BGA began its work galvanizing the community into one entity, celebrating diversity and offering sanctuary. By 1977 it was clear that the BGA needed to form a unified community center, and the articles of incorporation were signed on March 28, 1977 establishing the Gay Community Center of Baltimore (GCCB). In 1985, Lesbian was added to the organization’s name to create the most commonly know acronym: GLCCB. In 2002—in an effort to remain inclusive—the GLCCB incorporated the entire community it serves into its name to become the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender Community Center of Baltimore and Central Maryland (GLBTCCBCM) while retaining the familiar (and more manageable) nickname of “the GLCCB.” At first the GCCB survived only through the hard work and self-sacrifice of committed volunteers who provided meeting space, operated a switchboard, and distributed a newsletter out of homes and basements. The newly established GCCB Health Clinic—later to become Chase Brexton Health Services, Maryland’s LGBT health provider—shared space with MCC. In 1980 however, the GCCB finally found a home at 241 West Chase Street, the building it still owns today.

GAY LIFE In 1979, The GCCB newsletter evolved into the Baltimore Gay Paper—now known as Gay Life. Today, Gay Life distributes approximately 10,000 papers throughout the MidAtlantic region. Gay Life offers insightful and engaging coverage of local events, as well as national and international news. Gay Life regularly tackles important and relevant topics such as personal finance for same-sex partners, local resources for LGBT youth, faith-based support, and health care issues. Gay Life also covers local theater, concerts, art shows, fashion, festivals, films, discussions, fundraisers, contests, and regularly includes opinion pieces and Q&As with local celebrities and community figures. Gay Life is a free publication of the GLCCB that is available in print and online at BaltimoreGayLife.com.

BALTIMORE PRIDE Baltimore Pride has celebrated the diversity of our community in Maryland and throughout the Mid-Atlantic for more than 35 years. In the decades since, Baltimore Pride has grown to become Maryland’s largest LGBT visibility event, providing an opportunity for the greater Maryland community to experience and learn more about the LGBT community through a weekend of wonderful events and exhibitions. Attended annually by an estimated 30,000 people, Baltimore Pride is recognized not only as the premier LGBT event in Maryland, but also one of the largest festivals in Baltimore City. The Parade and Block Party are held in Mount Vernon, one of the most historic areas of the city and one of the centers of LGBT life in Baltimore (learn more about this neighborhood on p. 44). The Festival takes place in a lakeside setting in beautiful Druid Hill Park, which provides a pleasant and casual environment for the festivities of the day. The origins of Baltimore Pride date back to 1975 and the GLCCB has been the producer of Baltimore Pride since 1977. Learn more at BaltimorePride.org.

THE GLCCB’S OFFICE AT 241 WEST CHASE STREET

Things have changed markedly from the days when the GLCCB operated out of basements, fought for its right to hold the Pride Celebration, or watched gay rights bill after gay rights bill get voted down by the Baltimore City Council. With ever-increasing acceptance, things may appear to be less challenging now, but there is still much work to be done. There will always be challenges, both personal and societal. Through individual gifts, generous bequests, fundraisers, and grants, the GLCCB has been able to expand its services to include more support groups, increased educational opportunities, and more community outreach services. Learn more at GLCCB.org.

Baltimore LGBT Visitors Guide 2012

THE BMOREINCLUSIVE PROJECT

hen young activists Matt Wolff, Ryan Derham and Andrew Huff couldn’t find an easy way to identify LGBTfriendly businesses and services in Baltimore, they decided to try a different approach: creating one themselves. Baltimoreans can spot stickers that identify some businesses in the Mount Vernon neighborhood, and across the city, as organizations that are eager to identify themselves as welcoming and inclusive locations. The stickers, displayed at the entrances of participating businesses, offer a clear message printed atop a rainbow-bedecked outline of the city: “This space does not discriminate based on sexual orientation or gender identity.” The stickers are just one aspect of the BMoreInclusive project, a safe-space campaign started by the three scholars from Goucher College. Beyond icons indentifying inclusive businesses, the project aims to help mend the gap between the city and its LGBT community. In addition to the sticker, the group seeks to provide welcoming businesses with information about preventing the harassment of their LGBT patrons and to offer an online resource with information about improving Baltimore’s LGBT community. Along with an interactive map identifying participating organizations, visitors to the group’s website (BMoreInclusive.wordpress.com) will find a list of both local and national resources for LGBT people and allies, an outline of LGBT-related legislation important to Baltimoreans, and a regularly updated blog. The three students began the project when they recognized the lack of a clearly marked LGBT neighborhood in Baltimore. The group knew that print and online resources pointed to Mount Vernon as the city’s LGBT neighborhood, yet they found no way for visitors and newcomers to the community to clearly identify where this welcoming zone begins or ends. When the group looked to local and regional organizations during research for the project, they found that they were not alone in their concern; the Gay,

ANDREW HUFF, RYAN DERHAM AND MATT WOLFF

Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Community Center of Baltimore and Central Maryland (GLCCB) receives more than 2,500 phone calls, emails, and face-to-face questions each year about where to find businesses and services in Baltimore that are inclusive of the LGBT community. Spurred by this reality, the group created the Bmoreinclusive project both as an investment in the city and to fulfill a community service requirement for their studies. “We’re learning as we go,” explained Huff of the project. “We’re taking it one business at a time.” Still in its early stages, the project has already partnered with three organizations who have agreed to display the BMoreInclusive symbol: Michaelangelo’s Pizza, Chained Desires, and the GLCCB, the home of Gay Life and a hub for LGBT resources in Baltimore. The project is similar to models already in place in locations such as Philadelphia, where rainbow strips and banners are affixed to the street signs in the LGBT neighborhood, and the Morningside Heights neighborhood of New York City, where Columbia University students launched a similar sticker-based project.

BUSINESSES INTERESTED IN PARTICIPATING OR LEARNING MORE ABOUT THE PROJECT CAN CONTACT THE GROUP AT BMOREINCLUSIVE@GMAIL.COM

By Anthony Moll

Baltimore LGBT Visitors Guide 2012

INNER HARBOR PADDLEBOATS

AMERICAN VISIONARY ART MUSEUM

MOUNT VERNON

LITTLE ITALY

THE FRANCE-MERRICK PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

FELL’S POINT

BROMO SELTZER ARTS TOWER

BALTIMORE MUSEUM OF ART

LEXINGTON MARKET

OUTDOOR DINING

NATIONAL AQUARIUM

FORT MCHENRY

REGINALD F. LEWIS MUSEUM

WASHINGTON MONUMENT

SPORTS LEGENDS AT CAMDEN YARDS

PIER SIX CONCERT PAVILION

BALTIMORE VISITOR CENTER

JOHN WATERS Filmmaker, author, performer, and provocateur

When LGBT friends come to Baltimore: I take all my gay friends to the straight hipster bars (Club Charles, Rocket To Venus, Ottobar) because these places are so mixed, sexy, unpredictable and like all of Baltimore… on the edge of glamour.

Photo by Greg Gorman

Identifies: Gay, but sometimes “gayly incorrect”

MARY L. WASHINGTON, PH.D. Delegate, Maryland General Assembly Identifies: Same gender loving/Lesbian When LGBT friends come to Baltimore: I love giving “sampler” tours of Baltimore. We might walk or bike around Lake Montebello, then head south to Patterson Park, followed by a visit to Broadway Market at Fell’s Point and stroll down Thames Street. Or maybe take in Little Italy, the Reginald Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History, the Inner Harbor, and Fort McHenry.

Baltimore LGBT Visitors Guide 2012

Baltimore also offers exciting outdoor events yearround: springtime’s tulips at Sherwood Gardens and the Charles Village Festival; summer’s Baltimore Pride Parade and Block Party; autumn’s Baltimore Black Pride celebration; and the yearend “Miracle on 34th Street” holiday lights. Every weekend visit should include Saturday morning at the outdoor Waverly Farmers’ Market. My favorite place to take visitors to eat, drink, dine, and shop is Belvedere Square. And a perfect evening with friends includes dinner at Tapas Teatro, a film at the Charles Theater, dessert at Sophie’s Crepes, and drinks at Club Charles.

Photo courtesy of Scarborough Fair Bed & Breakfast

BROTHERS GRIMM ROOM AT SCARBOROUGH FAIR BED & BREAKFAST

1840s Carrollton Inn 50 Albemarle St. 410.385.1840 1840sCarrolltonInn.com Admiral Fell Inn 888 S. Broadway 410.522.7377 HarborMagic.com Embassy Suites — Baltimore/Hunt Valley 213 International Circle Hunt Valley, MD 410.584.1400 EmbassySuites.com Gramercy Mansion 1400 Greenspring Valley Rd. 410.486.2405 GramercyMansion.com

Baltimore LGBT Visitors Guide 2012

Hampton Inn Baltimore Downtown/ Convention Center 550 Washington Blvd. 410.539.7888 HamptonInn.com HI — Baltimore Hostel 17 W. Mulberry St. 410.576.8880 BaltimoreHostel.org Hilton Baltimore Convention Center Hotel 401 W. Pratt St. 443.573.8700 Baltimore.Hilton.com Holiday Inn Baltimore Inner Harbor 301 W. Lombard St. 410.685.350020 HolidayInn.com

Hotel Brexton Baltimore 868 Park Ave. 443.478.2100 HotelBrexton.com Hyatt Regency Baltimore 300 Light St. 410.528.1234 Baltimore.Hyatt.com Inn at 2920 2920 Elliott St. 410.342.4450 TheInnat2920.com Inn at the Colonnade Baltimore, a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel 4 W. University Pkwy. 410.235.5400 ColonnadeBaltimore.com

WHAT IS TAG-APPROVED? TAG Approved® gay-friendly hotels and attractions meet six LGBT welcoming qualifications: • Enforce non-discriminatory policies including “sexual orientation.” • Treat heterosexual and domestic partners equally in personnel policies. • Provides LGBT diversity and sensitivity training for employees. • Empower customers and employees to be “watchdogs” of its gay and lesbian business practices. • Gives back to their community. • Employs staff who reflect the diversity of their community. Learn more at TagApproved.com

Inn at Henderson’s Wharf 1000 Fell St. 410.539.2000 HarborMagic.com InterContinental Harbor Court Baltimore 550 Light St. 410.234.0550 HarborCourt.com Monaco Baltimore 2 N. Charles St. 443.692.6170 Monaco-Baltimore.com Mount Vernon Hotel 24 W. Franklin St. 410.727.2000 MountVernonBaltimore.com Pier 5 Hotel 711 Eastern Ave. 410.539.2000 HarborMagic.com Radisson Plaza Lord Baltimore 20 W. Baltimore St. 410.539.8400 Radisson.com/LordBaltimore

Scarborough Fair Bed & Breakfast 1 E. Montgomery St. 410.837.0010 ScarboroughFairBAndB.com Sheraton Baltimore City Center 101 W. Fayette St. 410.752.1100 SheratonBaltimoreCityCenter.com Sheraton Inner Harbor Hotel 300 S. Charles St. 410.962.8300 Sheraton.com/InnerHarbor Sleep Inn and Suites Downtown Inner Harbor 301 Fallsway 410.779.6166 SleepInn.com Tremont Plaza Hotel 222 St. Paul Place 410.727.2222 TremontPlazaHotel.com Businesses with highlighted listings are proudly advertising in the Baltimore LGBT Visitors Guide 2012

Baltimore LGBT Visitors Guide 2012

Photo courtesy of Visit Baltimore

ANIMALS

GALLERIES

The Maryland Zoo In Baltimore 1876 Mansion House Dr. 410.396.7102 MarylandZoo.org

Area 405 Gallery 405 E. Oliver St. 410.528.1968 Area405.com

Located in Druid Hill Park (home of

The primitive urban character reflects its long

Baltimore Pride!) the zoo is home to 2,000

history and provides an alternative setting to

animals plus a Polar Bear Watch and an

traditional “white-wall” galleries.

award-winning Children’s Zoo. Learn about animals in your own backyard, trek through the Maryland Wilderness, or embark on an African Journey.

National Aquarium 501 E. Pratt St. 410.576.3800 Aqua.org

Art Gallery of Fell’s Point 1716 Thames St. 410.327.1272 FellsPointGallery.org Non-profit artists’ cooperative featuring

Metro Gallery 1700 N. Charles St. 410.244.0899 TheMetroGallery.net A multipurpose performance space, art gallery, and bar.

LIVE THEATER An die Musik LIVE 409 N. Charles St. 410.385.2638 AndieMusikLive.com An intimate classical, jazz and world music venue and part of the non-profit, MusikNOW.

original art and prints from local artists.

Baltimore Concert Opera 11 W. Mt. Vernon Pl. 443.445.0226 BaltimoreConcertOpera.com

ring shaped exhibit, the Dolphin Amphitheater,

Load of Fun Arts 120 W. North Ave. LoadOfFun.net info@loadoffun.net

and tropical birds, poisonous frogs, sloths, and

A community based gallery presenting

in an affordable and intimate setting that

monkeys in the world-renowned rain forest.

emerging and established artists.

highlights the human voice.

Three-hour showcase of more than 16,000 animals including sharks in a 225,000-gallon

Baltimore LGBT Visitors Guide 2012

BCO offers a new experience by operating

Baltimore Symphony Orchestra Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall 1212 Cathedral St. 410.783.8000 BSOMusic.com

Everyman Theatre 1727 N. Charles St. 410.752.2208 EverymanTheatre.org Accessible and affordable quality plays

Patricia & Arthur Modell Performing Arts Center at The Lyric 140 W. Mount Royal Ave. 410.685.5086 LyricOperaHouse.com

Internationally recognized as having a

in an intimate setting.

One of the city’s most lively and important

preeminent place among the world’s most important orchestras.

CENTERSTAGE 700 N. Calvert St. 410.332.0033 Centerstage.org Not-for-profit theater celebrates its 50th Anniversary Season with smart, provocative, and entertaining theater; a consistently broad range of productions in two intimate performing spaces; and a variety of dramaturgical, community, and educational programs.

Creative Alliance at the Patterson 3134 Eastern Ave. 410.276.1651 CreativeAlliance.org A dynamic center of art in all genres, Creative Alliance supports area artists and advocates for cultural expression rooted in a sense of place.

Fell’s Point Corner Theater 251 South Ann St. 410.276.7837 FPCT.org Located in a historic brick firehouse the FPCT offers an intimate setting for theater as well as art and acting workshops.

France-Merrick Performing Arts Center 12 N. Eutaw St. 410.837.7400 France-MerrickPAC.com

institutions for more than a century.

Peabody Conservatory, Miriam A. Friedberg Concert Hall 1 E. Mount Vernon Place 410.234.4500 Peabody.jhu.edu Built in neoclassical style, the Concert Hall is one of the oldest recital halls in America.

The formerly named Hippodrome Theatre

Single Carrot Theater 122 W. North Ave. 443.844.9253 SingleCarrot.com

is the centerpiece of world-class stage

Carefully selected diverse and challenging

performances.

productions that complement one another.

The Mobtown Theater at Meadow Mill 3600 Clipper Mill Rd. Ste 114 MobtownPlayers.net

Spotlighters Theatre 817 Saint Paul St. 410.752.1225 Spotlighters.org

Born out of John Hopkins University, this

Exceptional, diverse, creative, bold, and

theater company specializing in classical and

affordable theatrical productions that

new works.

stimulate both audience and artist.

Baltimore LGBT Visitors Guide 2012

MOVIE THEATERS

MUSEUMS

women artists, writers, designers and directors,

Bengie’s Drive-In 3417 Eastern Blvd. Middle River 410.687.5627

American Visionary Art Museum 800 Key Hwy. 410.244.1900 AVAM.org

with a focus on producing original works.

Just outside of Baltimore, this drive-in is

America’s official national museum

worth a trip down memory lane.

and education center for intuitive,

Strand Theater 1823 N. Charles St. 443.874.4917 Strand-Theater.org Dedicated to providing opportunities for

Toby’s Dinner Theater Best Western Hotel & Conference Center 5625 O’Donnell St. 410.649.1660 TobysDinnerTheater.com Broadway and original musicals with an

self-taught artistry offers quirky, fun,

The Charles Theater 1711 N. Charles St. 410.727.FILM TheCharles.com The oldest movie theater in Baltimore is known for screening independent and foreign films.

exceptional buffet-style dinner.

Vagabond Players 806 S. Broadway 410.563.9135 VagabondPlayers.org

The Landmark Theatre 645 S. President St. 410.624.2622 LandmarkTheatres.com Located in Harbor East, this first-run

“America’s Oldest Little Theatre,” continuous-

Hollywood cinema offers 7 screens, stadium

ly operating since 1916, has produced plays

seating, a full bar and gourmet concessions.

by H.L. Mencken, Eugene O’Neill, and more.

Windup Space 12 W. North Ave. 410.244.8855 TheWindupSpace.com Bar and art space regularly featuring homegrown art, music, and film.

Baltimore LGBT Visitors Guide 2012

The Senator 5904 York Rd. 410.323.4665 TheSenatorTheatre.com

and fantastic exhibits you won’t find anywhere else in Baltimore.

Baltimore Museum of Art 10 Art Museum Dr. 443.573.1700 ArtBMA.org Collection includes 90,000 works of art, the largest holding of works by Henri Matisse, The Cone Collection, plus the BMA Gift Shop, Gertrude’s, and Summer Jazz Concerts.

Frederick Douglass-Isaac Myers Maritime Park and Museum 1417 Thames Street 410.685.0295 The museum gallery and interactive learning centers tell the story of Frederick Douglass and Isaac Myers, as well as the founding of

A historic single-screen Art Deco movie theater

the Chesapeake Marine Railway and Dry Dock

that first opened to the public in 1939.

Company, America’s first African-Americanowned shipyard.

The National Great Blacks In Wax Museum 1601 E. North Ave. # 3 410.563.3404 GreatBlacksInWax.org

Maryland Science Center 601 Light St. 410.685.5225 MarylandScienceCenter.org

The National Great Blacks In Wax Museum

planetarium, and interactive science

Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African-American History & Culture 830 E. Pratt St. 443.263.1800 AfricanAmericanCulture.org

is among the nation’s most dynamic cultural

encounters.

The largest African-American museum on the

Family fun exhibits plus IMAX theater,

and educational institutions. Well-known for its moving exhibit on the Middle Passage, the museum highlights the stories that make up the African-American experience.

Maryland Historical Society 201 W. Monument St. 410.685.3750 MdHS.org

East Coast, The Reginald F. Lewis Museum

Port Discovery Children’s Museum 35 Market Place 410.727.8120 PortDiscovery.org

brings Maryland to the world through its extensive permanent collection, and the world to Maryland through its educational programs and special exhibitions.

This museum offers three floors of

Founded in 1844, MdHS is the state’s oldest

The Walters Art Museum 600 N. Charles St. 410.547.9000 TheWalters.org

continuously operating cultural institution

Art and artifacts from pre-dynastic Egypt

educational and interactive exhibits, programs and activities for children ages 10 and under.

with over 350,000 objects and seven million books and documents, including Francis Scott Key’s original manuscript of the poem that became “The Star-Spangled Banner.”

to 20th-century Europe include more

Businesses with highlighted listings are proudly advertising in the Baltimore LGBT Visitors Guide 2012

than 30,000 objects in this internationallyrenowned museum.

TOURS Baltimore Ghost Tours Fell’s Point & Mt. Vernon BaltimoreGhostTours.com

In 1814, the Star Spangled Banner was written at Fort McHenry by Francis Scott Key.

Under the cover of night, explore the many haunted pubs, shops, and residences of Fell’s Point and Mount Vernon.

Baltimore LGBT Visitors Guide 2012

REV. MOTHER MEREDITH MOISE Old Catholic Priest, Vice Chairperson of Baltimore Black Pride Identifies: Afro Latina Lesbian When LGBT friends come to Baltimore: I try to show my LGBT family and friends the soul of Baltimore. We may visit the Great Blacks In Wax Museum then travel down to neighborhoods like Mt. Vernon (the Gayborhood), Station North, or Charles Village. I have also taken folks to Fell’s Point, Hampden, and Canton— neighborhoods where Baltimore meets Bohemian… and we love it!

RAHNE ALEXANDER

Musician, Artist, and Operations Manager of the Maryland Film Festival Identifies: Queer Cultural Ambassador When LGBT friends come to Baltimore: I always try to make my friends visit in September when the weather is great and the city always looks fantastic. We start with brunch either at Clementine or Tortilleria Sinaloa, and then we’re off to pay our respects at the graves of Divine and Dorothy Parker, followed by shopping at Atomic Books and Normal’s. We’ll spin by the Bromo Seltzer Tower on the way to the American Visionary Art Museum. The ultimate goal will be Bengies Drive-in for a double feature. But after dinner at Indigma, we’ll get distracted into a mini-pub crawl between Port in a Storm and The Laughing Pint, where we’ll enjoy some shuffleboard before we realize it’s too late to catch the second feature. We’ll close down the bar, get some package goods, and in the morning my friends always want to start looking for apartments!

Baltimore LGBT Visitors Guide 2012

JOHN SHIELDS Chef/Proprietor, Gertrude’s Restaurant Identifies: Gay When LGBT friends come to Baltimore: Because my partner and I run the restaurant at the Baltimore Museum of Art, the tour begins there—literally. Then we treat our guests to lunch at Gertrude’s, which gives us a chance to visit. And if our friends have to wait for us, they can browse BMA Shop’s fantastic collection of gifts and artsy treats. We also like to show off Baltimore’s gorgeous waterfront, including Federal Hill. After a stop at Cross Street Market, we hop to the nearby American Visionary Art Museum, which features the best in “outsider” art— plus AVAM’s outrageous gift shop, Side Show. Uptown, we like to visit the Homewood Museum, walk through Guilford, and have lunch at my favorite café, Azafran, located at the Hubble Space Telescope Science Institute building at Johns Hopkins University. Obviously, my tours usually include art, and food—and then more food!

Photo courtesy of Visit Baltimore

CANTON

DOWNTOWN

Jack’s Bistro 3123 Elliott St. 410.878.6542 JacksBistro.net

B&O American Brasserie 2 N. Charles St. 443.692.6172 BAndORestaurant.com

Edo Sushi Inner Harbor Inc. 201 E. Pratt St. #2075 410.843.9804 EdoSushiMD.com Rated America’s Top Japanese Restaurant by Zagat Survey, Edo Sushi offers sushi, sashimi

Innovative cuisine includes fabulously enticing

This approachable American brasserie menu

and cooked Japanese specials for lunch,

options like “Mac + Cheese + Chocolate,”

features local and seasonal ingredients

dinner, carryout, and catering.

and a “Buttered Popcorn Martini.”

and daily specials.

Yellow Dog Tavern 700 S. Potomac St. 410.342.0280 YellowDogBaltimore.com

Boheme Café 400 E. Pratt St. 410.347.9898 BohemeCafe.com

Providing the neighborhood with fresh,

Amazing espresso drinks, great soups

Hard Rock Cafe 601 E. Pratt St. 410.347.7625 HardRock.com Hard Rock’s Power Plant location features down-home American food seasoned with a

healthy, gourmet food and excellent service

and sandwiches, plenty of vegetarian

healthy dose of rock ‘n’ roll, along with

in a delightful and relaxing environment.

options and tasty sweets.

cool memorabilia and merchandise.

In 1869, the J.S. Young Company was the first candy factory to produce licorice. Baltimore LGBT Visitors Guide 2012

Kona Grill 1 E. Pratt St. 410.244.8994 KonaGrill.com New American cuisine and full sushi bar. Bar, patio and happy hour available.

Baltimore LGBT Visitors Guide 2012

M&S Grill 201 E. Pratt St. 410.547.9333 McCormickAndSchmicks.com

Little Havana’s 1325 Key Hwy. 410.837.9903 LittleHavanas.con

Enjoy classic American cuisine in an

Cuban inspired cuisine and irresistible

atmosphere reminiscent of legendary

mojitos on the water.

eateries of the early 20th century.

McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood Restaurant 711 Eastern Ave. 410.234.1300 McCormickAndSchmicks.com

Matsuri 1105 S. Charles St. 410.752.8561 Matsuri.us Repeatedly voted Baltimore’s Best Japanese restaurant.

A rich bounty of seafood specialties from the Pacific Northwest, Atlantic Seaboard and Chesapeake Bay.

Miss Shirley’s 750 E. Pratt St. 410.528.5373 MissShirleys.com Eclectic southern style cuisine with a

Metropolitan Coffeehouse & Wine Bar 902 S. Charles St. 410.234.0235 MetroBalto.com Federal Hill’s best coffee spot is accompanied by a dining room and a wine bar that comes to life with young professionals in the evening.

Maryland twist. Maryland’s best breakfast, brunch and lunch in three locations (Roland Park, Inner Harbor and 1 Park Place in Annapolis).

FEDERAL HILL (PLUS LOCUST POINT)

Afters Café 1001 S. Charles St. 410.244.0909 Frozen yogurt that regularly impresses visitors and regulars alike.

Miguel’s Cocina y Cantina 1200 Steuart St. 443.438.3139 MiguelsBaltimore.com Tucked away inside the Silo Point Condominiums building, Miguel’s kitchen offers authentic Mexican and Tex-Mex fare and exotic tequila cocktails.

Mr. Rain’s Fun House American Visionary Art Museum 800 Key Hwy. 443.524.7379 MrRainsFunHouse.com

Bluegrass Tavern 1500 S. Hanover St. 410.244.5101 BluegrassTavern.com

of wines and beers, plus eclectic elixirs and

An informal fine dining experience dedicated

inspired cocktails.

Inventive, upscale restaurant offers creative takes on American classics, an extensive list

to the perfect pairing of food and drink, with a special focus on America’s finest bourbons.

Elvis 1022 Light St. 410.244.8817

Mother’s Federal Hill Grille 1113 S. Charles St. 410.244.8686 MothersGrille.com Join Ravens and Orioles fans for burgers,

Inside an unremarkable storefront, visitors

chicken, chili cheese fries and other pub grub

can get a hefty and delicious plate of freshly

in this well established sports bar.

made San Francisco-style burritos or tacos for under $10. One of Baltimore’s best values.

Hull Street Blues Café 1222 Hull St. 410.727.7476 HullStreetBlues.com Unpretentious seafood, sandwiches, pastas,

Nick’s Fish House & Grill 2600 Insulator Dr. 410.347.4123 NicksFishHouse.com Known to support community organizations like AIDS Interfaith Residential Services (AIRS) and Moveable Feast, Nick’s serves seafood

salads, and pub grub, plus all-you-can-eat

and steaks in a waterfront dining room and

Sunday brunch for under $20.

outdoor deck with live summer entertainment.

RESTAURANT LISTINGS ARE CONTINUED ON PAGE 32 Baltimore LGBT Visitors Guide 2012

FARMERS’ MARKETS SUNDAYS Baltimore Farmers’ Market April 3 – December 18 Downtown: Saratoga Street between Holliday and Gay Streets (under JFX Viaduct) 7am to Noon (or sell out).

TUESDAYS Lauraville Farmers’ Market June 7 – October 25 4500 Harford Road 4pm to 8pm

WEDNESDAYS Mt. Washington Whole Foods Farmers’ Market June 8 – October 26 1330 Smith Avenue Whole Foods parking lot 3pm to 6:30pm

THURSDAYS Towson Farmers’ Market June 9 - November 17 Allegheny Avenue (between York Rd. and Washington Ave.) 10:45am to 3pm

FRIDAYS Charles Street Friday Market May 20 – November 18 Lanvale Avenue at the 1700 Block of Charles Street 3pm to 8pm

SATURDAYS Baltimore Museum of Industry Farmers’ Market May 21 – October 8 1415 Key Highway. 9am to 1pm (except Sept. 3) Waverly Farmers’ Market (Open All Year) 400 block of E. 32nd Street 7am to Noon Fells Point Farmers’ Market June 4 – November 12 800 Block of South Brodway 7:30am to 11:30am Discover more farmers markets at tinyurl.com/bmoremarkets 29

Camden Station MARC Trains to Washingtion, D.C.

Charm City Circulator:

BALTIMORE VISITOR CENTER 401 Light Street Baltimore, MD 21202 1.877.BALTIMORE Baltimore.org

The Baltimore Visitor Center is simply the best place to start exploring the new Baltimore. This 8,000-square foot, state-of-the art facility offers an array of information resources and services, all designed to make your stay in Baltimore one to remember. Catch up on special events, purchase tickets for attractions, museums, tours, and harbor cruises, pick up brochures, make reservations for dining and lodging, and learn about the city’s history, arts, neighborhoods, and shopping—all in one convenient location on the West Shore of Baltimore’s famous Inner Harbor.

THE GLCCB 241 W. Chase St. Baltimore, MD 21201 410.837.5445 GLCCB.org

The GLCCB serves as a clearinghouse for information, resources, and services within the LGBT community. From local gay-owned/friendly business, to medical O’Donnell St professionals, real estate agents, attorneys, therapists, and other professionals, Bo sto nS the GLCCB attempts to connect visitors t with the particular resource they seek.

LEXINGTON MARKET 400 W. Lexington St. 410.685.6169 LexingtonMarket.com With 10 fresh produce stalls, 11 delicatessen stalls, 6 fresh fish stalls, 5 fresh poultry stalls, 8 bakery stalls and 19 international cuisine stalls, Lexington Market provides a unique alternative to the restaurants shown here.

Regi’s American Bistro 1002 Light St. 410.539.7344 RegisAmericanBistro.com

Shuckers Restaurant & Bar 1629 Thames St. 410.522.5820 ShuckersOfFellsPoint.com

Koco’s Pub 4301 Harford Rd. 410.426.3519 KocosPub.com

A Maryland seafood restaurant so

Voted best crab cake by Baltimore Magazine

gay-friendly, the owners provided meeting

and best wings by the City Paper, this place is

space for the (now defunct) local chapter of

popular so reservations are recommended.

Stonewall Democrats.

Sip & Bite 2200 Boston St. 410.675.7077 SipAndBite.com

Lost in the 50s Diner 5512 Harford Rd. 410.254.1639 LostInThe50sBaltimore.com Enjoy a taste of the past at a great place for

24-hour hole-in-the-wall diner enjoyed

food, folks, fun, all-day breakfast, as well as

by families, the 4am crowd, and everyone

lunch and dinner plates.

in between.

Sticky Rice 1634 Aliceanna St. 443.682.8243 BmoreSticky.com

Tooloulou’s Artisan Pizza 4311 Harford Rd. 443.627.8090 Tooloulou.com Tooloulou (the Cajun word for crab) is a

Dine in or take out, Sticky Rice serves up

neighborhood place that features artisan

an unusual mix of American, Pan-Asian

pizza, po’boys and a rotating menu of

A true neighborhood spot with homestyle

entrees in a friendly, inexpensive and inviting

prepared goods.

American cuisine, members of the

atmosphere. Spring rolls, potstickers, sushi,

Chesapeake Region chapter the National

noodles and edamame (steamed soy beans)

Organization of Gay and Lesbian Scientific

are simple and standard.

and Technical Professionals meet here before a trip to the Science Center or Aquarium.

SoBo Cafe 6 W. Cross St. 410.752.1518 SoboCafe.net

HAMILTONLAURAVILLE

A good and quiet option that serves

Chameleon Café 4341 Harford Rd. 410.254.2376 TheChameleonCafe.com

comfort food with a twist.

This inconspicuous, family-owned gem put

Thai Yum 1006 Light St. 410.528.2146 ThaiYum.com

a seasonal menu of French-inspired, locally

HAMPDEN

PLUS REMINGTON & ROLAND PARK

Azafran Café 3700 San Martin Dr. 410.338. 4757 CafeAzafran.biz Located on the JHU campus, in the Space Telescope Science Institute building, this hidden wonder offers locally grown foods, vegetarian options, and a full espresso bar.

Lauraville on Baltimore’s culinary map with

Exclusively Thai and exceptionally delicious in the heart of Federal Hill.

FELL’S POINT

Mr. Yogato 723-A S. Broadway 410.276.1006 MrYogato-FellsPoint.com The best frozen yogurt treats in a super fun yet chill atmosphere.

Salt 2127 E. Pratt St. 410.276.5480 SaltTavern.com A new American tavern serving innovative renditions of classic favorites, guaranteed to

sourced delicacies and an exceptionally well curated wine cellar.

Chef Mac’s Louisiana Cuisine 4709 Harford Rd. 410. 319.6227 ChefMacs.com

This favorite neighborhood bar with a

Louisiana inspired cuisine and live jazz

and outdoor tables. The Dizz truly

and blues music.

is “Baltimore in a bar.”

Clementine 5402 Harford Rd. 410.444.1497 BMoreClementine.com

fiercely loyal following offers good food and cheap drinks in a casual and funky setting, which includes the bar plus two dining rooms

Dang good food with a cross-cultural twist

Gertrude’s at the Baltimore Museum of Art 10 Art Museum Dr. 410.889.3399 JohnShields.com

and a different menu every evening.

Nationally acclaimed Chef John Shields

Hamilton Tavern 5517 Harford Rd. 410.426.1930 HamiltonTavern.com

cuisine to the BMA for lunch, dinner,

brings his signature Chesapeake Bay

bring back nostalgic memories of even the

Burgers with a loyal following in a warm

most experienced palate.

and down-to-earth setting.

The Dizz 300 W. 30th St. 443.869.5864 TheDizzBaltimore.com

weekend brunch, and outdoor dining in the sculpture garden.

Baltimore LGBT Visitors Guide 2012

Golden West Café 1105 W. 36th St. 410.889.8891 GoldenWestCafe.com This hipster hang out in Hampden welcomes all for drinking, dining, and live alternative music.

Miss Shirley’s 513 W. Cold Spring Ln. 410.889.5272 MissShirleys.com

HARBOR EAST Chazz—A Bronx Original 1415 Aliceanna St. 410.522.5511 ChazzBronxOriginal.com

brunch and lunch in three locations (Roland Park, Inner Harbor and 1 Park Place in Annapolis).

Rocket to Venus 3360 Chestnut Ave. 410.235.7887 RocketToVenus.com

This restaurant unveiled a space of such staggering and sumptuous loveliness,

Developed by Oscar-nominated actor

patrons swoon upon entering. The menu is

Chazz Palminteri and experienced

comprised of tapas and main courses.

restaurateurs Sergio and Alessandro Vitale of Baltimore’s Aldo’s, this restaurant redefines the Italian American culinary experience.

Eclectic southern style cuisine with a Maryland twist. Maryland’s best breakfast,

Pazo 1425 Aliceanna St. 410.534.7296 PazoRestaurant.com

Cinghiale 822 Lancaster St. 410.547.8282 Cgeno.com

LITTLE ITALY Chiapparelli’s Restaurant 237 S. High St. 410.837.0309 Chiapparellis.com One of Little Italy’s best-known and

Cinghiale celebrates the richness and

best-loved restaurants offers homemade

style of the modern Italian kitchen.

pasta, seafood, veal dishes and a famous house salad.

and comforting food options, and beer

James Joyce Irish Pub & Restaurant 616 S. President St. 410.727.5107 TheJamesJoycePub.com

for every palate.

Built in Ireland and shipped to Baltimore,

Sabatino’s Italian Restaurant 901 Fawn St. 410.727.2667 Sabatinos.com

this authentic Irish pub serves Irish American

This family-owned Little Italy restaurant

Retro-space age atmosphere, unique

Businesses with highlighted listings are proudly advertising in the Baltimore LGBT Visitors Guide 2012

Baltimore LGBT Visitors Guide 2012

cuisine, with live music Thursday through

serves delicious Central and Southern Italian

Saturday at 9pm.

cuisine—voted People’s Choice for Best Italian Restaurant for 24 years.

Vaccaro’s Italian Pastry Shop 222 Albemarle St. 410.685.4905 VaccarosPastry.com

Waterstone Bar & Grille 311 W. Madison St. 410.225.7475 WaterstoneBarAndGrille.com

This beloved pastry shop offers authentic

A unique and upscale atmosphere where

Italian treats such as gelato, rum cake, tiramisu

everything is reasonably priced with quality

and many other homemade cookies and cakes.

and tastes that make all of the items become

MOUNT VERNON City Café 1001 Cathedral St. 410.539.4252 CityCafeBaltimore.com This is the place to see and be seen for

an instant favorite.

XS 1307 N. Charles St. 410.468.0002 Restaurant, bar and cafe featuring a diverse menu of coffee, sushi, cocktails, breakfast, desserts, paninis, and more.

homo- and metro-sexuals.

Indigma 801 N. Charles St. 443.449.6483 IndigmaRestaurant.Com “The enigma of Indian cuisine” where creative

CRABS

innovation and the traditional are so intricately balanced.

When you visit Baltimore you’re going to get crabs, hon. The question then is, where can you pick up a nice steaming pile of crabs? Here are a few of our favorite places.

Land Of Kush 840 N. Eutaw St. 410.225.5874 TheLandOfKush.com

Bo Brooks 2701 Boston St. 410.558.0202 BoBrooks.com

Michaelangelo’s Pizza 235 W. Read St. 410.462.3662 MichelangeloPizza.com

Incredible you-wouldn’t-believe-it’s-vegan soul food.

Easily the best Italian delivery, Michaelangelo’s

Canton Dockside 3301 Boston St. 410.276.8900 CantonDockside.com The Crackpot Seafood Restaurant 8102 Loch Raven Blvd. 410.828.1095 CrackpotCrabs.com L.P. Steamers 1100 E. Fort Ave. 410.576.9294 LPsteamers.com Rusty Scupper 402 Key Hwy. 410.727.3678 Rusty-Scupper.com Ryleigh’s Oyster 36 E. Cross St. 410.539.2093 Ryleigh’s.com 34

Pizza will satisfy your cravings.

Milk & Honey Deli 816 Cathedral St. 410.685.6455 MilkAndHoneyBaltimore.com

MT. WASHINGTON

Ethel & Ramone’s 1615 Sulgrave Ave. 410.664.2971 EthelAndRamones.com

The “Chesapeake Bay meets Louisiana Cajun” fusion fare is simply amazing! The food is only surpassed by the owner’s affable personality.

STATION NORTH Joe Squared 133 W. North Ave. 410.545.0444 JoeSquared.com Award-winning coal-fired pizza, 17 varieties of risotto, long rum list, and eclectic beers; Joe Squared is known for a hipster atmosphere that appeals to all ages.

Sofi’s Crepes 1723 N. Charles St. 410.727.7732 SofisCrepes.com Fresh and natural sweet and savory crepes

This market/deli offers tasty, healthy, and

filled, folded, wrapped in one neat package

organic sandwiches and paninis, as well as

you can eat on the go or enjoy at their

groceries—and an espresso bar to boot.

outside tables.

Mount Vernon Stable & Saloon 909 N. Charles St. 410.685.7427 MVStable.com

Station North Arts Café 1816 N. Charles St. 410.625.6440 StationNorthArts.com

Dining room offers a wide selection, brunch,

A “small-batch from scratch” restaurant with a

and regular specials, cozy and inviting bar

rave reviews at a place where food, art, music,

lets you relax or mingle.

theater, and fine crafts come together.

Red Maple 930 N. Charles St. 410.547.0149 930RedMaple.com

Tapas Teatro 1711 N. Charles St. 410.332.011 TapasTeatro.com

This Asian tapas lounge has tasty dishes,

Seasonal, fresh ingredients, a full range of

exquisite cocktails, an alluring ambiance, and

international flavors, rustic, reasonably-priced

a musically diverse late night.

wines and a range of interesting beers.

Baltimore LGBT Visitors Guide 2012

SHAWNNA ALEXANDER Queen of Comedy and Camp Identifies: Funny, of course! When LGBT friends come to Baltimore: I’ve been entertaining in Baltimore (home of the crabs to eat, not the itchy ones) for a little over 30 years. We got so much fun stuff to do here, plus you get to see me and my friends almost everywhere! Quest is my main show bar—and where I, Mama Bear, keep a den for the Bears of Maryland (find us on Facebook!). The Rowan Tree is great for karaoke—plus where I reign as Miss Rowan Tree 2012. I also party at Grand Central and Club Hippo and other downtown hangouts like Club Bunns, The Drinkery, or The Triple L. And for ladies who love ladies, there’s always a Port in a Storm. Of course, visitors must catch my act on Baltimore’s stages. I’m doing special appearances at the King & Queen of Pride Pageant (May 17) and at Baltimore Pride (June 15-17). Come visit… and PUT YO HANDS TOGETHER!

CHARLIE MUMFORD GLCCB Board Member Identifies: Jewish gay man with a lesbian trapped inside

Photo by terra hiltner

When LGBT friends come to Baltimore: The day starts at Little Havana’s. We sit outside and relax on the water with a beer and their delicious crab dip. Next is a long walk around the entire Inner Harbor promenade, stopping at one of the country’s best museums, the American Visionary Art Museum (and their must-see gift shop!). The walk continues with a trip to the Maryland Science Center or the beautiful National Aquarium. Then over to Fell’s Point for some “pink berry” yogurt at Mr. Yogato. Finish the day up with an excellent sushi dinner at XS on Charles St. On a Monday or Tuesday it’s then off to Grand Central Station for karaoke. On a Wednesday, we’d head up to Mixers; Tracy is the DJ and she’s a real loveable Baltimore local. We’d end the night back downtown at the Sip & Bite, a cash-only diner that feels like home and oozes “Baltimore.”

Baltimore LGBT Visitors Guide 2012

Photo courtesy of Visit Baltimore

APPAREL & ACCESSORIES Brightside Boutique 1133 S. Charles St. 410.244.1133 BrightsideBaltimore.com Fashion-forward clothing, shoes, jewelry at vintage prices influenced by the tattoo couture and New York City fashion industry.

Chained Desires 136 Read St. 410.528.8441 ChainedDesires.com Variety of clothes, toys, books and novelties to spice up your life.

Dreamland 845 W. 36th St. 410.467.1582 DreamlandVintage.com Cute, crafty vintage clothes, jewelry and gifts.

Eye Candy 849 W. 36th St. 410.889.0607 EyeCandyop.com

Ma Petite Shoe 832 W. 36th St. 410.235.3442 MaPetiteShoe.com

Fashionable lenses and eyewear specific

Boutique specializing in the world’s most

to each client’s needs.

fabulous shoes from some of the newest

Handbags in the City 840 Aliceanna St. 410.528.1443 HandbagsInTheCity.com The latest must-have designer handbags as well as clothing, shoes, and luxurious accessories for men and women.

Jean Pool 92 Village Sq. 410.466.1177 BaltimoreJeanPool.com A boutique denim store that caters to men and women with the goal of finding the perfect fit for everyone.

designers, plus vegan products and chocolates.

ART Baltimore Clayworks 5707 Smith Ave. 410.578.1919 BaltimoreClayworks.com Non-profit ceramic art center offers classes as well as beautiful ceramics made from safe, natural materials from the earth.

Charlotte Elliott 837 W. 36th St. 410.243.0990 CharlotteElliott.com Fine art, antique furniture, jewelry, gourmet treats, books, and worldwide treasures.

Baltimore LGBT Visitors Guide 2012

Crystal Moll Art Gallery 1030 S. Charles St. 410.952.2843 CrystalMollGallery.com

Atomic Books 3620 Falls Rd. 410.662.4444 AtomicBooks.com

Watercolor cityscapes capture the

Legendary, alternative, independent book-

essence of Fed Hill.

store specializing in comics and graphic novels, as well as John Waters’ mail.

Fleckenstein Gallery 3316 Keswick Rd. 410.366.3669 FleckensteinGallery.com

Zelda Zen 46 E. Cross St. 410.625.2424 Home décor, funky art, cards and jewelry.

MISCELLANEOUS Spirits of Mt. Vernon 900 N. Charles St. 410.727.7270 SpiritsOfMtVernon.com

Custom and archival framing plus a

Book Escape 805 Light St. 410.504.1902 TheBookEscape.com

diverse collection of local and regional

Extensive collection of new, used and rare

stemware, decanters, plus weekly wine

artists in a variety of media: prints, painting,

books plus readings and events.

tastings and Boris the wine dog.

Read Street Books 229 W. Read St. 410.669.4103 ReadStreetBooks.com

Sugar 927 W. 36th St. 410.467.2632 SugarTheShop.com

sculpture, and more.

Minás 815 W. 36th St. 410.732.4258 MinasGalleryAndBoutique.com

Champagne, wine, gourmet cheese, crystal

New and used books, vintage paperbacks,

Stir up raw passion in this sex-positive shop

Two venues in one: an art gallery (and home

lesbian fiction, plus espresso, teas, Italian

offering toys as well as classes.

of the 510 Reading Series) and a boutique

sodas, and desserts.

with clothing, jewelry, local crafts, retro toys, Japanese ceramics, and more.

COLLECTIBLES

Museum Shop at the Baltimore Museum of Art 10 Art Museum Dr. 443.573.1844 ShopArtBMA.org

Hampden Junque 1006 W. 36th St. 410.889.6453 HampdenJunque.com

A wide variety of items exclusive to the BMA.

collectibles and junque.

s.c. lord design 3000 Chestnut Ave. 410.961.4597 SCLordDesign.com

HOME

Buying and selling chic nostalgic antiques,

antique posters to three-dimensional works,

Curiosity 1033 S. Charles St. 410.727.6262 CuriosityForTheHome.com

works on paper to vintage photographs.

Unique and beautiful objects for your home

Gallery and archival framing from oversized

and hard-to-shop for people and occasions.

MUSIC & MOVIES Normals 425 E. 31st St. 410.243.6888 Normals.com Overflowing with used books, records and CDs.

Video Americain 400 W. Cold Spring Ln. 410.243.2231 VideoAmericain.com The best selection of independent, local, foreign, cult films, and documentaries, plus extensive LGBT and adult sections.

PETS Dogma 1340-G Smith Ave. Ste B 443.708.4420

Sideshow Shop at American Visionary Art Museum 800 Key Hwy. 410.244.1900 SideShowBaltimore.com

Great Finds and Designs 1924B Greenspring Dr. 410.561.9413 GreatFindsAndDesigns.com

AVAM’s gift shop offers original art, books,

Quality pre-owned furniture and accessories

scares, jewelry, souvenirs, and toys.

that express your individual style, plus current

3600 Boston St. #20 410.276.3410 DogmaForPets.com

and

and vintage art work, lamps, china, jewelry,

BOOKS

Food, treats, products, and grooming

porcelain and crystal.

services for cats and dogs.

Alliance Comics 904 Light St. 410.685.0021 AllianceComicsOnline.com

Nouveau 514 E. Belvedere Ave. 410.962.8248 Furniture and accessories that are fun, funky,

Howl 3531 Chestnut Ave. 410.235.2469 HowlBaltimore.com

Great selection and a welcoming staff.

contemporary, and transitional.

Natural, high quality pet products

Phina’s for the Home 919 S. Charles St. 410.685.0911 Phinas.com

specializing in special food needs, chemical/filler/by-product–free foods, plus toys and accessories.

Top-quality home linens and bath and body products and gifts.

Baltimore LGBT Visitors Guide 2012

Photo courtesy of Visit Baltimore

Club Bunns

Club Hippo

Gallery

(Dance/Hip-Hop)

(LGBT, Disco)

(Gay)

608 W. Lexington St. 410.234.2866

1735 Maryland Ave. 410.539.6965

This fun club offers an exciting and safe

1 W. Eager St. 410.547.0069 ClubHippo.com

environment that caters largely to the

Established in 1972 in the heart of Mount

men and women.

African American community and plays the

Vernon, the Hippo has been a cornerstone in

latest hip-hop hits into the early morning

the gay and lesbian community in Baltimore

Grand Central

hours. Check out their happy hour and

greeting all those who love and support

(Gay)

special events.

them. Whether you want to dance the night

This friendly, casual bar is welcoming to both

Club Charles

cocktail and a pool game in the saloon, Hippo

1001-1003 N. Charles St. 410.752.7133 CentralStationPub.com

(Mostly straight, welcoming)

has something for everyone! Gay Bingo

Nestled in the heart of Mt. Vernon, Grand

1724 N. Charles St. 410.727.8815

Wednesday nights benefits the GLCCB.

Central has established itself as the

A dark and hipstery dive that’s a low key

Drinkery

in Baltimore city. Grand Central has three

spot for a drink—especially before or after

(Gay)

distinct areas: The Disco (a high-tech,

catching a film at the Charles Theater.

203-207 W. Read St. 410.225.3100

industrial dance floor), The Pub (with a

Named the best bar in Mount Vernon by

exclusive ladies lounge).

away, relax in the video bar, or enjoy a

cornerstone of trendy, upscale nightlife

pool parlor and karaoke), and Sappho’s (an

Baltimore City Paper in 1999 and Best Gay

Businesses with highlighted listings are proudly advertising in the Baltimore LGBT Visitors Guide 2012 Baltimore LGBT Visitors Guide 2012

Dive Bar in 2005, The Drinkery is a dark, loud and friendly neighborhood bar with karaoke and great 2-for-1 Happy Hour deals.

Mount Vernon Stable & Saloon

The Rowan Tree

(Mixed)

(Mixed, Local)

909 North Charles St. 410.685.7427 MVStable.com

1633 S. Charles St. 410.468.0550 TheRowanTree.net

Dining room offers a wide selection, brunch,

Gay-owned and -operated, this

and regular specials, cozy and inviting bar lets

neighborhood pub draws a mix of gay and

you relax or mingle.

straight patrons to its game room, karaoke nights, and occasional drag shows.

Otto Bar (Mostly straight, welcoming)

Silo.5% Wine Bar

2549 N. Howard St. 410.662.0069 TheOttobar.com

(Mostly straight, welcoming)

Baltimore’s premiere venue for live

1200 Steuart St. Unit-2 443.438.4044 Silo.5WineBar.com

sub-mainstream music is also a dream venue

The glamorous waterfront Silo Point building

for dive-bar lovers.

is home to this offshoot of Hampden’s 13.5% Wine Bar. Oenophiles can explore more than

PWs Sports Bar & Grill

30 wines by the glass or 200 by the bottle,

Idle Hour

(Gay, Mixed)

plus small plates, salads, and entrees to

(Mostly straight, welcoming)

complement the libations exquisitely.

201 East Fort Ave. 410.468.0357

9855 Washington Blvd. N., Suite N 301.498.4840 PWsPlace.com

This laid back, friendly, neighborhood bar

People come for the live music and karaoke,

(Gay, Leather/Levi)

is off the beaten Federal Hill path, but the

multiple TVs, pool, and darts. The bar also

beer, the art, and the atmosphere are

sponsors league teams, including the gay

more than worth it.

softball league.

227 W. Chase St. 410.539.4850 LeonsLeatherLounge.com

Jay’s on Read

Port in a Storm

GLCCB, Leon’s Leather Lounge (Triple L)

(Gay, Mixed)

(Lesbian)

is the newest leather/levi bar in the heart

225 W. Read St. 410.225.0188 JaysOnRead.com

4330 E. Lombard St. 410.534.0014 MySpace.com/AtPortInAStorm

of Mt. Vernon. On Tuesday nights at 8:30,

This piano bar on Read Street, with great

One of the few lesbian-centric bars in

of Baltimore, Maryland’s oldest gay bar where

drinks, atmosphere and people, isn’t

Baltimore, Port in a Storm is known for its

happy hour and great times never sleep!

exclusively gay, but most of its patrons are.

very affordable drinks and ever-popular pool

Every Tuesday has an all-day happy hour

tables. In 2007, Baltimore City Paper named it

Waterstone Bar & Grille

and movie night. Here, you can actually hold

the Best Lesbian Bar.

(Mixed)

Quest

311 W. Madison St. 410.225.7475 WaterstoneBarAndGrille.com

Triple L and Leon’s

Located just two doors down from the

a conversation without raising your voice... unless you want to sing along with the piano.

(Gay, Karaoke)

Joe Squared

patrons can enjoy an all male revue, hosted by Ada Buffet. Attached to Triple L is Leon’s

3607 Fleet St. 410.563.617

A very unique and upscale atmosphere where

133 W. North Ave. 410.545.0444 JoeSquared.com

This neighborhood gay bar attracts locals with

and tastes that make all of the items become

its great Happy Hour specials, 4-8pm daily

an instant favorite.

Award-winning coal-fired pizza, 17 varieties of

huge selection and karaoke happens monthly.

(Live music)

and all day Thursdays. The jukebox has a

ZiascoZ (Dance, Mixed)

risotto, long rum list, and eclectic beers; Joe Squared is known for a hipster atmosphere

Red Maple

that appeals to all ages.

(Dance)

Mixers

930 N. Charles St. 410.547.0149 930RedMaple.com

(Mixed)

everything is reasonably priced with quality

1313 E. Pratt St. 410.276.5790 Facebook.com/Ziascoz ZiascoZ Lounge is a lesbian-owned, cozy and happening neighborhood bar with upstairs

6037 Belair Rd. 410.599.1952

Created to meld as both restaurant and

dance floor and female mixologists, open

nightclub, this Asian tapas lounge has

all week long. Two-for-one drink specials

Mixers is the new kid on the block for

tasty dishes, exquisite cocktails, an alluring

are offered during happy hour, with the

Baltimore gay guys and gals. This is a small

ambiance, and a musically diverse late night.

occasional one-price open bar. Nightly events

neighborhood bar/club with a cool deck and a

include Maryland Crabs Monday, Karaoke

big sound system, especially with DJ lordbyron

Wednesdays, DJ Miss Tiff on Thursdays happy

spinning on Friday nights. With gay and non-

hour. Bar food is served Monday-Thursday.

gay mingling, Mixers lives up to its name.

Party on Fridays and Saturday nights!

Baltimore LGBT Visitors Guide 2012

LGBT-FRIENDLY COMMUNITIES MOUNT VERNON Mount Vernon is beautiful, colorful, lively and like no other neighborhood in Baltimore. Mount Vernon historically has also been the center of gay life and gay celebration in Baltimore, and, in many ways, it still retains that role. Mount Vernon is pleased to host the annual Pride Parade and Block Party for Baltimore, and the city’s best gay clubs are right on Charles Street in the heart of the neighborhood. Many residents and community leaders in Mount Vernon are gay as well. Mount Vernon is filled with 19th century mansions, charming workers cottages, and the city’s best entertainment, culture, and restaurants. From cafes to fine dining, from Afghan to Thai, and everything in between, it is all in Mount Vernon. Mount Vernon is also home to the Walters Art Museum, Centerstage, the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, the Modell Center for the Performing Arts, and the Maryland Historical Society. It’s easy to spend a day or an entire weekend in Mount Vernon trying to take in everything this gorgeous community has to offer. Mount Vernon also has many lodging options, of all which are gay-friendly. Pick up a colorful Mount Vernon Visitor’s Map at any of the cultural institutions, restaurants, and shops, and take the fascinating walking tour on the back for a quick introduction to the neighborhood. There is much to enjoy in this neighborhood that CNN once described as “more European than Mid-Atlantic.” For what’s happening now in Mount Vernon go to VisitMountVernon.info. Courtesy of Mount Vernon-Belvedere Association

STATION NORTH Baltimore’s Station North Arts and Entertainment District, more commonly called Station North, sits in the center of the City, near Penn Station and historic Mount Vernon. The first Baltimore neighborhood to be designated an Arts and Entertainment District, Station North is an eclectic mix of people, architecture, arts, food and fun. Theaters, cafés, galleries, music venues, restaurants and bars fill this residential and commercial area. Former industrial buildings have evolved into attractive artist studios and residential lofts. New, modern units have been constructed, though beautiful, three-story, early 20th century row homes provide most of the Station North housing. With creative types in abundance, entertainment is vital in Station North. Venues feature jazz, improvisational music and performance, dance parties, comedy and film screenings. The neighborhood hosts the Station North Flea Market the first Saturday of each month featuring artists’ work. The community also celebrates the last Friday of every month with Final Fridays in which spaces in Station North are transformed into spectacular celebratory environments filled with musicians, performance artists, art installations, and food for all to enjoy.

ACCOMMODATIONS See Page 15 for details

1 Hotel Brexton 2 Mount Vernon Hotel

ATTRACTIONS See Page 21 for details

3 An die Musik LIVE 4 Area 405 Gallery 5 Baltimore Concert Opera 6 Baltimore Symphony Orchestra 7 Everyman Theatre 8 Load of Fun Arts 9 Maryland Historical Society 10 Metro Gallery 11 Patricia & Arthur Modell Performing Arts Center at The Lyric 12 Peabody Conservatory 8 Single Carrot Theatre 13 Spotlighters Theatre 14 Strand Theater 15 The Walters Art Museum 16 Windup Space

RESTAURANTS See Page 27 for details

17 City Cafe 18 Joe Squared 19 Land of Kush 20 Michaelangelo’s Pizza 21 Milk & Honey Deli 22 Mount Vernon Stable & Saloon 23 Red Maple 7 Sofi’s Crepes 24 Station North Arts Café 7 Tapas Teatro 25 Waterstone Bar & Grille 26 XS

SHOPPING See Page 37 for details

27 Chained Desires 28 Read Street Books 29 Spirits of Mt. Vernon

NIGHTLIFE See Page 41 for details

23 Club Hippo 28 Drinkery 30 Grand Central 31 Triple L and Leon’s

Courtesy of Visit Baltimore

Baltimore LGBT Visitors Guide 2012

24 14 7 10

26 6

31 17

1 20 28

30 23

25 9

2 3 Baltimore LGBT Visitors Guide 2012

ACCOMMODATIONS See Page 15 for details

1 Scarborough Fair Bed & Breakfast

1 8 10 9

14 3

ATTRACTIONS

See Page 21 for details

2 American Visionary Art Museum

RESTAURANTS

See Page 27 for details

5 15

3 Afters Café 4 Bluegrass Tavern 5 Elvis 6 Little Havana’s 7 Matsuri 8 Metropolitan Coffeehouse & Wine Bar 2 Mr. Rain’s Fun House 7 Mother’s Federal Hill Grille 5 Regi’s American Bistro 9 SoBo Café 5 Thai Yum

SHOPPING See Page 37 for details

10 Alexandra Webb Artisan Jewelry 11 Alliance Comics 12 Book Escape 7 Brightside Boutique 10 Crystal Moll Art Gallery 3 Curiosity 13 Morstein’s Jewelers 14 Phina’s for the Home 2 Sideshow Shop 15 Zelda Zen

NIGHTLIFE See Page 41 for details

16 The Rowan Tree

FEDERAL HILL Baltimore’s historic Federal Hill neighborhood lies just south of the famed Inner Harbor. Known for its picturesque park—an oasis, with incredible day and night views of the Baltimore Harbor and skyline, Federal Hill enjoys a storied history. The hill was given its name in 1788 after thousands paraded there celebrating ratification of the new “Federal” U. S. Constitution. Having been used as a key “look-out” destination during the Civil War, Federal Hill maintains a large U.S. flag, cannons, and a monument honoring its history. An eclectic group calls Federal Hill home today, upwardly mobile young professionals, affluent empty-nesters, and families who have lived in row-homes in the neighborhood for generations. Pubs, restaurants, galleries and antique shops line the streets, where you can also find salons, boutiques, and the Cross Street Market—a 19th century marketplace that continues to serve as the neighborhood commercial and social hub. The walkable neighborhood is close to Baltimore’s professional sports stadiums, Oriole Park at Camden Yards and M&T Bank Stadium allowing many to patronize Federal Hill pubs and restaurants before and after games. The new Charm City Circulator makes it convenient to get to and from Federal Hill for free. Courtesy of Visit Baltimore

Baltimore LGBT Visitors Guide 2012

1 9 4

11 8

6 2

10 3 5

Courtesy of Fell’s Point Main Street

Baltimore LGBT Visitors Guide 2012

ACCOMMODATIONS See Page 15 for details

1 1840s Carrollton Inn 2 Admiral Fell Inn 3 Inn at Henderson’s Wharf

ATTRACTIONS

ll S t

Fell’s Point is an historic waterfront community just one mile east and a 15-minute walk, 10-minute water taxi ride, or 5-minute cab ride from Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. Established during the colonial era, Fell’s Point is a neighborhood rich in history, attractions and colorful people. Known to many visitors as a wonderful place to eat, shop, and play, its diverse residents enjoy a very livable community where individuality is welcome. Fell’s Point is a mixed-use neighborhood, so many services and shopping opportunities are within easy walking distance. This neighborhood has a lot of character and options for all. Pick up a hat from Hats on the Belfry and check out the many yummy options for eating perhaps a burger at Koopers, tots at Alexander’s Tavern, or a fun cocktail at Murphy’s Law. Events vary throughout the year: you can watch Santa come in on a tug boat in December, shop local at the Farmers’ Market, or attend Fell’s Point Main Street’s annual Privateer Day in April to list a few. Come to Fell’s Point, and make your own history.

FELL’S POINT

See Page 21 for details

4 Fell’s Point Corner Theater 5 Frederick Douglass-Isaac Myers Maritime Park and Museum 6 Vagabond Players 7 Art Gallery of Fell’s Point

RESTAURANTS See Page 27 for details

8 Mr. Yogato 9 Salt 10 Shuckers Restaurant & Bar 11 Sip & Bite 12 Sticky Rice

HAMILTON-LAURAVILLE

RESTAURANTS

Hamilton-Lauraville is a neighborhood that enjoys its parks and open See Page 27 for details spaces. The Herring Run meanders through Morgan State University and the Chameleon Café Chef Mac’s Louisiana Cuisine neighborhood’s many large homes nestled among mature trees. This offers Clementine a variety of outdoor experiences such as hiking, cycling, and sports. MonteHamilton Tavern bello Lake is a 1.37 mile loop that attracts runners, walkers, cyclists, and pet Koco’s Pub lovers for a little exercise around a beautiful lake setting. Lost in the 50s Diner The neighborhood also has a strong and growing commercial district comTooloulou’s Artisan Pizza prised of many business owners that live in the neighborhood. In addition to the many great restaurants and pubs, the Green Onion Market, a fresh locally-owned market, will open this spring. From June through October, Lauraville hosts The Tuesday Market at 4500 Harford Road, Tuesday evenings 4-8pm. This is a small community market with fresh farm produce, fruit, meats, cheese, bread and more. Prepared foods are available for commuters and community members to take home, or visitors can stick around and enjoy a meal, a little music, and artisan wares. Urban agriculture is alive & growing in Hamilton and Lauraville. There is a great story tucked in the backyards, rooftops, schoolyards & marketplaces along Harford Road. The Hamilton Crop Circle, an urban farm, maintains a large produce garden on the grounds of Hamilton Elementary Middle School, as well as in large backyards and at the site of the Tuesday Market. The food, grown locally, finds its way to the farm-to-table restaurants in the area, such as The Chameleon, Clementine & Hamilton Tavern. Courtesy of Hamilton-Lauraville Main Street

HAMPDEN Traditionally a blue collar community, Baltimore’s Hampden neighborhood has morphed into eclectic at its very best. Located just minutes from the Inner Harbor, young urban professionals now call the brick rowhouses and luxury condos home, but the “Bawlmer Hons” remain. Hampden celebrates its quirkiness, and people from all over come to join in the fun. In fact, one of the city’s most popular events is Honfest, named for the local term of endearment “Hon,” short for “Honey.” Honfest features the enormous beehive hairdos, cat eyeglasses, leopard print attire and language— “Balwmerese”— indigenous to this area. The neighborhood started in 1802 as housing for workers in the new flour and cotton mills. While Hampden maintains a modest, small town atmosphere with its original structures and businesses that have been around for a long time, former factories are now artist studios, offices, wine bars and new restaurants intertwined with new mixed-use development. Hampden’s combination of old and new, with its central location, makes it one of Baltimore’s most distinctive and desirable areas.

MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET

ACCOMMODATIONS

SHOPPING

See Page 15 for details

See Page 37 for details

Inn at the Colonnade Baltimore

Atomic Books Charlotte Elliott Dreamland Eye Candy Fleckenstein Gallery Hampden Junque Howl Ma Petite Shoe Minás s.c. lord design Sugar

RESTAURANTS See Page 27 for details

Azafran Café The Dizz Gertrude’s at the Baltimore Museum of Art Golden West Café Miss Shirley’s Rocket to Venus

Courtesy of Visit Baltimore

Baltimore LGBT Visitors Guide 2012

SPORTING, SUPPORT & SOCIAL GROUPS COMMUNITY-BASED ACTIVITY GROUPS Baltimore Area Gay Men’s Outdoor Adventure Group Meetup.com/Baltimore-WashingtonGay-Men-Outdoor-Adventure-Group Offering an alternative to bars and the internet, this Meetup–driven social group organizes activities that include hiking, biking, camping, rafting, canoeing, and tubing.

Baltimore Frontrunners and Walkers BaltimoreFrontRunners.org 410.662.2887 BaltimoreFRs@yahoo.com LGBT runners and walkers of all ability levels

Out and About Bowling Leagues OutAndAboutBowling.com 410.426.0491 OutAndAboutBowling@hotmail.com

followed by brunch.

Charm City Volleyball VolleyBaltimore.org Contact Chris at cwulin@volleybaltimore.org

the Baltimore suburb of Whitemarsh for a

different league nights during the 32 weeks

movie, followed by discussion over a meal.

that follow Labor Day or at the Monday night league during summer.

AFFINITY GROUPS

This group for lesbian, bisexual, and transgen-

Experienced LGBT and straight bridge

GLCCB to socialize and plan outings.

players meet every other Monday night for dinner, socializing, and bridge play.

The Baltimore GLBT Social Group Meetup.com/The-Baltimore -Gay-Social-Group potlucks, cook outs, theme parties,

BYV offers yoga for practitioners of all levels,

day trips, and game nights.

in a variety of lineages and styles, as well as classes in meditation, kirtan, and more.

A group for lesbian cougars and cubs who

most Wednesdays, 6:30-9:30 p.m.

want to meet and socialize with other couples in the Baltimore area.

Charm City Yoga Multiple locations CharmCityYoga.com 1.800.336.YOGA (9642) Info@CharmCityYoga.com

Imperfectly Perfect Pairs Meetup.com/ImperfectlyPerfectPairs

yasa, hot Vinyasa, Astanga, Hatha, pregnancy,

This social group is for committed gay and

restorative, and gentle yoga classes.

CCY offers classes for beginners as well as Vin-

lesbian couples who want to share friendship and camaraderie with like-minded couples.

league.League games are on Sundays

Prime Timers of Baltimore PTBalto.org President@ptbalto.org

beginning in May.

Prime Timers of Baltimore is social groups for

Chesapeake Squares P.O. Box 1633 Baltimore, MD 21203-1633 ChesapeakeSquares.org ChesapeakeSquares@yahoo.com

admire them. Members are men who choose

represent Baltimore in this DC-based LGBT

YOGA CLASSES

Friendly LGBT folks meet monthly for

All skill levels are welcome during social play,

Club Hippo sends the local team to

der women meets every third Saturday at the

Baltimore Yoga Village Locations in Hampden (410.662.8626) and Mt. Washington (410.377.4800) BaltimoreYogaVillage.com

Baltimore Lesbian Cougars & Cubs Meetup.com/LesbianCougars

Chesapeake and Potomac Softball (CAPS) League P.O. Box 71363 Washington, DC 20024-1363 ETeamz.com/caps Team Hippo Coach Ryan Bos: ryanbos@yahoo.com

Women OUT and About GLCCB 241 W. Chase St. 410.837.5445 Kelly at BWOAEvents@yahoo.com

Baltimore Gay Bridge Night Meetup.com/Baltimore-Gay -Bridge-Night

social and competitive volleyball events.

LGBT volleyball organization offers weekly

Once or twice per month, gay men meet in

Cheer on Baltimore’s LGBT bowlers at three

are welcome to join weekly Saturday morning outings along Baltimore’s waterfront,

Whitemarsh Gay Movie Group Meetup.com/The-Whitemarsh -Gay-Movie-Group

mature gay or bisexual men and the men who to have their social lives enriched by the diverse activities.

Gentle Beginners Yoga GLCCB 241 W. Chase St., Room 201 410.837.5445

for gays and straights offers “open house”

Straight Eights: Lambda Car Club Straight8s.net Strt8s@prodigy.net

dances at various times throughout the year.

The Washington and Baltimore chapter of

Drop-ins are welcome every Sunday at

Visitors are welcome at club dance nights

Lambda Car Clubs International organizes

3:30pm for gay instructor Tim Hurley’s

Baltimore’s premier square dance club

on Tuesdays.

monthly events, tours, and other activities for

soothing and revitalizing yoga class.

LGBT classic car enthusiasts and collectors.

A donation of $9 is requested.

Baltimore LGBT Visitors Guide 2012

Yama Studio Belvedere Towers 1190 W. Northern Pkwy. Ste. 129 410.464.9000 YamaStudio.com

Merritt Athletic Clubs Downtown locations in Canton, Locust Point, and Mt. Vernon MerrittClubs.com Full service fitness clubs offer a variety of trial,

In addition to therapeutic yoga for practi-

short- and long-term membership options,

tioners at all levels, Yama offers individual

as well as special promotions, such as a free

Ayurvedic consultations, as well as teacher

seven-day fitness makeover. The 24-hour

training programs in therapeutic yoga,

flagship Downtown Athletic Center is located

Ayurveda, and meditation.

ATHLETIC CLUBS & FITNESS CENTERS Federal Hill Fitness 39 East Cross St. 410.752.3004 FHFitness.com Info@FHFitness.com

footsteps from the center of Mt. Vernon, Baltimore’s “gayborhood.”

Mt. Vernon Fitness 1016 N. Charles St. 410.878.2990 MVFitness.com Info@mvfit.com Personal training programs are emphasized in this elegant, full-service club located in the

AT THE GLCCB 241 W. Chase St. Baltimore, MD 21201 GLCCB.org

MONDAYS Men Like Me 2nd and 4th Mondays 6pm MenLikeMe@glccb.org Support group for gay men of all ages

WEDNESDAYS Poz Men Every Wednesday 7pm POZMen@glccb.org Support group for HIV+ men

This sister store to Mt. Vernon Fitness

heart of Mt. Vernon. Free trial memberships

(below) offers the same high quality services

and other promotions are available.

THURSDAYS

SUPPORT GROUPS

Trans-Masculine Alliance 3rd Thursday 6:30pm BTMA@glccb.org

and amenities in the historic Federal Hill neighborhood, a short walk from Baltimore’s Inner Harbor.

Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Family Center Y 900 E. 33rd St. 410.889.9622 YMaryland.org/harry-jeanette -weinberg-family-center-y Amenities at this central Baltimore facility include cardio equipment, Cybex strength equipment, free weights, a rock climbing wall, and a four-lane, 25-yard indoor lap pool. “Stay-n-Play” child care and a community playground are also available.

Maryland Athletic Club Harbor East Location 655 President St. 410.625.5000 MACWellness.com TeamMAC@macwellness.com

Alcoholics Anonymous GLCCB 241 W. Chase St. Rm. 201 410.837.5445 LGBTQ centered AA recovery groups, welcoming to all regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Meets every Monday and

Support group for FTMs

Women of Color 2nd, 4th & 5th Thursdays 7:30pm WOC@glccb.org LBTQ support group for all women

Thursday at 8:30pm, and Saturdays at 6:30pm.

SATURDAYS

AA-Positively Sober GLCCB 241 W. Chase St., Rm. 201 410.837.5445 JeffreySquibb@yahoo.com

Sufficient As I Am (SAIM) Every Saturday 12 Noon SAIM@glccb.org

An open meeting of Alcoholics Anonymous, which provides a safe place for those with HIV or other health related issues. All are welcome. Meets every Sunday at 6:15pm.

Support group for 24 years and younger

Express Yourself Every Saturday 3:30pm dduarte@glccb.org Art program for 24 years and younger

SOFFA-T 4th Saturday 8pm SOFFA-T@glccb.org

square feet of cardio equipment, more than

Narcotics Anonymous GLCCB 241 W. Chase St., Rm. 201 410.837.5445

70 strength training stations, free weights, a

Men’s Rap group for men in recovery. Meets

25-yard lap pool, plus many other amenities.

every Sunday at 11:30am.

Meadow Mill Athletic Club 3600 Clipper Mill Rd. 410.235.7000 MeadowMill.com Info@meadowmill.com club nestled between Druid Hill Park and the

Women of Color Baltimore GLCCB 241 W. Chase St. 410.837.5445 Meetup.com/Baltimore-Lesbians -of-Color WOC@glccb.org

neighborhood of Hampden offers numerous

This support group for women and

times shown, which are subject to

amenities, including the largest indoor squash

transgender women at the GLCCB also

change. Please contact the emails pro-

facility in the United States.

organizes social events and outings via their

vided or call 410.837.5445 to confirm.

Daily guest passes are available for visitors to MAC’s newest facility, which features 10,000

This 40,000 square foot full service fitness

Support group for significant others, friends, family and allies of transgender persons

Tran*quility 2nd and 4th Saturdays 8pm Tranquility@glccb.org Support group for MTFs

The above groups are scheduled to meet at The GLCCB at the dates and

Meetup page.

Baltimore LGBT Visitors Guide 2012

WELCOMING DENOMINATIONS & FAITHS The Baltimore Ethical Society 306 W. Franklin St. Ste. 102 410.581.2322 BmorEthical.org

Dundalk Church of the Brethren 2660 Yorkway 410.284.7081 DundalkCOB.org

Holy Comforter Church 5513 York Rd. 410.433.1801 ComforterBalt.com

Beit Tikvah 5802 Roland Ave. 410.464.9402 BeitTikvah.org

Emmanuel Episcopal Church 811 Cathedral St. 410.685.1130 EmmanuelDowntown.org

Holy Trinity Episcopal Church 1131 Mace Ave. 410.687.5531 HolyTrinity.ang-md.org

Bolton Street Synagogue 210 W. Cold Spring Ln. 410.235.5354 BoltonStreet.org

Epiphany Lutheran Church 4301 Raspe Ave. 410.485.7654 God-Is-Love.org

Brown Memorial Park Avenue Presbyterian Church 1316 Park Ave. 410.523.1542 BrownDowntown.org

Faith Presbyterian Church 5400 Loch Raven Blvd. 410.435.4330 FaithPCBalt.org

Keepers of the Holly Chalice Assembly of the Sacred Wheel Wiccan Religious Organization SacredWheel.org/khc Light Street Presbyterian Church 809 Light St. 410.539.0125 LightStreetChurch.org

First and St. Stephen’s United Church of Christ 6915 York Rd. 410.377.5224 First-StStephens.org

Metropolitan Community Church of Baltimore 401 W. Monument St. 410.669.6222 MCCBaltimore.org

First & Franklin Street Presbyterian Church 210 W. Madison St. 410.728.5545 FirstFranklin.org

St. Mark’s Lutheran Church 1900 St. Paul St. 410.752.5804 StMarksCelebrates.org

Cathedral of the Incarnation 4 E. University Pkwy. 410.467.3750 TheCathedral.ang-md.org Corpus Christi Church 110 W. Lafayette Ave. 410.523.4161 CorpusChristiBaltimore.org Christ Lutheran Church 701 S. Charles St. 410.752.7179 ChristInnerHarbor.org Divinity Lutheran Church 1220 Providence Rd. 410.823.8293 DivinityLutheran.net

First Unitarian Church of Baltimore 12 W. Franklin St. 410.685.2330 FirstUnitarian.net

Second English Lutheran Church 5010 Briarclift Rd. 410.945.2350 SecondEnglishLutheran.webs.com

Govans Presbyterian Church 5826 York Rd. 410.435.9188 GovansPres.org

Unity Fellowship Church of Baltimore 4007 Old York Rd. 410.244.0884 UFCB.org

Grace United Methodist Church 5407 N. Charles St. 410.433.6650 GraceUnitedMethodist.org

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES Interfaith Fairness Coalition of Maryland IFCMD.org

In 1789, the first Catholic diocese in the U.S. was established in Baltimore. 52

Believe Out Loud BelieveOutLoud.com/learn /find-welcoming-church

Baltimore LGBT Visitors Guide 2012

LITTLE ITALY FILM FESTIVAL FRIDAYS IN JULY & AUGUST

A BALTIMORE RAVENS GAME AT M&T BANK STADIUM

THE BATTLE MONUMENT

DEFENDERS DAY AT FORT MCHENRY

BALTIMORE CONVENTION CENTER

PREAKNESS STAKES

Photo by Jay W.

BALTIMORE PRIDE FESTIVAL

MAY 2012

International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia (May 17) DayAgainstHomophobia.org

JUNE 2012

A brilliant Off-Broadway success by an

feature films and 75 short films of all varieties

Transmodern Performance Festival (May 17-20) TransmodernFestival.com

to tens of thousands of audience members.

A cultural phenomenon presenting radical,

native, touching study of lost souls trapped by

experimental, expectation-defying work

society’s inexorable decay.

Maryland Film Festival (May 3-6) MD-FilmFest.com Annual 4-day event presents top-notch film and video work from all over the world. Each year the festival screens approximately 50

Videopolis (May 3 & 4) Metro Gallery Themetrogallery.net/videopolis

who defy cultural normative practices and

Held across the street from the Charles

disciplines.

festival formats.

Flower Mart (May 4 & 5) Mount Vernon Place FlowerMart.org

representing communities and artists

food and music.

Michael Jackson The Immortal World Tour by Cirque du Soleil (May 5 & 6) 1st Mariner Arena BaltimoreArena.com

turns Michael Jackson’s signature moves upside down!

Kristin Chenoweth (June 9) Hippodrome Theater France-MerrickPAC.com Don’t miss Emmy and Tony Award Winner appearance performing classic favorites

A two-day, 140-mile bike ride from Ocean

and original songs.

(of Wicked and Glee) in this rare concert

City to Baltimore City raises awareness of nutritional needs of people living with HIV/ AIDS and breast cancer.

HonFest (June 9-10) HonFest.net Annual celebration of all things “Bawlmer”

American Dance Theater (May 22 & 23)

dialect, and people of Baltimore. Live music,

pays tribute to the neighborhoods, distinctive

Patricia & Arthur Modell Perf. Arts Center

classic Bawlmer foods and Hampden’s

LyricOperaHouse.com

eclectic merchants. You’ve never seen an

Let Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater’s

event quite like HonFest.

gorgeous dancers lift your spirits as they perform thrilling premieres and new productions plus long-time audience favorites.

A riveting fusion of visuals, dance, music and fantasy that immerses audiences and literally

humor and arresting theatricality to its imagi-

Ride for the Feast (May 19-20) MFeast.org

A colorful festival of spring featuring flower sales, gardening items, high quality crafts,

outstanding playwright brings compassion,

from local, national and international artists

Theater during the Maryland Film Festival, find work that doesn’t make more traditional

The Hot l Baltimore (June 1-24) Spotlighters Theatre Spotlighters.org

Sowebo Arts and Music Festival (May 27) Hollins Market SoWeBoArts.org/festival.html

Star-Spangled Sailabration (June 13-19) Inner Harbor StarSpangled200.com Celebrate the official launch of the Bicentennial of the War of 1812 with Sailabration, an international parade of naval

137th Running of the Preakness Stakes (May 16-18) Pimlico Race Course Preakness.com

The never say die, utterly unique and always

vessels and tall ships along with an air show

free arts and music Sowebohemian Fest offers

featuring the Blue Angels.

Following the Kentucky Derby, the annual

show, and more.

four stages of live musical performances, arts

Preakness Stakes is run the third Saturday

Mamma Mia (June 15-17) Hippodrome Theater France-MerrickPAC.com

in May with a weeklong celebration leading

Enjoy the story-telling magic of ABBA’s

up to the running.

timeless songs in this hit Broadway musical.

Baltimore LGBT Visitors Guide 2012

and crafts vendors, delicious food, a salon art

BALTIMORE PRIDE 2012 King and Queen of Pride 2012 Pageant (May 17) Location TBD BaltimorePride.org

LatinoFest (June 23 & 24) LatinoFest.org A fun-filled weekend of Hispanic culture

Baltimore Restaurant Week (July 27 to August 5) BaltimoreRestaurantWeek.com

featuring live musical performances,

A delicious week of Baltimore’s best eateries.

costumed dancers and traditional foods.

JULY 2012

Hamilton Street Festival & Classic Car Show (July 28) BmoreMainStreet.com

Fourth of July Celebration (July 4)

More than 80 vendors, great food, 16 bands

Celebrate Independence Day with a blast

and performers on two stages and a display

Each year, the GLCCB and Baltimore

of vivid fireworks and live entertainment

of classic cars.

Pride produce the King and Queen

in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor during the

of Pride pageant. Kings and Queens

Ports America Chesapeake Fourth of July

of Pride are the reigning symbols of

Celebration.

excellence in Baltimore Pride festivities. They preside at events throughout the year and represent the GLCCB and

Club Hippo’s 40th Anniversary ClubHippo.com

AUGUST 2012 International Festival (August 4 & 5) Poly/Western High School PromotionAndArts.com

Baltimore Pride with honor, grace and

Established in 1972 in the heart of Mount

Showcases the diverse cultures of Baltimore

usually a bit of light-hearted humor!

Vernon, the Hippo has been a cornerstone in

City with international performers,

the gay and lesbian community in Baltimore.

multicultural foods, children’s activities and an

Twilight on the Terrace (June 15) Gertrude’s at the BMA BaltimorePride.org

Whether you want to dance the night away,

annual soccer competition.

relax in their video bar, or enjoy a cocktail

At Baltimore Pride weekend’s kick-off

Hippo will mark its 40th Anniversary on

Maryland Renaissance Festival Annapolis, MD RennFest.com

event, attendees enjoy signature

July 7. Check out the celebration this night

Visit a 16th-century British village complete

cocktails while taking a stroll through

and throughout the month (and year!) for a

with jesters, jousting, and jugglers for 9

the Baltimore Museum of Art’s beautiful

fabulously fun time.

consecutive weekends.

Artscape (July 20-22) Mt. Vernon and Station North Artscape.org

Hot August Blues & Roots Festival Oregon Ridge Park HotAugustBlues.com

sculpture garden, dance to music, place bids on silent auction packages, and receive exclusive Pride gift bags.

Baltimore Pride Parade & Block Party (June 16) Mount Vernon BaltimorePride.org Saturday’s events begin with a High Heel Race up Charles Street. Bring

and a pool game in our saloon, they have something to suit everyone’s mood! Club

America’s largest free arts festival features

Blues and roots music festival in

150+ fine artists, fashion designers and crafts-

a pastoral setting.

people; visual art exhibits, outdoor sculpture, art cars, and photography; live outdoor concerts, performing arts, and family events.

heart of Mt. Vernon. Join everyone

African American Festival (July 7 & 8) M&T Bank Stadium AfricanAmericanFestival.net

from cowboys to bikers, from the

Celebrate black history with an eclectic mix

King and Queen of Pride to leather

of regional and nationally-known entertainers,

daddies and maybe a float or two.

including top soul and R&B recording artists,

After the parade, Baltimore Pride’s

educational exhibits, arts and crafts, foods

Block Party is a nightclub without walls

and children’s activities.

your own or borrow a pair of ours! On the “heels” of the race is the Pride Parade on Charles Street in the

with many local and regional acts

Baltimore Grand Prix (August 31-September 2) Downtown 2012BaltimoreGrandPrix.com Get your motors running, and celebrate three days of ear-pounding adrenaline on as Baltimore rocks the spotlight for worldwide race fans.

SEPTEMBER 2012 HampdenFest (September 8) 36th Street and Falls Road HampdenFest.blogspot.com

International Deaf Leather 2012 (July 12-15) InternationalDeafLeather.org

A neighborhood arts festival that draws visi-

Let us Show You our Charm! Tremont Plaza

mustache championships, and live local

Hotel & Grand Historic Venue.

music all day.

Lisa Memorial Drag Stage, a Family

Caribbean Carnival Festival (July 13-15) PromotionAndArts.com

Ukrainian Festival (September 8 & 9) Patterson Park UkrainianFest.net

Zone, and plenty of fun for the whole

Bringing island traditions to the states with

Capture the essence of Ukrainian culture with

community to enjoy. An estimated

the popular carnival parade, live reggae

unique arts and crafts, customary songs and

5,000 celebrants come out on Sunday

and soca performances, colorful costumed

dances, a beer garden, assortment of appetiz-

for the fun and festivities. Rain or shine.

dancers and authentic Caribbean cuisine.

ing foods, children’s activities and storytelling.

performing throughout the evening.

Baltimore Pride Festival (June 17) Druid Hill Park BaltimorePride.org The festival features many regional and local performers, vendors, the Lady

tors to enjoy the community of merchants on and around West 36th Street with toilet races,

Baltimore LGBT Visitors Guide 2012

Dining Out For Life (September 20) MFeast.org Simply dine at one of the participating

Out & Equal Workplace Summit (October 29 – November 1) OutAndEqual.org

restaurants, and proceeds help feed hundreds

The premier conference on LGBT issues in the

welcomes participants with food, wine,

of men, women, and children living with HIV/

workplace takes place in Baltimore this year.

and seasonal décor.

such as breast cancer.

NOVEMBER 2012

JANUARY 2013

Baltimore Book Festival (September 28–30) Mount Vernon Place BaltimoreBookFestival.com

Transgender Parents’ Day (November 3) TransParentDay.org

John Waters’ Hairspray (January 24-27)

TransParentDay is a day to celebrate being a

film’s release, the BSO under its Principal Pops

Local and national authors, books sales,

parent without concern of the stereotypes of

Conductor Jack Everly will premiere a concert

food and music.

gender. So whether you are MtF or FtM, this is

production of Hairspray, based on John Wa-

AIDS, and other life-challenging conditions

The Lauraville Fair (September 29) BmoreMainStreet.com A great community fair with food, music,

a day for you and your children to celebrate.

OCTOBER 2012 LGBT HISTORY MONTH! Baltimore Black Pride (October 6-10) Citywide BlackPrideBaltimore.org Baltimore Black Pride brings together the community to embrace and celebrate diversity

Transgender Day of Celebration (November 19)

and the annual Cultural Affair and Fall Festival.

Mount Vernon Ghost Walk (October 6-27) BaltimoreGhostTours.com

MARCH 2013

Long before that girl from Kansas arrives in Munchkinland, two girls meet in the land of Oz.

DECEMBER 2012 World AIDS Day (December 1)

imported crafts and more. Holy Trinity Russian Orthodox Church.

is now live on stage.

Traditional Mini Powwow Baltimore American Indian Center Baic.org

Visit 34th Street on a December night after

includes tour of the museum. The powwow

dark and learn about a beautifully bright

will have vendors, face painting, dream catcher

Baltimore holiday tradition.

A unique craft show featuring a diverse mix of

Traditional and delectable foods, live bands,

What a feeling! The pop culture phenomenon

The Baltimore American Indian Center will

neighborhood.

Russian Festival (October 19-21) RussFest.org

Flashdance (February 12-17) Hippodrome Theatre France-MerrickPAC.com

Miracle on 34th Street Hampden ChristmasStreet.com

the history and haunted lore of this striking

National Coming Out Day (October 11)

FEBRUARY 2013

Wicked (November 1-4) Hippodrome Theatre France-MerrickPAC.com

Merry Mart (December 2) Creative Alliance at the Patterson CreativeAlliance.org

architecture while guides regale you with

ters’ movie. This concert will be narrated by

National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (February 7)

Baltimore’s gayborhood may be more “spirited” than you think. Admire the

Marking the 25th anniversary of the original

Transgender Day of Remembrance (November 20)

with a full schedule of events, including workshops and town hall meetings, entertainment,

The Better Baltimore Bed & Breakfasts

Waters, who wrote and directed the 1988 film.

family-friendly entertainment and many vendors in a beautiful park setting.

B&B Holiday House Tour (TBD) BetterBaltimoreBedAndBreakfasts.com

art and craft from Baltimore and beyond.

host its first traditional mini powwow, which

making workshops, Native American dance, and Native American food.

APRIL 2013 EcoFest Franklin and Calhoun Streets BaltimoreGreenworks.com

Monument Lighting (December 6) Washington Monument Mount Vernon Place BOP.org

To kick off Baltimore Green Week, EcoFest

A spirited evening celebration of the holidays

yoga classes, a children’s play area, and lots

with live seasonal music and fireworks.

of yummy food.

annually promotes local organizations that provide sustainable goods and services. But it’s fun, too, offering free belly-dancing and

Baltimore Open Studio Tour (October 20-21) BaltimoreOpenStudioTour.org Step into the studios of Baltimore’s visual artist during this free, self-guided tour. Encounter fresh works in painting, sculpture, photography, installations, clay, and mixed

LOOKING FOR MORE TO DO? VISIT BALTIMORE.ORG/EVENTS OR BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM/EVENTS-CALENDAR

media right where they’re made.

Baltimore LGBT Visitors Guide 2012

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR VISITORS TRANSPORTATION

WEATHER

AIR

Month High Low January 41° 24° February 44° 26° March 53° 34° April 65° 43° May 74° 53° June 83° 62°

BWI-Marshall Airport Information & Terminal Paging 410.859.7111 or 800-I-FLY-BWI BWIAirport.com Pricing estimates for transfer to Downtown Baltimore: Shuttle service $22 Individual taxi $35 Sedan, limousine or van $45+ Bus, metro or light rail $1.60

LAND TRANSIT SERVICES The Maryland Transit Authority (MTA) operates bus, Metro Subway, Light Rail and MARC train services. For fares and schedules, please call 888.218.2267 or 410.539.5000 or visit MTAMaryland.com. The Charm City Circulator is a free bus service with three routes that intersect downtown Baltimore; and connect to other transit like the Light Rail, MARC, Metro Subway and the Baltimore Water Taxi. Call 410.396.6802 or go to CharmCityCirculator.com

TAXIS Yellow Cab 410.727.7300, YellowCabofBaltimore.com

LIMOUSINES & SHUTTLES A.S. Midway Tours, Inc. & Limousines 410.367.6900 Airport Shuttle, Inc. 800.776.0323 Airport Taxi and Limo, LLC 443.550.1196 An Extraordinar Limousine Company 410.437.8200 Charm City Connections 410.661.6033 ExecuCar 410.859.8518 RMA Worldwide Chauffeured Transportaton 800.878.7743 SuperShuttle BWI 800.258.3826 Wink’s Nationwide Transportation Service, LLC 410.426.9456

ZBest Limousine Service, Inc. 410.768.1148

AUTO RENTALS & LEASING Enterprise Rent-A-Car 800.RENTACAR, Enterprise.com

RAIL Amtrak 800.USA.RAIL, Amtrak.com MARC (MTA) Train Service 866.743.3682, MTAMaryland.com

PARKING For parking garages, see map on pages 30-31. Motorcoach Information Baltimore city offers motorcoach parking at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. For more information, see the group tour section of Baltimore.org or call the Tourism Sales Department at 410.659.7040. Inner Harbor Loading and Unloading Zones Area One (West) — Baltimore Visitor Center/Light Street: Loading and unloading are permitted on the northbound lane of Light Street by the Baltimore Visitor Center. No staging is allowed. Area Two (North/East) — National Aquarium/Pratt Street: Loading and unloading are allowed on the north side of the Inner Harbor at the National Aquarium in Baltimore. No staging is allowed.

PET FRIENDLY To find dog-friendly locations in Baltimore, go to Baltimore.org/pets.

MEDICAL SERVICES & HOSPITALS Concentra Medical Center with Urgent Care 410.752.3010 (Downtown Baltimore Location) Johns Hopkins Medicine 410.955.2280 (Adults) 410.955.5680 (Children) Mercy Medical Center 410.332.9477 University of Maryland Medical Center 800.492.5538

CITY & STATE OFFICIAL CONTACTS

Baltimore Water Taxi A fleet of 14 boats operates continuous service to more than 35 attractions. 800.658.8947, BaltimoreWaterTaxi.com

Office of the Mayor City Hall, Room 250 100 N. Holliday St. Baltimore, MD 21202 410.396.3835 BaltimoreCity.gov

Cruise Terminal Departures from the Port of Baltimore to various ports-of-call in Canada, New England, the Bahamas and the Caribbean. Serviced by Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Carnival and American Cruise. Visit CruiseMaryland.com for a complete list of the port’s cruise offerings.

Baltimore City Services If you are not sure what agency to call, contact the City’s One Call Center 311 or by dialing 443.263.2220.

WATER

Month High Low July 88° 67° August 85° 66° September 79° 58° October 65° 43° November 56° 37° December 45° 28°

Maryland Office of Tourism 401 E. Pratt St., 14th Floor Baltimore, MD 21202 410.767.3400 VisitMaryland.org Office of the Governor 100 State Circle Annapolis, MD 21401 410.974.3900, 800.811.8336 Maryland Relay (TTY) 800.201.7165, Maryland.gov

Baltimore LGBT Visitors Guide 2012