Large shady park, views, nice playground. We come here fairly frequently for the long shady paths and many benches. There's parking on three sides, but it can get tight. We entered up a gradual ramp from the southeast edge, instead of the steps at other entrances to the park. The park is a little elevated, so there are nice views across the Patapsco and Inner Harbor, and of Ravens Stadium. You can see a cool 55-foot whirligig / windvane sculpture behind the American Visionary Art Museum. (Jun 2026). There are monuments and at least one informational / historical panel to read. We really liked the playground! read more

Delightful park that tackles the pirate theme with sabers drawn! From the Signal Hill Tower slide to the many cannons, kids 3-10 will enjoy! I do admit that the lack of public restrooms makes staying too long with little ones challenging, and several of the smaller play items do need to be refurbished... but overall a great time nonetheless! read more

Federal Hill Park - Parks Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

By far one of the top 5 views in all of Baltimore (in my humble opinion). Not to mention, the climb up that hill is a killer workout! Feel the burn baby and then relax at the top with those stunning views. You can choose to make your life hard and climb up the side of the hill or walk about a block up to find stairs that conveniently put you to the top. At the summit, you'll find a park, swings (hell yeah), and plenty of benches to sit and contemplate life. I visited on a fairly cold winter day but still enjoyed myself despite the chilly temperatures. I was able to find street parking on the side street that parallels the American Visionary Arts museum. I've surprisingly never had trouble finding parking on that side street but I guess it all depends on the day and time you visit. This is a great park to take out-of-towners to show off the beauty of Bmore or to just remind yourself how cool our city is. read more

Federal Hill Park - View from the top - Parks Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

Baltimore is not always know as a beautiful place....but I promise you once you seen Baltimore from this view...it's amazing!!! This park has the views to win you over with Baltimore! There's a spot for everyone here. You want to have the kids play, well there's a playground. Take the pups for a run, there is plenty of room to do that (just make sure you are Courteous and pick up after your pet. Want to get some Sun or hang out in the shade, you can do that all through the park. Any one that wants a challenge, well they have stairs that will challenge you indeed! In Proximity to. . . -Inner Harbor -Rash Field -Cross Street Market -Gateway Park -Hotels -Dining -Fort McHenry -Maryland Science Center -American Visionary Art Museum -Key Highway, I-95, I-395, I-695 and I-295 (Baltimore-Washington Parkway) Below is some history about the park; Where history abounds and awe is inspired, Federal Hill Park stands today as a signature Baltimore landmark. Situated just south of downtown and a short walk from the Inner Harbor, Federal Hill Park offers visitors one of the best views in the city. In 1608, while on a voyage exploring the Chesapeake Bay, the English colonial settler Capt. John Smith saw the site and remarked on its "great red bank of clay." In pre-Revolutionary times, the site was used for public gatherings. In 1788, about 4,000 local citizens celebrated Maryland's ratification of the U.S. Constitution by building "The Federalist" ship and adopting the name, Federal Hill. In the 19th century, Baltimore merchants built a tower to watch for ships from Europe and Asia--an important feature of Baltimore's mercantile heritage. Serving as a defensive stronghold during the War of 1812 and the Civil War, Federal Hill provided a panoramic view of Baltimore that lent itself well as a military outpost. The City purchased Federal Hill in 1880 and dedicated it as a public park. Ninety years later, the "Federal Hill District" was accepted for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places. The "District" includes Federal Hill Park and the immediate neighborhood south to West Street, west to Hanover Street, north to Hughes Street and east to Covington Street. Today, Federal Hill Park captures one of the most iconic views of the Inner Harbor. The "great red bank of clay" is now a big green hillside, graced by picnickers and star-gazers. Monuments commemorating the Battle of Baltimore in 1814 enhance the Park--one is dedicated to U.S. senator and Maj. General Samuel Smith; another, to Lt. Colonel George Armistead, who was commander of Fort McHenry during the Battle of Baltimore in the War of 1812. Cannons that once manned at Fort Federal Hill during the Civil War are featured, as well, embellishing the serene promenade that spectacularly overlooks the downtown cityscape. The history and prominence of Federal Hill, combined with its proximity to downtown, make it a truly amazing park setting. The neighborhood group South Harbor Renaissance was formed to help the City of Baltimore improve Federal Hill Park through leadership and fundraising. Its members inspired the new Flag Staff Plaza, dedicated by Gov. O'Malley on June 14, 2012 (Flag Day) and the replacement of the existing playground with miniature "historic icons" that reflect unique history of Baltimore and Maryland--including "The Federalist" ship, the Signal Hill Tower, a Baltimore and Ohio Railroad engine and roundhouse, and Fort Federal Hill. Other features such as the basketball court (recently renovated by Baltimore-based company Under Armour sportswear), and a gated kids playground area are just a sampling of what makes Federal Hill Park a worthwhile city destination for both recreation and leisure activities. read more

Great place to take a late night date stroll to. Nice scenic views with great photo opportunities. She won't be disappointed! read more

Federal Hill Park - Federal hill park looking at the harbor - Parks Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

After visiting the American Visionary Art Museum, our four-year-old wanted to race up the hill to see the view of Baltimore. Racing up several levels of hill only took a few minutes and the view of the harbor was worth the work out. Once on top, we explored the grassy area, finding two memorials, a cannon and a fort-themed playground our daughter loved. Afterwards, we ran down the hill to our call, laughing along the way! read more

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My family was driving around Baltimore and noticed this park on top of a big hill. I looked up some info on this park and thought it would be interesting to explore. We ended up parking at the bottom of the hill, but it seems you can park at the top for those who don't want to take the hike up (expect to pay for parking). It did take us a bit to find the stairs but eventually made it up the park. It was a cute little park that had plenty of benches you can sit on, along with a playground you can bring your kids to. It does mention you can't bring the dogs on the playground but can walk them around it. The area looked to have a little bit of trash, but there was plenty of green for sure. It definitely had a really nice view over the town and harbor, so that made that hike worth it. I do wish that there wasn't so much noise from traffic and the construction workers so couldn't really just relax fully. Also, there was no public restroom there, so you would have to go to a nearby place if you need to. Overall, it was a fun experience, but I see it as more of a one-time visit for a tourist like me. read more

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A great park to have a nice picnic, especially in the warmer months of Covid 19. It's easy to see people using the park to sight see, dog walk, exercise, picnic, host a gathering, or just sit on the benches working or relaxing. There is a playground, so it is beneficial for kids and families too. The view of the city from the hill is AMAZING. There are plenty of food spots in walking distance, so stocking up for a unconventional picnic is easy. Only cons are- there are no bathrooms and parking can be sort of a hassle when it is crowded. read more

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This well-manicured hill gives a fantastic overlook of the city and is a popular place to catch a sunset. There are limited facilities on top of the hill, but the base is newly developed, and the waterside houses multiple athletic grounds and restrooms as well, with a walk connecting to the rest of the city. Embedded around numerous other attractions, there's plenty of reasons to visit. The only trouble will be finding a way to get there and/or park. read more

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I was walking in Federal Hill with some family recently, and we wandered up to Federal Park Hill. The park has a short walk around the perimeter of the hill, a playground, plenty of benches, and area for picnics. But the real highlight of the park for me was the view! This park has really stunning views of Inner Harbor, Downtown, and Fells Point! If you're in the area and need a walk or want to take in a great view, check this park out! read more

Federal Hill Park - Parks Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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The view of the city from this park is breathtaking! The park is very clean and well maintained, and the beautiful townhomes on the other side of the park make for a picturesque scene. I love that they have plenty of seating here, and that they have an educational video you can watch to learn the history of the fort. read more

Perfect panoramic views of the inner harbor . Day and night views are spectacular! Great place for a picnic, sightseeing, photography or stair workouts! The holiday lights are amazing, make sure you are extra warm clothes during the cold season since the hill is in the open it's cooler than in the lower level. Parking is offered along the street with payment machines available. read more

Federal Hill Park - Inner harbor - Parks Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

Area: 4 Out of 5 You can walk here from the inner harbor or save yourself the sweat and take the water taxi. We took the water taxi to Rusty Scuppler and took a slower pace walk to the park. Definitely more of a young adult/adult vibe in Federal Hill. Also very residential with a handful of great cafes and restaurants. At the top of the Federal Hill is a small enclosed children's play area with plenty of benches and shade to enjoy Baltimore's charm. From here you can see the harbor, baseball park, football stadium, & University of Maryland. Overall: 4 Out of 5 Federal Hill is an area I could see myself living in if I moved to Baltimore. Beautiful view of the city. Close enough to downtown, but far enough from the tourist trap areas of the inner harbor & Fell's point. Fantastic area to take in and enjoy Baltimore. read more

Federal Hill Park - View from the benches close by the water taxi - Parks Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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If you're looking for the best vantage point of Baltimore City, Federal Hill Park has it! Overlooking the harbor, right in the heart of South Baltimore, and surrounded by charming row homes, federal hill park is beyond picturesque. For families with children, there is a great playground with swings and a jungle gym, as well As plenty of open space to run around or play games! If you want to make a day of it, you can walk along the harbor, visit the American Visionary Art Museum (right below the hill) or even pop by the Maryland Science Center. I have even gone to the park to have a picnic and enjoy takeout! read more

Federal Hill Park - View from the top of federal hill park! - Parks Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

Looking for the best views of the city? Federal Hill Park is the place to go for that. During my visit to Maryland, my childhood friend took my husband and I, along with our little girl dog here. There is street parking available (and free). Being up on this historical hill top, you see beautiful views of the inner harbor. With plenty of grass, this is also a great place for your dog to relieve him/herself and stretch his/ her legs. There is also a cute little playground up here for the kids to come and play (love the little ship). There are a few monuments, flags and a cannon (see my photo) that you know you want to take a photo with. If you are in this part of Maryland, consider stopping by to check out the views of the city. read more

I live it here. It's a lovely, safe little park with a playground for kids and paved walking trails with great views of the harbor and the neighborhood. They even provide baggies for your dog! I love how there's always a free bench to sit on, too. I'm so happy I live near this gem! read more

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What a lovely view of the city!!! FYI, be ready to climb up stairs to get to the top of the hill. Once there, there are beautiful views of downtown, M&T Stadium, the harbor, harbor east, fells point, canton. Great place to take visitors to Baltimore so they can see the best parts our city has to offer. Also great to just come and relax with beautiful views! read more

Gorgeous view of the Inner Harbor from this panoramic hill overlooking central Baltimore. Go on a sunny day and you'll have a blast. There's a nice playground to entertain little ones. read more

This is a nice park, located right next to the Inner Harbor in Baltimore. The center of the park sits on top of the hill, overlooking many parts of the Inner Harbor and surrounding area. The park used to be a fortification that stationed hundreds of troops during the wars of the 18th and 19th century. There are canons found throughout the park that symbolize this. Today, the top of the hill has a playground where many families come to enjoy the day. There are some monuments here (check pics). Part of the park is bordered by some nice and quiet neighborhoods. The rest is bordered by the downhill slopes that lead to the street below. The whole experience here was pleasant and relaxing. It was a beautiful day, and the place provided many great shots for a photography enthusiasts such as myself. read more

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WOW! Thought there would be a bunch of reviews of this great park overlooking the harbor with a stunning view of Baltimore Ideal for exercising, a picnic or just to unwind Parking was difficult but the same could be said about most of Baltimore The surrounding area looked like a nice neighborhood filled with young professionals so I would figure it to be safe but even they need to perform some breaking and entering every once in a while just to get their jollies off I know i do read more

Federal Hill Park - Parks Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

I'm out of shape. Walking up three flights of stairs and I had to sit on one of the benches for five minutes to calm down my pounding heart. Once that was done, I had a chance to walk around this lovely park! There was some sort of event going on with people playing games and running about and that was neat to see. But the real winner here is the tremendous view of the Baltimore skyline. Simply amazing to sit and look at all of that. Very, very cool. read more

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Not the biggest park in town, but the location is exquisite. This hill park has entrance at the base and at the summit. There are straight up stairs connecting the base with the summit as well as a cement path that circles the hill from bottom to top and visa versa. The summit has benches, tables, playground, and lots of green spaces for picnics. A commanding view of Inner Harbor and downtown awaits everyone at the summit. Sunset viewing is breathtaking. We did the sunset viewing and then walk through the Federal Hill neighborhood sight seeing. We ended the the night in the neighborhood with some cookies from Insomnia and then walked home. read more

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The Carpenters once asked the eternal question of "Why Do Birds Suddenly Appear"? The hell if I know if they ever figured out an answer and quite honestly I don't care. But, in that same vain I can't explain why hanging out at Federal Hill Park is my favorite thing to do when in Baltimore. Maybe it's view which is second to none in Charm City? Maybe it's the historic value of the grounds? Maybe it's the excellent playground equipment which my kids love? Maybe it's because the equipment was recently renovated? Maybe it's the unique cross section of locals & tourists which frequent the park on a daily basis? Maybe it's the feeling of community from the local residents who came together to fund raise for that playground equipment, benches and various other improvements that have taken place? I can't tell you why (insert Eagles pun here) but what I can say is that it's a must do every time we're in town be it 90+ in the summer or yesterday when it's 50 and drizzling. Always an A+ winner! read more

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Bottom Line: The best views in Baltimore! Federal Hill Park has 360 degree views of Baltimore. Not only is this park great for getting a bird's eye view of Charm City but it is also nice for relaxing, picnicking, playing, exercising and photo taking. Throughout the park there are several benches where you can rest and take in the views of Baltimore and beyond. Also, there is plenty of grassy areas that are great for soaking up the sun or picnicking. If you want to soak up a little less sun, mature trees offer some nice shade. The playground here looks really nice as well and I can see kids having tons of fun on the ship themed equipment. Also, it is nice that the playground is enclosed with its own fence to keep the kiddos close by. For those who are wanting to exercise in the park, the stairs offer ample opportunity for cardio. Also, there is a nice paved sidewalk surrounding the park. The park itself isn't that big, but this would be a great place to finish a long walk or run. I can see where this would be an awesome spot to take engagement photos or wedding photos. The only downside is that it is often windy here! I agree with fellow Yelper Joe K. that this is a good spot to watch the sunset. Not only can you gaze out west towards the Inner Harbor but you can enjoy clear views during the day and city lights at night. During the day, I definitely feel safe here. I have been here at night in a long time to know what it is like here. Note that the park does have closing hours, which I believe is 11pm. read more

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Absolutely awesome views of the inner harbor from up here on this historic hill! There's a pretty cool cannon, flags, and monuments. There's even an entire clean, well kept playground up at the top of the hill too! Some pups, panoramic views of the ships coming into the harbor and of the Ferris wheel, and even the super cool vintage Domino Sugar Factory sign out to the right! Our kiddos however, loved rolling down the hill best! :) If you're in the area for sunset, make sure you head up and watch it from up there! Breathtaking! There's stairs to the right looking the hill at it from the water and if you head down the hill towards the left when looking at the water you'll be at the back of the American Visionary Art Museum which has some really cool sculptures placed around the exterior. Definitely worth a peek! As many times as I've been to Baltimore as a kid, I hadn't made it up here until recently. I'm sure if I missed it, many others did too. And they shouldn't. It's pretty great and should definitely be on your list of things to check out while in the remote area! It's not just a touristy thing either. This park is enjoyed by locals just the same! *My old photos synced with this review! Yay! read more

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I want to preface this review by saying that I am *not* a runner. You know how people say running gets your mind off of things and makes you feel euphoric? Well, for me, my brain is focused on not collapsing or fainting, so it's just repeating "don't die" over and over again. A little dramatic, but you get the point. Fed Hill Park, and its view of the city and harbor, is worth the run. Fainting scare and all. When you're sitting at the benches overlooking the city, you realize just how rich and deep Baltimore's history goes. It is simply undefeated on a cool summer evening. My favorite memory? Running my first ever 5k - the Mercy Run to Remember 5k - and ending at Fed Hill Park, soaking wet, in 40 degree weather, chugging a much-deserved beer. (Not much of a runner, remember?) read more

This is a beautiful park overlooking the city. We spent a while here and it is the perfect place to picnic, bring kids or dogs, or just walk around. There is a beautiful view of the harbor read more

Federal Hill Park - View - Parks Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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Awesome park. 1) It is set on top of a hill. Gives a great view of the area. 2) There is a canon on top, which makes for a great pic. 3) Unique Park. read more

If you come to Baltimore to sightsee or you just have some free time and the weather is nice come here. First of all it's free and has a beautiful view of the Inner Harbor and downtown area. There are many benches at the top and several are shaded by trees. This place is a must!! read more

Federal Hill Park - Parks Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

We were wandering about and found ourselves at Federal Hill Park. Great views of the city. We spotted at least 3 different wedding parties here taking pictures. Great place for having a picnic, going for a stroll, taking pictures, reading a book, or just people watching on a nice day. read more

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The beauty of Baltimore's colonial-age; the wharf, the ships, the tawdry tug boats, old brick homes of the South side. Federal Hill gives visitors a Civil War perspective! Rebel review: 4 read more

A historic park high on a hilltop that overlooks the entire harbor of downtown Baltimore! Founded in the early 1600's when arriving into the harbor it just made sense to the settlers to establish a fort high overhead to see potential enemy advancement. With Civil War cannons still in place, it's a spectacular place to catch a sunset or photo-op! read more

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Really B'more Yelpers? No reviews of Federal Hill Park? A lookout during the Civil War and the War of 1812 lies on the south side of the Inner Harbor. Great views of the harbor and the city. Quiet place. Good for contemplating. If I lived in Baltimore I would totally do my daily jogs to here. That's if I jogged of course. Come on now. Tourists go here! What a cool city. read more

Federal Hill Park - Federal Hill Park (view from Harbor below) - Parks Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

Just up the hill from the Inner Harbor, this is a great spot to take in the view of Baltimore. A pretty cold and overcast day so it wasn't the best view but I bet during the summer, the view is just gorgeous. You can see the Domino Sugar sign in the distance that's been featured the movie "He's Just Not That Into You" (terrible movie and I all I can remember is that sign). read more

If you have little ones, Federal Hill park offers a playground area. Best part about it is that it's fenced in with ample room for kids to run around without the worry of them running off & tumbling down the incredibly steep hills. And like every single other reviewer has stated before me... THE VIEW IS SPECTACULAR. And if you're a runner looking for a little 5k, you can park by this park & head down to the promenade (by the water) & run around to the other side of the inner harbor. Turn around once you hit the Aquarium or Pier 6 & make your way back to Federal Hill. Best way to end a run is with a beautiful view from the top of the park. We like to have a packed lunch waiting for us & eat it at the park under a tree after our run. Especially with this beautiful weather we're having in September - take advantage!!! read more

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A large vertical outcrop in an otherwise relatively flat area. The views of downtown are fantastic from the top. For the more adventurous people, there is a footpath on the front corner of the park from street level that is sure to get the heart rate up. read more

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This might be one of my favorite places ever. Don't see how anybody could give it less than 5 stars! You really get a birds eye view of Baltimore, it's beautiful! If you didn't love Baltimore before this place will have you head over heels in love. It's the perfect place to go by yourself, walk/talk/picnic with your significant other or friends, play with the kiddies, play fetch with your pup, fly a kite on a windy day, work on your summer body, I mean... I could keep going and going and going... This really is the best park EVER! read more

Federal Hill Park - Panorama! - Parks Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

A beautiful view with so much history. This hill was originally grounds for the northern soldiers to protect it from being taken over from the confederacy, but today it's a place you can take a walk around with your dog, go for a run, or just enjoy the beautiful harbor view. In the summer, the lawn hosts movie nights which you can watch from the hill. All in all a great park, not too big, but has a lot to offer. read more

Great place to stop by and see a beautiful view of the Baltimore Inner Harbor skyline. Can sit on the many benches available or walk around the whole park. There is even a playground for kids to play on. If you're a tourist, its a great place to come to take pictures if you have the time. read more

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As a resident of fed hill, sometimes the never-ending frat party scene is a little annoying but this park is a huge redeeming factor of the neighborhood. It's like a little oasis in a neighborhood notorious for sticky bars and rowdy nights. This park is just wonderful. The view of the city from here is hands down one of the best I've come across (and if you know of one better than point me in the right direction!). There's a small playground for kids and a path on the outer perimeter of the park where you can run (and steps that lead up to the park on one side so you can workout "rocky-style") or walk your dog. Come by on a pleasant Saturday afternoon and you'll see locals tanning, having a crab picnic or even getting engaged! I absolutely love this park. There is something that is so calming about this park, I absolutely love it. read more

Federal Hill Park - Engagement in the park-so cute! - Parks Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland