Best Parks in the Area for Every Niche
Parks are one of the most popular summer destinations for both adults and children. They offer a great respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life, as well as a place to get in some exercise and fun. The greater Baltimore area has dozens of parks to choose from. We’re covering some of the best and most diverse parks, from Patterson Park to Oregon Ridge to help you select the ideal park for your needs!
Kid Friendly
Oregon Ridge Park is our top pick for families with children. Between the nature center, playground, and open grassy space, there’s no limit of things to do at this park. Rodgers Forge Tot Lot is also a great place to take younger children. The tot lot boasts swings, play equipment, and comfortable places for adults to hang out.
Hiking and Exploring
Located in Middle River, Gunpowder Falls State Park is a favorite among area hikers. The park has 15,000 acres worth of trails, swimming holes, and nature galore! The Hammerman area of the park has pavilions and concession stands as well. Soldier’s Delight trails in Owings Mills offer a view of Maryland that most haven’t seen, with its serpentine rock trails and closed choat mines. This area goes from wooded to savannah type lands in just a few feet and offers a stunningly different perspective on the area.
Dog Friendly
If you’ve got a furry four-legged family member who wants to come along, then you’re looking for a dog friendly park. Most parks in the Baltimore County area are dog friendly, but there are a few that are especially great to take your pup to. Ma & Pa Dog Park in Bel Air has an off-leash area as well as a couple miles worth of trails. If your puppy likes to swim, Lake Roland Park in Baltimore provides trails and some off-leash swimming spots where you can both enjoy the lake.
Raspberry Lemonade Spritzers
If you’re headed to the park for a nice summer picnic, try making these light and refreshing raspberry lemonade spritzers to take along! They are perfect for helping you cool off from the summer heat, and better for you than most of the store-bought lemonade you can get anywhere. Best of all they’re family friendly, and the kids will love them!
Ingredients
6 oz San Pellegrino Limonata
1 Tbsp raspberry jam
juice of 1/2 a lemon
fresh raspberries for muddling & garnish
lemon slices for garnish
mint
Instructions
In a glass muddle 4 raspberries.
Stir in 1 Tbsp raspberry jam and top with a splash of Limonata. Stir to combine.
Fill glass with ice.
Top with Limonata and fresh lemon juice.
Garnish with more berries, lemon slices and mint.
