Top Hidden Destinations To Visit In Baltimore
The story of the Hell House Alter reads like something out of a real-life horror story. For 60 years, St. Mary's College prepared young adults for the weighty task of engaging in a life or religious service. In the 1950's, the entire school relocated, and the buildings and facilities stood abandoned. Over the next 40 years, the abandoned buildings stood, slowly degrading while woods grew up around the grounds. Over that time, stories and rumors built up around the place. In 1997, a mysterious fire broke out and burnt down most of what stood there. Once the fires died, one single thing stood prominently - not wiped away by the fire: an odd stone gazebo on columns, with a domed roof from which hung an stylized cross. Beneath the cross stood a squat alter. As one might expect, this bizarre object in the midst of the woods has become the source of all kinds of (probably made-up) rumors of devil worship and strange rituals. But anyone who cares to may take a hike out observe this weird structure and become part of the saga, themselves.
Near the mouth of Middle River on the Chesapeake Bay sits the uninhabited Hart-Miller Island. Because it is an island, you'll need a boat to get out there - probably yours or a friends, as there are no ferries that head that way - but it is well worth the trip. The island boasts a 3,000 foot beach with a view of the Chesapeake and of Middle River. The beach is guaranteed to have plenty of space, given that the island is difficult to get access to, so park your stuff in the sun or in the shade of the nearby trees, whichever you prefer. You can also hike or bike the trails which offer overlooks to the Chesapeake and a first hand look at an ecosystem which has remained untouched by human hands for generations. The island park is minimally staffed, and offers concessions and bikes for rental.
Located in the Avalon/Orange Grove area of Patapsco Valley State Park, a hiking/biking trail leads to a narrow suspension bridge which hangs out over a branch of the Patapsco river. The bridge is a set of wood planks suspended from cables, with just enough room for two people to squeeze past one another while walking in opposite directions. The view of the river and surrounding woods as you bounce across this swinging bridge is a thrilling highlight to a invigorating hike through the beautiful state park.
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In the heart of Baltimore City sits the scenic Patterson Park. A popular place to walk, bike or exercise your dog, Patterson Park is known for its swimming, tennis courts, baseball diamond, swimming pool, boat lake and its ice rink. The park has several interesting sculptures, as well. But perhaps its most iconic feature is the odd "observatory" located along the trails on a scenic lookout point. At the time it was constructed, it was intended to reflect the bold Victorian architecture of the time; however it now resembles more of an oriental structure - surrounded by its gardens and pink, blossoming trees. From the top of this tower, one can view the city, the bay and the Patapsco River. However seeing the tower itself is well worth the trip.
If you´re a fan of the macabre, and you fancy a bit of a stroll, you might consider a visit to the Green Mount Cemetery - roughly 50 acres of historic gravesites with a truly magnificent grave-markers and a cast of characters that will fascinate. Visit a veritable who´s who of American politicians; leave a penny on John Wilkes Booth´s grave to commemorate the president he assassinated, or dare to check out the grave of the inventor of the Ouija Board - the marker of which is a stone Ouija Board. Explore the cemetery on your own, with a helpful map provided by Green Mount, or on one of the guided tours. It´s a bit of a hike, but worth the exercise.
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