Shop Small in Baltimore County
Celebrate all the small things the county has to offer.
From cafes and candy to collectives and candles, you’ll enjoy a relaxing, charming experience while supporting local businesses. Highlighted are just some of the hidden gems scattered throughout your travel of Baltimore County.
NORTH
Start your journey tucked away in the rolling hills of White Hall at the family owned Star Bright Organic Farm. The elegant lavender and blueberry fields blanket 130 acres offers private gatherings, photo sessions, workshops and events. Open to the public Saturday-Sunday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., you can browse the barn featuring all-natural body scrubs and soaps, tea blends, jams, and gift baskets. Reserve your private shopping from Wednesday-Friday or book a reservation for group tours, bridal showers, cocktail parties, or corporate retreats.
Make your way down York Road to the heart of Phoenix where you will find old-world craftsmanship at Beaumont Pottery. With more than 60 years of experience, owner Jerry designs hand-crafted clay pottery that will perfectly complement your kitchen or garden. Discover the unique collection from 10 a.m.- 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.
In nearby Cockeysville, you can find anything and everything at The Distillery Collective. Dealers from around the world are bringing their collections of charming decors and styles. From centuries-old antiques and furniture to vintage artifacts and books, you could spend hours curiously captivated by the elegance of the items the Distillery Collective has to offer.
CENTRAL
If you’re stopping for a bite to eat, Chef Bobby D in Towson is one of the county’s hidden catering treasures. A native of Jamaica, Bobby D climbed the culinary ladder from dishwasher to Executive Chef. His award-winning reputation stands out in dishes like the “Jamaican Jerk Chicken” and the “Reggae Jam Coconut Shrimp.” From blackened salmon pasta to BBQ ribs and wings. Chef Bobby D has you covered for your next meal or catering event.
From the farm to your home, Milk Reclamation Barn Candle Company in Timonium hand crafts farmhouse-inspired candles and apothecary products to bring you the simple pleasure of life on the ranch. Owners Mike and Bobbie Davis have the perfect items for friends, family, and corporate gift baskets.
Baltimore’s largest collection of locally owned boutiques, cafes and restaurants can be found just off the Jones-Falls Expressway at Green Spring Station. Unique gifts, perfect outfits, delicious cocktails, crabcakes, and sushi await as you plan a whole day of shopping small.
As you navigate through the county, don’t miss out on Boordy Vineyards, located just 20 minutes outside of Towson. Boordy planted its roots along the hills of Long Green Valley and is noted as one of the East Coast’s best wineries. The beautifully restored 19th century barn welcomes visitors Monday-Sunday for wine tastings, tours, and public/private events. Browse the wine shop or stay for a fun night with food trucks and live music. Their handcrafted wines are best paired with family and friends in the countryside of Baltimore County.
EAST
The south-east side of the county features The She Shed located in Sparrow’s Point. This woman-owned business is a one-stop shop for custom painted furniture, handcrafted decor, jewelry, and apparel. Take home your own works of art by reserving a spot for events like stained glass workshops, furniture painting and candle making.
Twin sisters Lisa Mangione and Melissa Garcia own a chic consignment shop in Kingsville called The Shabby Button. You won’t have to do much digging to find something you’ll love. Cottage style re-furnishings mixed with regional vintage items and name-brand bags will have you and your home looking “not too shabby.”
SOUTH
Welcome to the ‘Artbeat’ of Baltimore County! Catonsville is designated as Music City Maryland and is the first state-recognized Arts and Entertainment District in the county. In honor of its rich music heritage, you’ll discover live performance venues, art galleries, and local boutiques. The Catonsville Art District celebrates their diverse cultural community with dozens of locally owned restaurants, shops, and special events. A perfect blend of lively atmosphere with a small-town feel.
Expand your literary palate at the woman-owned Growing Minds Bookstore in Catonsville. This November marks 3 years since they opened their doors to make reading more accessible to everyone.
Our Recipes Cafe and Catering is located in the Arbutus neighborhood, but will make you feel right at home. This black-owned business serves up nostalgic comfort food. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., you can enjoy the homemade Chicken and Waffles tossed in honey old bay with a side of southern fried apples, or a Louisiana Shrimp Po Boy mixed with a sweet chili and spicy Sriracha Aioli.
WEST
Traveling up the west side of the county to Owings Mills, Hue Cafe and Apothecary uses culinary innovation to provide from-scratch organic meals for a more sustainable lifestyle. The wife-husband duo is dedicated to overall wellness with their plant based vegan menu that is full of bold flavors and herbal essentials. “Mama” Hue offers unique items such as the “Jerk Mushroom Wrap” and “Kale Chick’N Cesar Salad Wrap” to pair with any of their flavorful homemade herbal tea blends. Open every day for dining and catering.
Looking for a little taste of Maryland? Take a bite of Black Eyed Susan’s in Glyndon. This shop specializes in coffee, candy, goods, and more—even better, these hand-packed goods come in Maryland themed baskets. Look no further for your memorable gift.
In between visits to your favorite local retailer or restaurant, take a break to rejuvenate in nature. Visit Irvine Nature Center in Owings Mills, the region’s largest independent nature center, for a hike, picnic, or to observe the wildlife that inhabits the 211 acres. Hike and explore the 8+ miles of scenic trails that connect forests, meadows, and wetlands.
Reisterstown’s Main Street has been cemented into the west side of Baltimore County for over 260 years. The historic small-town feel continues to make this the perfect place to shop and stroll. From restaurants to hair salons and doctors to car services, you’ll find dozens of small businesses lining the sidewalks ready to greet you.