Looking for a peaceful retreat just outside Baltimore? Visit Lutherville! This charming suburb in Baltimore County blends historic architecture, scenic parks, and easy access to city attractions. It's perfect for a relaxing getaway with small-town vibes and big-city convenience.
When I like to visit
The best time to visit Lutherville is in spring or fall (April–June or September–October). Enjoy colorful foliage, blooming gardens, and mild temperatures ideal for exploring nearby trails and outdoor spots.
Tips for getting There
- By Car: Located just off I-695 and I-83, Lutherville is about 20 minutes north of downtown Baltimore.
- By Train: The Baltimore Light Rail stops in Lutherville, providing a direct connection to downtown and BWI Airport.
- By Air: Fly into Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), then drive or take the Light Rail to Lutherville.
Where I like to stay
- Gramercy Mansion – Elegant bed-and-breakfast with romantic gardens and classic decor just minutes from Lutherville.
- Holiday Inn Timonium – Convenient modern hotel with free parking and easy Light Rail access.
- Hampton Inn & Suites Baltimore North/Timonium – Comfortable and family-friendly lodging close to dining and shopping.
Top Attractions
- Lutherville Historic District – Stroll tree-lined streets and admire 19th-century architecture in this quaint neighborhood.
- Hampton National Historic Site – Tour a grand 18th-century estate with formal gardens and preserved outbuildings.
- Cylburn Arboretum – Enjoy peaceful nature trails and gardens just a short drive south in Baltimore.
- Timonium Fairgrounds – Catch seasonal events like the Maryland State Fair and craft shows nearby.
For Families
1. Step Into History at the Fire Museum of Maryland
The Fire Museum of Maryland in Lutherville, Maryland was founded in 1971 to interpret and celebrate the history of the urban fire service in the U.S. It is one of the largest fire museums in America.
The museum started as the private collection of the Stephen G. Heaver family collected over forty years and it now contains a collection of more than forty pieces of firefighting equipment, including a world-class collection of historic hand engines, horse-drawn, steam-powered and motorized vehicles.
The exhibits are divided into firefighting tools, Great Baltimore Fire of 1904, antique toys, a working Fire Alarm Office, and a Children's Discovery Room.
The museum holds a popular annual "Lantern Night" program during which docents and museum staff dress in period costumes and narrate stories from the Battle of Baltimore and the War of 1812.
1301 York Rd, Lutherville-Timonium, MD 21093, Phone: 410-321-7500, Map
2. Shop Local and Savor Fresh Finds at Graul's Market
Graul's Market is a family-owned and run chain of upscale grocery stores in Maryland established in 1920 in order to provide locals with fresh seafood, meat, produce and baked goods baked fresh daily in each market. Graul’s Prepared Foods Department offers fresh, gourmet meals and side dishes prepared by their professional staff from some of the today’s most exciting contemporary recipes.
Graul’s stocks its shelves with the groceries from leading manufacturers from all over the country and from all over the world. Their Lutherville store is a large, very popular spot for all those every day needs as well as rare luxury items, spices and ingredients. The store is the favorite place for ordering a very special birthday or wedding cake.
Graul's Market, 12200 Tullamore Rd, Lutherville-Timonium, MD 21093, Phone: 410-308-2100
Where to Eat
3. If You’re Craving Upscale Comfort Food, Dine at Tark’s Grill & Bar
Tark’s Grill & Bar is an upscale American bistro and bar located in the popular Green Spring Station shopping center in Lutherville, Maryland. Tark’s is known as much as a popular place to rub elbows with celebrities as it is for its great food.
Interior décor is elegant and clubby, with dark wood, burgundy tones, intimate lighting and vintage photographs of the city's history on the walls. Large patio with a fire pit and fountain is always packed on warm days and evenings. The menu is substantial and the wine selection is exceptional. Executive Chef James Jennings offers an original menu of classic American comfort foods with his own interpretation.
Tark’s Grill & Bar, 2360 W Joppa Rd #116, Lutherville-Timonium, MD 21093, Phone: 410-583-8275
More Places to Eat
- Il Basilico Trattoria – Cozy Italian spot serving pizza, pasta, and homemade specialties in a relaxed setting.
- BlueStone – Stylish American seafood and steakhouse with a great bar and seasonal dishes.
- Crafty Crab – Fun, casual eatery known for its Cajun-style seafood boils and bold flavors.
Local Events
- Maryland State Fair (Late August–Early September) – Rides, concerts, exhibits, and classic fair food at the nearby Timonium Fairgrounds.
- Lutherville Music & Arts Festival (Fall) – Family-friendly community event with local performers, food vendors, and artisans.
- Holiday Train Garden (December) – Annual model train display at the Fire Museum, a festive local favorite.
Day Trips Within 30 Minutes of Lutherville, Maryland
- Hampton National Historic Site (5–10 min) – Tour a preserved Georgian mansion and explore gardens, farm buildings, and history exhibits.
- Loch Raven Reservoir (10–15 min) – Hike wooded trails, go fishing, or enjoy peaceful water views just minutes from town.
- Towson (10 min) – Shop at Towson Town Center, dine downtown, or explore cultural events at Towson University.
- Cylburn Arboretum (20–25 min) – Wander through gardens, wooded trails, and a historic mansion in this serene Baltimore green space.
- Ladew Topiary Gardens (25–30 min) – Stroll whimsical, themed gardens and admire artistic topiary designs in Monkton.
- Oregon Ridge Park (10–15 min) – Hike scenic trails, visit a nature center, or attend seasonal outdoor concerts and festivals.
- Gunpowder Falls State Park (Hereford Area) (25–30 min) – Hike forested trails, fish, or enjoy the serene Big Gunpowder Falls stream.
- Baltimore Museum of Art (25 min) – View world-class collections, including the famous Cone Collection of Matisse works.
- Historic Cockeysville (10–15 min) – Explore antique shops, local markets, and historic landmarks in this nearby community.
- Mount Washington Village (20–25 min) – Browse indie shops, enjoy riverside cafés, or ride the Light Rail for a relaxed urban outing.
Plan Your Trip