If you’ve lived in Charm City for a while, then you’ll likely remember some of the following places from the past. These shops and attractions may be long gone, but they still remain in our memories…
1. Memorial Stadium
Many Baltimoreans remember this stadium fondly, which closed in 1997 and was finally demolished in 2002. It was a multi-sports venue, and most Charm City residents remember watching the Orioles and Colts play here. What memories!
2. Hutzler's
Hutzler's dated all the way back to 1858, with its last store closing in 1990. Throughout its 132 years, 10 chains opened and closed in the Maryland area. It's still remembered fondly.
3. Old Town Mall
This complex still stands abandoned in Baltimore, looking nothing like it did decades ago. Believe it or not, Old Town Mall was once bustling, with over 50 stores and more. When people started moving away from the city, business suffered. There are rumors here and there about revitalization, but nothing solid has stuck.
4. Gwynn Oak Park
This Baltimore amusement park featured roller coasters, tea cups, and more. Anti-segregation protests became prominent here in the 1950s and 1960s and eventually, the park did become desegregated. This spot closed in 1973 due to damages from flooding.
5. Hecht's
Did you know that Hecht's actually originated in Baltimore? As it became more popular, the chain spread throughout the Mid-Atlantic Region. Eventually all stores became phased out by 2006. Do you still own clothes from Hecht's? I sure do.
6. Read's Drugstore
This downtown store was built in the 1930s. It gained fame in 1955 as it became the site of an anti-segregation sit-in, which led to it being desegregated. This spot with a rich past eventually closed, but you can still find this structure standing.
7. Enchanted Forest
As a Baltimore local, this place may have been your Disney World as a child. The Enchanted Forest was located along Route 40 near Ellicott City, from 1955 to 1995. It had magical rides, playground equipment, and live shows. You can still find pieces of this place at Clark's Elioak Farm.
8. Epstein's
This was one of the last family-owned department stores in Baltimore, eventually closing in the 1990s. This place had a little bit of everything. What do you remember purchasing here?
9. Bethlehem Steel
Did you or a family member work at Bethlehem Steel at Sparrows Point? This giant industrial complex employed many Baltimoreans throughout the decades. Now it appears to be a ghost town, although its said that future businesses are planning to move in.
10. Stewart's
This beautiful store closed in 1978 and is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. What was your favorite thing about Stewart's?
What do you remember about the above places in Baltimore? What would you add to the list? Let us know below!
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