tigersonthego

By Gabrielle Hemmings

I’ve always loved visiting new cities and neighborhoods ever since I was a little kid, marveling at the different roads and stories each one has. Hampden is a small village within the city of Baltimore. As I walk through its streets, it is clear, Hampden is bursting with personaIity, and its residents take real pride in showing it off. One house might have a yellow door, the next a blue one. It’s beautiful how every home expresses its own personality through details like bird feeders, suncatchers, wind spinners, or chimes; the owner’s favorite flowers spilling out in the yard; decorations lining the porch; and kids’ toys or playhouses scattered about. 

Exploring The Avenue: The Heart of Hampden

The area has so much to explore: a local skate park, colorful street art and stickers scattered around town, a community park with a public pool for summer days, and a mix of unique shops like a comic book store, a record shop, and a tattoo studio above it. Hampden, 15 minutes away from Towson University by car,is the perfect place to spend a day out in the city.

Once we arrived and found a parking spot near Roosevelt Park, we were greeted by the sounds of laughter and excitement from kids just getting out of school. Families strolled by with their children or headed toward the skate park, and we even spotted two little girls in school uniforms learning to rollerblade with help from local skaters. The whole area radiated community, from the friendly faces to the sense of connection in the air. There were plenty of spots to sit and talk, whether you wanted to relax in the shade or people-watch for a bit. Just a short walk from the skate park was a bright kids’ playground, and down the street stood the local public high school, adding to the neighborhood’s cheerful, lived-in energy.

After exploring the park and the area, we made our way to a charming strip of shops and headed straight for the comic books store called Atomic Bookstore. As we walked in, a young man was already chatting with the owner, showing the close-knit community that the bookstore has built over time. The atmosphere inside was peaceful, with lofi music flowing softly in the background. Every section of the store is carefully organized and aesthetically pleasing, inviting you to browse without feeling overwhelmed. The shelves were piled high with an impressive collection of indie comics, from small creators to larger publishers, plus graphic novels and unique zines, even selling plushies of popular shows, figurines, and more. It was clear that this wasn’t your typical bookstore; they even had sticker or pin dispensers near the door and register for just three quarters, adding a quirky, cute touch to the overall experience.

This place felt more like a sanctuary for book and comic lovers, as well as creatives alike. The owner and staff were incredibly kind and welcoming, even allowing me to take pictures around the store. The warmth and positive energy made it the perfect spot to browse, discover new stories, and soak in the local culture. To top it off, they even had comics available for just a dollar, making it clear that Atomic Books is a welcoming haven for all kinds of readers and collectors.

After Kody and Matt got their comics, we headed next door to the record store named Celebrated Summer Records. From the moment you step inside, the vibe is both quaint and lively, filled with the echoes of different eras and musical journeys. The space offers a peaceful retreat where every corner tells a story, whether it’s soul, jazz, punk, reggae, or classic rock spinning on the shelves. They carry a huge variety of records from many genres and decades, perfect for both serious collectors and casual music lovers alike. It’s a place where history and passion for music collide, embodying the unique spirit of Hampden. They even offer a fun, fake 1990s-style telephone booth where you can listen to records you like, and the same goes for cassette tapes. The owner and staff clearly know a lot about music and put so much care into each customer’s experience, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that makes every visit memorable.

where to stop for a bite to eat

There are so many different spots to eat; I recommend are Bella Roma and Golden West Cafe.

When you walk into Bella Roma, immediately you’re hit with the warm scent of garlic rolls and spices; instantly your mouth waters and you’re hungry. The more you look around, you see school kids gathered around the booth seats enjoying reasonably priced pizza and talking. The vibes in the restaurant give off a genuine New York vibe. The staff is very friendly but focused on making sure your food is the best it can be, taking pride in every dish they serve, whether you’re here for a quick slice or a hearty sub. Bella Roma offers comfort food with genuine care, a perfect stop to refuel during your Hampden adventure.

Golden West Cafe offers an entirely different vibe but is just as wonderful as the other spots in Hampden. The moment you walk in, you’re greeted by a cozy mudroom filled with lush plants and a welcoming community board covered with local events and happenings. They host fun movie nights every other Wednesday, making it a true neighborhood hub where locals come together. The restaurant itself is bathed in warm light, creating a relaxed and inviting atmosphere that feels like a home away from home. Whether you’re stopping by for their famous French toast, a flavorful breakfast burrito, or just a casual cup of coffee, Golden West Cafe delivers that perfect blend of comfort, creativity, and community spirit. It’s the ideal place to reflect on a day spent exploring Hampden’s lively streets, culture, and flavors.

Kody and I split the chocolate tiramisu mini cake, and it was very good. The rich layers of chocolate and coffee-infused cream melted in our mouths, showing that Golden West Cafe doesn’t just do well at savory comfort food but at desserts as well. It was the ideal treat to savor while soaking in the warm, welcoming atmosphere of the cafe.

Exploring Hampden was more than just a day trip; it was a chance to experience a neighborhood full of character, creativity, and genuine community spirit. From the vibrant street art and friendly faces at Roosevelt Park to the cozy corners of Atomic Books and Celebrated Summer Records to the comforting flavors of Bella Roma and Golden West Cafe, every moment felt like stepping into a place that truly cares. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Hampden invites you to slow down, connect with the people and places around you, and discover a blend of history, culture, and warmth that stays with you long after you leave. It’s the perfect reminder that sometimes the best adventures are found in the neighborhoods just outside your door.

-Gabrielle Hemmings