Preston Gardens

A Glimpse into History

Tucked within Baltimore's bustling streets lies Preston Gardens, a historic linear park with a story as layered as the city itself. Constructed between 1914 and 1919, this green strip stretches three blocks along Saint Paul Street, from East Saratoga Street up to Orleans Street. At 715 feet long and 70 feet wide, it's not massive, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in character.

One of the park's standout features is its 700-foot-long historic retaining wall that creates a fascinating urban split - dividing Saint Paul Street into upper and lower roads for five blocks between Centre and Lexington Streets. This unique grade separation gives the park its distinctive multi-level personality.

A Complex Past

Behind Preston Gardens' serene present lies a complicated history. The park was built on land that once housed a vibrant African American neighborhood in the early 20th century. This community was home to black lawyers, religious leaders, and families whose offices, social halls, and homes dated back to the early to mid-1800s.

Following the 1904 Baltimore Fire, much of this neighborhood was demolished to make way for the park and other urban development projects - a reminder of how city planning decisions often came at the expense of established communities.

The Park Today

Today, Preston Gardens offers a green reprieve from Baltimore's concrete landscape. While acknowledging its complex origins, the space now functions as a quiet testament to the city's evolving story and layered urban identity.

What You'll Find

If you're a dog owner, you'll appreciate that Preston Gardens is dog-friendly, making it a favorite spot for locals walking their four-legged friends. The open grassy areas provide space to relax and catch your breath amid the downtown hustle.

The park does have public restrooms, however be aware that they aren't always in the best condition - perhaps something to keep in mind if you're planning an extended visit.