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2008 NRPA Congress and Exposition

Department of Recreation and Parks - Special Facilities

After two years of construction and renovations, a grand-opening ceremony was held in order to celebrate the "newly constructed" North and South Pavilions of the Howard Peters Rawlings Conservatory and Botanic Gardens of Baltimore. These pavilions were designed to complement the original architecture of the Palm House. Renovations and hardscaping in the three display greenhouses feature Arizona flagstone, rock boulders from the painted desert of Utah, a tropical pool, a misting system, Italian tiles and fountains.

Most of the project was made possible by city issued bonds and the State of Maryland Open Space Program. Delegate Howard P. Rawlings also played a very important role in securing additional funds for this project. Thus, to honor his dedication and commitment to the Conservatory and Baltimore, Council President Sheila Dixon and the Baltimore City Council unanimously passed council bill #04, 1524, which renamed the Baltimore Conservatory to the Howard Peters Rawlings Conservatory and Botanic Gardens of Baltimore.

Special Facilities List


The Howard Peters Rawlings Conservatory and Botanic Gardens of Baltimore

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Kate Blom, Conservatory Supervisor
3100 Swan Dr. in Druid Hill Park
Baltimore, MD 21217
(410) 396- 0180

The Howard Peters Rawlings Conservatory and Botanic Gardens of Baltimore is managed by the Bureau of Parks' Horticultural Division and is supported by the non-profit group, the Baltimore Conservatory Association. Located inside of Druid Hill Park near the intersection of Gwynns Falls Parkway and McCulloh Street, the Conservatory features year-round displays of plant material in five distinct areas of the facility: the 1888 Palm House, the Orchid Room, Mediterranean House, Tropical House and Desert House.

There are 35 flowerbeds in the 1½ acre garden that provide a kaleidoscope of color from early spring until late fall. In addition, three major flower displays are planned during the year, which includes the Spring Flower Show, the Fall Chrysanthemum and the Holiday Poinsettia displays. Annual public events include fall and holiday open houses.
The Conservatory is the perfect venue to rent for weddings, parties, meetings, workshops and other special events. The hours of operation are Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, please call (410) 396-0180.

Directions: From the Jones Falls Expressway/I-83 North and South--Take Exit 7/West to Druid Park Lake Drive. At the fifth traffic light (Gwynns Falls Parkway) turn into Druid Hill Park. Make an immediate right after entering the park and the Conservatory will be on your left.

Carrie Murray Nature

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Corrine Parks, Director
1901 Ridegtop Road
Baltimore, MD 21207
(410) 396-0808

Explore nature and learn about the thousands of animals and insects native to the Baltimore area. This spectacular facility offers young people the opportunity to explore the great outdoors in a fun and educational environment.

The Carrie Murray Nature Center was established in the late 1980's through a generous donation from former Orioles player and Baseball Hall of Famer, Eddie Murray. The center is named in honor of his mother.

The recently refurbished facility is wheelchair accessible and features the Insect Zoo with hundreds of indigenous and exotic species, a rehabilitation center for permanently injured birds of prey, a large classroom area, and a live display of reptiles and amphibians. Participants from all over Baltimore City and surrounding counties visit the nature center and participate in year-round nature programs and activities such as watershed/stream conservation, recycling, animal and wild bird rescue, bird, insect and tree identification, summer Nature Camp and many others. In addition, partnerships with the Gwynns Falls Trail Council, the Baltimore Zoo, the National Aquarium, the Maryland Science Center, Outward Bound, the Department of Natural Resources and others enhance the center programs and add to the exciting learning experience at Carrie Murray Nature Center. College interns and adults (18 years and older) are encouraged to explore rewarding volunteer opportunities as camp counselors. Carrie Murray is located inside historical Gwynns Falls/Leakin Park, one of the largest parks of its kind in the nation. It features plentiful meadows, springs and marshes, hiking and biking trails, picnic areas and a host of animal habitats including hawk, owl, deer, red fox, raccoon, beaver, possum, turtle, and numerous bird genres.

Cylburn Arboretum

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Mellissa Grim, Greenhouse Supervisor
4915 Greenspring Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21209
(410) 396-0180

Cylburn Arboretum is a public garden and nature preserve encompassing over 200 acres. It has more than 3 miles of nature trails through a mature piedmont forest, a man-made wetland area and a historic mansion. Cylburn also features a variety of large specimen trees and seasonal gardens including: formal, shade, backyard and display gardens.

The Horticultural Division manages Cylburn Arboretum in partnership with the Cylburn Arboretum Association (CAA), the resident non-profit organization.

Seasonal events take place throughout the year including spring Market Day and the annual FestiFall celebration. Monthly activities include afternoon teas, horticultural lectures, workshops and open houses. The first floor of the mansion is available to rent for meetings, workshops and wedding receptions. The gardens may also be rented for wedding ceremonies and photo shoots.

The grounds at Cylburn Arboretum are open year-round from 6 a.m. to dusk. The mansion is open Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., excluding holidays. There is no charge to visit.

For a calendar of events, to view photos, story-time information, or for other general information, please visit www.cylburnassociation.org. For information regarding events and programs, please call (410) 367-2217.

For facility rental information and to downloadable application forms, please follow the links below. For all facility rentals, please call (410) 396-0180.


For information regarding tours, workshops and lectures, please click here. To schedule a tour, workshop or lecture, please call (410) 396-7839.


To visit other public gardens in Maryland, please visit www.marylandgardens.org.

Gwynns Falls Trail

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Mike Strawbridge, Trail Manager
1920 Eagle Dr.
Baltimore, MD 21207
(410) 396-0440
http://www.gwynnsfallstrail.org

Come and discover the Gwynns Falls Trail. This unique urban greenway connects 30 neighborhoods in west and southwest Baltimore with parklands that stretch over 14 miles. One of Baltimore's best-kept secrets, this mostly paved trail is great for hiking, biking, picnicking, fishing, walking, jogging, rollerblading or just relaxing.

The Gwynns Falls Trail begins in Leakin Park and generally follows the stream to the Middle Branch and the Inner Harbor of the Patapsco River. The greenway is composed of over 2000 acres of publicly owned land within the Gwynns Falls stream valley and includes one of the largest wilderness woodland parks in the Eastern United States: Gwynns Falls/Leakin Park.

The Gwynns Falls 14-mile trail system is open. An additional 1-mile trail extension to the I-70 Park & Ride will be constructed by spring 2007. Within Gwynns Falls/Leakin Park and its 1,200 acres, there are also approximately 10 miles of additional natural paths wandering up and down the slopes of this wilderness park.

Some points of interest near or along the Trail are the Carrie Murray Nature Center, the B&O Railroad Museum, Waterview West wildlife observation boardwalk and deck, the Baltimore Rowing Club, M&T Bank Stadium, Oriole Park at Camden Yards, Federal Hill Park, and the Inner Harbor Promenade.

Clarence "Du" Burns Arena

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(Managed by Hale Properties)
1301 S. Ellwood Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21224
(410) 396-4202

The Clarence “Du” Burns Arena Indoor/Outdoor Sports Complex includes the “Du” Burns Arena, Bonvegna Field, Dypski Park, BAM’s Martial Arts School and the offices of the Baltimore Blast. The “Du” Burns Arena, named after the first African-American Mayor of Baltimore City, opened in 1991 and includes an indoor artificial turf field, 183’ x 85’, with dasher boards, plexiglass and netting. There is seating for six hundred fifty spectators, a concession stand and arena store onsite. The arena is host to numerous sports, leagues, activities and shows. The arena also hosts wedding receptions, parties, dances, etc. in our Banquet Hall. Senator Joseph Bonvegna Field is an enclosed field measuring 110 yards x 70 yards and has bleacher seating. With the support of the “Friends of Bonvegna Field,” an irrigation system has been installed. Special thanks to the Maryland State Soccer Association, Maryland Major Soccer Association, Old Timers Soccer Association of Maryland, Fortview Community Softball Program, CHISCO and the Baltimore Sports & Social Club for making this possible. Adjacent to Bonvegna Field is a fenced-in basketball court. Dypski Park includes our wading pool, playground and pavilion. There are numerous activities for all ages at the “Du” Burns Arena Sports Complex. The Baltimore City Department of Recreation and Parks invites you to be apart of the action!

William J. Myers Soccer Pavilion

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Kay Overton
Sports Facility Director
4300 West Bay Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21225
(410) 396-5782

Get a "huge" kick out of soccer! With a host of innovative programming such as the Myers Soccer Tots, Open Play Drop-in games, the Baltimore Blast Soccer Clinics, the Metro, in-house “Just for Fun”, after-school, and co-ed adult leagues. The William J. Myers Soccer Pavilion continues to score big-time for local players and parents.

The Myers Pavilion is named in honor of William J. Myers, a former city-councilman of Baltimore City. The pavilion opened in 1986 and features an indoor artificial turf field, 190”x85” with dasher boards, Plexiglas and netting. There is seating for 500 fans and spectators. Locker rooms, showers and concessions are also available. The Men’s Cup, Co-Ed Cup, the Mayor’s Holiday tournaments are just some of the many special events offered at Myers. So come out and have a ball!

The Myers Pavilion is the perfect venue to rent for parties, meetings, workshops and other special events.

Rental Fees:
$75 an hour May-October (on the field)
$125 an hour November-April (on the field)
$50 an hour (Conference room)
$275 an hour (entire facility)

Baltimore Rowing and Resource Center

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Darryl Railey, Recreation Program Assistant
3301 Waterview Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21230
(410) 396-3838 or (410) 396-3840

Since 1987, the Baltimore Rowing and Water Resource Center has been a premiere venue for meetings, workshops, special events, wedding receptions, family reunions and birthday parties!

The Baltimore Rowing and Water Resource Center is the centerpiece of 150 acres of parkland in Middle Branch Park, which features fishing piers, boat ramps, picnic areas and wetlands. The center captures the nautical spirit of the Patapsco River and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Bridge (Hanover Street). It also provides a clear view of the downtown skyline that can be viewed from the rear of the facility. A few of the centers' amenities include nautical decor throughout the building, hardwood floors and a fireplace in the main hall. Just 10 minutes south of Baltimore's Inner Harbor and easily accessible to I-95 and BWI Parkway (295), the ambiance and view is spectacular. Come see for yourself!

Patterson Park Boat Lake

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Mark Burke, Recreation Programmer
200 South Linwood Street
Baltimore, MD 21224
410-396-9392
Email: friends@pattersonpark.com

The Patterson Park Boat Lake was created during grading operations in 1864 when extensive earth-moving work was performed to remove military emplacements and to fill ravines. When Baltimoreans began to spontaneously to use the Lake as a skating pond in 1865, the Board of Public Park Commission acknowledged the worthiness of expanding the Lake to accommodate skating as well as boating. This work, completed in 1875, enlarged the Lake to its present size, reduced the depth to approximately three feet, and included a brick retaining wall around the Lake edge, an island, and plantings of trees and shrubs. A system of trench drains, using oyster shells as the porous materials and earthen pipes to convey the water, was constructed to eliminate wet areas. Waste water from the marble fountain at the Lombard Street entrance and numerous springs and seeps were also piped to the Lake. By 1884, a boat landing shelter was added. In 1984, the Department of Public Works and Recreation and Parks drained the Lake and removed between six inches and one foot of sediment that overlaid a clay bottom. At that time, it was recommended that the Lake be deepened and that the ground be treated with herbicides. The original brick wall along the Lake’s perimeter still remains and is presently covered with concrete. The island, presently surrounded by a wall as well, also remains.

Today, the Lake is a combination of open water and a wetland habitat for fish, waterfowl, and songbirds and renovation is underway.

Upton Boxing Facility

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Home of 2006 National Silver Gloves Champion!
1901 Pennsylvania Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21212
(443) 984-2588

The Adolescent Boxing Program is wonderful new addition to Upton Boxing Facility’s new programming. Formerly a recreation center, the facility has housed Baltimore City Department of Recreation and Parks’ Boxing Program for almost six years. Recently renovated, the facility features a boxing ring, punching bags, heavy bags, full-weight and shower rooms.

Boxers participate in local, regional and national championships. In 2006, the quick, hard-punching 11-year-old Gervonta “Tank” Davis showed all the speed and agility of a professional boxer in Independence, Mo. He also proved to be the best in the 65-pound division and in the country bringing home the 2006 National Silver Gloves Championship.

While the focus of the program is boxing, a variety of other activities are being offered to Baltimore’s youth. Additional programs include aerobics, kickboxing and modern dance. Children participating in the after-school program between the ages of 5-12 can utilize the facility’s new computer lab and receive tutoring.

Carroll Park Skateboarding & Bike Facility

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Don Salamone, Recreation Programmer
1500 Washington Blvd. - 21230
(410) 396-9177 or (410) 396-7019

The Skateboard Park is located in Carroll Park behind the PAL Recreation Center on Bayard St. Come out and test your skills. Facility users must be at least 7 years old to enter. Helmet, knee pads and elbow pads required.

Admission: $2 per person (daily)
Membership: $15 per year

Hours of Operation

Spring schedule begins Mid March through Mid June.
Mondays and Tuesdays (Closed)
Wednesdays: 4pm - Dark (Skateboarding)
Thursdays: 4pm - Dark (Biking)
Fridays: 4pm - Dark (Skateboarding)
Saturdays: 12pm - Dark (Skateboarding)
Sundays: 12pm - Dark (Biking)

Summer Schedule end of June through August

Mondays and Tuesdays: (Closed)
Wednesdays: 4pm - 8pm (Skateboarding)
Thursdays: 4pm - 8pm (Skateboarding)
Fridays: 4pm - 8pm (Skateboarding)
Saturdays: 12pm - 8pm (Skateboarding)
Sundays: 12pm - 8pm (Biking)

Dominic "Mimi" DiPietro Family Skating Center

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Mark Burke, Recreation Programmer
200 S. Linwood St.
Baltimore, MD 21224
(410) 396-9392

The Dominic "Mimi" DiPietro Family Ice Skating Center, originally built in 1967, is named after the late, longtime East Baltimore City Councilman. Located at Linwood Avenue and Pratt Street, the Rink hosts many of Baltimore’s hockey teams as well as seasonal special events. It also features public skating sessions, ice hockey, broomball and sled hockey.

The rink is full-sized measuring 200 by 85 feet and is equip with a warm-up room, fireplace, concession stand and skate shop, which makes this facility the perfect venue for private parties and group rentals. The rink is operational from October to mid-April.

General Admission is $4.

Skate rental is $2; Season Passes (10 sessions) are $30.

For more information on the Dominic "Mimi" DiPietro Family Skating Center, please contact Bob Wall at (410) 396-9392.

Hours of Operation

Tuesday: 12-2 p.m.
Friday: 7-9 p.m.
Saturday: 3-5 p.m., 7-9 p.m.
Sunday: 3-5 p.m.
Monday: closed
Wednesday: closed
Thursday: closed

Mt. Pleasant Ice Arena

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Ruthie Herman, Program Director
6101 Hillen Road
Baltimore, MD 21239
(443) 984-4075

The Mt. Pleasant Ice Arena is dedicated to promoting lifetime recreation through participation in ice sports. The rink is full-sized measuring 200 x 85 feet and offers public skating sessions, ice hockey, sled hockey and skating lessons. There are also a variety of seasonal special events and activities offered during the holidays.

This facility is the perfect venue for private parties and group rentals. The rink is operational from October to mid-April.

General Admission is $4.
Skate rental is $2; Frequent skater cards (10 sessions) are $30.

For more information on the Mt. Pleasant Ice Arena, please call (443) 984-4075. Register online or pay for programs at <https://activenet5.active.com/bcrpbaltimorecityrecandpark/>.

Hours of Operation

Thursdays: 10 a.m.-noon
Fridays: 8:30-10:30 p.m.
Saturdays: 3 -5 p.m.
Sundays: 3 -5 p.m.

2007/2008 Special events listing

December 2007 - April 2008
Learn to Skate and to play Ice Hockey
Mondays 5 p.m.
Saturdays 1:45 p.m.
Classes for available for children and adults; Skate with your kids!

January- February 2008
Tiny Tots Learn to Skate
For ages 3 - 5
Moms or caregivers skate for free.
Thursdays at 10 a.m.

Sunday, Dec. 16, 2007
Holiday Ice Show
Free Holiday Ice Show featuring National Skating Competitors and other Local Artists
7 p.m.

Dec. 1st, Jan. 11th, Jan. 25th and Jan. 26th
Towson University Hockey Games
Enjoy extreme high-impact fun on ice.
8:30 p.m.

Northwest Baltimore Park Golf Course-Driving Range

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Matt White, operations manager
2101 W. Rogers Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21209
(410) 396-7900

Open To The Public through Sunday, Oct. 28, 2007!

The Northwest Baltimore Park Golf Course-Driving Range, located just minutes from the Jones Falls Expressway (I-83) and Johns Hopkins University, is open to the public 7 days a week. The Range features well- spaced driving stations, and natural target greens.

Hours of Operation

April
Monday - Friday noon - 6 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.		 September
Monday - Friday noon - 7 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.

May
Monday - Friday noon - 7 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.

 October
Monday - Friday noon - 6 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

June, July, August
Monday - Friday noon - 8 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.

  

Frequent Golfer Cards:
$70 - 12 large buckets of balls / $90 12 jumbo buckets of balls

Jumbo Bucket of Balls:
$9 - Approximately 120 balls

Large Bucket of Balls:
$7 - Approximately 75 balls

Small Bucket of Balls:
$5 - Approximately 55 balls

Sun. July 6, 2008

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