When thinking about Baltimore, the mind sees one of two things: the high crime rate of a city in constant conflict, or a tourist attraction for people who have an affinity for science or sea creatures. Overlooked are the true treasures of Baltimore, like Fell’s Point.
Once a well-known area, Fell’s Point now lies buried under misconceptions and misplaced stereotypes for many people. But when light is shed upon this historical harbor-side town, it leaves an unparalleled impression, reminding visitors that Baltimore truly is a one of a kind city.
From boutiques to thrift shops, cafes to coffeehouses, the various businesses that make up Fell’s Point overflow with originality.
Mr. Yogato’s, a frozen yogurt shop, was initially founded in D.C. by a rocket scientist. That’s right: a rocket scientist. Steve Davis, the rocket scientist, previously worked in California, where frozen yogurt is a popular treat, until he was transferred to D.C., where frozen yogurt is not as accessible. Therefore, Davis decided to open his own frozen yogurt shop, an unpretentious place that would be involved with the community and run by its own rules.
Davis’ colleague, rocket scientist Jessica Jensen, wanted to do the same thing in Baltimore, her hometown. And she has, opening a Mr. Yogato’s in Fell’s Point last April.
Mr. Yogato’s serves frozen yogurt, as well as cupcakes and hot chocolate, and offers over 40 toppings, but it’s the special discounts and rules that give Mr. Yogato’s its charm: 50% off for anyone who balances on one foot with their eyes closed for 15 seconds (a lot harder than it sounds), 30% off for anyone who recites the poison cup speech from The Princess Bride (in accent), 10% off for anyone who gets a Yogato stamp on their head, 10% off for anyone who answers a trivia question correctly (and 10% added for those who get it wrong), and a flavor is named after anyone who orders yogurt for 30 consecutive days.
Even the quaint shop itself has plenty to offer customers. Hula hoops, board games, and an old Nintendo system are available for entertainment. “The Park,” a section of the shop, also offers entertainment. Customers can play chess, write messages on a chalkboard door, or dress up their spoons like people.
“Frozen yogurt should not be taken seriously,” said employee Bria Murphy. “We have a good product that’s good for you, it’s a fun place to hang out, there are surprises every day, and it’s a nice alternative to spending a bunch of money to see a movie…you just have to come down and see it for yourself.”
After games and desert, walk up the street and across the block to Sound Garden, a CD, record, and movie shop with a lot of personality. Sound Garden was opened in 1993 because there were no quality record stores in Baltimore. Ever since then, it has remained a popular landmark in Fell’s Point. With an incredible selection of new and used CDs, DVDs, and records, almost anything can be found at Sound Garden with the help of their friendly, knowledgeable staff.
Sound Garden even has a small, indoor stage that has been used for intimate performances by celebrities such as Regina Spektor, the Goo Goo Dolls, Kiefer Sutherland, Robin Thick, Motorhead, Rise Against, and many others. The performances have an unfailing ability to produce lines of people that stretch around the block.
“It’s a great, independent business and just a cool place to come hang out and find out about new music and movies,” said employee Alex Ashkenes.
With only one other Sound Garden location in Syracuse, NY, it is no wonder why people who visit Baltimore’s Sound Garden always seem to find their way back. “It’s a destination,” said Ashkenes.
Places with originality, spunk, and their own idea of normalcy tend to be destinations. Sometimes a little out of the way, but completely worth it. And Fell’s Point is filled with plenty of destinations for countless unique experiences.
Nicky Hatzidimitriou can be reached for comment at [email protected]