With all the wonderful benefits to city living, it's sometimes easy to forget just how great we have it here at 520 Park. We're so close to so many things but an often overlooked asset, and one that only a few areas offer, is a public market. Believe it or not, our beloved Lexington Market is one of the longest-running markets in the world, having been around since 1782! The main market is housed in two large buildings on the north corners of the intersection of Paca and Lexington Streets, housing small eateries and stands selling fish, produce, meat, baked goods, and candy. The market has always been on this site, though originally operated without sheds and stalls. Farmers would load up their horse drawn wagons with ham, butter, eggs and produce, traveling from Towson and Reisterstown to sell their goods at the market, usually starting at dawn. These days, the market is a Baltimore icon, as well as the source for so much great food. Having been the site of great eateries and stands for so long, it's also now common for the market to host live musical performances during lunch hours on Fridays and Saturdays, along with presentations from area schools. At various points during the year, you can also find special holiday events, health fairs, a Preakness Crab Derby, and even a fashion show. More recently, there have been efforts made toward updating the facilities, and the public has been asked to provide input for the estimated $20 million renovation that is in the works. This is all just in the planning stages so far, so it could be a while before the work will be started and completed. Next time you're thinking about where to grab a quick bite to eat, stop in to the market where you can find something to suit everyone's tastes. Or, if you're considering some dinner options to make at home, get inspired by the fresh meats, seafood, and produce, rather than sifting through prepackaged items at a mega-chain grocery store. Click here for a complete listing of the businesses in the market and to get a sense of the tremendous variety it has to offer. See you at the market! Lexington Market 400 W Lexington St Baltimore, MD 21201 (410) 685-6169 lexingtonmarket.com