Get Inspired by the Breathtaking Peabody Library

Whether you’re a bibliophile or an architecture enthusiast—or both—you simply must visit the Peabody Library next time you’re in Baltimore. (For more ideas on things to see and do, places to eat, and our favorite activities for the region, download our free area vacation guide.) The Peabody Library is part of Johns Hopkins University, and its splendor is simply breathtaking.

Housed in the world-renowned Peabody Institute of Music, the Library is part of the Sheridan Libraries Special Collections at Johns Hopkins. The moment you walk through the doors you can feel the inspiration of generations of research and thought. In addition to its traditional use, the George Peabody Library has now become the premiere wedding and event venue in Baltimore.

The Magnificent Peabody Library

George Peabody was a Massachusetts-born philanthropist. From the moment you walk through the main doors, you’ll be confronted with his vision come to life: “an extensive library, well-furnished in every department of knowledge.” A sweeping panorama of books housed in an architectural marvel is an awe-inspiring sight and has been since it first opened in 1878.

Six tiers of stately cast-iron columns, decorative railings, and classical embellishments touched with gold-leaf surround the main room that rises 61 feet from its black-and-white marble floor to the massive skylight that caps the central interior. Warmly lit, the space is so perfectly proportioned that, although the room is monumental, the feeling is intimate.

Step into the Library’s Exhibition Gallery and you’ll be surrounded by pieces from the Johns Hopkins Libraries’ diverse and rare collections. Today the collection contains over 300,000 volumes and is remarkable for its historic breadth and depth.

Peabody Hours

Open for Readers and Visitors:

Tuesday-Thursday: 9am-5pm

Friday: 9am-3pm

Address
17 East Mount Vernon Place
Baltimore, MD 21202

About Johns Hopkins

Johns Hopkins University—the nation’s first research university!—is right here in Baltimore. Johns Hopkins was founded on the principle that by pursuing big ideas and sharing what is learned, we make the world a better place. For more than 135 years, this outstanding institution hasn’t strayed from that vision. In fact, they’ve expanded it.

The university and its campus have played an essential role in the evolution of Baltimore throughout the generations. Whether you’re an arts enthusiast, a science and engineering buff, or simply appreciate architectural splendor, you should consider a visit to the Homewood campus next time you visit Baltimore.

 

The next time you’re planning a Baltimore visit, come stay with us at the nearby Wayside Inn. Located in historic Ellicott City, our Inn is convenient to the city while offering the charm of historic Americana. And don’t forget to download our free Howard County vacation guide to help you plan your trip!

 

Photo: By Matthew Petroff – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=24162642