Location: Christian Temple, Catonsville

5820 Edmondson Ave, Catonsville, MD 21228


This location is on Edmonson Avenue, on what is technically a corner lot as Edmonson takes a nearly 90 degree bend. You can park in any of the lots, assuming there is space to park (there should be). If for some reason there is not, there is street parking on Lambeth Rd, behind the Chrurch.

Christian Temple Map


The temple is circled in purple

We will meet at the blue star

Park anywhere where the yellow lines are, or park on Lambeth Rd (the first road behind the Temple)

Some notes


  • Parking: yes, two lots
  • Playground: yes, good to keep in mind with young kids!
  • Bathrooms: usually not, though there is occasionally a sani-pot
  • Other people: yes, there are usually people at the playground, and perhaps at the church depending on the day
  • Sports: Occasionally there are sports games/practices at the baseball field, but not often. If the church is open, you might be able to go in there.
  • Permit: none needed
  • Greenery: some
  • Building material: brick


The church has been kind enough to let me photograph on their property. I ask that you please respect the church and property by not leaving anything behind and not harming any of the plants. Otherwise, you are very welcome to explore any part of the grounds and playground.

Closer view


We will be photographing within the red circle, and depending on time, possibly outside of it. It's a nook between wings of the building, with a small garden.

First Entrance


This is the entrance at the front of the Temple. Meet at the blue star, which is just to the side of a set of stairs. The red arrow points to the little garden where we will take pictures, up the hill. (it's just behind that wall, you can't really see it from this angle). The playground is off to the left. We're not going to the playground, I just wanted to make a note of it because sometimes it distracts very young kids. Possibly come early to play, or prepare your child by telling them it's there and maybe you'll play after the session.

Second Entrance


If you come in this way, park in any lot. If you park in the right lot, walk around toward the entrance and past it to get to the meeting spot. Note the church is on a little hill, and I might be at the bottom of those stairs or somewhere on the grass hill. If there is a session before you, I might be coming from the little garden around the building.

Things to do in Catonsville


Downtown Catonsville is cute! There are many stores and restaurants that we frequent often.

Family friendly restaurants include Chef Paulinos (pizza, italian), Piece A Pizza (pizza and desserts/cakes/cookies), State Fare, Francos (italian), Taneytown Deli and Sandwich.

Slightly fancier: Catonsville Gourmet (seafood), The Beaumont (American)

Cafes (with food and seating): Charlsies and Atwaters.

Fun Stores: Pat's porch (candy), Betterworld Imaginerium (toys), Growing Minds Bookstore


Things to do In Ellicott City


If you haven't visited downtown Ellicott City, it's definitely worth your time. I recommend parking in Lot D or Lot F. From there you can walk anywhere in the downtown area - it isn't large, but it is on a hill. I most recommend simply exploring, as there are lots of cool things to see here and it is, in general, visually appealing place.

Unfortunately I haven't had the chance to visit every store/restuarant, but I have enjoyed: La Palapa (mexican, good with kids), Pheonix upper main (American), Manor Hill Tavern (my favorite), My husband likes UMI sushi. Park Ridge creamery (ice cream) and Little market cafe are just off Lot D and also great, but not the only ice cream shop or cafe.

There are *many* stores, including a toy store, popcorn store, chocolatier, and bookstore as well as a museum at the bottom of the hill and the riverside for exploration. There are also some cute alleyways. Off Lot E you'll find stairs that take you to some quaint streets and buildings, including the Children's museum (tiny but neat!).

If you want, cross the river to get to another great cafe, a sandwich/burger place, and the beginning of the Trolley Trail (very pretty and good for a walk).

The hours on all of these places vary greatly, so make sure you check before going.