Ellicott City Historic District

Ellicott City Historic District covers downtown with more than 200 buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries set along streets lined with granite. Greek Revival and Gothic Revival architecture fills the restored structures, which now house shops, restaurants, and museums throughout the area.

The Ellicott brothers founded this place in 1772 at a strategic location on the Patapsco River where water mills drove the first economy. The village later grew into a transportation hub when a railroad line was built through the valley.

Art galleries and museums throughout the district display local craftsmanship and show how people have lived and worked here across generations. Visitors see the same streets and gathering spaces where the community has always come together.

About 80 independent shops, restaurants, and businesses spread throughout the district, making it easy to spend a full day exploring. Parking is available along Main Street and side streets, so you can take your time walking around and visiting.

Saint Paul Catholic Church in the district was where baseball legend Babe Ruth married in the early 1900s. This connection to a sports icon draws visitors who want to see where this historic moment took place.