Getting Around Baltimore: Your Student Guide
Master Baltimore’s streets with CAMP-US! From University shuttles to public transit and bikes, we’ll help you navigate affordably and safely.
Welcome to Baltimore! As a student living near the Homewood Campus, you’re in the perfect spot to explore the city’s charm. CAMP-US, founded by JHU alumni who’ve mastered Baltimore’s streets, is here to guide you. Whether you’re heading to class, grabbing groceries, or discovering Baltimore’s cultural gems, this Getting Around Baltimore guide equips you with the tools to navigate affordably, safely, and confidently. Let’s explore the best ways to move around!
Getting Aroung: Steudent Transportation Options
Many students in Baltimore have access to university-operated shuttle systems. Below is a general overview to help you understand available transportation options. Always refer to your university’s official resources for the most accurate information.
1. On campus Shuttle service
Overview: Many universities in Baltimore provide free or low-cost shuttle services for students within nearby neighborhoods.
Hours: Schedules vary depending on the service and time of day.
How to Use: Access is typically managed through your university ID and official apps.
Why It’s Great: Safe evening transport. CAMP-US properties are shuttle-adjacent.
2. Inter-Campus & City Shuttles
Overview: Some shuttle routes connect different campuses and key areas of the city, including shopping centers and transit stations.
Hours: Generally run throughout the day with reduced weekend service.
Key Stops: Charles Commons, Peabody, Penn Station, Johns Hopkins Hospital.
How to Use: Check your university’s official website or transportation app for routes and eligibility.
Why It’s Great: Ideal for multi-campus students. Connects to Penn Station.
Tips: Shuttles run every 5–15 minutes during rush hours.
3. Baltimore Collegetown Shuttle
Overview: Free shuttle linking JHU, Notre Dame, and Towson University with shopping hubs.
Hours: Varies; typically 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. weekdays, Sunday shopping routes.
Key Stops: Homewood Campus, Penn Station, Towson Town Center, Towson Place.
How to Use: Show JHU ID. Track at baltimorecollegetownshuttle.transloc.com.
Why It’s Great: Perfect for grocery runs or visiting the BMA.
Tips: Contact 301-476-8490 for inquiries. Plan for longer trips to Towson.
Public Transportation: Exploring Baltimore & Beyond
Baltimore’s public transit offers affordable ways to explore, students can get subsidized passes.
1. MTA Local Buses
Extensive network. Key routes: CityLink Silver, Route 95, Route 22. Cost: $2/ride, or $25/month some universities subsidized pass. Use CharmPass app.
2. Charm City Circulator
Free bus service. Purple Route connects 33rd St. (near Homewood) to Federal Hill via Penn Station and Inner Harbor. Runs 7 AM - 8 PM (midnight Fri/Sat).
3. MTA Metro SubwayLink
Owings Mills to Johns Hopkins Hospital. Nearest station: Johns Hopkins Metro (East Baltimore). Cost: $2/ride or $25/month pass.
4. MTA Light RailLink
Hunt Valley to BWI Airport/Glen Burnie, stops at Penn Station. Cost: $2/ride or $25/month pass. Affordable BWI access.
5. MARC Train
Commuter rail to Washington, D.C., stops at Penn Station & BWI. Cost: $6 to BWI, $9 to D.C. Use shuttles to reach Penn Station.
Biking and Scooters: Eco-Friendly & Fun
1. Biking
Bike lanes in Charles Village & Remington. Cycling Program for repairs/safety. CAMP-US properties are bike-friendly.
2. Electric Scooters
LINK scooters available citywide ($1 to unlock + $0.15/min via Transit app). Quick for short trips. Park in designated zones.
Walking: Explore on Foot
Charles Village & Remington are walkable. Key destinations: Bird in Hand Café (5-min walk), R. House (15-min walk). Homewood Campus (0–10 mins from CAMP-US). Stick to well-lit areas.
Other Transportation Options
1. Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
Convenient for quick or late-night trips. Cost: $10–$20 to Inner Harbor.
2. Taxis
Available at Penn Station or via services. Cost: $7–$10 to campus from Penn Station.
3. Zipcar
Hourly/daily car rentals for students 18+. Locations near Homewood. Cost: $7–$10/hour. Register at zipcar.com.
Airport and Regional Travel
BWI Airport: MARC Train ($6), Light Rail ($2–$6)
Washington, D.C.: MARC Train ($9) or Amtrak from Penn Station.
Tips: Use shuttles to Penn Station. Book Amtrak early.
Safety and Accessibility: Navigating with Confidence
Safety Tips
- Use University’s escort service for night walks.
- Travel in groups at night.
- Share transit tips on CAMP-US Discord. Join Now.
Accessibility
- Shuttles and Charm City Circulator are wheelchair-accessible.
- Request accessible parking via Student Disability Services at your university.
- Use TransLoc app for real-time tracking to reduce wait times.
Tip: Join CAMP-US walking/biking groups for community support.
CAMP-US: Your Transportation Partner
- Housing: Live in furnished CAMP-US apartments near shuttle stops and bike lanes. View Properties.
- Community: Join our Discord to coordinate rides and share transit tips. Join Now.
Final Tips for Navigating Baltimore
- Leverage Free Options: Prioritize University shuttles and Charm City Circulator.
- Plan Ahead: Check schedules before evening outings.
- Stay Connected: Use CAMP-US’s Discord to find ride buddies.
- Explore Smart: Combine walking/biking for short trips, buses/rideshares for longer ones.
With these transportation options, you’re ready to explore Baltimore like a pro. CAMP-US is here to support your adventures.