Cross Street Market is Federal Hill's covered food market, a Baltimore institution that has been operating since 1846. The market was renovated in recent years and now combines traditional market stalls with a bar and communal eating area, making it as much a social space as a place to shop. Locals come here for oysters, crab, fresh produce, and a drink at the long bar in the centre.
The market is busiest at lunchtime and on weekends. The seafood stalls in particular are worth the visit — fresh Chesapeake oysters and Maryland blue crab at market prices rather than restaurant prices. The market is in the heart of Federal Hill, a block or two from the park, and makes a natural stopping point on a walk through the neighbourhood.