The Club is Open in Baltimore for book and record shopping

One of my favorite neighborhoods in Baltimore is Hampden, a quirky little hipster haven just a few miles up Interstate 83 north of downtown and the Inner Harbor.

I got to stroll around today and take in the main streets (36th and Falls) a little more than I previously had in the past. One reason I’ve been here is to see the famed “Hampden Christmas Lights.”

But with the unseasonably warm late-October weather, today felt like I got to see more of what the neighborhood is even more famous for - at least in my book - the feel of a John Waters movie. 

The boutiques, graffiti art, great skatepark, ice cream and coffee shops, and bars and restaurants all give the feel of what shaped Waters, who grew up here and still spends time here, in his brilliantly offbeat filmmaking.

One thing I loved is Atomic Books, right next to a really good record store (great selection, but records are sooo expensive these days) called Celebrated Summer Records.

Back to the book store, not only was my second favorite band Guided by Voices’ music playing in Atomic, but they had the legendary “The Club is Open” neon sign hanging above the cafe in the back. I don’t think I’ve ever seen that sign anywhere besides GBV concerts.

They have an immaculate collection of music books, graphic novels, and a lot of discounted damaged pop-culture books.

Highly recommended stop if you’re seeking records and books.