Best Places To Take Photos With Santa In Baltimore
Every kid awaits the time each year that he/she can sit on Santa's lap, ask him how the reindeer are doing and share a smile or two. Meanwhile, parents try to catch the perfect picture to have as a keepsake for years to come. While there can be a lot of pressure to get the experience and atmosphere just right, there's plenty of great options in Baltimore so you can choose the optimal setting. Whether you prefer professional photography or taking the photo yourself, review these top five choices below and this "Best Places To Take Pictures With Santa" list to determine the best photo opportunities for posing with Santa this season.
Christmas on 34th Street
34th St.
Hampden, Md. 21264
www.christmasstreet.com
Date: Dec. 14, 2013
Now in its 65th year, the lights on 34th Street are a continuous miracle of the holiday spirit that lives in Baltimore, and with so many believers gathering yearly at this spot, Santa is always guaranteed to stop by. Check the website's calendar link for the dates and times available to see the lights and when Santa and his helpers will be stopping by. Take unforgettable photos with a gorgeous Christmas lights backdrop, as practically every house on 34th Street is decorated from head to toe in celebration of St. Nick's arrival. No donations are required, but the streets do get packed so be prepared to wait to find parking or recruit someone to drive around the block a few times.
Mondawmin Mall
2401 Liberty Heights Ave.
Baltimoe, Md. 21215
(410) 523-1534
www.mondawmin.com
Date: Through Dec. 24, 2013
Children of all ages, including babies, are invited to stop by Mondawmin Mall to make memories with Santa Claus. Arriving with all of the excitement and dazzle of a holiday lights parade, Santa has plans to visit the mall the weekend after Thanksgiving and will stay in town until the night before Christmas. In honor of babies' first visit, a special commemorative photo package, lullaby CD set and certificate signed by St. Nick and Rudolph the Reindeer have been offered in the past. Check the mall's online events calendar to confirm photo booth dates and times as well as other special holiday activities before visiting.
Arundel Mills Mall
7000 Arundle Mills Circle
Hanover, Md. 21076
(410) 540-5110
www.simon.com/mall/arundel-mills
Date: Through Dec. 24, 2013
With more than 200 indoor stores featuring dining, entertainment and shopping, it's no surprise that Santa is at Arundel Mills Mall for photos this holiday season. The set-up has an impressive Christmas background with fully decorated trees, garland, lights and even presents, which can be used as props to liven up any photo. Whether the whole family wants to pose or just the kids, the photographers and Santa work together with you to capture the perfect memory. The experience is enjoyable and discounts are often available for those who make it out early in the season for their photo op.
The Mall in Columbia
10300 Little Patuxent Parkway
Columbia, Md, 21044
(410) 730-3300
www.themallincolumbia.com
Date: Through Dec. 24, 2013
The Mall in Columbia continues to amaze visitors with its creativeness in offering photos with good old Kris Kringle. In past years, the mall has brought in Santa early, dimmed the lights and created a sensory-friendly environment so that kids with autism and their families could have one-on-one time with Santa. Also, not to overlook the "other" kids in the household, pet parents can bring the dog(s) to get a photo with Santa, which typically takes place in the beginning of December each year. Call the mall in advance for specifics about which entrance to use since the mall normally does not allow pets during open hours. Of course, traditional poses with Santa are offered complete with elf helpers and a variety of professional photograph packages.
Adventure Park USA
11113 W. Baldwin Road
New Market, Md. 21774
(301) 865-6800
www.adventureparkusa.com
Date: Christmas Wonderland: Through Jan. 5, 2014; Breakfast with Santa: Dec. 14, 2013 at 8 a.m.
A short drive west of Baltimore at Adventure Park USA, families can enjoy a full breakfast together with Santa before getting their pictures taken. Or visit on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings for the drive-thru Christmas Wonderland and afterwards stick around for a chance to meet and take photos with Santa. This park's light spectacle has more than 10,000 synchronized lights - a sight that is sure to bring in the holiday cheer. Bring your own camera to capture the memories both with St. Nick and the many adventures to be had while playing at the Prospector Playground, rock wall, arcade zone, ropes course and more.
Keri Ann Beazell is a Baltimore writer following the latest developments in arts and culture, natural wonders, lifestyle and pets. She enjoys promoting thought-provoking discussions, education, new ideas and smiles among readers. Follow her online at Examiner.com
