Morningside - Suitland, MD

The land in the Morningside area remained relatively unchanged until the 1930s, when lots began selling for development. Construction really took off during the 1940s, with new highways such as Suitland Parkway. Prince George's County incorporated the town of Morningside in 1949.

Nearby festivals include Marlborough Day, held in May and the Prince George's County Fair in September in Upper Marlboro. Annie's Art Gallery in Allentown Way Shopping Center hosts periodic art shows and open mic nights with poetry readings. Nearby museums include the Airmen Memorial Museum on Auth Road in Camp Springs and Anacostia Community Museum in southeast neighborhood of Washington, D.C.

Residents of this tiny neighborhood typically have to travel a short distance when they want to go out to eat. Texas Ribs and BBQ, located right next to Joint Base Andrews in nearby Clinton, serves up a healthy dose of great food, friendly service and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. This small local rib joint got its start as a barbecue food trailer in 1986, moving to its present location later as its food gained a local following. Specialties include perfectly seasoned fried catfish, fall-off-the-bone tender ribs and flavorful brisket sandwiches. If you want to add a little kick to your meal, be sure to ask for the house-made tequila hot sauce. Wash your meal down with an ice-cold beer or a frosty draught root beer.

If you can't decided what you're in the mood for, head to Andrew's Restaurant. This unique destination features both American and Chinese food, ranging from pizza and wings to egg foo young and wonton soup.

Don't let the unassuming exterior of Infuse prevent you from trying this local favorite. With specialties such as collard green spring rolls, roasted chicken and blackened fish served over grits, the food will surely exceed your expectations. Infuse hosts happy hour every weekday from 3 p.m. until 7 p.m., karaoke on Friday nights and live music every Saturday night.

The Fish Market, in nearby Clinton, features live music every night from Wednesday through Saturday. The House Band, a local group who has performed R&B, rock and pop numbers since 1995 when the group first got together, will set your feet to tapping. Before the music starts, grab a bite to eat in the spacious dining room. This local joint serves up a diverse menu that includes everything from fresh fish and seafood pasta to prime rib and juicy burgers.

The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority services Morningside with Metrorail and Metrobus service from the Branch Avenue station on Old Soper Road. The train connects residents with destinations in nearby Alexandra, Arlington, Fairfax, Reagan National Airport and downtown Washington, D.C. The bus connects Morningside with other nearby communities, including Clinton, Marlow Heights Shopping Center and Iverson Mall.

Most people in this neighborhood take advantage of public transportation or drive to work. Morningside residents enjoy easy access to major roadways, including Interstates 495 and 95, and Suitland Parkway, which makes commuting relatively convenient. Of course, during rush hour you can plan on your commute time doubling.

Walking and biking can be pleasurable leisure activities here, although shared roadways necessitate that cyclists exercise caution and follow motor vehicle laws. Parking rarely presents a problem, thanks to the neighborhood’s many on and off-street parking spots.

Morningside residents have two small public county-run parks to choose from, which are ideal when you just want to spend an hour at the playground, walk your pup or practice your tennis game. Douglas Patterson Park on Marianne Drive has two tennis courts, a basketball court, walking trail and playground. Michael J. Polley Park on Randolph Road has a lit tennis court, picnic area, and a playground.

When you want a little more space and excitement, explore some of the other parks located nearby. For example, buy a day pass to Allentown Splash, Tennis and Fitness Park, located less than 5 miles away. This year-round park has indoor facilities with a fitness room, pool and a game room. Outdoor facilities include a seasonal pool with slides, tennis courts, picnic areas and a basketball court. Fort Dupont Park, located less than 6 miles away in southeast Washington, D.C., has hosted its summer concert series for more than 30 years. National and local artists take the stage at these free concerts held every Saturday night from July through August. Fort Dupont also has more than 10 miles of trails, including one that connects several Civil War fortifications.

Although housing prices in Morningside run high, the cost of living in this quiet residential town remains significantly lower than that of Washington, D.C. Renting a one-bedroom apartment sets you back approximately $1,455, but you can grab a beer during happy hour and pay as little as $1.50 per pint.

Commuters can get to work without breaking the bank. Metrorail fare from the Branch Avenue station to Union Station in Washington, D.C. costs $3.15 to $4, depending on whether you travel during peak times, while a one-way ticket on the Metrobus sets you back $1.75. Gas prices hover approximately 6 percent above the national average, although they tend to be slightly lower than the average prices in Maryland.

Morningside residents only need to travel a short distance to reach chains and big name stores such as Target, J.C. Penney, and Value Village.

When you want a more unique shopping experience, check out one of the area’s specialty shops, which include the Perfume Chick Galleria in Suitland. This small boutique carries a variety of handmade body scrubs, soaps and other bath and body products, all with natural ingredients. One of the fastest sellers includes the herbal remedy goat's milk soap with herbs. Other interesting products include bamboo-activated charcoal soap for deep cleansing, whip washes made with goat's milk and shea butter, sea salt body scrubs, and body mists made with essential oils.

For a varied selection of women's clothing, take a quick drive to Crystal Boutique, located about 13 miles away in Crystal City, Va. This specialty store has been serving the area since 1970, carrying clothing from brands such as Algo, Fleurette, Bessi, J'Envi, Joseph Ribkoff and Blue Duck, among others. It also carries a variety of funky and unique jewelry and accessories to complete your look.

Morningside residents stock their pantry shelves with groceries from nearby markets such as Son's Quality Food, Murry's, Shoppers Food and Pharmacy, and Galaxy Food Market, all just a short drive from the neighborhood. Likewise, you can stock up on farm-fresh produce, plants, and flowers at nearby farmers' markets such as the Old Town Farmers Market in nearby Alexandria, and Miller Farms, located in Clinton.