Rosemont Baltimore, MD

Known as the "City of Firsts," Baltimore was first settled around 1659 and founded in 1729. It is named in honor of Cecil Calvert, the 2nd Baron Baltimore. Lord Baltimore was the first Proprietary Governor of the Province of Maryland. He became the proprietor after the death of his father, and he served from 1632 until 1675.

After the Battle of Baltimore during the War of 1812, a Maryland lawyer named Francis Scott Key was inspired to write the Star-Spangled Banner -- a poem he entitled, "Defence of Fort M'Henry." He was aboard a British ship at the time, trying to negotiate the release of Dr. William Beanes, who was being held prisoner. The poem was set to a British tune and became the national anthem in 1931.

In addition to being where the national anthem was written, Baltimore was the home of many famous residents, including Edgar Allan Poe, Frederick Douglass, Billie Holiday, and Babe Ruth, among others. Fort McHenry -- the fort that sported the huge American flag that inspired Key to write his poem -- is a Historic National Monument, built around 1798 to replace an earlier fort. Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine is located about eight miles from Rosemont, and well worth a visit.

While some locals may choose to head into downtown Baltimore for dining and entertainment, Rosemont plays host to some excellent eateries and local businesses. Step just outside the neighborhood borders for access to even more great restaurants and nightlife to get the most out of this area of Baltimore.

Cakes by Cynthia is the crown jewel of Rosemont. The bakery has been featured on "Wedding Cake Wars," and its scrumptious dessert offerings range from birthday and wedding cakes to its famous pudding jars. Try the strawberry banana pudding jar for a decadent treat. No dining area exists in the bakery, and the hours are limited, so be sure to get there early if you want to calm your sweet tooth.

Get the food truck experience when Everything Turkey stops by the Rosemont neighborhood. Not only does this food truck serve up savory lunch options, but it also helps the community. Part of the nonprofit group Women in Transition, the food truck business gives women in crisis access to job training, support, and employment. With burgers, subs, salads, sausages, and hot dogs, the Everything Turkey truck serves something for everyone, but don't forget to add one of the signature sides to your order. Collard greens, candied yams, and macaroni and cheese keep the locals coming back for more.

Just on the edge between the Rosemont and Walbrook neighborhoods sits China Garden. This neighborhood restaurant may have an unassuming facade, but the food inside makes China Garden a neighborhood favorite. Grab a meal to go from the takeout counter, or sit down to lunch or dinner. Battered chicken wings and shrimp rolls top the list of favorites with local residents. China Garden keeps its doors open 24 hours, so you can satisfy your hunger for Chinese food any time of day or night.

Residents can find public transportation with relative ease in the Rosemont area. The MTA (Maryland Transit Administration) runs buses throughout the western neighborhoods of Baltimore, which connect to the subway system.

Hailing a taxi cab in this area can be a challenge, but you can call ahead to make arrangements for a cab. Uber serves this area as well, giving you access to a ride through its online service and smartphone apps.

Cyclists find some bike lanes scattered throughout the neighborhood, but cycling to work requires a combination of bike lane usage and sharing the road with cars to reach your final destination. The area is walkable when it comes to reaching local neighborhood stores.

Drivers enjoy easy access to U.S. Routes 1 and 40, which connects to the rest of the state. Within the neighborhood, residents can find a mix of free street parking and metered parking, depending on where they live within the community.

Rosemont is bordered along its western edge by the vast Gwynns Falls Park. This large park covers 1,216 acres, making it the largest in the city. The park features 15 miles of hiking trails and several historic sites, including the Orianda Mansion. Parts of the 1999 film, "The Blair Witch Project," were filmed in the park. The park was established in 1908 and includes the Carrie Murray Nature Center, the Crimea estate chapel and herb gardens, and the Ben Cardin Picnic Grove and Pavilion.

Druid Hill Park is widely considered to be one of the best parks in the city for children, and it plays host to the Maryland Zoo as well. Kids visiting Druid Hill Park can enjoy volleyball courts, baseball fields, playgrounds, picnic areas, and more. Alexander Odum Park, located in the neighborhood, features a large playground with slides and swings, a paved walking path, a basketball court, and large shade trees.

With an average rental rate of $700 per month for a one-bedroom apartment, Rosemont gives residents access to affordable, convenient housing. Gas prices run about nine percent higher than the national average, but residents can save money by taking public transportation instead of filling up their gas tanks. Average fare for a bus ride costs $1.60, with an express bus costing $2.

For the mall shopping experience, locals head to Mondawmin Mall, located just northeast of the Rosemont area. This shopping mall houses numerous staple stores, including Forever 21, the Children's Place, and Payless Shoes. Visitors can also seek medical services from the doctors who keep their practices in the shopping mall.

Cloud 9 Clothing has boutique locations in the Canton, Rockville, and Hampden neighborhoods, giving Rosemont residents several choices for trendy, brand-name clothing without having to head to the mall. Each of the city locations features a neighborhood atmosphere that makes it feel like part of the community.

Between the Mondawmin Mall and the Rosemont neighborhood, you can find Mary Sue Candies. A Baltimore staple since 1948, this sweet boutique offers specialty candies and chocolates. Baltimore Ravens- and Orioles-themed chocolates sell well with locals. The building housing this local legend consists of simple brick, giving it an unassuming look that makes it easy to miss, so be sure to keep an eye out as you search for this very special boutique.