West Arlington - Baltimore, MD

As with many of Baltimore's outer ring neighborhoods, West Arlington began as a rural farmland among the hills surrounding the city of Baltimore as it existed in the 18th century. As business flourished in the city throughout the 19th century, Baltimore expanded and many residents moved to the Arlington area as it evolved into a suburb. The West Arlington Water Tower was constructed in 1899, not long after the neighborhood's annexation into the city, and the neighborhood developed as a result. The Arlington Improvement Company designed a septic system and a portable school around the water tower to provide greater service as the neighborhood expanded during the early 20th century into the suburban locale known today.

Head southeast into Baltimore to immerse yourself in the extensive galleries of the Baltimore Museum of Art. Exhibits rotate frequently, showcasing centuries of culture with over 90,000 pieces of international art.

Head just north of the neighborhood along Reisterstown Road to treat yourself to the incredible selection of restaurants on the cusp of the city. Transport yourself across the world with authentic international flavors, or settle in for some of Maryland's famous seafood. A great local option for a night in with the family, Royal Maroon Caribbean Carryout serves some of Baltimore's greatest Jamaican food. Order the spicy jerk chicken or savory curry chicken with a side of coco bread to enjoy one of Royal Maroon's specialties. Located along Park Heights Avenue in the Jewish Community Center, just north of Arlington, sits Eden Cafe. This kosher cafe showcases a gigantic array of kosher and gluten-free food options, including the popular salmon panini and falafel. Ample seating makes Eden Cafe a great place for a catered event.

Combining Korean and soul food under one roof, Kimmy's Restaurant & Carry Out on Wabash Avenue provides a unique experience that should not be missed. Locals come by for the lunch buffet and dishes such as the homemade macaroni and cheese or the filling meatloaf. Grab a box to go and fill it with the diverse options the buffet provides, including candied yams and ribs alongside kimchi and sweet and sour noodles.

Local Arlington nightlife consists of dive bars perfect to kick back in and unwind with the locals, but if you're in the mood for a more energetic night out, head east to the Ottobar on Howard Street. The stage features both local and international acts, so check the calendar of events to see when your favorite bands perform. Head upstairs to take advantage of the full bar and dance floor. The space often opens for free birthday party bookings, so be sure to check the website when planning an event.

Route 26 runs northwest to southeast just south of West Arlington, providing locals with an easy access point into downtown or out into surrounding suburbs. In addition to ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, Baltimore's numerous taxi cab companies provide residents with transportation throughout the city's greater surrounding area. Try Wabash Avenue or Reisterstown Road when you want to catch a cab.

Free parking can be found throughout the neighborhood, and cyclists can use the biking lanes incorporated into a number of major streets in the area to get around easily. Walkability for those near Reisterstown Road ranks relatively high, though a majority of residents rely on the bus system or an automobile to get around the neighborhood. The Maryland Transit Administration services West Arlington with bus stops along Wabash Avenue and Rogers Avenue, and the Rogers Metro Entrance can be found just north of the neighborhood.

Hidden away to the southwest of the neighborhood, Gwynn Oak Park provides West Arlington locals with a beautiful spot to escape into nature for an afternoon. This park's 63 acres of forested trails and spacious green fields make a great place to bring the dog along on-leash. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy with your family on a picnic table overlooking Gwynns Falls, or take your kids to the playground to let out some of that boundless energy.

Head north of the city into Towson on the first weekend in May to celebrate the coming of spring at Maryland's largest open-air festival. The Towsontown Spring Festival hosts more than 50 acts across four stages, which attendees can catch in between trips to the carnival midway. With more than 400 vendors serving food and an interactive kids fun zone, the Towsontown Spring Festival provides fun for the whole family.

The cost of living in the Arlington area averages 3 percent less than Baltimore's overall average. One month's rent for a standard one-bedroom apartment costs an average of $890. A 24-hour pass good for both the MTA bus line and metro costs $3.50. A pint of beer costs around $5 at local pubs, and Baltimore gas prices hover around 6 percent less than the national average.

West Arlington residents head north along Reisterstown to get their department store shopping done and northwest to the Northwest Plaza Shopping Center to knock out a number of errands in one convenient place. The local shopping center includes Food King Supermarket, Rite Aid Pharmacy and Aaron's, a rent-to-own furniture store perfect for getting that piece to complete your living room or dining room set. Other local grocery store options include Murry's, 7-Eleven and L & S Grocery. Open every Wednesday between June and November, the Park Heights Community Farmers Market at the Pimlico Race Track makes for the best local option to support locally grown and produced goods. Head down Park Heights Avenue to browse a number of vendor stalls and purchase fresh-baked bread, farm-raised meats, organic produce and much more. If vintage clothing is your style, stop by Hunting Ground on Falls Road. The old stone building opens to a very modern store layout with discount racks, cocktail dresses, men's wear and a wide range of accessories, including handbags, watches, belts, jewelry and sunglasses. The store accepts clothing on consignment as well.