West Rockville - Rockville, MD

Rockville dates back to the colonial times as one of the oldest developments in Maryland. It became the county seat of Montgomery County in 1776. The name changed from Hungerford's Tavern to Rockville in 1801 because of its proximity to Rock Creek Park. With the construction of the railroad, Rockville's population increased throughout the 19th and into the 20th century. Rockville has transformed from an agricultural town to a busy suburb of the nation's capital.

Visit the Beail-Dawson Historic House Museum. The home was built in 1815, and many of the original furnishings still exist. The tours tell the story of what life was like for a rich white family and the Africans they enslaved.

Rockville has many events, such as the Annual Memorial Day parade, and the Uncorked Wine and Music Festival.

The area has a broad range of ethnic food, from traditional Asian, to Asian fusion, and even Caribbean.

For casual Chinese cuisine, try China Bistro. Don't judge the cuisine by the rather hole-in-the-wall look of the place. The flavors and spices in the dishes here overcome the decor. Dumplings seem to be everyone's favorite menu option at this restaurant. Large, doughy dumplings stuffed with a variety a vegetables, meat and even fish keep this restaurant packed. The classic choice remains "Mama's Dumplings." Locals often refer to China Bistro as "Mama's" due to the popularity of these dumplings. Check out the local, Mediterranean tapas spot, Cava Mezze. This flagship restaurant ranks as one of Washington D.C.'s 100 best restaurants. Popular menu items include the scallop risotto, and the fried lollipop chicken with honey, walnuts and Greek yogurt. This place sets your budget back a little, so save it for special occasions, and reserve a table ahead of time. Nightlife in West Rockville mainly consists of bars. Quench, an upscale bar and gastropub in West Rockville, serves artisan cocktails, craft beers, and a full brunch, lunch and dinner menu. Come in on Thursday night for half-priced wine night and on Wednesday for their open mic. Their cocktail names come loaded with humor and pop culture references. Menu items include the Honey Badger and 50 Shades. The iRock Karaoke Lounge lies just a few miles up the road. This karaoke bar has lyrics available in seven languages and a huge selection of songs. The funky decor, including LED ottomans, bring a relaxed but energetic vibe to the bar. You can also reserve one of the seven private rooms here for parties or events.

Drive, take the metro, or use the public bus system to get around West Rockville. Driving provides the most convenient option in some of the outer areas of West Rockville. Public parking in Rockville compares better to Washington D.C. For instance, a number of strip malls and shopping complexes provide free parking lots.

The Rockville metro station lies just a few miles south of West Rockville and takes you into Washington D.C. Montgomery County also has a public bus service known as the Ride On that reaches into West Rockville. Depending on your timing, you may have to wait 20 or so minutes for a bus during non-peak times.

Residents don't have much difficulty hailing a cab and snagging an Uber in West Rockville. While in downtown Rockville, you may be able to catch one off the street, depending on where you are in West Rockville, but this form of transit comes easiest when you call a cab ahead of time.

A number of highways and expressways lie close to Rockville. Maryland Route 270 and Interstate 370 run through West Rockville. Drive several miles to reach Interstate 495, otherwise known as the Capital Beltway.

Sidewalks for walking and biking exist in many of West Rockville's neighborhoods. Likewise, most of the ride on bus stops are on these sidewalks with benches. Bikes enjoy cycling on residential streets and through parks, but they should avoid the busier highways and expressways.

Many parks in Rockville allow free access open to the public. For example, venture to the King's Farm Rockville Dog Park for a fun time with man's best friend. The College Gardens Park, on the other hand, provides the perfect spot to take children. You can find a large playground as well as a covered pavilion, which makes it great for birthday parties or picnics.

For a more active experience, trek a few miles to the closest region of Rock Creek Regional Park. Enjoy fishing at the lack, trails for hiking and cycling, and the scenic landscape.

The cost of living in the Maryland suburbs of Washington D.C. exceeds the cost of living in most places in the United States. However, West Rockville remains more affordable than many other neighborhoods in Montgomery County. Rent for a one-bedroom residence sets you back an average of $1,615.26 per month.

The price for convenience to Washington D.C. may seem worth it to commuters. For about $3.50 each way, the metro stop located in downtown Rockville takes you downtown in about 35 minutes.

Dining out in Rockville does cost less than in Washington D.C. For instance, a beer at a local pub typically costs somewhere in the $5 to $7 range. Main dishes fall in the $10 to $15 range at many locations. Likewise, gas here can be purchased for lower prices compared to the rest of Washington D.C. and Maryland. Gas prices here hit at just 5 percent higher than the national average.

Rockville Town Square lies a few miles south of West Rockville, but choices make the drive worth your time. This upscale shopping, dining and entertainment complex provides about 50 restaurants, shops and services. Check out Liquid Blue Denim Boutique to find premium jeans, clothing and accessories. The shop also carries women's footwear.

Make sure to check out Second Story Books and Antiques. You can get lost for hours in this mammoth warehouse of used books and antiques, where thousands upon thousands of books line the shelves. Come away with a tote bag of books for next to nothing thanks to the great deals here.

The national chain Safeway services this neighborhood. Mom's Organic Market serves the health food and organic preference of many of West Rockville's residents. The Shady Grove Farmer's Market opens on Wednesdays from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. from May to October.