White Marsh-Nottingham - Baltimore, MD

A relatively new community in Baltimore's suburbs, the development of White Marsh only began in the 1960s. From the very beginning, the vision for White Marsh included a diverse use of its land for residences, retail, dining, and community services. Construction began on the town center and White Marsh Mall during the 1970s, but the mall didn't open until 1988. In terms of annual events, The Avenue at White Marsh has an annual Christmas tree lighting every winter and numerous parades during the year.

Venture to the neighboring town of Middle River to see the Glenn L. Martin Aviation Museum (also called Maryland Aviation Museum). This hidden gem features excellent lessons on aviation history alongside a variety of model planes, with admission costs running just $3.

The abundant retail and businesses development in White Marsh makes going out an exciting and affordable venture. Find traditional American, Italian, Mexican, Chinese, and Japanese cuisine can all within the confines of White Marsh.

Pho 7Rich, a local Vietnamese restaurant that focuses on healthy, nutritious cuisine, has served the area for nearly 30 years, and locals come hankering back for more. Chefs cook the pho with fresh ingredients and spices, and the summer rolls stay intact for all the dipping sauce your heart desires.

For something more traditional, try the Red Brick Station, which features beers brewed on-site. Customers enjoy classic English pub and American bar food here, and some of the most popular menu items include the spicy wings and specialty burgers. The Red Brick Station provides a great night hangout spot thanks to its specials, including half-priced burgers on Monday night, and beers for just $1 on Tuesdays.

Active nightlife abounds in White Marsh. The Harp Restaurant and Catering, a lively Irish bar consistently voted among the best bars in Baltimore, serves huge portions of fish and chips along with similar Irish-inspired dishes. The bar has $2 domestic beer deals during happy hour and live music or dance nights for anyone seeking a fun night out.

Driving a car remains the most practical way get around this community. Most retail locations and business developments feature attached parking or sit next to a parking lot or garage, making finding a spot virtually hassle-free. A few bus routes take you downtown. Hailing a cab or Uber doesn't take much effort but does require a bit of planning. While you may find some cabs waiting at popular sports or transit hubs, it often proves wiser to call ahead. White Marsh lies near highways and expressways, including I-95 and 695. Walking and biking prove convenient and pleasant.

Honeygo Run Regional Park is a 150-acre park located in Northeast Baltimore county. The park features three athletic fields, an accessible playground, a 13,000-square-foot indoor recreational center, and a lighted roller hockey court. Reserve two pavilions at Honeygo for private events during the warmer months. Each pavilion comes with two charcoal grills and a dozen picnic tables.

It takes about 30 minutes to drive from White Marsh into downtown Baltimore and about 45 minutes by public bus. It costs somewhat more to live here than comparable suburbs, but you can't beat the convenience to shops and businesses, with most everything you need sitting within easy reach without the need to venture to the city. Typical rent for a one-bedroom apartment in White Marsh costs roughly $997, which is above the average cost when compared to other Baltimore suburbs. The price of beer and meals costs less than at more central locations in Baltimore.

The White Marsh Mall, one of the largest in the Baltimore metropolitan area, includes over 140 specialty stores and five department stores. Anchor stores include Macy's, Sears, JC Penney, and Boscov's. The mall includes popular chains such as Vans, Justice, Wet Seal, and Foot Locker. The mall also includes a food court and several restaurants. Strip malls and restaurants surround the perimeter of the mall and include an IKEA and a Giant grocery store.

The Avenue at White Marsh is located near the mall and includes a movie theater, several restaurants, and plenty of retail stores such as Chico's and Pier 1 Import. You can also find small, local boutiques in White Marsh. The established Elegant Touch, located just down the road from central White Marsh, remains one of the most popular local bridal dress stores in the Baltimore region. An Etch Above specializes in custom engraving products.

Richardson Farms provides a great farmers market and fresh produce for White Marsh residents. It also offers a full deli supplied with meat from its farms.