The Charming Heart of Baltimore County: Towson, Maryland

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Towson's history dates back to the 18th century when two Pennsylvania brothers, William and Thomas Towson, settled in the area around 1750. They established a farm and a tavern along a Native American trail, which later became York Road. The settlement grew around their tavern, and by the early 19th century, Towson had developed into a small village.

In 1854, the Maryland General Assembly designated Towson as the county seat of Baltimore County. This decision was driven by Towson's central location and accessibility. The transfer of the county seat from Baltimore City to Towson spurred growth and development, leading to the construction of the first Baltimore County Courthouse in 1855.

During the Civil War, Towson experienced significant tension and conflict as Maryland was a border state with divided loyalties. In 1861, Union troops occupied Towson to suppress Confederate sympathizers. Despite the military presence, Towson saw limited direct combat, but the war's impact was felt throughout the community.

The advent of the railroad in the late 19th century marked a new era for Towson. The Northern Central Railway connected Towson to Baltimore, facilitating commerce and travel. This connectivity contributed to Towson's transformation from a rural village into a suburban hub, attracting new residents and businesses.

Towson is home to several notable educational institutions, including Towson University, which was founded in 1866 as the Maryland State Normal School. The university has grown significantly over the years and is now one of the largest public universities in Maryland, contributing to Towson's reputation as an educational center.

Towson Town Center, one of the largest shopping malls in the Baltimore metropolitan area, opened in 1959. Its development marked Towson's emergence as a retail hub. The mall has undergone several expansions and renovations, making it a central feature of Towson's commercial landscape.

In recent decades, Towson has continued to evolve with increased urbanization and development. The construction of new residential complexes, office buildings, and cultural institutions has transformed Towson into a vibrant suburban community with a blend of historical charm and modern amenities.

Towson is located in Baltimore County, Maryland, and is easily accessible by various modes of transportation. The nearest major airport is Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), which is approximately 25 miles away. From the airport, you can rent a car, take a rideshare service, or use a shuttle service. Towson is also accessible via Amtrak and MARC trains to Baltimore's Penn Station, followed by a short taxi or rideshare trip. If driving, Towson is conveniently located near major highways I-695 and I-83.

Towson has a range of transportation options. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) operates several bus routes that connect Towson to Baltimore and surrounding areas. The Towson Loop, a free circulator bus service, operates within Towson, making it easy to navigate the downtown area. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are widely available, and taxis can be found at designated stands or booked via phone. For those who prefer driving, car rentals are available, and parking is plentiful in public garages and lots.

The official currency in Towson, as in all of the United States, is the US Dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are abundant, and you can find them in banks, shopping centers, and convenience stores. Mobile payment options like Apple Pay, Google Wallet, and Samsung Pay are also commonly accepted.

Towson is generally considered safe for tourists, but it is always wise to exercise standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas, and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Some neighborhoods, like parts of East Towson, have higher crime rates, so it is best to remain vigilant and stick to well-populated areas. Always lock your car and hotel room, and keep valuables out of sight.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Towson is served by several medical facilities, including the University of Maryland St. Joseph Medical Center and Greater Baltimore Medical Center, both of which offer emergency services. It is advisable to carry travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, several pharmacies, including CVS and Walgreens, are located throughout the town.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and appropriately for the season. Casual wear is generally acceptable, but smart-casual is recommended for dining out. Religion: Do respect places of worship and local customs. Public Transport: Do have exact change or a transit card ready when using public buses. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or a handshake. Don't be overly familiar unless you know the person well. Eating & Drinking: Do try local eateries and be open to a variety of cuisines. Don't forget to tip your servers, typically 15-20% of the bill.

To experience Towson like a local, visit the Towson Farmers Market, held on Thursdays from spring through fall, where you can buy fresh produce and local goods. Check out the local art scene at the Towson Arts Collective and catch a performance at the Towson University Center for the Arts. For a taste of local history, visit the Hampton National Historic Site. Dining at local favorites like The Rec Room and Cunningham's is highly recommended. Engaging with locals can provide additional insights and recommendations for a memorable visit.