Local destinations

A Shopper's Getaway

If you're looking to take a break from the hustle of the city or flee the sameness of suburbia, historic downtown Westminster is the perfect place to spend a day dining and shopping. The town in Carroll County began as a hub for merchants in the early 1800s, when the Baltimore- Reisterstown turnpike was created to promote trade between Baltimore and Pittsburgh. The growth continued with the creation of the Western Maryland Railroad, which was built around the time of the Civil War. And today, downtown Westminster is filled with shops featuring unique clothing and home-decor items and places for family fun.

Bel Air's hidden charms

Construction has changed the face of downtown, but cool shops and eateries can still be found

Still a retreat

Historic railroad town is worth more than a whistle-stop visit

The best of Berlin

History, shopping and art in this Eastern Shore town give tourists a break from the nearby sand and surf

Destination: Catonsville

A site for the senses

Browse the shopping district's music and craft shops, then satisfy your palate with a sweet treat

Destination: Towson

Towson's street sense

It's been so long since the Towson stretch of York Road has been a bustling shopping area, you may have forgotten there's anywhere else to shop but Towson Town Center. Not so.

Destination: Harbor East

Harbor East is an emerging jewel

Sprung from neglected waterfront property, Baltimore's glossy new Harbor East neighborhood boasts luxury hotels, office towers, fine restaurants and a melange of boutiques and stores.