Things To Do
in Towson
Towson is a vibrant Maryland suburb just north of Baltimore, known for its blend of university energy, shopping, and green spaces. It is anchored by Towson University and the Towson Town Center, drawing students, families, and professionals. Tree-lined streets, inviting cafes, and parks give Towson a walkable, small-city feel with easy access to the region.
Its proximity to Baltimore makes day trips to museums, waterfronts, and Harbor-area attractions easy and rewarding.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Towson Courthouse, an impressive neoclassical building that showcases the town's history. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the Towson Town Center, where you can enjoy a freshly brewed coffee and a pastry at one of the charming cafes. This morning is perfect for soaking in the local architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
In the afternoon, visit the Towson University campus to explore its beautiful grounds and perhaps catch a glimpse of a local sports game. Enjoy lunch at a popular eatery nearby, where you can indulge in some Maryland crab cakes. Afterward, head to the nearby Towson Arts Collective for an inspiring art exhibition featuring local artists.
As evening approaches, unwind at one of Towson’s local breweries, where you can sample craft beers and enjoy live music. For dinner, savor a delightful meal at a farm-to-table restaurant that emphasizes local ingredients. End your day with a relaxing walk through the nearby community park, taking in the fresh air and beautiful evening sky.
Begin your day with a refreshing hike at the nearby Loch Raven Reservoir, where you can enjoy the peaceful surroundings and scenic views. Bring along binoculars to spot local wildlife while taking in the beauty of nature. This tranquil morning is perfect for recharging and connecting with the outdoors.
After your hike, pack a picnic lunch to enjoy by the water’s edge at Loch Raven, surrounded by the sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves. Spend the afternoon kayaking or canoeing on the reservoir, providing a unique perspective of the lush landscape. This engaging experience allows you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area.
Return to Towson and treat yourself to dinner at a cozy restaurant that specializes in regional cuisine. Afterward, take a stroll through the local farmers market if it's open, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps picking up some fresh produce. Cap off the evening with a movie at a nearby cinema for a relaxing end to an adventurous day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Coffee or latte | $3-5 |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment (city center) | $1,400-1,900 |
| 🚆Monthly public transit pass | $60-90 |
| 🛒Groceries per week (one person) | $60-80 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Baltimore’s cultural and dining scene
- Strong university-town energy with parks and shopping
- Limited nightlife compared to downtown Baltimore
- Some traffic on major routes during commute times
Places to Visit in Towson
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic mansion and formal gardens with classic architecture and seasonal grounds perfect for portraits and wide-angle landscape shots.
Green campus spaces with modern architecture and seasonal foliage ideal for campus photography and candid student scenes.
Water vistas and tree-lined shores offering serene morning or golden-hour photography opportunities.
Glass façades and city lights provide dynamic night photography opportunities.
Food in Towson
Towson Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic jumbo lump crab cake, often pan- or grilled, served with remoulade or tartar sauce.
Must-Try!
Seasonal Chesapeake Bay crab feast, typically enjoyed with Old Bay seasoning and corn on the cob.
A Baltimore staple—thinly sliced roasted beef on a kaiser or hero roll, often with horseradish.
Maryland’s state dessert—a multi-layer cake with caramel or buttercream frosting.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering fresh produce, baked goods, and local prepared foods in the Towson area.
A large open-air market in Baltimore with seafood, produce, prepared foods, and regional bites to sample.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'hello' or 'good morning.' Be punctual for appointments, and thank servers and staff for good service.
Moderate noise is typical in commercial areas; residential areas expect quiet after dark and on late-night visits.
Safety
Tipping in Towson
Ensure a smooth experience
In the U.S., a tip of 15-20% at restaurants is customary for good service. Rounding up at casual places or tipping bellhops and taxi drivers is common practice.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming trees in parks; great for outdoor photography and walking tours. Occasional showers—bring a light rain layer.
Warm to hot days with humidity; expect outdoor events and extended daylight. Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen; look for shaded spots on walking routes.
Pleasant temperatures and colorful foliage along streets and in parks; excellent for photography and outdoor strolls.
Cool to cold with occasional snowfall; indoor dining options are plentiful and local events continue in community spaces.
Towson at Night
Hiking in Towson
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails with river views and varied difficulty levels suitable for day hikes.
Rolling hills and forested paths with streams, offering scenic vistas and loop options.
Airports
How to reach Towson by plane.
Major international and domestic hub located about 25-40 minutes from Towson by car, with rail and bus connections.
Public-use airport serving general aviation, located east of Towson.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Students and faculty who study and work at Towson University, contributing to a youthful, educated local culture.
Local families and professionals who live in Towson and nearby neighborhoods.
People who commute to Baltimore City or other employment centers in the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A prominent sport in Maryland with strong college and club participation, including Towson University teams.
Popular at the college and community level, with local leagues and school programs.
Common in parks and campuses, with youth and adult leagues available.
Several courses in the broader Baltimore area are popular for weekend play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Towson.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer veggie burgers, salads, grain bowls, and Mediterranean or Asian options. Look for menus labeled vegetarian or vegan, and don’t hesitate to ask for dairy- or egg-free preparations.