· US

Towson

Towson, Maryland, United States

Discover Towson, Maryland: Where Vibrant City Meets Small-Town Charm Just north of Baltimore lies Towson, Maryland, a hidden gem brimming with charm, history, and excitement. Don't let its proximity to the big city fool …

#Suburban#College town#Shopping#Diverse#Historic

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Towson.

Top Hotels in Towson

Top Flights to Towson

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Towson.

Tours

Historic Towson Courthouse and Gardens

Explore the historic Towson Courthouse and its beautifully landscaped gardens.

Hampton National Historic Site

Visit the grand Hampton Mansion and its grounds for a glimpse into Maryland's past.

Shopping

Towson Town Center Shopping

A premier shopping destination in Towson with a variety of stores and eateries.

Outdoor

Loch Raven Reservoir Hiking

Enjoy a day of hiking and nature at Loch Raven Reservoir.

Cromwell Valley Park Outdoor Activities

Engage in recreation in the green spaces of Cromwell Valley Park.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Towson.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Towson, Maryland, United States is 58,000.

Languages

English, English

Average weather

Towson

Jan

5°-4°

Feb

7°-3°

Mar

12°1°

Apr

18°6°

May

24°12°

Jun

29°17°

Jul

31°20°

Aug

30°19°

Sep

26°15°

Oct

19°8°

Nov

13°3°

Dec

7°-2°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Towson.

What people love

Towson, Maryland, located in Baltimore County, offers several attractions and benefits for travelers. Some pros of traveling to Towson include:

Proximity to Baltimore: Towson is just a short drive away from Baltimore, allowing visitors to easily explore the attractions and amenities of the larger city, such as the Inner Harbor, National Aquarium, and historic sites.
Towson University: The town is home to Towson University, a vibrant campus with cultural events, sports games, and educational opportunities that visitors can enjoy.
Shopping and Dining: Towson boasts a variety of shopping centers, restaurants, and cafes, providing visitors with ample choices for dining and entertainment.
Outdoor Recreation: There are several parks and recreational areas in and around Towson, offering opportunities for hiking, biking, and enjoying the natural beauty of the region.
Historical Sites: Towson has a rich history, with several historic sites and landmarks that visitors can explore, such as Hampton National Historic Site and the Maryland State Firemen's Association Museum.

Overall, Towson offers a blend of urban amenities, cultural attractions, and natural beauty, making it a worthwhile destination for travelers.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Towson, Maryland, could include:

Traffic congestion: Towson is a busy area with a significant amount of traffic, especially during rush hours. Navigating the streets and finding parking may be challenging.
High cost of living: Maryland has a higher cost of living compared to other states in the U.S., which can make accommodations, dining, and other expenses more expensive for travelers.
Limited public transportation options: While Towson does have public transportation options like buses, the system may not be as extensive or convenient as in larger cities, making it more difficult to get around without a car.
Weather: Maryland experiences all four seasons, including hot and humid summers and cold winters with occasional snowfall. Travelers should be prepared for varying weather conditions depending on the time of year.
Limited tourist attractions: Towson is primarily a residential and commercial area, so there may be fewer traditional tourist attractions compared to larger cities. Travelers seeking a bustling tourist scene may find Towson to be more low-key.

It's important to note that these cons are subjective and may not apply to everyone. Travelers should consider their own preferences and priorities when deciding whether or not to visit Towson, Maryland.

Towson, Maryland, is an unincorporated community and the county seat of Baltimore County. Its history dates back to the 18th century and has evolved significantly over the years.

Founding and Early History:

Towson was settled in 1752 when two Pennsylvania brothers, William and Thomas Towson, began farming the area north of Baltimore. The community gradually developed around their farm.
In 1768, Thomas Towson opened the Towson Tavern, which became a significant stopping point for farmers and traders traveling to and from York, Pennsylvania, and Baltimore.

19th Century Developments:

By the early 19th century, Towson had grown into a small town with its own post office, established in 1803.
The construction of the Baltimore and Susquehanna Railroad in the 1830s bypassed Towson, which initially limited its growth compared to other nearby communities.

Formation of Baltimore County Seat:

In 1854, Towson was designated the county seat of Baltimore County, leading to a period of growth and development. This decision was partly due to Towson's central location and the fact that Baltimore City was no longer part of the county.
The Baltimore County Courthouse was constructed in the 1850s, establishing Towson as a center of government and law.

Civil War Era:

During the Civil War, Towson had divided loyalties. Maryland was a border state with both Union and Confederate sympathizers. Some Towson residents joined the Confederate Army, while others supported the Union.

Late 19th and Early 20th Century:

Towson continued to grow as a residential suburb of Baltimore. The development of streetcar lines in the late 19th and early 20th centuries enhanced its accessibility and appeal.
Goucher College, originally the Woman’s College of Baltimore, moved to Towson in 1910, contributing to the town's educational and cultural development.

Mid-20th Century to Present:

Post-World War II suburban expansion significantly increased Towson's population and economic development. Shopping centers, such as Towson Town Center, opened, making it a regional retail hub.
Towson University, established as a teacher training school in 1866 and later becoming a comprehensive university, grew to become one of the largest public universities in Maryland.

Significant Landmarks:

Hampton National Historic Site: This is a preserved 18th-century estate that provides insights into the lives of Maryland's early wealthy landowners and the enslaved people who worked on the estate.
Towson Courthouse: The historic courthouse is a key landmark and the center of Baltimore County's government.
Goucher College: Known for its liberal arts programs and innovative education approaches, Goucher has been a significant educational institution in Towson since its move in 1910.

Notable Figures:

Charles Carroll of Carrollton: One of the signers of the Declaration of Independence, he owned significant land in the area.
John S. Ensor: A prominent local figure in the 19th century who served as the Clerk of the Court for Baltimore County.

Towson today is a vibrant community known for its educational institutions, shopping, and as a center of government for Baltimore County.