Silver Spring, MD, long favored for its independent arts scene, has grown up. Alongside its classic towering condominiums stand modern structures, often glass, reflecting back the vibrant city. Call it Hollywood east for the American Film Institute and headquarters of Discovery Communications. Downtown is a major shopping mecca filled with arts galleries, nightclubs, cafes, outdoor dining amid huge pots of flowers and older buildings still home to the great ethnic mix that has been a draw to the city for years. Relish specialties from Burma, Vietnam, India, Ethiopia and other parts of Africa, Jamaica, the Middle East, Kosher, organic and vegetarian restaurants and markets. Venture by Metro or car to neighboring Wheaton for more Kosher and Israeli fare as well as Jewish specialty and gift shops. Close also by Metro or car is Takoma Park, MD, well-loved as a progressive artist's enclave. Just minutes from northwest DC by car or Metro subway, Silver Spring is an ideal locale for those craving more alternative arts styles. Condos for sale are abundant in downtown Silver Spring and its burbs. Choose from a variety of styles and quality amenities. Enjoy the diversity, including many complexes that have become communities themselves, rich with children, singles, couples without kids and retirees. Condos for rent are preferred by many who have chosen to make Silver Spring their lifelong home and spend weekdays and weeknights dedicated to work at the numerous foundations, advocacy associations and service charities in the DC area, and come back wanting nothing more than movies all weekend and a dip in a rooftop pool. You might wish to journey to one of the community pools. Bike or run in nearby Rock Creek Park when you want a break from the city. Or, improve your swing at one of the two area golf courses. There are more than a dozen recreation and community centers. Participate in the community by joining one of the dozens of activist organizations. Silver Spring is part of Montgomery County, one of the richest in America, though diverse economically. It's the second largest city by area in Maryland, the first being Baltimore, about 45 minutes away by car. Silver Spring is also serviced by the MARC train, an easy way to get to Baltimore. Annapolis, the state's capital is about the same commute length, and a relaxing town to take in the Chesapeake Bay. Work in the arts, for nonprofits, the National Weather Service, biotech companies or numerous media outlets. Or, like many, telecommute. You'll find plenty of unique coffee or tea shops to use as your office away from home. |
