Baltimore County surrounds the independent City of Baltimore, covering a total of 599 square miles with a population of about 780,000. The Baltimore Metropolitan Area also includes the counties of Anne Arundel, Carroll, Harford and Howard, and is home to about 2.6 million residents. Here you will find charming historic communities and pastoral landscapes, with the allure of Baltimore City right at hand.

Baltimore County boasts more than 10,000 acres of parkland that offer boating, hiking, fishing, camping and more. You'll also find more than 175 miles of waterfront and more than 60 marinas. Equestrian lovers will be right at amid the many horse farms, where champion thoroughbreds are bred and trained. Vineyards also dot the landscape, offering tours and tastings. Towson University is also found here.

Charming small towns in Baltimore County, such as Cockeysville, Reisterstown, Monkton or the historic mill town of Oella, offer plenty of antique shopping, and outdoor enthusiasts will love exploring the Northern Central Railroad Trail, a railroad bed converted to a hiking/biking trail that runs from Baltimore County into Pennsylvania.