Silver Spring. Once known as a blue collar area with few amenities, downtown Silver Spring, Maryland, has blossomed over the past 15 years. A glossy new shopping and retail area features a water fountain that children can play in. "Silver Spring has transitioned from a place with an easy commute to D.C. to a place that's family-friendly," says Kucik. "It's accessible to downtown D.C. via the Metro and MARC train, and is close to many parks and trails, including the 10-mile Sligo Creek Trail.