Michael Stevens

The variety of stately Mt. Vernon is exactly what Michael Stevens loves about the neighborhood. "I think the most noticeable thing about the neighborhood is the diversity," he says. He cherishes the mix of people who call Mt. Vernon home.

In fact, Mt. Vernon was the first place Stevens put down roots after leaving his parents' home. Years later, he and his then-partner moved to a quieter section of the city. But after the breakup, Stevens knew exactly where to relocate. For the last five years, he's lived in a loft apartment in a brownstone facing Washington Square.

Gay central

"It's the closest thing to a gay ghetto that Baltimore has," Stevens says. "During gay pride [parts of which are centered in Mt. Vernon], it's just great fun to walk out the door."

Stevens doesn't go out dancing as much anymore, but many of the city's oldest and most popular gay bars are located in Mt. Vernon�The Hippo and Grand Central are situated on the corner of Charles and Eager, Club Phoenix, Drinkery, Club Bunns and Coconuts are scattered throughout the neighborhood. Leon's, the city's oldest gay bar, is on Park Avenue.

Chase Brexton Health Services, which began as a clinic for gay men in the late 1970s, has always been located in Mt. Vernon. The Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Community Center of Baltimore hosts support groups and coordinates Gay Pride from its office on Chase Street.

A little of everything

True to its reputation as a cultural district, Mt. Vernon offers an eclectic collection of shops and restaurants. Stevens is particularly fond of City Cafe. "They know what I drink and have it ready for me when I walk through the door," he says.

Some of the city's finest restaurants -- like Sacsha's, Ixia and Sotta Sopra -- are within walking distance of Stevens' apartment.

"The Helmand is a gem, although, it is almost impossible to get in sometimes." he says of the restaurant owned by the brother of Afghan president, Hamid Karsai.

For gifts and other shopping, Stevens frequents Pretentious Pooch, Utrecht Art Supplies and Plaza Artist Materials. Eddies Market is a quick stop spot for groceries, a salad or a sandwich.

"Red Emma's Bookstore and Coffeehouse is great," Stevens adds. "I love their collection."

High- and low-brow

"There's a sense of elegance and a sense of decadence at the same time," Stevens says. Among neighborhood bars and quirky shops are the city's professional arts institutions, like The Walters Art Museum, Center Stage and Baltimore Symphony Orchestra.

"In Mt. Vernon, there is always something else to do," Stevens says. Just checking out the architecture alone is an awe-inspiring experience.

"The are very few times when I don't walk out my front door without being stunned by the spectacle of beauty," Stevens says.