Things To Do
in Bladensburg
Bladensburg is a small historic town in Prince George's County, Maryland, located just northeast of Washington, D.C., with a long history tied to early American conflicts and the Chesapeake region. The town sits along the Anacostia River and offers parks, riverfront trails, and remnants of 18th- and 19th-century architecture. While Bladensburg itself is quiet and residential, it provides easy access to big-city museums, dining and nightlife in nearby Hyattsville and Washington, D.C.
Visitors often combine history, outdoor recreation and Chesapeake seafood when exploring the area.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Bladensburg Historic Site where you can learn about the area's rich history. Join a guided tour that delves into the events of the War of 1812 and the significance of Bladensburg. Take time to enjoy the beautiful landscapes surrounding the historic site.
After a hearty lunch at a local cafe, stroll along the Anacostia River, taking in the scenic views. This is a perfect time for photography enthusiasts to capture the natural beauty of the river and its wildlife. Consider renting a kayak for a closer exploration of the waterways.
As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant to enjoy a delightful dinner featuring regional cuisine. Post-meal, take a leisurely walk through the local parks, watching the fireflies dance in the dusk. Enjoy the serene sounds of the evening while you reflect on the day's adventures.
Kick off your day with a nature walk at Bladensburg Waterfront Park, where you can appreciate local flora and fauna. Bring binoculars for some birdwatching, as this area is home to various species that thrive by the river. Don't forget your camera to capture the scenic beauty this park has to offer.
After your nature exploration, have a picnic lunch in the park while watching the boats pass by on the river. This is also a good time to interact with locals or fellow visitors who share your interest in nature. Spend a relaxed afternoon enjoying the serene environment.
As evening approaches, head to a local brewery for some craft beer tasting. Engage with the locals and learn about the craft beer scene in the area. End your day by enjoying live music or a trivia night at the brewery to wrap up your adventure.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee (regular) | $3-5 |
| 🚕Short taxi / rideshare ride | $8-20 |
| 🏨Midrange hotel (per night) | $100-180 |
| 🥪Lunch at casual café | $12-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close proximity to Washington, D.C., with easy access to national attractions
- Riverside parks, historic sites and good outdoor recreation options
- Chesapeake seafood and diverse local dining options
- Lower-paced, residential atmosphere compared with downtown D.C.
- Limited nightlife and cultural venues within Bladensburg itself
- Public transit access is available but some destinations require driving
- Summer humidity and occasional storms can affect outdoor plans
- Certain neighborhoods may feel less polished than nearby urban centers
Places to Visit in Bladensburg
Visit one of these nice places.
Riverside views, sunsets over the Anacostia River, walking paths and picnic areas provide scenic shots of water, birds and local life.
Historic monuments, interpretive signs and open fields offer dramatic cultural-history photos, especially in soft morning or late-afternoon light.
A top spot for close-up shots of waterlilies, lotus blooms (in summer), and migratory and marsh birds in a peaceful, photogenic setting.
Old churches, period houses and tree-lined streets make for charming neighborhood photography and architectural detail shots.
Trail viewpoints, bridges and riverside scenes are ideal for action shots (cyclists, runners) and long-exposure water photos at dawn or dusk.
Food in Bladensburg
Bladensburg Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh Chesapeake blue crab (steamed and seasoned with Old Bay) and skillet or broiled crab cakes are local must-tries; find them at waterfront crab houses and neighborhood diners in Bladensburg and nearby towns.
Must-Try!
Maryland-style pit beef sandwiches and regional barbecue are common at local grills and markets; expect robust smoke flavors and hearty portions.
Fried chicken, collard greens and hearty sides appear at longstanding local soul-food spots, while growing Hispanic and Caribbean communities bring pupusas, empanadas and plantain-based dishes to neighborhood eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal farmers' and artisan markets near the waterfront and in nearby Hyattsville offer local produce, baked goods, prepared foods and occasional food trucks—great for sampling local ingredients and street-style eats.
Look for weekday lunch trucks and weekend stands that serve tacos, sandwiches, and seafood specials; these are often parked near community events or commercial strips.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Residents value friendly but reserved interactions—basic politeness and respect for personal space are appreciated. A simple hello or please/thank you goes a long way.
Treat battlefield markers, monuments and historic properties with care—follow signage, avoid climbing on memorials and respect guided-tour rules.
Follow posted parking rules; avoid blocking driveways or private property. Be patient in traffic and yield to pedestrians at crosswalks.
Dress is typically casual; bring layers for cooler evenings. For visits to religious sites or formal venues, modest attire is respectful.
Safety
Tipping in Bladensburg
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary: 15–20% in restaurants for full service, $1–2 per drink at bars or $1–3 for coat check, and 10–20% for taxi or rideshare depending on service. Tip hotel staff and tour guides as appropriate.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments and mobile wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common. Carry some cash for small street vendors or tips, and use ATMs or bank branches for withdrawals.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming trees make spring a pleasant time to visit; expect some rain—bring a light jacket and comfortable walking shoes. Kenilworth’s aquatic gardens become colorful later in spring.
Hot and humid weather is typical from June through August with occasional thunderstorms; if visiting for water activities or festivals, plan for heat, sunscreen and hydration, and expect peak tourist activity in nearby D.C. areas.
Fall offers comfortable temperatures, lower humidity and fall foliage—great for outdoor activities, photography and weekend markets. Early fall remains warm; evenings cool off.
Winters are chilly with occasional snow and freezing temperatures; many outdoor attractions remain accessible but dress warmly and check weather forecasts for potential snow or icy conditions.
Bladensburg at Night
Hiking in Bladensburg
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short, scenic boardwalks and paths through marshy gardens—excellent for leisurely walks, birdwatching and photographing aquatic plants in summer.
A multi-use paved trail that follows the Anacostia River for walking, running and cycling; connects to regional trail networks toward Washington, D.C.
Nearby river-side park with easy walking trails, historic farm buildings and open fields—good for family-friendly hikes and nature observation.
A mix of riverside trails, historic landscapes and woodland walks in Accokeek—offers longer nature walks and interpretive experiences.
A short drive away, the refuge offers varied trails through meadows and woodlands, with opportunities for wildlife viewing and quieter hikes.
Airports
How to reach Bladensburg by plane.
About 15–25 minutes by car from Bladensburg (depending on traffic), DCA is closest for domestic flights; reachable by Metro and taxi/rideshare—good for fast access to downtown D.C.
Approximately 30–45 minutes by car; offers many domestic and international flights. Shuttle, train (Amtrak/MARC connections) and rideshare options connect BWI to the Bladensburg area.
About 40–60 minutes by car depending on traffic; serves many international and domestic routes. Ground transportation includes shuttles, buses and rideshares, but expect a longer transit time than DCA or BWI.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Prince George’s County, including Bladensburg, has a large and vibrant African American population with deep community ties and local cultural institutions.
Significant populations from Latin America, Africa and Asia contribute to the area’s cultural and culinary diversity, reflected in local businesses and services.
Many residents are families and professionals who commute to jobs in D.C. and surrounding suburban employment centers.
Proximity to the University of Maryland and D.C. attracts students and early-career professionals seeking affordable housing and transit access.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is widely followed at all levels—local high school games draw community support, and many residents follow NFL teams and collegiate football.
Basketball is popular in community centers, school programs and pick-up games at local courts year-round.
Youth and adult soccer leagues are common, reflecting the area's diverse population and growing interest in the sport.
Lacrosse has strong regional roots in Maryland and is played at youth, high school and club levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bladensburg.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available but more limited in traditional seafood-focused spots; look for cafés, some farm-to-table restaurants and international eateries (Mexican, Indian, Mediterranean) that offer plant-based dishes.
Vegan offerings exist mainly at cafés and in nearby urban centers—ask restaurants about modifications and check menus online; larger grocery stores carry plant-based staples if you are self-catering.
Many restaurants can accommodate gluten-free requests (avoid fried crab preparations breaded with wheat); specify your needs clearly and consider bakeries or cafés that label gluten-free items.