Things To Do
in College Park
College Park, Maryland is a vibrant college town just northeast of Washington, DC, anchored by the University of Maryland. It blends student energy with easy access to the nation’s capital via public transit and roads. Expect tree-lined campus blocks, diverse dining options, and a welcoming, student-driven atmosphere.
It serves as a convenient base for exploring urban culture, museums, and nearby nature trails in the DC region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the College Park Aviation Museum, where you can learn about the rich aviation history of the area. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the picturesque Greenbelt Park, immersing yourself in nature before the day heats up. Grab a coffee and a pastry at a local café to fuel your morning adventures.
In the afternoon, explore the vibrant University of Maryland campus, taking in the stunning architecture and lively student atmosphere. Visit the Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center to see if any exhibitions or performances pique your interest. For lunch, indulge in some classic Maryland crab cakes at a nearby restaurant.
As the sun sets, head to the College Park Farmers Market, where you can sample local produce and artisanal treats. Afterward, catch a movie at the local cinema or enjoy a casual dinner at a cozy pub. End your day with a leisurely walk around the campus, perhaps stopping to admire the famous Testudo statue.
Begin your adventure with a hike at the nearby Patuxent Research Refuge, where you can enjoy scenic trails and spot local wildlife. The morning air is refreshing, making it a perfect time for birdwatching or simply soaking in the serene surroundings. Pack a light breakfast and enjoy it at one of the picnic areas within the refuge.
After your hike, make your way to the Lake Artemesia Natural Area for a leisurely bike ride or a walk around the lake. Take in the beautiful views and watch as families enjoy paddle boating on the water. Stop for lunch at a picnic spot, where you can relax and recharge under the shade of the trees.
As evening approaches, return to College Park and head to a local restaurant known for its outdoor seating. Savor a delicious meal while enjoying the warm breeze and vibrant atmosphere. Finish off your evening with a stroll through the nearby trails, perhaps catching a glimpse of the sunset over the lake.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍕Pizza slice or casual meal | $5-12 |
| ☕Coffee or beverage | $3-6 |
| 🚌One-way public transit ride | $2-4 |
| 🏨Night in a budget hotel | $80-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Washington, DC with easy transit access
- Active campus atmosphere and diverse dining
- Walkable campus core and safe neighborhoods
- Wide range of lodging and eateries within a short drive
- Limited nightlife within College Park itself
- Heavy traffic and parking challenges near DC and event areas
- Hotels and lodging can be pricier during college events
- Some attractions require travel to neighboring cities for breadth
Places to Visit in College Park
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic campus green spaces and chapel architecture provide classic collegiate photography opportunities, especially during golden hour.
Contemporary architectural lines and interesting angles ideal for modern city-campus contrast shots.
Airfield backdrop with planes and hangars offering a vintage-industrial mood for photos.
Waterfront scenery, trees, and walking trails ideal for nature photography and family portraits.
Colorful storefronts and mid-20th-century architecture provide charming, walkable photo moments.
Food in College Park
College Park Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Classic crab cakes seasoned with Old Bay and pan-seared; best found at seafood spots around campus and in the greater DC area.
Must-Try!
Fries dusted with Old Bay seasoning, a Maryland staple you’ll spot at many casual eateries and sports bars.
A multi-layered Maryland dessert often available in local bakeries and cafes; look for it during special occasions and at bakeries near the university.
Creamy crab soup varieties that pair well with crab cakes at seafood-focused spots.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market near campus offering fresh produce, local baked goods, and ready-to-eat foods.
A premier DC market with a variety of street-food stalls and beverage options; great for sampling regional flavors.
Mobile vendors around campus events offering diverse cuisines and quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings such as 'hello' or 'hi' go a long way; hold doors for others when feasible.
Respect quiet hours in student housing areas; keep noise reasonable on residential streets.
Be patient with peak-hour pickups; confirm destination with the driver before departing.
Safety
Tipping in College Park
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 15-20% of the pre-tax bill is standard; for bar service, $1-2 per drink or 15-20%. Tip for good service even at casual spots.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common; cash is still accepted at many venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms; stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and seek shade or indoor venues during peak heat.
Pleasant temperatures and colorful foliage; great for outdoor walking and campus photography.
Cold with occasional snow; layer up and plan indoor stops at campus facilities or nearby DC museums.
Mild days with intermittent showers; good for outdoor exploring and park strolls; carry a light rain jacket.
College Park at Night
Hiking in College Park
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Paved and woodland trails around a peaceful lake; easy to moderate hikes for all ages.
Forested trails with varied terrain and nature views, close to the city.
Extensive natural corridors offering longer hiking routes and scenic overlooks.
Airports
How to reach College Park by plane.
20–25 miles away by road; quick access via Metrorail and highways.
30–40 miles away; accessible by highway and public transit connections.
35–50 miles away; longer drive but major international gateway.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large, diverse student population from around the world.
Stably rooted in nearby neighborhoods with a range of housing options.
A significant share tied to the university and technology sectors in the DC region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball, football, and lacrosse are popular; games attract student and local support.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting College Park.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most menus in the area include vegetarian options; look for meat-free proteins, veggie bowls, and labeled vegetarian dishes; many places can accommodate requests.