Things To Do
in Hyattsville
Hyattsville, Maryland is a diverse, arts-focused suburban city just northeast of Washington, D.C., known for its walkable Route 1 corridor and creative storefronts in the Gateway/Hyattsville Arts District. It blends historic residential streets with newer mixed-use developments, a growing restaurant scene, and public art installations. The city sits close to the University of Maryland and major commuter routes, making it convenient for day trips into DC as well as local neighborhood exploration.
Visitors will find a friendly, community-minded atmosphere with parks, trails, and pockets of lively nightlife and cultural programming.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Hyattsville Historic District, where you can admire the beautiful architecture of the early 20th-century homes. Grab a coffee and a pastry at a local café as you stroll through the charming streets. Don't forget to visit the Hyattsville Arts District to see the vibrant murals that showcase the community's artistic spirit.
After lunch at a nearby eatery, explore the Prince George's African American Museum and Cultural Center to learn about the rich history of African Americans in the area. Spend time in the nearby Magruder Park, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk or partake in recreational activities. Visit the local shops to pick up unique souvenirs and art pieces from local artisans.
As the sun sets, head to the nearby Greenbelt Park for a peaceful evening hike along its scenic trails. Enjoy a picnic dinner under the stars, surrounded by nature's tranquility. Conclude your day with a visit to a local brewery or pub for a taste of Hyattsville's craft beer scene.
Begin your day by visiting the Brentwood Arts Exchange, where you can explore contemporary art exhibitions and perhaps participate in a workshop. Engage with local artists and learn about their creative processes while enjoying a light breakfast at the on-site café. Take your time to appreciate the art pieces that reflect the culture and history of the Hyattsville area.
After a morning of artistic inspiration, head to the nearby University of Maryland campus to visit the art galleries and museums located there. The Stamp Student Union often hosts cultural events, so check their schedule for any performances or exhibitions. Grab lunch at one of the campus eateries while soaking in the vibrant student atmosphere.
As dusk approaches, attend a live performance at the Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center, where you can enjoy everything from theater to dance. Post-show, explore the eclectic dining options in the area and savor a delicious meal at a local restaurant. Wind down your day with a leisurely walk through the well-lit campus, appreciating the blend of art and academia.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee / Small café purchase | $3-6 |
| 🚕Short rideshare / taxi | $8-20 |
| 🍺Beer at a bar | $5-8 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $100-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close proximity to Washington, D.C. and University of Maryland
- Vibrant local arts scene and public murals
- Good mix of local shops, eateries, and green spaces
- Some areas can feel car-dependent and parking may be limited during events
- Occasional congestion on commuter routes during rush hours
- Limited late-night entertainment compared with nearby DC
Places to Visit in Hyattsville
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful murals and street art along Route 1 and side streets create high-impact urban compositions, especially in the golden hour.
Tree-lined blocks with early-20th-century bungalows and Victorian houses provide charming architectural photography and seasonal foliage.
Riverside views, boating activity, and wetlands at the confluence of local streams give nature and wildlife photo opportunities.
The university campus nearby offers classic collegiate architecture, landscaped quads, and event-driven scenes—great for people and architectural shots.
Food in Hyattsville
Hyattsville Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crab in various forms — especially lump crab cakes and steamed blue crabs seasoned with Old Bay — is a regional must-try; find them at local seafood-focused restaurants and many area pubs.
Must-Try!
Maryland and regional pit beef and smoked meats are common at neighborhood joints and weekend food events; order sliced pit beef sandwiches with horseradish or barbecue sides.
Many cafes and bistros serve elevated brunch menus that showcase local produce and baking — a popular weekend choice among locals.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal farmers markets and popup events along Route 1 or in nearby parks offer local produce, baked goods, and prepared foods — great for sampling local flavors and meeting artisans.
Look for occasional food truck nights and pop-up vendors in the Arts District and at community festivals; they often serve tacos, BBQ, and fusion street food.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite, direct communication, queueing in lines, and respecting personal space are standard. Hold doors and acknowledge small courtesies.
Hyattsville places value on neighborhood events and local businesses — support local shops and observe posted rules in parks or community spaces.
The community is culturally diverse and generally progressive; be respectful of different backgrounds and inclusive language.
Safety
Tipping in Hyattsville
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary: 15–20% at sit-down restaurants, $1–2 per drink at bars, and 10–15% for taxi or rideshare if service is good. Tip hotel staff and other service providers for helpful service.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments and mobile wallets are common. Carry a small amount of cash for markets, small vendors, or tipping when needed.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming trees, and active farmers markets make spring a pleasant time for walks and outdoor events; occasional showers are possible—pack a light rain jacket.
Hot, humid weather with frequent thunderstorms in the afternoons; outdoor patios and evening events are popular but plan for heat, sunscreen, and hydration.
Crisp air and attractive fall foliage on residential streets and nearby trails make autumn ideal for hiking and photography; many cultural events and festivals occur.
Winters are chilly with occasional snow; most attractions remain open, though some outdoor activities wind down—pack layers and waterproof footwear in case of icy conditions.
Hyattsville at Night
Hiking in Hyattsville
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A network of trails along Paint Branch with creekside scenery, suitable for walking, running, and cycling; accessible from Hyattsville and nearby neighborhoods.
A pleasant multi-use trail a short drive away that follows Sligo Creek through parks and residential areas—popular for walking, biking, and jogging.
Short trails and boardwalks around the Anacostia tributaries with birdwatching and water views; good for casual hikes and paddling access.
Airports
How to reach Hyattsville by plane.
Approximately 20–30 minutes by car (depending on traffic) and accessible via Metro and shuttle options; closest major airport for domestic flights into DC.
Roughly 30–45 minutes by car; a major regional hub with domestic and international flights and good ground transportation connections.
About 45–60 minutes by car depending on traffic; serves many international and transcontinental flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Established households and multigenerational families live in many of the historic neighborhoods.
Proximity to the University of Maryland brings students, graduate students, and early-career professionals who contribute to the local cultural life.
Hyattsville and Prince George’s County have a rich mix of African American, Latino, South Asian, and African immigrant populations reflected in local businesses and community events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
University of Maryland Terrapins sports draw local interest—college football, basketball, and other collegiate athletics are popular with students and residents.
Lacrosse is traditional in the region, and soccer is widely played at youth and adult levels across parks and recreation leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hyattsville.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many cafes and modern restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options; plant-based dishes, grain bowls, and vegetable-forward small plates are common.
Gluten-free choices are widely available at bakeries and restaurants on request, but always confirm preparation methods if cross-contamination is a concern.
There are halal-friendly and international restaurants in the broader area; for kosher needs, options are more limited locally—look to nearby larger communities or grocery suppliers.