Things To Do
in Laurel
Laurel, Maryland sits in the heart of the Washington-Baltimore corridor, offering a blend of small-town charm and easy access to big-city amenities. The city features a walkable historic district along Main Street, where local shops, eateries, and community events create a lively neighborhood vibe. Outdoor spaces along the Patuxent River and nearby parks invite easy day trips and nature strolls.
With convenient MARC commuter links and proximity to major highways, Laurel makes a practical base for exploring central Maryland.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a stroll through the historic downtown area of Laurel, where you can admire beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings and local architecture. Stop by the Laurel Museum to learn about the city's rich history, including its role in the timber industry. Don't forget to grab a coffee and pastry from a local café to energize you for the adventures ahead.
After lunch at a charming bistro, take a guided walking tour that dives deeper into Laurel's history, including stories of its founding and cultural significance. Visit the unique art galleries and shops that showcase local artisans and craftspeople. Spend some time relaxing at a nearby park, where you can enjoy the greenery and perhaps a casual game of frisbee.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant known for its Southern cuisine, where you can savor dishes like gumbo or fried catfish. After dinner, catch a live music performance at a nearby venue, where local bands often play a mix of genres, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk back through the historic streets, soaking in the charm of Laurel at night.
Start your day at the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art, where you can explore a diverse collection of American art, including paintings, pottery, and textiles. Spend time in the beautiful gardens outside the museum, perfect for reflection and enjoying nature. Engage with the museum staff to learn about their upcoming workshops and events.
Head to the local artisan market where you can find handmade crafts, fresh produce, and unique gifts. Enjoy lunch at a nearby café that prides itself on using local ingredients, providing a delicious farm-to-table experience. Afterward, visit the local theater to catch a matinee performance, immersing yourself in the local arts scene.
For dinner, choose one of the ethnic restaurants that celebrate the diverse culinary influences in Laurel, experiencing flavors from around the world. After your meal, take part in a community event or gallery opening that often showcases local talent and creativity. Wind down with a nightcap at a cozy pub, where you can mingle with locals and share stories about your day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🚌Local transit ride | $2-5 |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment (city center) | $1,600-2,100/mo |
| 🛒Grocery staple (weekly) | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Accessible location between Baltimore and DC
- Walkable historic district with local charm
- Nearby parks and river scenery for outdoor lovers
- Frequent community events and markets
- Smaller nightlife scene compared to larger cities
- Rush-hour traffic on major corridors can be busy
Places to Visit in Laurel
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic mansion and surrounding grounds provide elegant architectural lines, gardens, and soft natural light ideal for photography.
Brick storefronts, vintage signage, and small-town street scenes offer classic Americana photography opportunities.
Riverside views with reflections, wetlands, and seasonal wildlife provide tranquil landscape shots.
Food in Laurel
Laurel Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Seasoned crab cakes pan-seared to a crisp exterior, often served with a lemon-dill aioli or tartar sauce; commonly found in many local eateries.
Must-Try!
The state dessert, featuring many thin cake layers with buttercream, often found in bakeries and some restaurant menus.
Seasonal, lightly fried crab served on a sandwich or with sides; a Maryland coastal favorite in season.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering locally grown produce, baked goods, seafood, and artisanal products; great for fresh bites and photography opportunities.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings are appreciated; people value friendliness and a relaxed pace in public spaces. Keep noise reasonable, especially in residential areas, and be mindful of quiet hours in some neighborhoods.
Safety
Tipping in Laurel
Ensure a smooth experience
In the United States, tip 15-20% at restaurants; tip $1-2 per drink at bars; rounding up for taxi rides is common; cash tips are always acceptable but cards are widely accepted.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming gardens; bring light layers and rain gear for showers; great for outdoor photography and walking tours.
Warm to hot with higher humidity; afternoon storms are common—hydrate and carry a light rain jacket; evenings can be pleasant for strolls.
Cooler temperatures and vibrant fall foliage; perfect for scenic photography and outdoor activities; layering is key.
Cold but usually dry spells with occasional snow; plan for indoor activities and be prepared for icy sidewalks in some areas.
Laurel at Night
Hiking in Laurel
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forested paths and river vistas with varied difficulty levels.
Gentle on-site trails around the historic estate for easy nature walks.
Airports
How to reach Laurel by plane.
Major international and domestic flights; accessible via major highways and MARC train routes.
Close to DC with convenient domestic flight options; good for quick getaways.
Large hub with international and domestic flights; drive or take long-distance transit connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Strong presence due to schools, parks, and safe, walkable neighborhoods.
Commuters who work in Baltimore or DC areas; benefit from convenient transport links.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in parks and youth leagues; popular weekend pick-up games.
Community leagues and school fields provide regular games and practice.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Laurel.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most places offer vegetarian options like salads, veggie burgers, pastas, and seasonal vegetables; mention dietary needs when ordering and look for grilled or roasted vegetable dishes.