Columbia, MD offers a vibrant mix of nature, recreation, and family-friendly fun. Whether you're exploring lakeside trails or solving puzzles in an escape room, there's something for everyone. Here’s a curated list of top points of interest in Columbia, Maryland:
A local favorite, this scenic park features a 37-acre lake surrounded by a 2-mile paved trail—perfect for walking, jogging, or biking. With picnic areas, fishing spots, and wildlife sightings, it’s a peaceful escape in the heart of Columbia. Open 24 hours.
This 18-acre eco-friendly facility offers interactive exhibits, wooded trails, a butterfly garden, and a planetarium. It’s a must-visit for families and nature lovers looking to explore the local ecosystem. Currently closed; opens at 9 AM Friday.
A serene spot for walking, birdwatching, or simply relaxing by the water. The park’s loop trail and open green spaces make it ideal for a quiet afternoon. Open until 10 PM.
This expansive park is a hub for sports and play, featuring multipurpose fields, a large playground, and ample parking. It’s a great destination for families and community events. Open now.
Located in the Merriweather District, this vibrant urban park hosts seasonal events, art installations, and outdoor performances. It’s a lively gathering space with a modern vibe. Open until 9 PM.
Ready for a challenge? This escape room venue offers a variety of immersive, themed puzzles for groups. It’s a top-rated experience for friends, families, or team-building. Open until 10:30 PM.
A hidden gem for nature enthusiasts, this park features wooded trails and tranquil stream views. It’s ideal for a quiet hike or a reflective walk. Open until 12 AM.
Located along the Lake Kittamaqundi Loop, this charming fountain adds a splash of beauty to the lakefront. It’s a picturesque stop during a stroll or a great photo op.
| Restaurant | Rating & Price | Description | Location | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🏰The Kings Contrivance | ⭐ 4.5 $50–100 |
Located in a historic Federal mansion, this elegant spot serves high-end American classics in a gardened setting. Ideal for romantic dinners or special occasions. | 📍 10150 Shaker Dr Website |
🕗 Open until 8 PM |
| 🎷Glenwood's (Stanford Grill - Columbia) | ⭐ 4.6 $30–50 |
A casually stylish restaurant with a patio and live jazz, offering contemporary American fare in a relaxed yet refined atmosphere. | 📍 8900 Stanford Blvd Website |
🕙 Open until 10 PM |
| 🥙Cazbar - Columbia | ⭐ 4.6 $30–50 |
This Turkish gem features dim lighting, belly dancing on weekends, and a menu full of flavorful Mediterranean dishes. | 📍 9400 Snowden River Pkwy Ste 122 Website |
🕙 Open until 10 PM |
| 🍷Smashing Grapes Columbia | ⭐ 4.6 $50–100 |
A chic destination for wine lovers and foodies alike, blending upscale ambiance with a creative menu. | 📍 6200 Valencia Ln c125 Website |
🕚 Open until 11 PM |
| 🐑Blackwall Barn & Lodge Columbia | ⭐ 4.6 $50–100 |
Rustic charm meets modern elegance at this lodge-style restaurant offering elevated comfort food and craft cocktails. | 📍 6000 Merriweather Dr Suite B140 Website |
🕚 Open until 11 PM |
| 🌊The Collective Offshore | ⭐ 4.1 $30–50 |
A seafood-focused spot with a sleek vibe, perfect for waterfront dining and fresh catches. | 📍 10221 Wincopin Cir Website |
🕙 Open until 10 PM |
| 🌿Seasons 52 | ⭐ 4.4 $$ |
Known for its rotating seasonal menu and extensive wine list, this upscale chain offers health-conscious American fare. | 📍 10300 Little Patuxent Pkwy Suite 3150 Website |
🕙 Open until 10 PM |
| 🥩GrillMarx Columbia Steakhouse & Raw Bar | ⭐ 4.5 $$$ |
A relaxed steakhouse offering generous portions of seafood and steak, plus brunch and cocktails. | 📍 10175 Little Patuxent Pkwy Website |
🕙 Open until 10 PM |
Fulton, MD offers a charming blend of upscale dining and wellness-focused destinations, especially concentrated in the Maple Lawn area. Here are top-rated restaurants and local points of interest worth exploring.
| Restaurant | Rating / Type / Price | Description | Location | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🍽️Lib's Grill | ★ 4.7 Gastropub $$ |
A lively neighborhood bar and grill known for its rotating New American menu, craft cocktails, and live music. A favorite for both casual dinners and celebratory nights out. | 📍 8191 Maple Lawn Blvd | 🕙 Open until 10 PM |
| 🍝Galliano – Maple Lawn | ★ 4.2 Italian Restaurant $30–50 |
This cozy Italian spot serves up classic pasta dishes, wood-fired pizzas, and hearty entrees in a warm, inviting setting. 🔗 Visit Galliano |
📍 8110 Maple Lawn Blvd | 🕙 Open until 10 PM |
| 🦪Hudson Coastal Raw Bar & Grill | ★ 4.4 Seafood Restaurant $30–50 |
A relaxed seafood eatery with a raw bar, fresh oysters, and coastal-inspired plates. The modern interior and cocktail menu make it ideal for date nights or group dinners. 🔗 Visit Hudson Coastal |
📍 11811 W Market Pl | 🕘 Open until 9 PM |
| 🌶️Ananda | ★ 4.5 Indian Restaurant $50–100 |
A refined Indian restaurant offering elevated cuisine in a beautifully designed space with fireplaces and outdoor seating. Known for its ambiance and expertly spiced dishes. 🔗 Visit Ananda |
📍 7421 Maple Lawn Blvd | 🕙 Open until 10 PM |
| 🍻Looney’s Pub | ★ 4.2 Irish Pub $20–30 |
A spacious Irish-style bar serving pub fare, drinks, and sports on TV. Great for casual hangouts and weekend fun. 🔗 Visit Looney’s Pub |
📍 8180 Maple Lawn Blvd | 🕑 Open until 2 AM |
| 🌮Banditos Tacos & Tequila Maple Lawn | ★ 4.4 Mexican Restaurant $20–30 |
Trendy and vibrant, Banditos offers creative tacos, tequila flights, and a lively atmosphere perfect for evenings out. 🔗 Visit Banditos |
📍 8170 Westside Blvd | 🕚 Open until 11 PM |
| 🍣Sushi Tendou | ★ 4.4 Japanese Restaurant $10–20 |
A casual sushi spot with modern decor, offering rolls, teriyaki, and other Japanese favorites. 🔗 Visit Sushi Tendou |
📍 8194 Westside Blvd | 🕙 Open until 10 PM |
| 🥪Mikey & Mel’s Deli | ★ 4.2 Deli $10–20 |
Classic deli fare with sandwiches, bagels, and breakfast options. A great stop for a quick bite or casual lunch. 🔗 Visit Mikey & Mel’s |
📍 8191 Maple Lawn Blvd | 🕖 Opens at 7 AM Friday |
Other Points of Interest in Fulton:
• Pura Vida Medspa & Cosmetic Laser Center – A wellness destination offering spa treatments and cosmetic services.
• 360 Physical Therapy & Wellness – Known for its holistic approach to physical therapy and fitness.
• Meadows Farms Nurseries – Burtonsville – A nearby garden center with seasonal plants and decor.
Let me know if you’d like a themed itinerary—like a wellness day, foodie crawl, or romantic evening in Maple Lawn!
Ellicott City, MD is rich in history, nature, and family-friendly attractions. From scenic parks to historic landmarks, it’s a perfect blend of charm and adventure.
Here are some of the top-rated points of interest in Ellicott City:
| Place | Rating / Reviews | Description | Location | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🌳Centennial Park | ★ 4.7 4,630+ reviews |
This lakeside preserve offers a 2.4-mile loop trail, boating, fishing, and diverse ecosystems. It’s a favorite for walkers, joggers, and nature lovers. | 📍 10000 Clarksville Pike | 🕗 Open until 8:30 PM |
| 🏞️Patapsco Valley State Park – Hollofield Area | ★ 4.6 6,700+ reviews |
Founded in 1907, this expansive park along the Patapsco River features hiking, camping, and scenic overlooks. A must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts. | 📍 8020 Baltimore National Pike | 🕓 Open now |
| 🐐Clark’s Elioak Farm | ★ 4.5 2,570+ reviews |
A whimsical farm with a fairy tale forest, petting zoo, pony rides, and miniature train—perfect for kids and families. | 📍 10500 Clarksville Pike | 🕙 Opens at 10 AM Friday |
| 🚂B&O Ellicott City Station Museum | ★ 4.7 460+ reviews |
The oldest surviving railroad station in the U.S., this museum offers exhibits and programs that highlight local history and rail heritage. | 📍 3711 Maryland Ave | 🕙 Opens at 10 AM Friday |
| 🕯️Maryland History Tours – Ellicott City | — | Explore Ellicott City’s rich past through guided walking tours that cover everything from ghost stories to Civil War history. | 📍 8357 Court Ave | — |
| 🏘️Ellicott City Historic District | ★ 4.8 198+ reviews |
This charming district features 18th- and 19th-century architecture, boutiques, cafes, and murals. It’s the heart of Old Ellicott City. | 📍 8358 Frederick Rd | — |
| 🌾Font Hill Wetland Park | ★ 4.7 210+ reviews |
A peaceful wetland park with boardwalks and trails—great for birdwatching and quiet reflection. | 📍 10018–10020 Autumn View Ln | 🕗 Open until 8:30 PM |
| 🌉Tiber Park | ★ 4.3 28+ reviews |
A small but scenic park along Main Street, perfect for a quick rest or photo stop while exploring downtown. | 📍 8061 Main St | 🕙 Open until 10 PM |
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