10 Amazing Year-Round Activities in College Park, Maryland

Key Takeaways: College Park, Maryland, offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and family-friendly activities. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or sports fan,

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Key Takeaways:

  • College Park, Maryland, offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and family-friendly activities.
  • Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or sports fan, College Park has year-round activities to keep everyone entertained.
  • From exploring historic landmarks to enjoying local events, College Park is the perfect destination for both residents and visitors.

Table of Contents

  1. Visit the University of Maryland Campus
  2. Explore the College Park Aviation Museum
  3. Walk or Bike the Paint Branch Trail
  4. Enjoy Live Music at The Fillmore Silver Spring
  5. Discover the Greenbelt Park
  6. Visit the College Park City Hall
  7. Attend the College Park Farmers Market
  8. Go for a Family Picnic at Lake Artemesia
  9. Explore the National Capital Trolley Museum
  10. Experience the University of Maryland’s Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center

Located just outside of Washington D.C., College Park, Maryland, is known for its rich history, vibrant university life, and abundance of parks and outdoor spaces. Whether you’re visiting for a day or planning a longer stay, the city offers a variety of activities that showcase the best of suburban Maryland. From its stunning green spaces to the thriving cultural scene centered around the University of Maryland, College Park is a hidden gem with something for everyone. With a mix of exciting festivals, museums, and outdoor adventures, there’s no shortage of things to do in this lively city throughout the year.

1. Visit the University of Maryland Campus

A visit to College Park wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the University of Maryland, one of the city’s most prominent landmarks. The campus is home to beautiful architecture, lush green spaces, and vibrant student life, making it a great spot for exploring. Take a leisurely stroll through McKeldin Mall, visit the university’s museums, or enjoy a sporting event at Capital One Field. The University of Maryland offers a lively atmosphere that is perfect for visitors looking to experience college town culture.
During the year, the campus hosts a variety of events, including art exhibits, lectures, and athletic competitions. You can also enjoy the university’s beautiful parks and outdoor spaces, including the University of Maryland Arboretum. Whether you’re interested in learning about the university’s history or simply enjoying the scenery, the University of Maryland is a must-visit spot in College Park year-round.

2. Explore the College Park Aviation Museum

For those interested in aviation history, the College Park Aviation Museum is an absolute must-see. The museum is dedicated to preserving the history of the world’s oldest continuously operating airport, which was first established in 1909. With its collection of aviation artifacts, vintage aircraft, and interactive exhibits, the museum offers a fascinating look at the history of flight and the role College Park has played in it. Visitors can explore the museum’s displays and learn about the pioneers of aviation who used College Park as their base.
The museum also offers special events, educational programs, and even flying lessons for those interested in a hands-on experience. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply fascinated by flight, the College Park Aviation Museum offers a unique experience that’s perfect for a year-round visit.

3. Walk or Bike the Paint Branch Trail

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Paint Branch Trail is a great way to experience the natural beauty of College Park. This scenic, multi-use trail is perfect for walking, running, or biking, and it takes visitors through lush forests, alongside creeks, and past various parks. The trail stretches for several miles, providing ample opportunities for exploration and outdoor recreation. Whether you’re a nature lover, a fitness enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, the Paint Branch Trail offers an ideal setting to enjoy the outdoors.
Along the way, you can enjoy the wildlife, stop at local parks, and even visit the nearby Greenbelt Park. The Paint Branch Trail is accessible year-round, offering a perfect outdoor adventure no matter the season.

4. Enjoy Live Music at The Fillmore Silver Spring

Located just a short drive from College Park, The Fillmore Silver Spring is one of the premier live music venues in the area. This venue hosts performances from a variety of genres, including rock, pop, hip hop, and more, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of mainstream acts or indie musicians, The Fillmore’s intimate setting allows for a memorable concert experience. You can enjoy the music, grab a drink, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this popular venue.
The Fillmore also hosts seasonal events and special performances throughout the year. Whether you’re coming for a show or simply enjoying the atmosphere, this venue is a fantastic place to experience live entertainment near College Park.

5. Discover the Greenbelt Park

Greenbelt Park is one of the largest and most beautiful green spaces in the area, offering visitors a chance to experience nature in its purest form. The park features hiking trails, picnicking areas, and wildlife observation opportunities, making it the perfect place for a peaceful outdoor escape. Whether you enjoy a relaxing walk, a brisk hike, or simply want to enjoy a picnic surrounded by nature, Greenbelt Park offers plenty of activities to keep you engaged.
The park is a wonderful year-round destination, with each season offering a different experience. In the spring, the park is alive with blooming flowers and wildlife, while the winter months bring peaceful snow-covered landscapes. For those looking to experience the beauty of nature while staying close to College Park, Greenbelt Park is a top choice.

6. Visit the College Park City Hall

For a glimpse into the city’s government and community engagement, visit the College Park City Hall. The building is a hub for local events, council meetings, and community activities. Throughout the year, College Park City Hall hosts a variety of programs that focus on environmental sustainability, civic engagement, and community development. Whether you’re attending a public event or simply exploring the city’s architecture, College Park City Hall is an interesting and informative stop.
It’s also a great place to learn more about the local history, participate in community service programs, or attend educational workshops. With its central location and vibrant community involvement, College Park City Hall is a key landmark in the city that offers something for every visitor.

7. Attend the College Park Farmers Market

The College Park Farmers Market is a lively and welcoming event held year-round, offering fresh, locally grown produce, artisanal goods, and much more. The market brings together local farmers, bakers, and artisans, creating a lively atmosphere where you can support small businesses while exploring new products. Whether you’re looking for fresh fruits and vegetables or handmade crafts, the farmers market is the perfect place to spend a Saturday morning.
The market also offers live entertainment and food trucks, adding to the fun atmosphere. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the College Park Farmers Market is a great way to experience the city’s charm while shopping for fresh, quality products.

8. Go for a Family Picnic at Lake Artemesia

Lake Artemesia, located just minutes from College Park, is a beautiful park that offers a serene setting for a family picnic or outdoor gathering. The lake is surrounded by walking trails, making it a perfect place for a peaceful stroll or a relaxing afternoon by the water. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, fishing, or simply soaking in the beautiful views of the lake and surrounding landscapes.
The park also features picnic tables and grills, making it a great spot for a family outing or a romantic picnic. Whether you’re enjoying the outdoor activities or just relaxing in the park, Lake Artemesia is a peaceful and scenic destination in College Park.

9. Explore the National Capital Trolley Museum

The National Capital Trolley Museum is a fascinating museum dedicated to the history of streetcars and trolleys in the Washington D.C. area. The museum offers interactive exhibits, restored streetcars, and even trolley rides for visitors. It’s a great stop for history buffs, transportation enthusiasts, and families with kids. Visitors can learn about the history of public transit, explore historic vehicles, and take a ride on a vintage streetcar.
The museum also offers special programs and events throughout the year, making it a great year-round destination for those interested in transportation history. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the National Capital Trolley Museum provides a unique and educational experience.

10. Experience the University of Maryland’s Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center

The Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center at the University of Maryland is a premier destination for cultural events and performances. The center hosts a variety of performances throughout the year, including theater productions, concerts, dance performances, and more. With its beautiful design and world-class acoustics, the center offers an unforgettable experience for anyone who enjoys the arts.
From symphony performances to avant-garde theater, the Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center provides something for everyone. Whether you’re attending a performance or simply exploring the venue, it’s a must-see spot for visitors to College Park.

What to Do if You Have Kids?

College Park offers a variety of family-friendly activities that are perfect for kids of all ages. For younger children, the College Park City Hall and the nearby parks offer plenty of room for running, playing, and exploring. The Lake Artemesia Park is also a great place for a family picnic, with playgrounds and beautiful walking trails. The National Capital Trolley Museum offers an interactive experience that kids will love, while the College Park Aviation Museum is a great place to learn about history in an engaging and fun way.
For more outdoor activities, the Paint Branch Trail offers a safe and scenic place for kids to bike or walk, while Greenbelt Park is a great spot for a family nature hike. No matter your child’s interests, College Park has plenty of kid-friendly attractions to keep them entertained and engaged.

Where Can I Find Free Events in College Park, Maryland Taking Place This Weekend?

For free events happening in College Park, Maryland, look no further than PlanMyWeekend.ai. This tool helps you find exciting local events based on your interests and schedule. Whether you’re interested in live music, outdoor activities, or local markets, PlanMyWeekend.ai provides an easy way to explore free events in College Park. Simply enter the date and event type you’re interested in, and the tool will show you a curated list of free activities happening in the area.
PlanMyWeekend.ai makes it easy to discover fun, free things to do in College Park and beyond, ensuring that you never miss out on an exciting event.

Final Thoughts

College Park, Maryland, is a hidden gem with so much to offer year-round. From exploring the University of Maryland campus to enjoying outdoor activities, live music, and cultural events, there’s always something to do in this vibrant city. Whether you’re visiting for a day or planning a longer stay, College Park offers a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty that makes it the perfect destination for any traveler. Be sure to take advantage of the many free events, parks, and museums, and experience the best that College Park has to offer.

Dejon Brooks
Author: Dejon Brooks

Dejon Brooks is an entrepreneur who founded Trend Watchers with his life savings. Aged 24, Dejon has turned Trend Watchers into a successful business. After reaching over 150M+ people on his personal accounts, he now spends his time growing Planmyweekend.ai

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