Things To Do
in College Park
College Park is a city located in the state of Maryland, United States. It is known for being home to the University of Maryland, a prestigious public research university. The city has a vibrant college-town atmosphere with a mix of students, faculty, and residents.
College Park is also conveniently situated near Washington D.C., providing easy access to government institutions, museums, and other attractions.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $60 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a walk through the University of Maryland campus. Visit the Stamp Student Union to grab a coffee and take in the vibrant student life.
Head over to the College Park Museum to learn about the local history and culture. Enjoy lunch at a nearby café featuring local cuisine.
Stroll through the downtown area for shopping and dining options. Capture the sunset at the lakeside park before dinner.
Begin with a refreshing hike at the nearby Paint Branch Trail. Enjoy the beauty of nature and get some exercise before lunch.
Have a picnic at Lake Artemesia where you can relax by the water. Bring a book or play some nature-themed outdoor games.
Visit the local farmers market to pick up fresh produce and handmade goods. Prepare and enjoy a homemade dinner with your fresh finds.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Washington, D.C., providing easy access to internships and job opportunities.
- Home to the University of Maryland, which offers a vibrant college atmosphere, cultural events, and sports.
- Diverse community with a mix of students, professionals, and families, fostering cultural exchange.
- Affordable housing options compared to nearby cities like D.C. and Baltimore.
- Variety of recreational activities, parks, and public spaces for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Traffic congestion, particularly during rush hours, making commutes longer.
- Higher crime rates than some neighboring areas, which may raise safety concerns.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities, impacting social scene.
- Fluctuations in housing availability and prices, particularly for rentals during the school year.
- Weather extremes, including hot summers and cold winters, which may not be ideal for everyone.
Best Activities in College Park
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A scenic trail for hiking, biking, and birdwatching in the College Park area.
A beautiful lake with walking and biking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for fishing and birdwatching.
A family-friendly park with a playground, picnic tables, and open space for outdoor activities.
Tours
Uncover the best of College Park with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in College Park
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a picturesque view of the campus, especially from the McKeldin Mall and the Testudo Statue.
A serene lake with walking trails and beautiful scenery, perfect for photography.
Provides a sweeping view of the football field and surrounding campus.
Food in College Park
College Park Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Maryland delicacy, these delectable crab cakes are a must-try in College Park. Head to The Board and Brew for a stellar rendition.
Must-Try!
Savor the unique blend of spices on crispy fries, seasoned with the iconic Old Bay seasoning, a local favorite found at The Jerk Pit.
Indulge in these rich, fudgy chocolate cookies topped with a thick layer of chocolate icing, available at Milk & Honey Cafe.
Unique Experiences
Get to know College Park better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore a wide variety of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and delectable street food at this vibrant market, open on Saturdays.
Join the lively gathering of food trucks offering diverse cuisines, perfect for enjoying a wide range of street food delights.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In College Park, it's important to be mindful of personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when engaging in conversations.
Using inclusive language and being respectful of different cultural backgrounds and beliefs is vital in College Park, as it is a diverse and multicultural community.
Adhering to academic honesty, avoiding plagiarism, and respecting the intellectual property of others is a fundamental cultural norm in College Park's academic community.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of College Park with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in College Park
Ensure a smooth experience
In College Park, tipping is a common practice in service industries such as restaurants, bars, and cafes. The customary tip is typically 15-20% of the bill, although it may vary depending on the level of service provided.
Payment in College Park is predominantly done using credit or debit cards, although cash is also widely accepted. Many businesses, especially larger ones, also accept digital payment methods such as Apple Pay or Google Pay.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into College Park.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit College Park, United States. Expect blooming flowers, moderate temperatures, and outdoor activities.
Warm weather, outdoor events, and opportunities for water activities like swimming and boating.
Cooler temperatures, beautiful fall foliage, and local events such as harvest festivals.
Cold weather with occasional snowfall, holiday events, and indoor activities.
College Park at Night
Hiking in College Park
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful national park featuring hiking trails that meander through woods and around a creek, offering a serene nature experience.
Offers a variety of trails through diverse habitats, perfect for hiking and wildlife observation.
A scenic area with trails that run alongside the stream, providing a peaceful retreat for hikers.
A large urban park with a network of trails, providing a mix of challenging hikes and easy walks through wooded areas.
Features trails that allow for hiking and exploring the areas around the stadium, with a mix of wooded and open spaces.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into College Park through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach College Park by plane.
Located approximately 26 miles west of College Park, IAD is one of the major international airports serving the Washington D.C. metropolitan area.
Situated about 30 miles northeast of College Park, BWI is a key international airport that serves the Baltimore and Washington D.C. regions.
Approximately 10 miles south of College Park, DCA mainly serves domestic flights but also has several international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
This group represents a significant portion of the population, with a rich cultural heritage and community presence.
This demographic includes individuals of European descent and constitutes a considerable percentage of the population.
This group encompasses individuals from various Latin American countries, contributing to the cultural diversity of College Park.
This demographic includes individuals from various Asian countries, adding to the multicultural fabric of the area.
This category includes a variety of racial groups that do not fall into the primary classifications, representing the area's diversity.
Individuals identifying with two or more races, reflecting the increasing diversity in the demographic landscape.
The Soul of College Park
Discover the essence of College Park through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport at the University of Maryland, with a strong following and competitive men's and women's teams.
College football is significant in College Park, with the Maryland Terrapins football team drawing large crowds.
Both men's and women's soccer teams are well-supported, reflecting the diverse interests of the student body.
Maryland has a rich tradition in lacrosse, and the sport is extremely popular among students and locals.
A popular sport with various events, showcasing athletes from the university in both indoor and outdoor competitions.
College baseball has a dedicated following, with the Terps competing at a high level in the NCAA.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting College Park.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
College Park caters well to vegetarians and vegans, with many restaurants offering diverse and delectable plant-based options. Be sure to check out NuVegan Cafe and its flavorful vegan soul food.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can indulge in delicious gluten-free options at places like Kapnos Taverna, offering authentic Greek cuisine with gluten-free choices clearly marked on the menu.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of College Park with these cultural adventures.