Things To Do
in Ellicott City
Ellicott City is a historic town located in Howard County, Maryland, in the United States. Known for its picturesque Main Street lined with 18th and 19th-century architecture, Ellicott City offers a charming small-town feel with a variety of shops, restaurants, and art galleries. The town is also home to several historic sites, including the first Baltimore & Ohio Railroad station in the country.
Ellicott City has a strong sense of community and hosts events and festivals throughout the year.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $70 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Ellicott City Furnace Museum to learn about the town's industrial heritage. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the historic Main Street, taking in the quaint shops and charming architecture.
Have lunch at one of the local cafes offering delightful sandwiches and pastries. Spend your afternoon exploring the Patapsco Valley State Park, where you can hike trails and appreciate nature.
Dine at a cozy restaurant featuring local cuisine and enjoy some live music if available. Wrap up your day with a stroll downtown, soaking in the evening ambiance.
Head to Patapsco Valley State Park early for a refreshing hike surrounded by beautiful scenery. The crisp morning air and chirping birds make it a perfect start.
Pack a picnic and enjoy it in one of the many scenic spots in the park. After lunch, rent a kayak for a fun time on the Patapsco River.
Return to town for dinner at a local eatery known for its farm-to-table offerings. Conclude the day with a relaxing evening walk, admiring the stars.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historic charm with preserved architecture and attractions
- Strong sense of community and friendly atmosphere
- Access to quality schools and educational resources
- Beautiful natural surroundings and access to parks and recreational activities
- Proximity to major cities like Baltimore and Washington, D.C.
- Potential for flooding due to proximity to the Patapsco River
- Higher cost of living compared to some surrounding areas
- Traffic congestion, especially during peak hours
- Limited public transportation options
- Fewer entertainment and dining options compared to larger urban areas
Best Activities in Ellicott City
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking, biking, picnicking, fishing, and horseback riding along the Patapsco River.
Boating, fishing, hiking, and picnicking in a beautiful lakeside setting.
Scenic trail for walking, jogging, and biking within the historic Ellicott City area.
Tours
Uncover the best of Ellicott City with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ellicott City
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the river and surrounding forest, ideal for photography and leisurely walks.
Known for its picturesque architecture and charming atmosphere, perfect for photo walks and capturing the town's unique character.
Features beautiful lake views, colorful gardens, and walking trails, providing plenty of scenic photo opportunities.
Food in Ellicott City
Ellicott City Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Baltimore specialty, pit beef sandwiches are a must-try in Ellicott City. The thinly sliced, smoky beef is often served on a Kaiser roll with a side of horseradish sauce. Enjoy this local favorite at Woodstock Inn or Beef Brothers Deli.
Must-Try!
Being in Maryland, Ellicott City is the ideal place to sample delectable crab cakes. These patties are typically made with lump crab meat and seasoned with Old Bay, offering a taste of the region's seafood prowess. Visit Tersiguel's or Manor Hill Tavern for outstanding crab cakes.
During the fall, savor the flavors of the season with pumpkin ravioli, a local delicacy in Ellicott City. Stuffed with creamy pumpkin filling and complemented by a sage-infused butter sauce, this dish can be found at Pure Wine Cafe and Tersiguel's.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ellicott City better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This seasonal market showcases a variety of local vendors offering fresh produce, artisanal foods, and handmade goods. It's an excellent place to sample street food and experience the community's culinary spirit.
For a casual street food experience, head to The Walrus Oyster & Ale House. Their outdoor setup often features food trucks dishing out gourmet bites, making it a hotspot for indulging in diverse street food options.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Ellicott City, it's important to respect people's personal space and avoid standing too close or touching others without permission.
Being on time is valued in Ellicott City, so it's important to make an effort to arrive promptly for social engagements and appointments.
Ellicott City is a diverse community, and it's important to show respect for people of different cultural backgrounds, beliefs, and lifestyles.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Ellicott City with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Ellicott City
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Ellicott City, United States, is a common practice in the service industry. It is customary to tip around 15-20% of the total bill in restaurants, bars, and for services such as hairdressing, taxis, and hotel staff.
Payment in Ellicott City, United States, is predominantly cashless, with credit and debit cards widely accepted in most establishments. Mobile payment apps are also gaining popularity, providing convenient and secure transactions for both consumers and businesses.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Ellicott City.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is one of the best times to visit Ellicott City, with mild temperatures and blooming flowers. It's a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the area's natural beauty.
Summer offers warm weather and longer days, making it ideal for outdoor adventures, festivals, and events in Ellicott City. However, it can get quite hot and humid during this season.
Fall is another great time to visit Ellicott City, as the foliage turns vibrant colors, making it a picturesque destination. The weather is comfortable, and it's a popular time for hiking and enjoying the fall scenery.
Winter in Ellicott City can be cold, with occasional snowfall. While it might not be the best time for outdoor activities, the holiday season brings festive events and a cozy atmosphere to the town.
Ellicott City at Night
Hiking in Ellicott City
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large park offering numerous trails, scenic views of the Patapsco River, and varying levels of difficulty.
A beautiful park featuring a multi-use trail, lake views, and picnic areas, perfect for casual hikes.
This area provides walking trails with picturesque water views and opportunities for wildlife observation.
Offers a network of trails through natural habitats and is focused on educating visitors about local ecosystems.
A community park with trails, open spaces, and natural areas ideal for walking and enjoying nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Ellicott City through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Ellicott City by plane.
Located in Baltimore, Maryland, approximately 15 miles from Ellicott City, BWI is a major international airport serving the Baltimore-Washington metropolitan area.
Located in Chantilly, Virginia, about 30 miles from Ellicott City, Dulles serves as a primary gateway for flights to Europe and other international destinations.
Situated in Arlington, Virginia, approximately 25 miles from Ellicott City, this airport primarily serves domestic flights but also offers limited international services.
Located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, about 100 miles from Ellicott City, this major airport provides numerous international and domestic connections.
Situated in Richmond, Virginia, approximately 120 miles from Ellicott City, RIC offers a range of domestic flights and some international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant demographic group that comprises individuals from various Asian countries, including but not limited to India, China, Korea, and Vietnam.
The largest demographic group in Ellicott City, consisting primarily of individuals of European descent.
This group includes individuals of Hispanic or Latino origin, which may encompass individuals from various countries in Latin America and Spain.
A demographic group that includes individuals of African descent, representing a smaller percentage of the population compared to other groups.
Individuals who identify as belonging to two or more racial groups, reflecting a growing diversity within the community.
The Soul of Ellicott City
Discover the essence of Ellicott City through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A team sport played between two teams of eleven players with a rectangular field and a goal at each end.
A team sport in which two teams try to score points by throwing a ball through the opponent's hoop.
A bat-and-ball game played between two teams of nine players each, where the objective is to score runs by hitting a ball and running around bases.
A team sport played with a small rubber ball and a long-handled stick called a crosse, aiming to score goals by getting the ball into the opposing team's net.
A popular team sport played on a rectangular field with goalposts at each end, where teams attempt to score by carrying or passing the ball into the opposing team's end zone.
A racket sport played either individually against a single opponent or between two teams of two players each, where players use a racket to strike a ball over a net and into the opponent's court.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ellicott City.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Ellicott City offer a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, from inventive salads to plant-based entrees, ensuring that those with dietary preferences have ample choices. Notable establishments include Phoenix Upper Main and Portalli's.
Visitors seeking gluten-free options will find accommodating menus at various eateries in Ellicott City. Places like Tersiguel's and Manor Hill Tavern provide gluten-free selections and can often modify dishes to cater to gluten-sensitive diners.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Ellicott City with these cultural adventures.
