Things To Do
in Fort Meade
Fort Meade is a United States Army installation located in Maryland. It serves as the headquarters of the National Security Agency (NSA) and houses various other military and civilian agencies. The base plays a crucial role in national defense and intelligence operations.
Fort Meade is one of the largest and most important military installations in the country.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽 ️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $60 - $120
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Fort Meade Museum to learn about the history of the installation. Grab breakfast at a local cafe nearby to fuel up for your adventure.
Head to the nearby parks for a lovely afternoon walk or have a picnic in the scenic areas. Explore the shops and enjoy some retail therapy at local boutiques.
Wind down with dinner at a local restaurant that offers delicious, comforting American fare. If you're in the mood, catch a nearby live music event to enjoy local talent.
Begin your day at the Patuxent Research Refuge for some morning birdwatching and hiking. Bring along your camera to capture the beauty of nature.
Enjoy a packed lunch at one of the many picnic areas in the refuge. After lunch, take a creek-side stroll or bike ride to soak in the serene surroundings.
Return to Fort Meade for a relaxed evening at a local pub. Try a craft beer and some pub snacks while you reflect on the day's adventures.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Home to major military installations, providing job security and opportunities in defense.
- Strong sense of community among military families and personnel.
- Access to various recreational facilities and outdoor activities in the surrounding area.
- Proximity to Washington, D.C., offers cultural, educational, and professional opportunities.
- Diverse population with a range of services and amenities available.
- Cost of living can be high in the surrounding areas, particularly housing prices.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
- Traffic congestion can be an issue, especially during rush hour.
- Frequent military presence may lead to noise from training exercises.
- Weather can be an adjustment for those not used to humid summers and cold winters.
Best Activities in Fort Meade
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a scenic ride along the 13-mile-long trail that connects Baltimore and Annapolis, ideal for cycling, walking, and running.
A great spot for families to enjoy a picnic with playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas.
Explore over 12,750 acres of protected land with diverse wildlife and various hiking trails.
A serene spot for attempting to catch bass and other fish while enjoying the beautiful green surroundings.
Play a round of golf at this well-maintained course that offers stunning views and a challenging gameplay experience.
Take a leisurely stroll along the river to observe a variety of birds and wildlife in their natural habitat.
Tours
Uncover the best of Fort Meade with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Fort Meade
Visit one of these nice places.
A spacious open area providing a classic view of military ceremonies and formations, ideal for capturing the essence of military life.
Showcases historical artifacts with scenic outdoor views making it a perfect backdrop for photographs.
Offers a picturesque landscape with lakes and wooded areas, perfect for nature photography and relaxing views.
Nearby scenic location featuring walking trails and a beautiful lake, ideal for photos of wildlife and natural beauty.
A community park with open spaces and playgrounds, providing a family-friendly setting for photography.
The historic site offers a glimpse into the past with antique military structures, perfect for capturing history enthusiasts' photos.
A nature reserve with diverse wildlife, perfect for capturing the natural beauty and tranquility of the area.
Food in Fort Meade
Fort Meade Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try dish made from seasoned and sautéed crab meat, often served with a side of remoulade sauce. Recommended places to try: G&M Restaurant and Lounge, Timbuktu Restaurant.
Must-Try!
A Baltimore-area specialty featuring thinly sliced, rare roast beef piled high on a Kaiser roll. Recommended places to try: Chaps Pit Beef, Pioneer Pit Beef.
Classic French fries seasoned with the iconic Old Bay seasoning, a local favorite. Recommended places to try: The Hideout, The Crab Depot.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Fort Meade better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers a wide array of fresh produce, baked goods, and international food stalls. Must-try street food: Tacos from the El Sol Taqueria truck.
A treasure trove for foodies, featuring diverse food vendors offering everything from barbecue and seafood to gourmet desserts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Fort Meade is a diverse community. It's important to include everyone in conversations and activities, regardless of their background or beliefs.
Use polite language and greetings when interacting with others. Simple 'please' and 'thank you' go a long way in creating a respectful environment.
Be mindful of personal space and boundaries in social interactions. Understand that different people have varying comfort levels regarding physical proximity.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Fort Meade with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Fort Meade
Ensure a smooth experience
In Fort Meade, as in many parts of the United States, tipping practices generally follow the national norm. Tipping is commonly expected in service industries, particularly in restaurants, bars, and for personal services like haircuts or taxi rides. The typical tip amount is around 15-20% of the total bill before tax. Some establishments may include a service charge for large groups or special events. It's also common to tip hotel staff, delivery drivers, and other service workers.
Payment practices in Fort Meade align with those across the United States. Most transactions are conducted using credit or debit cards, which are widely accepted in retail, dining, and service industries. Cash is still used, though electronic payments such as mobile wallets and contactless payment options are increasingly popular. For larger purchases, checks may also be used, but they are becoming less common. It's important for residents and visitors to be aware of the payment methods accepted at specific establishments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Fort Meade.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is one of the best times to visit Fort Meade. The weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from the upper 40s to mid-70s °F. Visitors can enjoy blooming flowers and outdoor activities, including hiking and visiting local parks. It’s also a great time for events and festivals as the community comes alive after winter.
Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching the 80s and 90s °F. This season is ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities like swimming and barbecues. However, visitors should be prepared for occasional thunderstorms and make sure to stay hydrated.
Autumn (September to November) boasts beautiful fall foliage, making it a picturesque time to visit. Temperatures range from the 50s to 70s °F, providing very comfortable weather for outdoor exploration. Autumn festivals and harvest events are common, offering visitors a taste of local culture and seasonal foods.
Winter (December to February) can be cold, with temperatures typically ranging from the 20s to 40s °F. Snow is possible, particularly in January and February. While this might not be the most popular season for outdoor activities, visitors can enjoy indoor attractions, holiday decorations, and seasonal events.
Fort Meade at Night
Hiking in Fort Meade
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large protected area offering various trails through forests and wetlands, providing opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife observation.
A multi-use trail that stretches over 13 miles, perfect for walking, running, and biking through scenic landscapes.
A beautiful park located along the Chesapeake Bay, featuring trails, beaches, and picnic areas for a relaxing day outdoors.
A national park that offers a variety of trails in a serene environment, ideal for hiking and enjoying nature.
A local park with trails that offer views of the water, picnic areas, and space for various outdoor activities.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Fort Meade through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Fort Meade by plane.
Located approximately 30 miles northeast of Fort Meade, BWI is a major international gateway serving the Baltimore and Washington D.C. metropolitan areas.
Situated around 35 miles southwest of Fort Meade, DCA primarily serves domestic flights and is located close to downtown Washington, D.C.
Located about 50 miles west of Fort Meade, IAD is a major airport serving international flights and provides numerous connections to global destinations.
Approximately 95 miles southeast of Fort Meade, SBY offers regional flights but also connects to larger hubs.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority racial demographic in Fort Meade, representing a significant portion of the population.
A prominent demographic in Fort Meade, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.
This demographic includes individuals of Hispanic or Latino origin, adding to the community's diversity.
A smaller yet important demographic group in Fort Meade, contributing to the area's multicultural environment.
A minority demographic in Fort Meade, representing the indigenous peoples of the region.
Includes various other racial and ethnic groups, reflecting the diverse makeup of the community.
The Soul of Fort Meade
Discover the essence of Fort Meade through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport among youth and high school students, with community support and local teams.
Widely played in schools and recreational leagues, with numerous pickup games available.
Growing in popularity, especially among children and in local club leagues.
A traditional American pastime with youth leagues and local teams.
Encouraged in schools, with events taking place throughout the spring season.
Popular among adults and youth, with recreational leagues and tournaments.
Played at local courts, with community events and tournaments held regularly.
Available at local pools, with competitive teams and recreational swimming opportunities.
Enjoyed by many residents, with courses available for both casual and competitive play.
Played both indoors and on the beach, with community leagues and school teams.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Fort Meade.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Fort Meade's dining scene is accommodating with numerous establishments offering plant-based options. Standout venues include Olive On Main and Grumps Cafe.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find suitable dishes at many eateries, such as Grumps Cafe and Olive On Main, which provide dedicated gluten-free options.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Fort Meade with these cultural adventures.
