College Park Travel Guide

Only a few miles from the Washington DC border, College Park sees millions of tourists each year. Visitors are attracted by the city’s sporting events, iconic university, diverse seasons, and densely wooded forests that are ideal for exploration.

Things to Do in College Park

Visitors come from DC or an international destination can start their adventure off with a day at the lake: they can visit Lake Artemesia where they can go on a lakeside jog or bike ride, spend a few hours bird and animal watching, or admire the crystal clear waters from the observation deck. Continuing the outdoor fun, guests can opt for a day spent at Paint Branch Stream Valley Park, where the hiking trails are abundant and outdoor sports facilities are well-kept.

College Park is also home to a number of wonderful museums and artistic hubs for touring including the College Park Aviation Museum and the University of Maryland Art Gallery, which features a plethora of rotating, creative exhibits. Eppley Recreation Center has a large indoor pool, group fitness classes, and outdoor climbing walls and the University of Maryland offers a spectacular golf course. In addition, the city offers an array of classes that include classes on herbs, supplements, and natural healing at Smile Herb Shop, classes centering around bartending at the Maryland Bartending School, and art classes at the Art & Learning Center.

Best Places to Stay in College Park

There are a ton of top-notch vacation rentals in College Park. The rentals boast modern comforts such as wireless internet and cozy beds, as well as convenient locations. All of the rentals are well-kept and cleaned thoroughly in between guests, ensuring that each new guest gets a fresh room and great start to their trip.

Best Time to Visit College Park

The best time to visit College Park is August through September for the best, most stable weather conditions and sunsets to rival those of magazines.

Best Events in College Park

Annual events in College Park are a big deal, which is why the city hosts such a wide variety. A couple of the best events include College Park Day, the College Park Blues Festival, Brunch With Bunny, and Halloween Thing. Halloween Thing, serving as the city’s most spooktacular event, features a moon bounce, arts and crafts stations, a haunted hallway, face painting, games, a costume parade, and a raffle.

Things to Do for Families in College Park

Families who visit College Park can treat themselves to a night of blacklight bowling and tasty snacks at Bowlero College Park or head over to Greenbelt, which is only a short distance away. In Greenbelt, visitors can release some excess energy at Laugh Out Loud Stations Mega Fun Center which features laser tag zones, arcades, carnival games, blow up bouncy castles and climbing structures, and a dedicated space for hosting birthday parties.