College Park, MD

Travel Guide

A wooden pier extending over a calm lake with a person fishing.
A vintage biplane on display in a museum with a mannequin figure in a leather jacket and cap.
A reception desk with a large sail-like structure above it, a wall with colorful circular objects, and several flags including the American flag.
A wooden interior with a sign reading "Welcome Home Wilbur," a wooden desk, a ladder, and various artifacts displayed on shelves.
A metal gate with the words "TO LAKE ARTEMISIA" and silhouettes of a bird and a fox.

Relax alongside a picturesque lake, explore aquatic gardens and learn about the history of aviation in this city just outside the country’s capital.

College Park is a Maryland city on the east coast of the U.S. Among its attractions are an aviation museum at one of the world’s oldest operating airports, a huge national park and a scenic lake. College Park is the home of the University of Maryland, known for its excellent art facilities and gallery.

Learn about centuries of aviation history at the College Park Aviation Museum. Take a guided cycling tour across its scenic grounds. Listen to stories about the first hot air balloon launch and other momentous occasions. Explore the grounds of one of the world’s oldest operating airports, inaugurated in 1909. Exhibitions and galleries tell the fascinating story of early aviation. Engage with interactive activities including a children’s section.

Go camping in Greenbelt Park, a large rural space east of College Park with 174 sleeping sites among scenic flora. Nature thrives in this picturesque park setting with numerous trees, plants and animals. Spot deer and other wildlife in the woodland. Take a picnic to share with your family on the benches and tables that are provided. Bring the kids to one of the playgrounds scattered around the park.

The remarkably picturesque Lake Artemesia lies near the center of the city in the heart of Maryland. The water stretches across an area of 38 acres (15.4 hectares). Hike along scenic trails around the lake, go fishing on one of the piers or wander around the aquatic gardens.

Take a walk around the University of Maryland and browse intriguing works at its acclaimed art gallery.

College Park is a scenic haven of tranquility just a few miles away from the urban sprawl and political ambiance of Washington D.C. It is an ideal setting to relax by the lake or in the park after a sightseeing vacation in the political capital.

Where to stay in College Park

Find the best College Park areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about College Park
Learn more about College Park

Old Town

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Old Town and surrounding area, you can visit College Park Aviation Museum and SECU Stadium.

Hollywood

Though Hollywood might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Bowlero College Park and Beltwayplaza Mall.

Berwyn

When in Berwyn, you can plan a visit to Xfinity Center and Bowlero College Park, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Calvert Hills

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Calvert Hills and surrounding area, you can visit College Park Aviation Museum and SECU Stadium.

Lakeland

Though Lakeland might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Xfinity Center and SECU Stadium.

Getting around College Park

Like in many student towns, cycling is a popular way to get around College Park, so rent a bike if you feel active. If you plan to visit the University of Maryland, you can use the bus service that runs between the college and the College Park station on the Washington Metro. This train network is also a convenient way to travel around the wider Washington area. Renting a car is another option. Visit the Maryland Transportation AuthorityOpens in a new window website.Browse College Park rental cars.

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