10 Fun Things To Do Near Ellicott City, Maryland (Howard County Travel Guide)
Planning a trip to
Ellicott City, Maryland? Or maybe you live nearby and want new ideas for a weekend adventure?
You’re in a great spot. Ellicott City sits in
Howard County, right between Baltimore and Washington, D.C., which means you get small-town charm with big-city access. In this guide, we’ll walk through
10 fun things to do in and around Ellicott City that are perfect for couples, families, solo travelers, and friend groups alike.
Whether you love history, nature, food, or shopping, you’ll find something here to add to your travel list.
1. Stroll Through Historic Ellicott City’s Main Street
If you do only one thing in Ellicott City, make it this.
Historic Ellicott City’s
Main Street feels like stepping into a cozy movie set: brick buildings, antique shops, local restaurants, and quirky boutiques all packed into a walkable stretch.
- Browse antiques and vintage shops
- Stop for coffee at a local café
- Check out local art galleries and gift shops
- Walk along the historic stone walls and old mill buildings
The area has survived major floods, and as you walk, you’ll see how the town has rebuilt with heart and resilience. If you enjoy photography, come near sunset—those old brick buildings really glow in the soft light.
Tip: Parking can get tight on busy weekends. Arrive earlier in the day or be prepared to use public lots and walk a bit.
2. Explore the B&O Railroad Museum – Ellicott City Station
Love trains or American history? Then the
B&O Railroad Museum: Ellicott City Station is a must-see.
This spot is known as
the oldest surviving railroad station in America. Inside, you’ll find:
- Exhibits on early rail travel
- Historic artifacts and photos
- Model trains and railway equipment
- Stories about how railroads changed the region
Even if you’re not a big history buff, it’s fascinating to imagine what it was like when train travel was brand new and Ellicott City was a major stop.
Good to know: Hours can vary with the season, so it’s smart to check their website before you go.
3. Get Outside at Patapsco Valley State Park
If you like hiking, biking, or just getting fresh air,
Patapsco Valley State Park is one of the best things to do near Ellicott City.
The park stretches along the Patapsco River, and there are several access points close to town, including the
Avalon and
Hollofield areas.
Here’s what you can do:
- Hike wooded trails with river views
- Have a picnic by the water
- Bike miles of scenic paths
- Spot wildlife like deer and birds
Some trails are short and easy, perfect for families with kids. Others are longer and more rugged if you like a challenge.
On warmer days, you’ll see people cooling off near the river and hanging out on big flat rocks. It’s a great place to recharge after exploring busy Main Street.
Tip: There’s usually an entrance fee per car, so have some cash or a card ready.
4. Taste Your Way Through Local Restaurants & Coffee Shops
One of the best parts of visiting Ellicott City is the food. From casual bites to date-night dinners, there’s a little bit of everything.
You’ll find:
- Cozy cafés serving fresh coffee and pastries
- Farm-to-table style restaurants
- International cuisine, including Korean, Italian, and more
- Bars and pubs with local beer and live music on some nights
If you’re like me, you might build your whole afternoon around food: coffee and a pastry to start, lunch after shopping, then a relaxing dinner to finish the day.
Pro tip: Weekends can get busy. If there’s a popular place you really want to try, see if they take reservations or arrive earlier than the dinner rush.
5. Step Back in Time at the Howard County Historical Society Museum
Want to dig a little deeper into local history? Stop by the
Howard County Historical Society Museum, located right in Ellicott City.
Inside, you’ll find:
- Exhibits on the county’s early settlers
- Artifacts from everyday life in the 1800s and 1900s
- Stories about the mills, railroads, and town development
It’s not a huge museum, but that’s part of the charm. You can walk through at a comfortable pace and actually absorb what you’re seeing without feeling rushed.
If you enjoy understanding the “why” behind a place, this is a great stop to add to your Ellicott City itinerary.
6. Visit Centennial Park for Lakeside Strolls & Outdoor Fun
Just a short drive from Historic Ellicott City,
Centennial Park in Howard County is a local favorite.
The star of the park is
Centennial Lake, a beautiful, calm body of water with a paved path wrapping around it.
You can:
- Walk or jog the roughly 2.5-mile loop around the lake
- Rent a boat seasonally (check ahead for rentals)
- Fish from the shoreline (with proper licenses where required)
- Bring the kids to the playgrounds
- Enjoy a picnic with water views
On a nice day, this is one of the most peaceful things to do near Ellicott City. The path is fairly flat, so it’s friendly for strollers and most ages.
7. Shop & Dine at The Mall in Columbia
If you’re in the mood for more modern shopping and entertainment, head to
The Mall in Columbia, only about 10–15 minutes from Ellicott City.
This is a classic stop for:
- Brand-name stores and popular chains
- Casual and sit-down restaurants
- A movie theater (great backup plan for rainy days)
Think of it as a good balance to the historic charm of Ellicott City. You can spend a morning exploring Main Street, then swing over to Columbia for an afternoon movie and dinner.
If you’re traveling with teens or a group with varied interests, this is an easy crowd-pleaser.
8. Enjoy Wine, Beer, and Local Spirits Nearby
Howard County and the surrounding area have a growing craft beverage scene. So if you like trying local drinks, this is a fun way to spend an afternoon or evening.
Near Ellicott City and across Howard County, you can find:
- Local breweries with seasonal and small-batch beers
- Nearby wineries offering tastings and scenic views
- Craft distilleries experimenting with small-batch spirits
Many of these spots have:
- Outdoor seating
- Food trucks or nearby food options
- Live music on certain nights
Always remember to plan a safe ride if you’re tasting—rideshare apps or a designated driver keep things fun and stress-free.
9. Take a Ghost Tour or Explore the Spooky Side of Ellicott City
Ellicott City has a long history, and with that comes plenty of ghost stories and legends.
If you enjoy a little spooky fun, look for
ghost tours that run through Historic Ellicott City, especially around fall and Halloween. Walking tours often share tales of:
- Alleged haunted buildings
- Strange sights and sounds reported by locals
- Historic tragedies and mysteries
Even if you’re not sure you believe in ghosts, the tours are a fun way to see the town at night and hear stories you’d never get just wandering around on your own.
Tip: These tours can sell out during popular times, so it’s a good idea to book ahead.
10. Join Seasonal Festivals and Local Events
One of the most enjoyable things about visiting Ellicott City and Howard County is the sense of community. Throughout the year, you’ll find
festivals, markets, and special events.
Depending on when you visit, you might catch:
- Art and craft festivals
- Holiday markets and tree lightings
- Outdoor concerts and performances
- Food and wine events
These events are great for families and visitors who want to feel more like locals for a day. There’s often live music, food vendors, and activities for kids.
Check local event calendars for Howard County or Historic Ellicott City before your trip so you don’t miss anything special.
Planning Your Trip to Ellicott City, Maryland
To make the most of your visit to Ellicott City and Howard County, here are a few quick tips:
- Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer is lively but warmer and more humid. Winter can be charming, especially around the holidays.
- Getting around: A car is usually the easiest way to explore both Ellicott City and the wider Howard County area.
- Trip style: Ellicott City works well as a weekend getaway from Baltimore, Washington, D.C., or nearby states.
Whether you’re into history, outdoor adventures, shopping, or just relaxing with good food and drinks,
Ellicott City, Maryland, offers a mix of experiences that’s hard to beat for such a compact, friendly town.
What Will You Do First in Ellicott City?
Now that you’ve seen some of the best things to do near Ellicott City and around Howard County, what’s calling your name?
Will you:
- Wander down Historic Main Street?
- Hit the trails at Patapsco Valley State Park?
- Plan a food-and-shopping day with friends?
I’d love to hear how you’d spend a day (or a weekend) in Ellicott City.
Share this post with friends or family who might be planning a Maryland getaway, and
drop a comment with:
- Your favorite Ellicott City spot
- A hidden gem you’ve found in Howard County
- Questions you have about planning a visit
Your tips and stories can help other travelers discover new places to love in Ellicott City, Maryland.
Comments
Post a Comment