If you’re looking for an easy weekend away, College Park is your answer. In this dynamic, energetic college town, you’ll find delicious food, yummy drinks, great local shopping, outstanding artistic performances, and exciting sports events. Spend the whole day having fun, then head back to a posh, comfortable room at a nearby hotel. Book the trip now and your future self will thank you.
Plan a weekend adventure in the town with this itinerary:
SLEEP: Book a room at Cambria College Park, and you’ll find the perfect combination of luxury and convenience. You’ll be just steps from the University of Maryland and all the fun that College Park has to offer. The rooms offer premium bedding, spa-like bathrooms, and plenty of space. You can even bring your pup.
BRUNCH: The breakfast menu at Milk & Honey has gotten a reboot, and it’s all the better for it. Don’t miss the new bacon & cheese omelet or the breakfast protein wrap, then end your meal with a slice of lemon-glazed or cinnamon streusel pound cake. The cherry blossom lychee martini, with its real yuzu syrup and edible flower, will add some well-deserved zest to your morning.
SHOP: Bring your wallet to Shop Made in Maryland to find gorgeous goods created by local business owners. The store sells items from makers across the region, supporting the people who design, craft, roast, stitch, bake, weld, brew, and build beautiful and useful objects. You can get into creator mode yourself at the Make It Bar, where you’ll be guided through making a watercolor postcard, frame magnet, friendship bracelet, and more. There’s also a cafe on site, so save some room for coffee and a treat.
CHEER: Don your University of Maryland gear and head to campus for a game, match, or meet. Check the calendar, plan for the right season, and get your tickets ahead of time to make sure you get to cheer for the team you love most. No matter what, though, the Terps always bring a fun crowd, so you’re sure to have fun. To save a few bucks, enjoy field hockey, golf, gymnastics, softball, or track for free.
INDULGE: Satisfy your sweet tooth at Jubilee, an ice cream shop that offers both classic and unconventional flavors. Try the banana bourbon caramel, fresh minty chip, or strawberry and cream — or keep an eye out for the shop’s seasonal flavors. Top it all off with some hot fudge or whipped cream for a bit of extra fun.
STROLL: Get some vitamin D on one of the lovely trails in or near College Park. The city has compiled a list of walks and hikes that are easy to appreciate, including Lake Artemesia Trail, Paint Branch Trail, and Indian Creek Trail. Head to the first if you’d like to do some birdwatching; visit the last if you’d like a quiet stroll along rolling water. Don’t forget your sunscreen.
EAT: If your group just can’t decide what to eat, head to Wonder. The food hall is home to a multitude of restaurants, all with different kinds of food, so you’ll be able to please the whole party. Try a slice from Alanza Pizza, the masala fries or butter chicken from Dabba Indian Kitchen, new-school sushi from Happy Tuna, Harlem fried chicken at Streetbird by Marcus Samuelsson, and so much more. The hall also includes shops serving barbecue, salads, burgers, treats, bagels, poke, and tacos — along with a menu built specifically for children.
WATCH: Catch a show at The Clarice, the gorgeous performing arts center at the University of Maryland. The center, which covered 318,000 square feet at its opening, includes six venues and hosts theater, dance, and music shows from various programs across the school. Check the schedule and book your tickets ahead of time.
SIP: The vibrant atmosphere at The Hall brings the joy — and you can bring everyone to enjoy it, including your dog. Check the happy hour specials, the event calendar, and the food before you pop into the airy location. The hibiscus margarita, green tea shooter, and electric lemonade crush are popular choices for a reason.
Extend your trip by adding this itinerary to our curated road trip through Prince George’s.