You don’t need to go far to enjoy a little rest and relaxation time. There are usually plenty of beautiful parks, restaurants with fantastic menus, and unique activities right in your own town — or just a couple of towns over. That’s certainly the case in Prince George’s. While you’re in the region, you’ll be able to eat delicious food, explore your artistic side, listen to local artists, and experience the beauty of nature.
Follow this staycation itinerary that crosses Mount Rainier, Brentwood, Hyattsville, and Riverdale:
Brunch: Make a reservation for brunch at Pennyroyal Station in Mount Rainier. Order biscuits and gravy, crabby deviled farm eggs, and fresh toast for the table — then choose from the pancakes stack, smoked brisket Monte Cristo, or avocado and smoked salmon toast. Add the Bay Bloody Mary or Penny’s Negroni “On the Cusp” to spice up the morning.
Get Artistic: Schedule a tour with an artist at Red Dirt Studio in Mount Rainier. The warehouse space serves as an incubator and studio for independently practicing artists and creatives in the region. You can get up close and personal with painters, performers, sculptors, photographers, and other artists.
Lunch: Head to miXt Food Hall in Brentwood for a lunch that will make everyone happy. You can grab a smash burger at Blazin Craft Burgers and Wings, order tacos from La Michoacana, or enjoy a fish-fry meal from Big Fish. Just be sure to end your meal with some Simple Pleasures ice cream, locally produced by veterans. After you’ve eaten, walk through the miXt Art Gallery to see the work of local artists.
Listen: Honor the memory of local Blues legend Archie Edwards at the Archie Edwards Blues Heritage Foundation in Hyattsville. On Saturday afternoons, the foundation hosts an event that Archie also held: Saturday afternoon Blues jams. The barber and musician closed up his barbershop to share his love of music with his community, and you’ll find the same camaraderie and artistry at “Archie’s Barbershop” today.
Drink: Pop into Station 202 in Hyattsville for a refreshing drink. Try the Station 202 Margarita, with 21 Seeds cucumber jalapeno, or the pineapple-guava hurricane mocktail. Add an order of bruschetta or bacon-wrapped dates to keep you feeling good for the night.
Dinner: The menu at The Union Bar and Grill in Hyattsville is filled with elevated comfort food that’s bound ot make you feel good. Order the crab cake sandwich, farfalle pasta, or Jamaican curry rice bowl to really satisfy your hunger — or try the lollipop-style lamb chops, brussels sprouts, or nachos if you’re looking for something to share. Don’t miss the chocolate lava cake with vanilla ice cream. This family-owned spot oozes warm, familiar neighborhood vibes.
Sleep: While one benefit of a staycation is that you truly can stay in your own home, it can be fun to book a night at a local hotel. The Wyndham Garden Washington DC Area offers free parking and breakfast, a bar, and free WiFi.
Stroll: Stop by the Bladensburg Waterfront Park and cross the Anacostia River to stroll along the Anacostia River Trail. This paved path is accessible and offers beautiful views of the river and its surrounding natural spaces. If you have time, you can rent a canoe or kayak and explore the same river by water.
Takeaway: 2Fifty in Riverdale is the cream of the crop when it comes to barbecue, and there’s a reason why they often sell out. Be sure to order the prime brisket, corn bread, and mac and cheese — then choose from the poblano sausage, herby potato salad, brisket beans, or coleslaw. If you’d rather enjoy your barbecue with a bun, try the pulled pork or chopped beef sandwich. Order your takeaway the day before to make sure you’re ready when you head home.
Add an extra day to your adventure with one of these day-long Prince George’s itineraries.