Attractions and Places To See in Howard County - Top 20

Howard County offers numerous outdoor attractions. Cascade Falls is a popular waterfall within a forested area, perfect for a break during a hike. The Swinging Bridge and Patapsco Riverbank provide scenic views over the historic Patapsco River. For a more relaxed experience, Lake Elkhorn features a paved two-mile path popular for walking, jogging, and cycling. Patapsco Valley State Park is a major natural attraction with extensive trails for hiking, fishing, and camping.

Yes, Howard County is rich in history. Historic Ellicott City features the B&O Ellicott City Station Museum, the oldest surviving railroad station in America. You can also see the Patapsco Female Institute Historic Park, a 19th-century finishing school ruin. Other significant landmarks include the Thomas Viaduct, the first curved stone-arch bridge in the U.S., and Savage Mill, a revitalized textile mill now housing shops and restaurants. The Bollman Truss Railroad Bridge is another notable historic structure.

Families can enjoy a variety of attractions. Centennial Lake and Lake Elkhorn both offer paved paths for walking and cycling, and are popular for fishing. Clark's Elioak Farm provides a petting farm, wagon rides, and attractions from the Enchanted Forest. Patapsco Valley State Park has many trails suitable for families, including the Grist Mill Trail with its famous Swinging Bridge. Blandair Regional Park offers an ADA-compliant playground and sports fields.

Howard County boasts excellent hiking opportunities, particularly within Patapsco Valley State Park. Popular trails include the Morning Choice Trail, which can be connected with others like the Ridge Trail, and the Grist Mill Trail, featuring the Swinging Bridge on Grist Mill Trail. For waterfall enthusiasts, the Cascade Falls Trail leads to Cascade Falls. You can find more detailed hiking routes in the Waterfall hikes in Howard County guide.

Yes, Howard County offers various cycling routes. The paved path around Lake Elkhorn is popular for cyclists. For road cycling, routes like 'Colombia to the Patapsco Valley' and 'River Hill loop from Scaggsville' are available. Mountain biking enthusiasts can explore trails such as the 'Patapsco Alt HoCo Thru Trail' or routes starting from the Morning Choice Trailhead. More information on cycling routes can be found in the Road Cycling Routes in Howard County guide and the MTB Trails in Howard County guide.

Beyond historical sites, Howard County features several cultural points of interest. The African Art Museum of Maryland is one of only three museums in the U.S. dedicated exclusively to African art. The Benjamin Banneker Historical Park & Museum highlights the contributions of the first African American man of science. The Howard County Historical Society Museums offer exhibits on local life, and the Harriet Tubman Cultural Center honors her legacy. Merriweather Post Pavilion is a renowned outdoor concert venue.

Yes, some attractions in Howard County offer wheelchair accessibility. Lake Elkhorn features a main loop around the water that is completely paved, making it accessible. Blandair Regional Park also provides an ADA-compliant playground and open spaces.

Many outdoor areas in Howard County are dog-friendly. For instance, the paved path around Lake Elkhorn is a popular spot for dog walkers. Patapsco Valley State Park generally allows dogs on trails, but it's always best to check specific park regulations or individual attraction policies regarding pets before your visit.

Howard County's diverse natural areas support a variety of wildlife. The Middle Patuxent Environmental Area (MPEA) in Clarksville, spanning over 1,000 acres, is home to more than 150 bird species and over 40 mammal species. You might encounter deer, foxes, various waterfowl, and numerous songbirds in parks like Patapsco Valley State Park, Centennial Park, and the Howard County Conservancy.

Howard County features several man-made lakes and reservoirs popular for recreation. Centennial Lake and Lake Elkhorn are great for walking, jogging, and fishing. Other notable bodies of water include Lake Kittamaqundi, Wilde Lake, Triadelphia Reservoir (near Brighton Dam), and Rocky Gorge Reservoir, which are popular for birding, fishing, and paddling.

For those looking for something unique, consider exploring the stabilized ruins of the Patapsco Female Institute Historic Park in Ellicott City, which also offers ghost tours. The Benjamin Banneker Historical Park & Museum provides a fascinating look into the life of a pioneering African American scientist. The Howard County Conservancy at Mt. Pleasant farm offers 232 acres for walks and environmental education, providing a peaceful escape.

Howard County attractions can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and fall are particularly pleasant. Spring brings blooming flowers and comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities, while fall offers stunning foliage, especially in areas like Patapsco Valley State Park. Summers are warm and ideal for water-based activities at the lakes, though trails can be busy. Winters are generally mild, allowing for continued outdoor exploration, though some activities may be limited.