Top reasons to visit Columbia
- Family-Friendly Attractions: Columbia boasts a variety of engaging activities perfect for families, including parks, museums, and local performances.
- Scenic Outdoor Activities: Enjoy picturesque walks and outdoor adventures, including scenic parks and thrilling cable car rides.
- Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in the local culture through vibrant music concerts and captivating theatre performances.
- Proximity to Major Cities: Columbia serves as an excellent base to explore nearby Baltimore and Washington, D.C., rich in history.
- Diverse Accommodation Options: Choose from a range of welcoming hotels and charming bed and breakfasts, catering to all needs.
Find great hotels near Columbia
Explore an array of hotel accommodation options in Columbia, Maryland, ideal for both business and leisure travellers. From welcoming bed and breakfasts to well-appointed hotels, you’ll find a variety of pet-friendly and LGBTQIA-friendly establishments. Whether you seek the best hotels or top-rated options, Columbia offers a perfect blend of comfort and convenience for your stay.
- Hyatt Place Baltimore Inner Harbor: This 3.5-star hotel, rated 8.4, embodies a contemporary yet comfortable atmosphere, making it ideal for both business and leisure travellers. Located 24.1km from Columbia, Hyatt Place Baltimore Inner Harbor offers a pet-friendly experience, allowing dogs and providing amenities tailored for furry companions. Guests appreciate the spacious rooms, a 24/7 business centre, and complimentary breakfast, ensuring a seamless stay. With its modern design and commitment to guest satisfaction, this hotel is a great choice for those travelling with pets or on business trips.
- Red Roof Inn PLUS+ Baltimore-Washington DC/BWI Airport: Situated just 16.1km from Columbia, this budget-friendly accommodation is perfect for those seeking value without compromising comfort. The Red Roof Inn PLUS+ is pet-friendly and offers amenities like free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs in each room, catering to both business and leisure travellers. With a welcoming atmosphere and convenient location near the airport, guests have praised the hotel for its affordability and accessibility, making it a practical option for travellers on a budget.
- Lord Baltimore Hotel: Set in a historic building, this 3.5-star hotel boasts a guest rating of 8.4 and is located 22.5km from Columbia. The Lord Baltimore Hotel combines rich history with modern comforts, making it perfect for families and pet owners alike. Families can take advantage of amenities designed for children, including free cribs, while pets are also welcome. Guests often highlight its charming architecture, convenient location, and friendly service, making it an excellent choice for those wanting a unique and family-friendly experience.
Where to stay in Columbia
Columbia, Maryland, offers a delightful blend of family-friendly attractions and vibrant city life. Explore nearby cities like Baltimore and Washington, D.C., where you can immerse yourself in rich history and culture. Don't miss the charming coffee regions that dot the landscape, providing a taste of local flavour. With friendly locals and a romantic atmosphere, Columbia is the perfect base for a memorable vacation, whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation.
- Baltimore: As a vibrant metropolis, Baltimore is rich in history and culture, situated conveniently close to Columbia. With a year-round influx of visitors, the city truly shines during the summer months from July to August and in October. Tourists flock here for family-friendly activities, city-themed excursions, and business engagements. Explore the numerous shopping centres and malls, enjoy a day at the marina, or catch a game at a local stadium. Baltimore's iconic landmarks and attractions create a dynamic travel experience that caters to all interests.
- Clarksville: Located a mere 6.4km from Columbia, Clarksville is a charming city perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. While visitor numbers peak from May to July, the area remains inviting year-round. Here, you can enjoy a variety of entertainment options, including local theatres and music concerts. The urban parks and nearby beach provide excellent opportunities for relaxation and recreation, making Clarksville an ideal destination for those looking to blend leisure with family fun.
- Ellicott City: Just 8.0km away from Columbia, Ellicott City is a picturesque city known for its historic charm and vibrant community. With visitor numbers peaking in spring and summer, this destination offers a delightful mix of family activities and entertainment options. Visitors can explore shopping centres, enjoy theatrical performances, or experience the beauty of nearby urban and national parks. Ellicott City is perfect for those seeking a blend of city life and nature, ensuring an engaging getaway for all.
Things to do near Columbia
Columbia, Maryland, is an ideal destination for family and entertainment-themed holidays. Visitors can enjoy an array of activities, including captivating theatre performances, vibrant music concerts, and shopping at the local mall. Explore the scenic area on an hour-long walk, experience the thrill of a cable car ride, and discover charming hotels. Columbia offers a delightful shopping adventure and a chance to uncover its local attractions, making it a perfect getaway for all.
Shopping
The nearest shopping destination is the Columbia Mall, offering a variety of high street brands and eateries. If you're up for a drive, head to Arundel Mills Mall, which features an extensive range of outlets and entertainment options for a full day of shopping.
Recreation
At Columbia Country Club, indulge in luxurious amenities and serene surroundings, perfect for relaxation. Woodmont Country Club offers an elegant atmosphere with top-notch wellness facilities. The Cosmos Club, set in a beautiful location, provides a tranquil escape to rejuvenate your mind and body.
Adventure
In Columbia, explore the scenic paths of the Howard County Trail System, perfect for hiking and biking. Visit the vibrant Merriweather Post Pavilion for thrilling live music events, or enjoy kayaking on Lake Kittamaqundi, where you can experience the beauty of nature while paddling through calm waters.
Nightlife
In Columbia, the vibrant nightlife scene features venues like The Soundry, known for live music and a lively atmosphere. Enjoy craft cocktails at The King's Contrivance, where the ambience is both relaxed and sophisticated, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Columbia
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Columbia are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April to May and October, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Columbia is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay in Columbia is Tuesday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and ideal type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation in Columbia with your flights and activities by opting for an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in and around Columbia
Columbia, Maryland, is perfect for family and entertainment-themed holidays, offering a mix of urban parks, museums, and historical sites. Visitors can immerse themselves in local culture, enjoy outdoor activities, and create memorable family experiences at various points of interest. Whether exploring the vibrant parks or delving into the rich history at museums, Columbia caters to diverse interests, making it an ideal destination for any traveller.
- Baltimore Museum of Art: Located 24.1km from Columbia, this museum boasts an impressive collection of over 95,000 artworks, including pieces by renowned artists like Matisse and Picasso. The museum's vibrant cultural atmosphere also hosts numerous events and exhibitions, making it a hub of creativity and inspiration.
- Norwood Park: Just 17.7km away, Norwood Park offers a family-friendly environment with lush greenery and playgrounds. Its eco-friendly design promotes outdoor activities, making it a perfect spot for picnics, leisurely strolls, and enjoying nature with loved ones.
- Blandair Regional Park: Situated within Columbia, this scenic national park features picturesque trails and adventurous activities like hiking and cycling. It's an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking to immerse themselves in nature's beauty while enjoying recreational facilities.
Best time to go to Columbia
The best time to visit Columbia can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Columbia falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Columbia falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Columbia
Columbia, Maryland, is conveniently accessible via three major airports. Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) is 43.5km away, with luxurious options like the InterContinental Washington D.C. - The Wharf and Salamander Washington DC, both 3.2km from the airport. Washington, DC (IAD-Washington Dulles International) is 57.9km distant, featuring The Westin Washington Dulles Airport and Hyatt Regency, both just 1.6km away. Baltimore, MD (BWI-Baltimore Washington International Thurgood Marshall) is the closest at 17.7km, with esteemed hotels such as Pendry Baltimore and Four Seasons Hotel Baltimore, both 12.9km from BWI, offering various transport services to the airport.