Guidebook for Columbia

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Guidebook for Columbia

Food Scene

This is middle eastern food. My favorite! Restaurant is small - but the food is amazing.
10 locals recommend
Maiwand Kabob
5467 Harpers Farm Rd
10 locals recommend
This is middle eastern food. My favorite! Restaurant is small - but the food is amazing.
For a great breakfast, and great coffee
68 locals recommend
Dunkin'
1739 New Jersey Ave NW
68 locals recommend
For a great breakfast, and great coffee
Great atmosphere, great Mexican food, great service and reasonable prices. There is also a bar attached with a pool table. They will also often have live traveling Mexican traveling band (from table to table) for guests enjoyment on the weekends.
Zapata's Restaurant
5485 Harpers Farm Rd
Great atmosphere, great Mexican food, great service and reasonable prices. There is also a bar attached with a pool table. They will also often have live traveling Mexican traveling band (from table to table) for guests enjoyment on the weekends.
Toby's Dinner theater is food and a theatrical production. The food is all you can eat - and usually very tasty. Also, I have never seen a production there that I did not enjoy. Lots of fun!
13 locals recommend
Toby's Dinner Theatre
5900 Symphony Woods Rd
13 locals recommend
Toby's Dinner theater is food and a theatrical production. The food is all you can eat - and usually very tasty. Also, I have never seen a production there that I did not enjoy. Lots of fun!
Well, who does not love cheese cake? The atmosphere is great and it's right next to the MAC theater and Columbia Mall. Fun, fun, fun, and yum. Food at Cheesecake Factory is also highly recommended.
9 locals recommend
The Cheesecake Factory
10300 Little Patuxent Pkwy
9 locals recommend
Well, who does not love cheese cake? The atmosphere is great and it's right next to the MAC theater and Columbia Mall. Fun, fun, fun, and yum. Food at Cheesecake Factory is also highly recommended.
This is also a great place to grab a beer. It is located right next to AMC theater and Columbia Mall. Great food, drinks, and service.
Champs Sports
10300 Little Patuxent Pkwy
This is also a great place to grab a beer. It is located right next to AMC theater and Columbia Mall. Great food, drinks, and service.
Very close for budget meals
77 locals recommend
Subway
3829 Mount Vernon Avenue
77 locals recommend
Very close for budget meals
Entertainment only moments away! Batting Cages Mini Golf Picnic area Jungle Gym Skating Park
Columbia Sports Park
5453 Harpers Farm Rd
Entertainment only moments away! Batting Cages Mini Golf Picnic area Jungle Gym Skating Park
Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard
5485 Harpers Farm Rd
If you are looking for a meal out on the cheap. 5 Minutes away
McDonald's
5485 Harpers Farm Rd
If you are looking for a meal out on the cheap. 5 Minutes away
10 minutes away via car
Jesse Wong's
8775 Centre Park Dr
10 minutes away via car

Shopping

They have a Starbucks inside of the market. This is also the closet food shopping location.
10 locals recommend
Safeway
5485 Harpers Farm Rd
10 locals recommend
They have a Starbucks inside of the market. This is also the closet food shopping location.
If you like specialty, organic, and GMO free foods - this is your market. They have all of the above. They also have a great eat-in food counter and sit down cafeteria style restaurant.
581 locals recommend
Whole Foods Market
1440 P St NW
581 locals recommend
If you like specialty, organic, and GMO free foods - this is your market. They have all of the above. They also have a great eat-in food counter and sit down cafeteria style restaurant.
Huge outlet shopping mall.
82 locals recommend
Arundel Mills
7000 Arundel Mills Cir
82 locals recommend
Huge outlet shopping mall.
Food, shops, and entertainment.
61 locals recommend
The Mall in Columbia
10300 Little Patuxent Pkwy
61 locals recommend
Food, shops, and entertainment.
Very artsy shopping mall. Lots of fun.
14 locals recommend
Historic Savage Mill
8600 Foundry St
14 locals recommend
Very artsy shopping mall. Lots of fun.
27 locals recommend
Historic Ellicott City Inc.
3480 Saint Johns Lane
27 locals recommend

Entertainment & Activities

This is located at the Columbia Mall. They usually have all of the latest and greatest movies to offer. State of the arts theater - including an IMAX theater.
18 locals recommend
AMC Columbia 14
10300 Little Patuxent Pkwy
18 locals recommend
This is located at the Columbia Mall. They usually have all of the latest and greatest movies to offer. State of the arts theater - including an IMAX theater.
Famous for outdoor concerts. This is so close to our home. Lots of great concerts can be attended here regularly.
55 locals recommend
Merriweather Pavilion
10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy
55 locals recommend
Famous for outdoor concerts. This is so close to our home. Lots of great concerts can be attended here regularly.
I have never been here - but understand it is lots of fun! It is only about 30 minutes from our home. They have live entertainment, gambling, and so much more.
125 locals recommend
Live! Casino & Hotel Maryland
7002 Arundel Mills Cir
125 locals recommend
I have never been here - but understand it is lots of fun! It is only about 30 minutes from our home. They have live entertainment, gambling, and so much more.
If you enjoy a thrill - this is a must see. The Zip-line is amazing fun, they also have a climbing wall, high-wire walking amoung the trees, and huge swing. The adventure can be purchased all inclusive or individually. Check out Groupon for discounted tickets. They are not always available - but often. TONS of fun - and totally safe (you are always strapped onto a wire safety line). Call for more details & pricing.
12 locals recommend
Terrapin Adventures
Washington Street
12 locals recommend
If you enjoy a thrill - this is a must see. The Zip-line is amazing fun, they also have a climbing wall, high-wire walking amoung the trees, and huge swing. The adventure can be purchased all inclusive or individually. Check out Groupon for discounted tickets. They are not always available - but often. TONS of fun - and totally safe (you are always strapped onto a wire safety line). Call for more details & pricing.
If you like roller coasters - this is your place to visit.
143 locals recommend
Six Flags America
13710 Central Ave
143 locals recommend
If you like roller coasters - this is your place to visit.
Aquarium, Science Center, Shopping, Restaurants, Tour boats, paddle boats, and so much more! MUST SEE! Walking around is free & fun: there are tons of activities for extra fees.
534 locals recommend
Inner Harbor
534 locals recommend
Aquarium, Science Center, Shopping, Restaurants, Tour boats, paddle boats, and so much more! MUST SEE! Walking around is free & fun: there are tons of activities for extra fees.
Columbia Association: The Racquet Club at Hobbit's Glen
Columbia Association Ice Rink
5876 Thunder Hill Rd
It takes about 2 hours of driving - but worth the trip. Tons of fun for everyone. AND they have CHOCOLATE!!!
406 locals recommend
Hersheypark
100 Hersheypark Dr
406 locals recommend
It takes about 2 hours of driving - but worth the trip. Tons of fun for everyone. AND they have CHOCOLATE!!!
REVIEW: First is safety, it's always number one at Earth Treks. I am not a climber, this experience really gave me confidence. I don't just mean scaling walls, but in everyday life. I will say age is not a factor. I did it several times, it is a challenge and fun. Never thought about it? Then I would suggest at least one Earth Trek adventure. Have fun.
Earth Treks Columbia
7125 Columbia Gateway Dr
REVIEW: First is safety, it's always number one at Earth Treks. I am not a climber, this experience really gave me confidence. I don't just mean scaling walls, but in everyday life. I will say age is not a factor. I did it several times, it is a challenge and fun. Never thought about it? Then I would suggest at least one Earth Trek adventure. Have fun.
REVIEW: golf is or has become very expensive , that is why this place is s good value for the money. Also nice driving range and a get stone club house. Not s pro course but you can have a nice time in it Visited June 2015
Fairway Hills Golf Club
5100 Columbia Rd
REVIEW: golf is or has become very expensive , that is why this place is s good value for the money. Also nice driving range and a get stone club house. Not s pro course but you can have a nice time in it Visited June 2015
Fantastic Zoo with newly added exhibits
181 locals recommend
The Maryland Zoo
1 Safari Pl
181 locals recommend
Fantastic Zoo with newly added exhibits
Review: went in for a facial because I was experiencing some black heads. Never having gotten a facial before, I was unsure of what to expect. Upon arrival, the front desk staff was amazing! They made me feel like I was the only person who was in the spa, and they even gave me delicious coconut enhanced water. Upon being taken back, the lady who worked with my skin (forgot her name, sorry) was incredibly knowledgeable and explained the whole process. After my facial, my skin was incredible. I signed up for the lifestyle program with them, because my friend had one with Massage Envy. The difference is that they don't charge extra to get a monthly facial versus massage, and it's month-to-moth, where you can leave at any time! I can't wait until my next facial! Visited September 2015 REVIEW: I started coming prior to having a fusion surgery almost two years ago. My therapist, Eric has been meeting my massage therapy needs ever since.He is a skilled therapist and has great interpersonal skills. Very happy to have found this spa. Visited February 2016
Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa
6455 Dobbin Rd
Review: went in for a facial because I was experiencing some black heads. Never having gotten a facial before, I was unsure of what to expect. Upon arrival, the front desk staff was amazing! They made me feel like I was the only person who was in the spa, and they even gave me delicious coconut enhanced water. Upon being taken back, the lady who worked with my skin (forgot her name, sorry) was incredibly knowledgeable and explained the whole process. After my facial, my skin was incredible. I signed up for the lifestyle program with them, because my friend had one with Massage Envy. The difference is that they don't charge extra to get a monthly facial versus massage, and it's month-to-moth, where you can leave at any time! I can't wait until my next facial! Visited September 2015 REVIEW: I started coming prior to having a fusion surgery almost two years ago. My therapist, Eric has been meeting my massage therapy needs ever since.He is a skilled therapist and has great interpersonal skills. Very happy to have found this spa. Visited February 2016
REVIEW: My husband and I routinely swim for exercise at the Columbia swim center. The water in the main pool is comfortable at about 84 to 86 degrees. There is a second pool called the program pool which is cooler and used for swim team practice. There is a large children's pool that goes from one half foot to 2 feet deep. It does not have any fancy water features but has been enjoyed by my children and grandchildren. The splashdown water slides have been closed for renovation with an uncertain reopening date. Visited February 2016
Columbia Swim Center
10401 Cross Fox Ln
REVIEW: My husband and I routinely swim for exercise at the Columbia swim center. The water in the main pool is comfortable at about 84 to 86 degrees. There is a second pool called the program pool which is cooler and used for swim team practice. There is a large children's pool that goes from one half foot to 2 feet deep. It does not have any fancy water features but has been enjoyed by my children and grandchildren. The splashdown water slides have been closed for renovation with an uncertain reopening date. Visited February 2016
FREE museums, and tons of entertainment, restaurants, etc...
1111 locals recommend
National Mall
1111 locals recommend
FREE museums, and tons of entertainment, restaurants, etc...
check them out on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BandORailroadMuseum/
7 locals recommend
B&O Ellicott City Station Museum
3711 Maryland Avenue
7 locals recommend
check them out on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BandORailroadMuseum/
One of my favorite museums every! check them out for schedules and special events: http://www.avam.org/ Also check out groupon or living social for discounted tickets
186 locals recommend
American Visionary Art Museum
800 Key Hwy
186 locals recommend
One of my favorite museums every! check them out for schedules and special events: http://www.avam.org/ Also check out groupon or living social for discounted tickets

Parks & Nature

There are walking and biking trails, huge lake, paddle boats, pavilions for picnics, playgrounds,free concerts, and multiple sports events (biking, marathons, triathlons, etc...)
33 locals recommend
Centennial Park
10000 Clarksville Pike
33 locals recommend
There are walking and biking trails, huge lake, paddle boats, pavilions for picnics, playgrounds,free concerts, and multiple sports events (biking, marathons, triathlons, etc...)
great place for a walk, or running around the lake, or picnic
Lake Kittamaqundi Dam
6165 Stevens Forest Road
great place for a walk, or running around the lake, or picnic
REVIEW: Took my grandson (14) for walk there, and we both enjoyed it. Also learned about trees, gardens, woods. Surprised how well it is organized, and easy to visit in about an hour.
12 locals recommend
Robinson Nature Center
6692 Cedar Ln
12 locals recommend
REVIEW: Took my grandson (14) for walk there, and we both enjoyed it. Also learned about trees, gardens, woods. Surprised how well it is organized, and easy to visit in about an hour.
REVIEW: On a Sunday afternoon, this is a busy little park. The walk though was fine for most any age..If your a casual walker, the loop around the lake is easy enough. NOTE Parking can be a challenge esp on Sunday. Riders of all ages and wheel types do use this park.
16 locals recommend
Lake Elkhorn Park
Patuxent Branch Trail
16 locals recommend
REVIEW: On a Sunday afternoon, this is a busy little park. The walk though was fine for most any age..If your a casual walker, the loop around the lake is easy enough. NOTE Parking can be a challenge esp on Sunday. Riders of all ages and wheel types do use this park.
GREAT public beach: http://dnr2.maryland.gov/publiclands/Pages/southern/sandypoint.aspx
99 locals recommend
Sandy Point State Park
1100 E College Pkwy
99 locals recommend
GREAT public beach: http://dnr2.maryland.gov/publiclands/Pages/southern/sandypoint.aspx

Sightseeing

Washington DC Free museums
809 locals recommend
National Air and Space Museum
600 Independence Ave SW
809 locals recommend
Washington DC Free museums
196 locals recommend
National Museum of the American Indian
4th Street Southwest
196 locals recommend
Like the stars? Well here is where you can see them upclose and personal. Check the website and calendar of events before heading out.
Howard County Conservancy
10520 Old Frederick Rd
Like the stars? Well here is where you can see them upclose and personal. Check the website and calendar of events before heading out.
7 locals recommend
Annapolis Yacht Club
2 Compromise St
7 locals recommend
check ou their website for more information: http://www.mdsci.org/ look at Groupon and Living Social for potential coupons
125 locals recommend
Maryland Science Center
601 Light St
125 locals recommend
check ou their website for more information: http://www.mdsci.org/ look at Groupon and Living Social for potential coupons
check website for more information: http://www.historicships.org/
22 locals recommend
Historic Ships in Baltimore
301 E Pratt St
22 locals recommend
check website for more information: http://www.historicships.org/
website: https://www.amaritime.org/
61 locals recommend
Annapolis Maritime Museum & Park
723 Second St
61 locals recommend
website: https://www.amaritime.org/

Essentials

Need an ATM? This is your closest location.
Bank of America (with Drive-thru ATM)
5467 Harpers Farm Rd
Need an ATM? This is your closest location.
John's Hopkins Facility.
7 locals recommend
Howard County General Hospital station
7 locals recommend
John's Hopkins Facility.
Columbia Sedan And Taxi Services offers airport taxi & cabs services to and from Columbia, Baltimore, Dulles, BWI and Fulton at affordable rates. Visited July 2015
DC MARYLAND VIRGINIA SEDAN & TAXI SERVICES
Columbia Sedan And Taxi Services offers airport taxi & cabs services to and from Columbia, Baltimore, Dulles, BWI and Fulton at affordable rates. Visited July 2015

Arts & Culture

Fairs of all kind are held at this location. Check their Website for schedule of events.
Howard County Fairgrounds
2210 Fairgrounds Rd
Fairs of all kind are held at this location. Check their Website for schedule of events.
Free gallery, and many art classes offerede for a reasonable fee.
Columbia Art Center
6100 Foreland Garth
Free gallery, and many art classes offerede for a reasonable fee.
check out the web site for more information: https://artbma.org/
Art Museum Drive
Art Museum Drive
check out the web site for more information: https://artbma.org/