8 of the Best Things to Do in Columbia, MD

Listed along with Ellicott City by Money Magazine in 2010 as the 2nd best place to live in the United States, Columbia is home to many fun activities throughout the year. And it is right next door to us! In fact, you can walk to the nearest village of Columbia from the Wayside Inn.

The Best Columbia, MD, Attractions

You can’t miss out on all of the amazing things to do in Columbia, MD! From shopping to festivals, this city has it all!

1. Columbia Mall

The Columbia Mall is just a couple of miles from the Inn and is chock full of upscale shops, eateries, movie theaters, and restaurants. With over 200 different shopping experiences available, The Mall in Columbia will keep you coming back time and time again.

2. Merriweather Post Pavillion

Also nearby is Merriweather Post Pavillion, where concerts of all kinds, from country to classical, from rock to comedy, play all summer long. As one of the Top 5 Best Amphitheaters in the U.S. named by Rolling Stone and Billboard magazines, this pavilion has hosted some of the biggest names in the history of music. To see a list of upcoming concerts and to buy tickets, go to Merriweather‘s website.

3. Columbia Arts Festival

The Columbia Festival of the Arts presents four weekend-long arts festivals making it the largest ongoing art event in Howard County. With events throughout the year, there is always an opportunity to experience world-class performances, concerts, family activities, exhibitions, and more!

4. Wine in the Woods

Wine in the Woods is an annual event that includes numerous wineries, live bands, gourmet food, and much more. In addition to participating in tastings, you can also attend seminars to deepen your knowledge. Whether you are new to the world of wine or consider yourself a wine connoisseur, be sure to sit in on seminars covering a range of topics from the History of Wine in Maryland to Wine Tasting 101.

5. The Columbia Classic Grand Prix

One of the year’s most exciting horse-related event in Maryland is Howard County Community College’s Columbia Classic Grand Prix. Held each September at Marama Farm in Clarksville, MD, the HCC Grand Prix is a beautiful 15-minute ride from the Wayside Inn and a great way to spend an afternoon.

6. The Columbia Triathlon

This world-class, Olympic-distance race attracts athletes from around the world to compete in a beautiful yet challenging event that includes aa 25-mile bike ride, .93-mile swim, and a 6.2-mile run. Having started in 1984 with just 90 athletes, it has grown to a field of 2,500. The Columbia Triathlon is one of the longest running races in America.

7. Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival

Howard County is also famous as the location for the Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival. This festival is the largest of its kind in the United States and draws vendors and visitors from all over the U.S. and other countries. We sell out every year way in advance, so if you want to stay with us this year or next, call right now!

8. Robinson Nature Center

This nature educations facility’s main goal is to bridge that gap between people and nature. Situated on 18 acres of land, there are plenty of resources for the entire family! Robinson Nature Center even offers complimentary admission on Wednesday for families and individuals.

Wondering what other opportunities are available from Columbia, MD, to Washington DC and beyond? Check out the many things to do in Howard County, MD, and surrounding areas!