Living in Laurel, MD
Laurel, Maryland, has an interesting suburban sprawl that spreads across Prince George, Anne Arundel, Howard, and Montgomery Counties. Starting off in 1835 as a small town that supported the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, this mostly residential community is conveniently located 20 miles from both D.C. and Baltimore. However, Laurel, Maryland, is far enough outside of D.C. that it's not hit with the higher cost of living and housing commonly found in those suburbs closer to the capital.
Things to Do in Laurel
Laurel, Maryland, has strong ties to its past, which you can see when you explore the downtown historic district. This area is home to the Laurel Museum, which is run by the Laurel Historical Society, a group that provides deep insight into the industrial past of this suburb. Walking tours are also available and take you through the rest of the historic district, which spans across downtown Laurel.
Over 22 acres of parks and green space are available in Laurel to enjoy when the metropolitan sprawl of southern Maryland is a bit too much. Laurel, MD, is also located near the northern part of the Patuxent Research Refuge, a protected area filled with wildlife. Educational events and hiking trails provide a relaxing place for a Sunday stroll. If you want other outdoor recreation options, Laurel Park offers community classes, sports, trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds.
Re-energize after your fun outdoor excursion by grabbing something to eat. You can get a taste of everything the local community has to offer at the Dutch County Farmer's Market, which runs three days a week. Chain and locally owned restaurants are spread throughout the Laurel neighborhood, with a focus on casual restaurants featuring a variety of cuisines. Craft brew bars not only provide specialty beer, they also take traditional bar food one step further for an upscale dining experience.
Housing in Laurel
When you look at homes for sale in Laurel, Maryland you'll encounter a wide variety of choices. There's plenty of new construction in single-family homes and townhouses, but you also find older homes in styles ranging from Cape Cods to Tudors. If you decide living here suits your needs, Laurel real estate offers plenty of flexibility.
Travel and Transport in Laurel, MD
If you're commuting into D.C. from the Laurel neighborhood, you have two options: you can brave the Baltimore-Washington Parkway, which is frequently clogged with slow traffic, or opt for public transit. The Greenbelt Metro station is located 11 miles from Laurel and lets you avoid the traffic. You might also use the MARC station in Laurel and take the Camden line into Union Station. This commuter rail option also works well for traveling to Baltimore.
