Living in La Plata, MD
La Plata, Maryland located 35 miles south of D.C., is a charming community with a history spanning back to 1888. Its namesake is the Argentinian river that was a favorite location of one of the original owners of the land. A massive tornado hit the area in 2002, but the renovation and revitalization efforts brought the community together and added a mix of new elements to this small residential town. Small businesses, relative proximity to D.C., and scenic surroundings make La Plata a quiet, but not remote community.
Things to Do in La Plata
Shopping opportunities also abound, starting with the farmers market. Farmland surrounds La Plata real estate, so most of the produce and meat you find come right from the farms next door. The farmers also set up food stalls, providing you with a chance to enjoy local flavors and treats. Locally owned stores include music shops, clothing emporiums, and craft boutiques.
La Plata, MD, captures the small-town feel perfectly, with locally run businesses making up most of your shopping and dining options. Classic American diners sit side by side with family-owned barbecue places and authentic Greek restaurants. Most of the dining options in La Plata, MD, center on casual comfort food.
Take in the Outdoors at La Plata
The Laurel Springs Regional Park and Clark Run Nature Area are two of the many green spaces you can enjoy in this residential community. You can go fishing, hike the trails, take nature photography, and enjoy the lakeside beaches throughout most of the year. If you find yourself lacking something adventurous to do here, you can head to next-door Port Tobacco to trek along the Potomac River. La Plata, MD, also hosts many live music events in its parks, as well as a town-wide celebration of holiday decorations and lights.
Old and New Housing Mix
The La Plata, Maryland, neighborhood has many historic buildings currently in use as homes or businesses. The tornado required some historic building renovation, as well as entirely new construction. Homes for sale in La Plata feature an attractive mix of original historic sites, reconstructed buildings, and modern homes. Your options for living in La Plata, MD, can range from an 1857 estate house to a newly constructed townhome.
Transportation and Travel in La Plata
La Plata MD, has several public transit options available for commuters heading into D.C., but getting around town locally requires a car. The Keller Bus system offers commuter buses throughout the week and an express MTA bus is also available for commuting. Some residents get a connection to the Branch Avenue metro station, located in Suitland MD, so they can take the metro into DC instead of going by bus the entire way. US-301 is the primary travel road out of La Plata and into DC, so it can get busy during rush hour.
