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Top 24 Hotels Near Howard Community College
10901 Little Patuxent Pkwy Columbia, MD 21044
Merriweather Lakehouse Autograph Collection
Because Merriweather Lakehouse Autograph Collection is a straightforward drive from Howard Community College, guests can appreciate a moment of quiet before their event.
Autograph Collection emphasizes uniqueness with curated art, bold décor, and polished finishes, creating impressions that feel distinct. Every suite offers hardwood finishes, spacious wardrobes, and minibars, stylish touches that complement daily convenience easily. The rooftop pool with lounge seating, cocktails, and shaded umbrellas offers leisure spaces that combine social and relaxation.
With pet-friendly policies, full-service dining, pools, and Wi-Fi, travelers find routines simplified with flexibility and consistency.
DoubleTree by Hilton Columbia
This useful drive to Howard Community College from DoubleTree by Hilton Columbia is a defining component, because it ensures a visit free of traffic concerns.
DoubleTree reinforces loyalty by offering Digital Key via Hilton Honors app, streamlining arrival and enhancing membership value. Ample outlets and bedside USB ports ensure devices remain charged, giving guests convenience and peace of mind in maintaining connectivity. Lobby lounges with casual sofas and tables provide orientation points, allowing groups to reconnect and plan before moving upstairs.
Breakfast buffet, coffee stations, Wi-Fi, meeting rooms, and business services align essentials, supporting consistent productivity and clarity.
Homewood Columbia Laurel
For a trip to Columbia, Homewood Columbia Laurel's location an easy drive from Howard Community College is a foundational component of the guest journey.
At Homewood Columbia Laurel, guests are typically greeted with warm staff welcomes, curated furnishings, and complimentary refreshments. Guest rooms typically include plush bedding, curated amenities, and bathrooms with stylish finishes for a polished impression. Facilities may showcase artisanal coffee shops, curated lounges, and cocktail bars that reinforce a boutique-oriented experience.
A stay may include complimentary Wi-Fi, laundry service, yoga mats, and boutique breakfast, sustaining guest routines with convenience.
Hampton Inn & Suites Columbia South Fort Meade Area
Howard Community College is a simple drive from Hampton Inn & Suites Columbia South Fort Meade Area, a convenience that makes the hotel a sensible and well-placed choice.
Coffee and tea served in Hampton Inn lobbies 24/7 provide reliable courtesy, letting guests refresh easily at any point during their stay. Suites include rainfall showers, vanities, and premium toiletries, creating refreshment areas that support dependable guest routines. Breakfast areas with omelet stations, pastries, and coffee service create dependable rituals, helping mornings feel consistent daily.
Business spaces, complimentary breakfast bags, outdoor pools, Wi-Fi, and pet-friendly policies cover varied guest needs with consistency.
Sonesta Select Columbia
This convenient location renders Howard Community College an easy drive from Sonesta Select Columbia, ensuring a simple start.
With The Commons set just off the desk, Sonesta Select streamlines first decisions—sit, sip, or grab-and-go—reducing arrival friction. Accessible guest rooms include roll-in showers, visual alarms, and reachable controls, supporting comfortable stays without added complications. Shared game or media rooms include sofas, large TVs, and snack shelving, giving families and groups a simple entertainment option on site.
From meeting spaces and business services to a 24/7 market, fitness center, and pool, guests balance work needs with simple downtime.
Extended Stay America Suites Columbia Columbia Corporate Pk
From the lobby of Extended Stay America Suites Columbia Columbia Corporate Pk, Howard Community College is an easy drive for a calm transition, simplifying your visit.
The lobby's design at Extended Stay America prioritizes function over flash, ensuring a smooth and practical flow for arriving guests. Guest rooms are designed as spacious suites, each featuring a fully equipped kitchen for guest convenience and long-term comfort. The guest laundry is an indispensable resource for guests, embodying the hotel's purpose of supporting a comfortable, independent lifestyle.
With on-site laundry, a fitness center, a full kitchen, and a pet-friendly policy, guests can truly settle in and feel at home.
Hampton Inn Columbia
This useful drive to Howard Community College from Hampton Inn Columbia is a central aspect, because it facilitates a smooth and easy visit.
Hampton Inn receptions feature infused water stations, ensuring arrivals feel cared for with refreshing detail that softens the transition. All guest rooms feature blackout drapes, quiet HVAC, and plush mattresses, ensuring nightly rest is consistent and restorative. Fitness studios with stretching mats, cardio stations, and resistance weights ensure balance, letting guests maintain wellness while away.
Complimentary internet, indoor pools, breakfast buffets, laundry access, and self-parking provide dependable routines for all stays.
Staybridge Suites Columbia Baltimore by IHG
For a trip to Columbia, Staybridge Suites Columbia Baltimore by IHG's location a direct run from Howard Community College is an essential element of its practical charm.
Staybridge Suites routes arriving guests past The Pantry shelves, making last-minute toiletries and snacks easy to resolve. Suites provide a work surface and ergonomic chair near outlets, maintaining comfortable laptop time and tidy cables on workdays. Pantry coolers stand near microwaves and utensils so warm snacks and quick bites come together without searching for supplies.
With free breakfast, complimentary guest laundry, and free Wi-Fi plus a 24/7 fitness room and indoor pool, routines stay consistent.
Extended Stay America Suites Columbia Columbia Parkway
Within Columbia, Extended Stay America Suites Columbia Columbia Parkway keeps Howard Community College a simple drive, which helps the hotel to feel well-connected.
A morning coffee and breakfast bar from the grab-and-go station is a simple courtesy provided by Extended Stay America to all guests. Each suite includes a full-size refrigerator and freezer, offering ample space to store groceries for the duration of a hotel stay. Vending areas offer easy access to refreshments, serving as a reliable on-site convenience store available to guests any time.
The hotel provides a fantastic value with a free breakfast, a fitness center, a swimming pool, a pet-friendly policy, and a full kitchen.
Residence Inn by Marriott Columbia
Because Residence Inn by Marriott Columbia keeps Howard Community College a simple drive, guests can opt to get there quickly and without hassle.
The Mix evening receptions at Residence Inn foster social connection with casual seating and complimentary refreshments every night. Suites provide refrigerators, stovetops, and dishwashers, giving travelers the flexibility to maintain cooking habits while away from home. Fitness studios with treadmills, resistance bands, and stretching areas keep wellness routines consistent and dependable during travel.
Complimentary internet, fitness facilities, business centers, hot breakfast, and pet-friendly services maintain balance across guest needs.
Hilton Garden Inn Columbia
From Hilton Garden Inn Columbia, Howard Community College is a simple drive, a feature that makes for an uncomplicated and well-placed stay.
Hilton Garden Inn lobbies feature open layouts with modern lighting, producing orientation clarity that reduces confusion at check-in. Each suite offers televisions, sofa beds, and lounge chairs, giving families comfortable areas to relax together in the evenings. Breakfast spaces with hot items, fruit stations, and community seating provide dependable hospitality that anchors daily guest routines.
Complimentary breakfast, valet parking, indoor pools, business lounges, and Wi-Fi deliver ease and efficiency across extended stays.
Extended Stay America Select Suites Columbia Gateway Drive
When your visit to Columbia is centered on Howard Community College, Extended Stay America Select Suites Columbia Gateway Drive's location a direct run away allows for a seamless daily plan.
The professional welcome at Extended Stay America helps to establish a comfortable and secure environment for a long-term stay. The in-room kitchen in every hotel suite is equipped with a stovetop and a microwave, allowing for the preparation of home-cooked meals. On-site guest laundry facilities are open 24/7, providing the ultimate convenience for travelers needing to wash clothes at any hour.
A full kitchen, a swimming pool, free Wi-Fi, and a grab-and-go breakfast combine to create a comfortable and hassle-free experience.
Homewood Suites by Hilton Columbia
This convenient commute to Howard Community College allows Homewood Suites by Hilton Columbia to be a peaceful yet connected base before the on-site experience.
Homewood Suites features sofas, chairs, and tables near reception, giving families a central place to coordinate plans before moving on. Guest rooms include climate control, blackout drapes, and cozy bedding, helping ensure guests rest comfortably across multiple nights. In the breakfast area, hot dishes, pastries, and fruit options ensure mornings remain consistent, easing starts for travelers daily.
With hot breakfast, evening socials, pet policies, and laundry facilities, families experience convenience that supports longer visits.
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Columbia East - Elkridge by IHG
For a trip to Columbia, Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Columbia East - Elkridge by IHG's location an easy drive from Howard Community College is a key part of its appeal to travelers.
Lobby layouts at Holiday Inn Express are bright and simple, helping arrivals find reception quickly and orient themselves without delay. Guest rooms offer flat-screen HDTVs, in-room coffee makers, and bedside outlets, combining entertainment and convenience daily. Breakfast rooms serving buffets, cereals, and coffee keep mornings straightforward and predictable for both business and family guests.
Business centers, Wi-Fi, and fitness rooms connect with breakfast and self-parking, ensuring daily routines are manageable for guests.
Comfort Suites Elkridge Columbia Gateway
For a trip to Columbia, Comfort Suites Elkridge Columbia Gateway's location an easy drive from Howard Community College is an essential component of the guest journey.
Comfort Suites arrival lighting balances task and ambient layers so guests see staff, signage, and elevators without strain after travel. Each guest room provides an iron and board, ample hangers, and drawer space so wardrobe prep for meetings and travel stays efficient. Pool decks place loungers, shade structures, and towel service near shallow areas, supporting family time and easy afternoon recovery.
From meeting pre-function areas to staging space and beverage points, events begin punctually and transitions remain orderly and simple.
Holiday Inn Columbia East-Jessup by IHG
The benefit of a direct drive to Howard Community College turns Holiday Inn Columbia East-Jessup by IHG into a great starting point before the rest of the stay unfolds.
Statement lighting and symmetrical layouts in Holiday Inn & Suites lobbies reinforce consistent design cues that reassure travelers. Each guest room offers ergonomic chairs, spacious desks, and reliable Wi-Fi, enabling business travelers to remain productive easily. Pools combining indoor access, towel service, and seating provide balanced spaces where families can relax or recharge together.
Free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and fitness centers join with self-parking and pools, supporting clarity across all Holiday Inn & Suites stays.
Red Roof Inn Washington DC - Columbia / Fort Meade
The guest's journey from Red Roof Inn Washington DC - Columbia / Fort Meade in Columbia to Howard Community College is an easy drive, enhancing the feeling of a well-chosen location.
A consistent, friendly greeting is a hallmark of the Red Roof Inn experience, helping to build guest loyalty one simple check-in at a time. The inclusion of premium channels like HBO in the standard TV package adds significant value, offering quality entertainment for a relaxing night. Vending areas with a variety of snacks and cold drinks provide guests with quick, on-site options for refreshments at any time of day.
Between the free coffee in the lobby, free Wi-Fi in rooms, a pool for relaxing, and laundry facilities, travel is made easy and affordable.
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Columbia / Fort Meade
Howard Community College is an easy drive from La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Columbia / Fort Meade, a setup that ensures the commute itself is a pleasant one.
La Quinta reinforces brand care with complimentary Bright Side Breakfast®, ensuring guests begin mornings with clarity and consistency. Each guest room contains plush bedding, blackout drapes, and HVAC systems, promoting restorative sleep across all guest stays. Business lounges offering seating, Wi-Fi, and printers give professionals reliable tools for productivity while traveling.
Complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, and pools combine with fitness facilities and parking, delivering clarity and consistency each day.
Super 8 by Wyndham Jessup / Baltimore Area
The uncomplicated drive from Super 8 by Wyndham Jessup / Baltimore Area to Howard Community College in Columbia makes the connection between the two uncomplicated and fast.
Lobby markets at Super 8 stock packaged meals, snacks, and drinks, simplifying routines and providing convenience on arrival. Suites offer sofa beds, lounge chairs, and larger layouts, supporting families or groups with flexible accommodations during visits. Pools designed with loungers, towel service, and family seating provide dependable recreation for guests traveling with children.
Free Wi-Fi, pet-friendly stays, and breakfast buffets connect with pools and parking, providing clarity for families and solo travelers.
Sleep Inn Columbia Gateway
At Sleep Inn Columbia Gateway, Howard Community College is within easy reach, a central element that connects the hotel to the area's highlights.
At the entrance, Sleep Inn's design uses wide walkways and visible elevators, making it easier to move from curb to room with luggage in tow. Guest rooms feature a desk lamp, premium bedding, a mini-fridge and free Wi-Fi, allowing travelers to catch up on sleep and tasks. Guest laundries provide washers, dryers and folding counters so longer stays remain practical and packing needs are reduced.
From free Wi-Fi and a morning meal to pool access, business services, EV charging at participating hotels and laundry, trips stay orderly.
Turf Valley Resort
The hotel's location is ideal for straightforward travel, with Howard Community College a direct run away, allowing for predictable travel times.
Guests at Turf Valley Resort may find boutique reception spaces, artisanal décor, and complimentary coffee or tea for a welcoming arrival. Accommodations may provide artisanal décor, unique furnishings, and curated minibars that emphasize boutique orientation. Amenities often highlight farm-to-table restaurants, art-filled lounges, and co-working spaces that emphasize boutique personality.
Accommodations often present Wi-Fi, bike rentals, self-serve markets, and laundry facilities, ensuring flexibility across boutique visits.
Extended Stay America Suites Columbia Laurel Ft. Meade
This uncomplicated drive to Howard Community College helps Extended Stay America Suites Columbia Laurel Ft. Meade guests get more connected to the Columbia area.
For those traveling with pets, Extended Stay America offers a dependable and accommodating arrival experience that simplifies the journey. All guest rooms provide essential cookware, dishes, and utensils, so travelers can make full use of their private kitchen facilities. Fitness centers at many locations are equipped with cardio machines and weights, helping guests stick to their wellness routines.
For a stay that covers all bases, a fitness center, a pool, a kitchen, and a laundry room are all available for guest use.
Quality Inn Jessup - Columbia South Near Fort Meade
When your visit to Columbia is centered on Howard Community College, Quality Inn Jessup - Columbia South Near Fort Meade's location an easy drive away allows for a seamless daily plan.
Upon entering Quality Inn guests notice layered lighting and durable flooring that balance visibility, comfort, and high-traffic use. Every guest room includes a flat-screen TV with streaming options and a secure laptop-size safe to balance unwind time with device security. Pre-function areas adjacent to meeting suites supply staging space, signage, and beverage points so sessions begin punctually and transitions stay calm.
With 24-hour desk service at many locations, guests find concierge help, luggage support, and local directions even during late arrivals or early departures.
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Columbia Fort Meade Area
Upon arrival at SpringHill Suites by Marriott Columbia Fort Meade Area, Howard Community College is a short drive with no need for a long commute, simplifying your visit immediately.
Lobby layouts at SpringHill Suites showcase natural light, clear reception sightlines, and open seating, making orientation feel effortless. Suites include lounge seating, ergonomic desks, and reliable Wi-Fi, allowing guests to maintain both productivity and relaxation on the road. The indoor pool provides clean towels, seating clusters, and warm lighting, offering travelers relaxation that helps reduce stress from busy days.
Amenities like self-parking, flexible meeting rooms, hot breakfast, and Wi-Fi ensure both business and leisure travelers find dependable support.
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Howard Community College Local Area Guide
Howard Community College (HCC) serves as a dynamic educational hub and hosts a variety of athletic events, performances, and community gatherings throughout the year. This guide is designed for students, visiting athletes, performers, and families attending events at HCC, providing essential information to help you navigate the campus and its surrounding Columbia, Maryland environment. You'll find details on convenient travel, local attractions, dining options, and practical tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Howard Community College (Columbia, MD)
Nestled within the planned community of Columbia, Maryland, Howard Community College is centrally located in Howard County, midway between Baltimore and Washington D.C. The campus sits along Little Patuxent Parkway, a major artery that connects to Route 29, providing direct access to I-95 and Route 32. This strategic positioning makes it relatively easy to reach from various parts of the region. The nearest major airport serving HCC is Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), approximately a 20-30 minute drive depending on traffic. Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) is also an option, though typically a longer drive of 45-60 minutes. Public transportation options to campus are somewhat limited, primarily relying on county bus routes that connect to larger transit hubs. Many visitors opt for personal vehicles or rideshare services for direct campus access. It is advisable to plan your arrival, especially during peak event times or school semesters, to account for potential traffic on Little Patuxent Parkway and surrounding roads. Allowing an extra 15-20 minutes beyond the estimated drive time is a prudent strategy for reaching campus promptly.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Howard Community College
The primary lodging options near Howard Community College are concentrated in the Columbia Town Center area, a short drive from campus. These hotels cater to a mix of business travelers, families visiting students, and attendees of college events. While not a dense cluster of hotels directly adjacent to the campus, the main commercial and business districts of Columbia offer a good selection within a 5-10 minute drive. For those seeking the most convenience, hotels situated along Route 29 or near the Columbia Mall offer relatively easy access to the college. When major events or admissions periods occur, hotel demand can increase, making early booking a wise tactic. Utilizing map filters to search for accommodations within a 3-mile radius of the college can help identify suitable options. Consider booking further in advance if your visit coincides with significant campus activities or local sporting tournaments.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI) is about a 25-minute drive from campus.
- Arrive 20 minutes early to navigate campus and find your specific building or parking area.
- Explore the Columbia Lakefront, a pleasant area for a casual stroll or picnic lunch.
- The Mall in Columbia offers indoor shopping and dining for a rainy or cooler day outing.
- Merriweather Post Pavilion area provides a good spot for post-event casual regrouping.
Event Day Flow
Arrival & Pre-Event
Plan to arrive at least 20-30 minutes before your event's scheduled start time to allow for parking and navigation. Campus parking is generally available in designated lots surrounding academic buildings and athletic facilities. Consult any event-specific parking instructions provided by the college, as certain areas may be reserved or have special access requirements. Familiarize yourself with the campus map beforehand to locate your specific destination building, whether it's an auditorium, gymnasium, or athletic field. Allow time to walk from your parking spot to the event venue, as some locations may require a moderate trek across campus.
During the Event
Once inside your venue, take a moment to identify restroom locations and any designated seating or standing areas. Familiarize yourself with the event layout, especially if it's a performance or a larger gathering with multiple zones. If attending an athletic competition, be aware of the flow of spectators and any stadium or arena specific rules regarding food and beverage. For academic lectures or presentations, ensure you've found your seating in advance of the program beginning. Keep track of time to ensure you don't miss key moments of the event, whether it's a game-winning play or a crucial presentation segment.
Post-Event & Departure
As the event concludes, anticipate a moderate amount of pedestrian and vehicle traffic as attendees depart. Avoid rushing directly to your car immediately after the event; consider waiting a few minutes for the initial surge to subside. If you utilized rideshare services, identify the designated pick-up zone, which might be slightly off the main exit routes to manage congestion. Follow campus signage and any directions from event staff to ensure a smooth exit from parking lots. Be patient, as it may take a bit longer than usual to leave the campus area during peak departure times.
Things to Do Near Howard Community College
Walkable
Howard Community College Campus
The campus itself offers several points of interest for visitors, particularly the Horowitz Center for the Arts and the Robert and Jane Meyer Performing Arts Center, which host a variety of student and professional productions throughout the academic year. The campus green and walking paths provide pleasant areas for a stroll, especially during warmer months. The college also features athletic facilities including gyms, fields, and an aquatic center that may host public events or offer access during specific times. Exploring the campus can provide a sense of its academic and cultural offerings before or after your scheduled event.
On siteAthletic Fields & Facilities
Howard Community College maintains a range of athletic facilities that support its intercollegiate sports programs and community access. This includes soccer and lacrosse fields, baseball and softball diamonds, and indoor courts. Depending on the season and college schedule, you might be able to observe student-athletes practicing or competing, or simply enjoy the open green spaces. These facilities are generally well-maintained and offer a good environment for outdoor activities if time permits before or after your primary event on campus.
On site5–15 Minutes Away
Columbia Lakefront
Located in the heart of Columbia, the Lakefront is a central gathering place offering scenic views, walking paths, and a vibrant atmosphere. It's an ideal spot for a leisurely walk, enjoying a picnic, or simply relaxing by the water. The area surrounds a picturesque lake with a boardwalk and is home to various restaurants and shops, making it a perfect destination for unwinding or grabbing a bite to eat before or after an event at HCC. It’s a well-maintained public space that reflects the planned community's emphasis on green spaces and recreation.
Columbia Lakefront · 2.1 miThe Mall in Columbia
This large, enclosed shopping mall serves as a major retail and entertainment hub for Columbia and surrounding areas. It features a wide array of department stores, specialty shops, a cinema, and a diverse food court, making it a convenient option for shopping, dining, or finding entertainment, especially during inclement weather. The Mall in Columbia offers a classic suburban mall experience with plenty of familiar brands and dining choices, providing a contrast to the academic setting of the college. It’s a place where visitors can easily spend a few hours browsing or enjoying a meal.
The Mall in Columbia · 2.3 miBeyond the Event: Beyond the immediate campus and its walkable surroundings, the greater Columbia area offers a variety of parks, community centers, and recreational facilities. Depending on your interests, you might explore the historic Ellicott City, known for its charming shops and restaurants, or venture into the nature preserves for hiking and outdoor activities. The proximity to major highways also opens up possibilities for day trips to Baltimore's Inner Harbor or Washington D.C., though these require more dedicated travel time.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near Howard Community College
Inside & Adjacent
HCC Dining Services
Howard Community College offers on-campus dining options primarily for students, faculty, and staff, though they may be accessible to visitors during specific hours or events. These facilities typically include a cafeteria or café serving a range of convenient meals and snacks. While specific offerings can vary, expect standard fare suitable for quick lunches or coffee breaks. It's advisable to check the college's current dining hours and locations, as they may be limited outside of regular academic schedules or during campus events.
On siteThe Express Grill (at HCC)
Located within the Howard Community College campus, The Express Grill is a convenient spot for casual dining for students, staff, and visitors. They typically offer a selection of American-style comfort foods, sandwiches, and salads. It provides a no-frills, accessible dining experience right on campus, perfect for grabbing a quick meal between classes, practices, or before an event without needing to leave the college grounds. Expect standard quick-service fare in a relaxed, campus-centric atmosphere.
On siteNearby Gathering Spots
Frisco Grille
Frisco Grille is a popular local spot known for its casual American cuisine and lively atmosphere, making it a great place for groups to gather. They offer a diverse menu featuring salads, sandwiches, seafood, and steaks, along with a good selection of beers and cocktails. Its proximity to the Columbia Lakefront area makes it an attractive option for pre- or post-event dining, providing a relaxed setting to discuss the day's activities or enjoy a meal with friends and family. The patio seating often adds to its appeal during warmer months.
10205 Wincopin Dr · 1.8 miSeasons 52
Seasons 52 is an upscale casual restaurant that focuses on fresh, seasonal ingredients and a sophisticated dining experience. Their menu is designed around lighter, healthier options, with a rotating selection of dishes that reflect the time of year. It's an excellent choice for those seeking a more refined meal, offering a comfortable yet elegant ambiance. Located within proximity to the college, it serves as a good option for celebratory dinners, business lunches, or simply enjoying a well-crafted meal in a pleasant setting.
The Mall in Columbia · 2.3 miLocal & Elevated Picks
Union Jacks
Union Jacks offers a British-inspired pub experience with a menu that includes traditional pub fare alongside contemporary American dishes. It's known for its hearty meals, extensive drink list, and a lively, often energetic atmosphere, especially during sports events or weekend evenings. This makes it a good spot for groups looking for a fun and casual dining experience. Its location within The Mall in Columbia also makes it easily accessible and a convenient stop for those exploring the area's entertainment options.
The Mall in Columbia · 2.3 miSugo Osteria
Sugo Osteria provides an authentic Italian dining experience with a focus on handmade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and classic Italian entrees. The restaurant boasts a warm, inviting ambiance, suitable for both intimate dinners and group gatherings. It’s a well-regarded local establishment for those seeking quality Italian cuisine, offering a more traditional and flavorful approach to its dishes. Its location slightly outside the immediate campus vicinity provides a taste of local culinary excellence for visitors willing to venture a short distance.
10075 Balto. National Pike · 3.5 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Traffic on Route 29 and Little Patuxent Parkway can be heavy during weekday rush hours (7-9 AM and 4-6 PM).
- Weekends, especially during sporting events or community festivals, see increased local activity near the college.
- The planned nature of Columbia means many residential areas have strict parking rules; always check signage.
- Mondays and Tuesdays are often the busiest days for college classes; aim for mid-week or weekends for quieter campus exploration.
- Local grocery stores like Giant or Safeway in nearby shopping centers are well-equipped for stocking up on snacks and drinks.
Weather & Seasons at Howard Community College
- Winter: Expect cold temperatures, with daytime highs often in the 30s and 40s Fahrenheit. Nights can drop below freezing. Visitors should pack warm layers, including a heavy coat, hat, gloves, and scarves. Indoor events are comfortable, but travel to and from campus requires caution due to potential ice or snow on roads and sidewalks.
- Spring & early summer: This period brings progressively warmer weather, with temperatures ranging from the 50s to the 70s Fahrenheit. Light jackets or sweaters are useful for cooler mornings and evenings. It's an ideal time for outdoor activities around campus or at the Lakefront, with blooming flora adding to the scenery. Rainfall is common, so carrying an umbrella is recommended.
- Mid-summer: Summers in Columbia are typically hot and humid, with temperatures frequently in the 80s and 90s Fahrenheit. Lightweight, breathable clothing is essential. Hydration is key, and planning for indoor activities or utilizing air-conditioned venues is wise during the hottest parts of the day. Evening events can be more comfortable as temperatures gradually decrease.
- Fall season: Autumn offers a pleasant transition with crisp air and comfortable temperatures, typically ranging from the 50s to the 70s Fahrenheit. It's a beautiful time to visit, with fall foliage around the campus and local parks. Layers are recommended as mornings and evenings can be cool, while afternoons remain mild. This season is excellent for outdoor campus exploration.
- Rain & snow: Rain is possible year-round, with spring and summer often seeing thunderstorms. Winters can bring snow, ranging from light dustings to significant accumulations, which can impact travel. Always check weather forecasts before heading to campus, and if snow is present, be aware that parking lots and walkways may require extra time to navigate safely.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary team: Howard Community College athletics
- Neighborhood: Columbia, MD
- Nearest airport: BWI Airport
- Parking: On-campus lots
- Walkable district: Campus grounds
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Nearby shopping centers
- Pharmacy: CVS, Walgreens
- Urgent care: MedStar Health Urgent Care
- Downtime: Columbia Lakefront, parks
- Pro tip: Check HCC event calendars for arts and sports schedules.

