Olney Travel Guide

Plan your visit to Olney, Maryland with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, outdoor activities, local culture, and more.


Introduction to Olney

Olney, Maryland, is a charming town nestled in the Capital Region of Montgomery County. It’s a small town with a population of just over 35,000, but it’s big on history, culture, and outdoor activities. Founded in the early 1800s, Olney has played an important role in the development of the region. Today, it’s a popular destination for those looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.

List of Places to Visit in Olney

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Olney Theatre Center: This nationally renowned theater hosts productions throughout the year, including classic plays, contemporary dramas, and family-friendly shows.
  • Sherwood High School: This historic school, founded in 1905, features an auditorium and gymnasium that are open to the public for events.
  • Sandy Spring Museum: This museum showcases the history and culture of the Sandy Spring community, with exhibits on everything from the underground railroad to local farming practices.
  • The Olney Ale House: This historic bar dates back to 1924 and is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Natural Attractions of Olney: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Olney Farmers and Artists Market: This community market is a great place to pick up fresh produce, handmade crafts, and other locally-made products.
  • Rock Creek Trail: This scenic trail offers hiking, biking, and horseback riding opportunities through a beautiful wooded landscape.
  • Cherrywood Lane Park: This park offers great views of the area, with plenty of space for picnicking, frisbee, or simply enjoying the great outdoors.
  • Recreation Fields: These fields are home to a number of local sports leagues, including soccer and baseball.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Olney

  • Rock Creek Trail: This well-groomed trail is perfect for hiking and biking, with plenty of scenic views along the way.
  • Olney Park Trail: This easy, flat trail offers a great opportunity for a leisurely stroll through the woods.
  • Schaffer Farm Trail: This trail is a bit more challenging, with some steep inclines and narrow paths, but the views are well worth the effort.

Best Things to Do in Olney: Activities and Tours

  • Brewery Tour: Take a tour of the local breweries to sample some of the best craft beer in the region.
  • Olney Theatre Center: Attend a performance at this nationally renowned theater.
  • Olney Farmers and Artists Market: Browse locally-made goods and fresh produce at this popular market.

Week-Long Itinerary for Olney

Day Activity
1 Visit Sandy Spring Museum in the morning, and hike the Rock Creek Trail in the afternoon.
2 Take a brewery tour in the morning and enjoy an evening performance at Olney Theatre Center.
3 Spend the day at Cherrywood Lane Park, having a picnic and enjoying the scenery.
4 Explore the historic Sherwood High School and grab lunch at The Olney Ale House.
5 Bike the Olney Park Trail in the morning and enjoy an evening at the Olney Farmers and Artists Market.
6 Play a round of golf at Needwood Golf Course, located just a few miles from Olney.
7 Take a day trip to Washington D.C., only a 40-minute drive from Olney, to see the national monuments and museums.

Food and Drink Scene of Olney

Must-Try Dishes

  • Crab cakes: This Maryland specialty is a must-try, and you’ll find some of the best at the Olney Ale House.
  • Fried chicken: Head to Cindy’s Kitchen for some of the best fried chicken in town.
  • Ice cream: Bruster’s Real Ice Cream is a local institution, serving up delicious ice cream and frozen treats for decades.

Local Beverages

  • Beer: Be sure to try some of the local craft beer, available at many of the breweries in town.
  • Wine: The Olney Winery offers tastings of their award-winning wines.

Where to Stay in Olney: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hilton Garden Inn: This modern hotel offers comfortable rooms and easy access to local attractions.
  • Comfort Inn: This budget-friendly hotel offers a great location and clean, comfortable rooms.
  • Airbnb: There are a number of Airbnb options in and around Olney, offering visitors a chance to experience life like a local.

What to Buy in Olney: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handmade crafts: The Olney Farmers and Artists Market is a great place to pick up locally made crafts and gifts.
  • Artwork: The Sandy Spring Museum Gift Shop features artwork and photography by local artists.

Local Culture and Customs of Olney

Olney is a welcoming town, with a strong sense of community. Visitors should be respectful of local customs, such as saying “please” and “thank you” and being mindful of noise levels in residential areas.

Best Time to Visit Olney

The best time to visit Olney is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its best.

Do’s and Don’ts of Olney

Do:

  • Do try the local craft beer and wine.
  • Do take a hike on one of the many trails in and around Olney.
  • Do take advantage of the many cultural attractions in town.

Don’t:

  • Don’t be overly loud or disruptive, especially in residential areas.
  • Don’t litter or damage the natural surroundings.
  • Don’t be disrespectful of local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Olney

Olney is a safe town, with low crime rates. Visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take common-sense precautions, such as locking their cars and securing their valuables.

Health in Olney

Olney has a number of medical facilities and pharmacies, making it easy for visitors to access healthcare if needed.

Getting to Olney: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Olney

  • Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport: 26 miles
  • Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport: 35 miles
  • Washington Dulles International Airport: 43 miles

Bus Stations Near Olney

  • Rockville Greyhound Station: 8 miles
  • Shady Grove Metro Station: 8 miles

Other Options

  • Driving: Olney is easily accessible by car, with major highways such as I-270 and the Capital Beltway nearby.
  • Taxi/Uber/Lyft: Taxis and rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft are available in and around Olney.

How to Get Around in Olney

Car is the most common mode of transportation in and around Olney, but bike and foot are also popular options, especially for exploring the local trails and parks.

Where to Go Next from Olney: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Washington D.C.: Only a 40-minute drive from Olney, the nation’s capital offers endless opportunities for exploration and culture.
  • Baltimore: Located just over an hour away, Baltimore is a vibrant city with plenty of history, culture, and outdoor activities.
  • Annapolis: This charming seaside town is located just over an hour from Olney and is known for its historic charm and picturesque waterfront.

Conclusion

Olney, Maryland, is a charming town with plenty to offer visitors looking for a break from the city. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone in Olney. Plan your next trip and discover all that this historic town has to offer.