Takoma Park Travel Guide

A complete travel guide for Takoma Park, Maryland, including top places to visit, hiking and biking routes, food scene, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Takoma Park

Nestled in Montgomery County, Maryland, Takoma Park is a small, charming city known for its serene environment and natural beauty. The city is famous for its bohemian feel and cultured atmosphere, and it houses many unique museums, art galleries and historical sites. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll love the city’s greenery, hiking and biking trails, and parks.

List of Places to Visit in Takoma Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Takoma Park has a rich cultural heritage. The city offers many museums and historical sites of significant importance. Some of the essential cultural attractions are:

  • Takoma Park Community Center: This community center offers various activities, including dance, fitness, and art classes. It has a fantastic gym, pool, and basketball court.

  • Takoma Old Town: This historic street is home to numerous unique boutiques and restaurants, and in the summer months, you’ll find farmers markets and outdoor concerts.

  • The Takoma Park/Silver Spring Food Co-op: Visit the Takoma Park/Silver Spring food co-op for sustainable and locally sourced groceries.

  • The Takoma Park Presbyterian Church: One of the oldest churches in Takoma Park, the Takoma Park Presbyterian Church has a beautiful architecture and stained-glass windows.

  • Takoma Park Train Station: This historic train station now serves as the Takoma Park post office.

Natural Attractions of Takoma Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

If you’re an outdoor adventurer, Takoma Park has many natural attractions. The natural beauty of the city is awe-inspiring and provides breathtaking experiences. Here are some of the best natural attractions to explore:

  • Sligo Creek Trail: This hike and biking trail runs through the Sligo Creek Park and offers several scenic views and picnic spots along the way.

  • Spring Park: A small but lovely nature park, Spring Park offers relaxing and soothing views of natural ponds.

  • Takoma Piney Branch Park: Takoma Piney Branch Park boasts several playgrounds and sport courts for hiking, playing sports and picnicking.

  • Eastern Avenue Park: Eastern Avenue Park offers a perfect dreamy escape into nature with its scenic trails, playgrounds, and picnic spots.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Takoma Park

Takoma Park has several biking and hiking trails that allow you to explore nature and enjoy the scenery. Hiking and biking paths include:

  • Sligo Creek Trail: A 9.1-mile hike-and-bike trail that runs between Takoma Park and Silver Spring, stopping at various wooded parks along the creek.

  • Metropolitan Branch Trail: A 3.1-mile biking trail that starts at Union Station and ends in Silver Spring, connecting to the Capital Crescent Trail and the Metropolitan Trail.

  • Capital Crescent Trail: An 11-mile trail that runs from Georgetown to Silver Spring along the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal.

Best Things to Do in Takoma Park: Activities and Tours

Takoma Park has plenty of unique activities and tours to engage in. Some of the must-do activities include:

  • Takoma Park Farmers Market: Take a stroll through Takoma Park Farmers Market, which offers organic and locally grown produce.

  • Takoma Park Street Art Tour: Enjoy Takoma Park’s bohemian art scene and explore its street art on a street art tour.

  • Yoga on the Outdoor Deck: Every Sunday, CrossFit Takoma Park hosts a free yoga session for all levels, taking place on their rooftop deck.

  • Takoma Park Art Hop: A vibrant street festival held annually in Takoma Park, Art Hop is a celebration of the city’s art and culture.

Week-Long Itinerary for Takoma Park

Here is a suggestion for a week-long itinerary to make the most of your visit to Takoma Park.

Day 1: Takoma Park Old Town Historic Street Tour

The first day, explore Takoma Park’s historic neighborhoods and the Takoma Park Train Station.

Day 2: Visiting the Museums and Galleries

The second day is dedicated to visiting the museums and art galleries around Takoma Park.

Day 3: Exploration of Hiking and Biking Trails

Experience nature and the stunning natural beauty of Takoma Park by hiking or biking through the Sligo Creek Trail.

Day 4: Takoma Park Farmers Market and Shopping

Spend Sunday morning enjoying organic fruits and vegetables from the Takoma Park Farmers Market. Go shopping and explore the unique boutiques of Takoma Old Town.

Day 5: Tour Takoma Park’s Outdoor Art

Explore the city’s bohemian art scene and indulge in street art with a fun street art tour.

Day 6: Takoma Park’s Street Festivals

Participate in Takoma Park’s famous street festivals, the Takoma Park Folk Festival and Takoma Park Street Festival.

Day 7: Relaxation and Wellness

Finish your week in Takoma Park with a relaxing day on Takoma’s Piney Branch Park’s serene trails and meditation spots.

Food and Drink Scene of Takoma Park

Must-Try Dishes

Takoma’s food scene is outstanding and offers a wide range of culinary delights. Some of the must-try dishes include:

  • Vegan Jamaican Patties from Roscoe’s Pita and Kabob: Roscoe’s is famous for its vegan Jamaican patties made with unique spices and herbs.

  • Guajillo Chile Chicken from Taco-Ma Yucatan Chicken: Offering a variety of chicken platters, Taco-Ma is a must-visit for anyone who loves trying new dishes.

  • Espresso Bomba from Takoma Beverage Company: Takoma’s own Coffee & Tea shop with something unique called the Espresso Bomba.

Local Beverages

Takoma Park is also known for its unique and locally made beverages. Some of the best local beverages include:

  • Takoma Park Brewing Company: This brewery offers handmade beers brewed with locally sourced grains and hops. Don’t forget to try their award-winning Pilsner.

  • Dawson’s Market: Dawson’s Market offers a wide variety of organic, locally sourced beers, wines and liquors.

Where to Stay in Takoma Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Takoma Park is famous for its cozy, comfortable accommodations that perfect for travelers of all types. Here are some of the best places to stay in Takoma Park:

  • Highland Inn: This charming European-style Inn is located near Takoma Park Old Town and offers comfortable accommodations.

  • Clarion Inn: A budget-friendly yet cozy stay a few steps from Takoma Park and the Silver Spring Metros.

  • Comfy and Cozy Guesthouses: Several charmingly cozy guesthouses across Takoma that offer traditional comforts.

What to Buy in Takoma Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Takoma Park has various places that sell locally made souvenirs and unique products. Here are some of the best places to shop in Takoma:

  • Takoma Park Silver Spring Co-op: Organic and locally grown produce, homemade baked goods, and more.

  • Discoveries: This antique store has many intriguing finds—perfect for souvenir shopping.

  • Takoma Park Farmers Market: Grab locally grown fruits and vegetables from the Farmers Market to enjoy with family and friends at home.

Local Culture and Customs of Takoma Park

Takoma Park is known for its bohemian culture and liberal attitudes. The city is well-known for its art and music scene and multiethnic diversity.

Best Time to Visit Takoma Park

The best time to visit Takoma Park is during the spring, summer, and fall months. The weather is pleasantly warm, allowing visitors to indulge in outdoor activities and enjoy Takoma’s scenic beauty.

Do’s and Don’ts of Takoma Park

Do:

  • Explore the Takoma Park Old Town.
  • Indulge in Takoma Park’s street art and cultural scene.
  • Go for hiking and biking on the Sligo Creek Trail and other trails.
  • Take a stroll through Takoma Park Farmers Market to experience the local and organic food and drink scene.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or harm the greenery of Takoma Park’s natural beauty.
  • Don’t make noise disturbing Takoma Park’s peaceful neighborhoods.

Safety and Health

Safety in Takoma Park

Takoma Park is a safe and secure city, and its crime rate is relatively low.

Health in Takoma Park

Takoma Park has excellent health care facilities, including Washington Adventist Hospital and the Secure Area Canna Care.

Getting to Takoma Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Takoma Park is well-connected with other cities, making your visit more convenient and accessible. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Takoma Park

  • Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport
  • Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport

Bus Stations Near Takoma Park

  • Takoma Langley Crossroads Transit Center
  • Silver Spring Station Bus Terminal

Other Options

  • Takoma Station - Red line Washington Metro Subway
  • Silver Spring Station - Red line Washington Metro Subway

How to Get Around in Takoma Park

The city is served by the Takoma/Langley Crossroads Transit Center and the WMATA metro bus line, which offer convenient transportation options to get around the city easily.

Where to Go Next from Takoma Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Takoma Park is located just a short drive from many famous destinations and landmarks in Virginia and DC. Here are some recommended places to go next:

  • The National Mall in Washington DC is less than six miles away, making it a convenient and fascinating excursion.
  • The National Zoo is a must-visit, especially if you’re traveling with kids.
  • The Chesapeake Bay is located just an hour’s drive away, and it is an excellent place for enjoying water sports.

Conclusion

Takoma Park offers unique experiences for all types of travelers, from outdoor adventurers to history buffs. Explore the city’s famous street art, unique food and drink scene, and explore the surrounding area’s natural beauty. The city is well-connected and accessible through various means of transportation, making it an ideal destination.