Winter can be magical if you’re in the right place and in the right frame of mind to appreciate it. Picture this: snow is falling softly past the window, a fire crackles in the fireplace, and you have a delicious warm drink and some exciting plans for the morning. You might go to a museum, walk around and enjoy the fresh snow, and even get a little wine tasting! Getting away from your usual daily grind and heading somewhere new can restore your love for the cold months. Prince George’s County in Maryland is the perfect place to do just that.
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Why Prince George’s County Deserves a Spot on Your Travel List
The wealth of history spread across this large county lends it a lot of charm, especially as the leaves begin to turn again when the snow starts to fall. Though it is mere minutes away from Washington, DC, the county is an incredibly well-kept secret. The spirit of the locals and the beauty of the county itself are more than enough to have tourists coming back time and again. However, there’s much more to PG County than friendly people and pretty places to look at.
Getting There: How To Reach Prince George’s County
PG County is located in Maryland and borders the eastern parts of Washington. Traveling to and from the county is simple enough, as the roads are well-maintained. AMTRAK, Marc, Metrorail, and the Purple Line all run through the county, so public transport is easy to manage as well. Flying in is no issue either, as PG County is close to Ronald Reagan Washington International, Washington Dulles International, and the Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall airports.
Entertainment & Nightlife available
If you like a cocktail and like to spend a few hours at a great poker game, we’ve got some entertainment options you’re going to LOVE. The BetMGM casino, known as the National Harbor, is an excellent place to let off a little steam and your hair down at the same time. Since the casino is part of a casino/ resort complex, you’ll have a spot to stay in Maryland in luxurious comfort as well as access to the East Coast’s premier gaming floor, 85 designer outlets in the Tanger shopping center, and a scenic Waterfront District with a selection of boutiques. There is the casino itself if you want to take a chance with Lady Luck, Bobby Mickey’s piano bar, V-NO at the Harbor for a glass or two of a vast wine selection, there’s a driving range, a covered Ferris wheel, and so much more.
Where History Comes Alive: Discovering Cultural and Historical Gems
Perhaps taking in a show or learning about the county’s storied past is more your speed? Fortunately, PG County has a lot to offer on both fronts. If your idea of the perfect day is a trip around the local art galleries, you should check out the Prince George’s County Gateway Arts District. You can find everything from surrealism to pop art and the great impressionists in a space that welcomes collectors, enthusiasts, and the whole family. In the district, you’ll find galleries, theatres, arts and crafts stores…the works.
Spend the day learning about the county at the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, College Park Aviation Museum, and other charming, historically valuable locations. Native American archaeological sites can be found at places like Accokeek Creek Site and Nottingham Archaeological Site. Antebellum and 18th-century homes and towns exist all over the county, and there’s a wealth of African American historical importance there, too.
Outdoor Escapes: Parks, Trails, and Natural Wonders
More of an outdoor person? PG County has you covered there, too, even in the winter. Nature in PG is extensive and largely unspoiled, so be sure to pack your sunscreen (yes, even when it’s cold out!), hiking boots, parka, and camera to explore and enjoy it to the maximum. Hike or bike along the many existing and well-traveled trails, or give your feet a break and go horse riding instead. Pack a picnic and head to Clearwater Nature Center, Merkle State Wildlife Sanctuary, or Mount Rainier for the day.
Best Places To Stay In The County
Looking for a place to lay your head while visiting PG County? These are some of the best hotels and resorts to check out before you visit.
- TownePlace Suites by Marriott Clinton at Joint Base Andrews
- College Park Marriott Hotel & Conference Center
- Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center
- The Westin Washington National Harbor
Explore Prince George’s County This Winter
Spend your winter getaway in a place that will welcome you like one of its own. Prince George’s County is a gem just waiting to be discovered and revisited; you’ll see!
