Attractions and Places To See around Lanham - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Lanham, Maryland, include a mix of historical sites, extensive natural areas, and cultural points of interest. Located in Prince George's County, Lanham offers access to significant natural features like large research refuges and scenic lakes. The area maintains a relaxed feel while providing diverse opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploring local landmarks.
Best attractions and places to see around Lanham
- The most popular attractions is Anacostia Riverwalk Trail at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens, a trail that runs through marshland near the Kenilworth Park Aquatic Gardens. This well-paved cycle path includes boardwalk sections and bridges, offering a wilderness-like experience.
- Another must-see spot is Anacostia Riverwalk Trail, a trail covering 21.5 miles along the Anacostia River. Visitors can expect scenic views of the river and its wildlife, with opportunities for walking, jogging, biking, or dog walking through diverse ecosystems.
- Visitors also love College Park Airport, a historical site recognized as the world's oldest continually operating airport. It is notable for having served as a military demonstration area for the Wright Brothers.
- Lanham is known for its historical sites, natural features like lakes and trails, and cultural points of interest. The area provides a variety of attractions to see and explore, from aviation history to extensive wildlife refuges.
- The attractions around Lanham are appreciated by the komoot community, with 17 upvotes and 2 photos shared.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
College Park Airport
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Anacostia Riverwalk Trail
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Lake Artemesia
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Patuxent Research Refuge
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Anacostia Riverwalk Trail at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens
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Tips from the Community
The Anacostia Riverwalk Trail follows along the Anacostia River from Bladensburg to the Navy Yard, covering 21.5 miles through forests, fields, marshes, and river ecosystems. Ideal for walking, jogging, biking, or dog walking, the paved trail offers scenic views of the Anacostia River and its wildlife. It passes through Anacostia Park and Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens and connects to five bridges and several city bike routes. The trail features asphalt, boardwalk, brick, and concrete surfaces, with access points at Hyattsville, MD, and The Wharf in D.C.
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This is a very cool wildlife refuge with trails surrounding Lake Cash and Lake Redington. Make sure to stop in and check out the museum in the Visitor's Center, and keep your eyes peeled for birds along the trail.
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College Park Airport, founded in 1909 as the military demonstration area for the Wright Brothers, is the world's oldest continually operating airport. From here, there is only a fence and a few lights between you and the beginning of the runway to this small airport. If you are lucky, you will catch a plane flying over your head as you walk by.
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Lake Artemesia is a man-made lake, spanning 38 acres and surrounded by Lake Artemesia Park. The lake and the park are named after Artemesia N. Drefs, who in 1972 donated ten lots to the county for preservation as a public green space.
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College Park Airport was founded in 1909 as the military demonstration area for the Wright Brothers. Notably, it is the world's oldest continually operating airport. As you ride by College Park Airport, you are separated by a fence and a few lights, but not by much else, from the beginning of the runway to this small airport. If you are lucky, you will catch a plane coming right over your head as you ride by.
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This park boasts an aquatic garden, miles of hiking, running, and biking trails, and numerous fishing areas. The standout feature of the park is the scenic 38-acre lake, visible from various points along the trails.
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This is a very cool wildlife refuge with trails surrounding Lake Cash and Lake Redington. Make sure to stop in and check out the museum in the Visitor's Center, and keep your eyes peeled for birds along the trail.
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Covering 12,800 acres (5,179 ha), this refuge is home to more than 1,100 species of plants and diverse wildlife. In fall and spring, huge flocks of migratory bird species swoop above the forests, meadows and wetlands. The refuge is one of the biggest forested areas in the mid-Atlantic. There's a visitor center where you can learn about the refuge's important work.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore around Lanham?
Lanham offers several significant natural areas. You can visit the Patuxent Research Refuge, a vast 12,800-acre area known for its diverse plant and wildlife species, including migratory birds. Lake Artemesia features a scenic 38-acre lake with an aquatic garden and trails. The Anacostia Riverwalk Trail provides scenic views of the river and its ecosystems.
Are there good hiking or cycling opportunities near Lanham's attractions?
Yes, the area around Lanham is excellent for outdoor activities. The Anacostia Riverwalk Trail is a paved path suitable for walking, jogging, biking, or dog walking, extending 21.5 miles. Lake Artemesia also has miles of hiking, running, and biking trails. For more specific routes, you can explore various hiking, running, and road cycling guides for the Lanham area.
What historical sites can I visit in Lanham?
A prominent historical site is College Park Airport, recognized as the world's oldest continually operating airport. It served as a military demonstration area for the Wright Brothers. Additionally, the Thomas J. Calloway House is a historic residence listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Lanham?
Many attractions in Lanham are family-friendly. The Patuxent Research Refuge has a visitor center and trails suitable for families. Lake Artemesia offers trails, fishing, and an aquatic garden. The paved Anacostia Riverwalk Trail is great for walks or bike rides with children. College Park Airport also offers an interesting historical experience for all ages.
Can I observe wildlife in the Lanham area?
Yes, the Lanham area is rich in wildlife. The Patuxent Research Refuge is home to over 1,100 plant species and diverse wildlife, including large flocks of migratory birds in spring and fall. The Anacostia Riverwalk Trail also offers opportunities to spot river wildlife and birds as it passes through various ecosystems.
What is the best time of year to visit Lanham for outdoor activities?
Spring and fall are ideal for outdoor activities in Lanham. During these seasons, the weather is pleasant for hiking, cycling, and exploring natural areas like the Patuxent Research Refuge, which is particularly good for observing migratory birds. Summer can be warm, while winter offers different scenery but fewer migratory birds.
Are there dog-friendly trails or parks in Lanham?
The Anacostia Riverwalk Trail is suitable for dog walking. Buddy Attick Lake Park also features a picturesque lake with a path winding through the woods, offering a tranquil setting for walks with your dog.
Are there any cultural or architectural landmarks in the area?
While primarily a religious and cultural complex, the Diyanet Center of America is notable for its impressive architecture and facilities. Lanham is also home to various religious centers like Grace Church, Lanham United Methodist Church, Sri Siva Vishnu Temple, and the Prince George's Muslim Association, which can be points of interest for their community and architectural significance.
What parks are available for general outdoor recreation in Lanham?
Beyond the larger natural areas, Lanham Forest Park is a neighborhood park with a playground, picnic tables, and paved trails. The Good Luck Community Center also offers various amenities including sports fields, courts, and picnic areas for recreation.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible places to visit in Lanham?
The Patuxent Research Refuge is noted as being wheelchair accessible, offering opportunities to enjoy nature. Many paved sections of trails, such as parts of the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail, may also be accessible.
Where can I find a scenic walking path near Lanham?
For scenic walks, the Lake Artemesia loop offers beautiful views around its 38-acre lake. The Patuxent Research Refuge includes trails around Cash Lake, providing a serene environment for walking and birdwatching. The Anacostia Riverwalk Trail at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens also offers a wilderness-like experience on a well-paved path.
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