18 Best Things To Do In Bowie, Maryland

Stephen
Posted Sep 22, 2020
| 10 min read

Found in Prince George’s County, Maryland, Bowie is a charming, attractive city known for its unique attractions. Being the third-largest city in the state, Bowie boasts a wide range of historical attractions and hidden gems to explore. From Allen Pond Park and Patuxent Research Refuge to Watkins Regional Park and Six Flags America, it’s easy to understand why it’s one of the major tourist destinations in the region. Mostly a residential city, Bowie is also popularly known for thoroughbred horse breeding. It’s an easy city to live with most social amenities like schools, hospitals, restaurants, and shops easily accessible. If you would love to spend your vacation in Bowie, read on to know more about the things to do in Bowie, Maryland.

1. Take a tour of Bowie Railroad Museum

Nestled in a lush green, serene environment in Bowie, Bowie Railroad Museum is one of the historical landmarks and a major tourist attraction in the area. The museum portrays an ancient railroad village which used to act as a train station in the early 20th century. The museum has an interlocking tower from where you can view the trains. Features like a kid’s caboose will keep the kids happy all day. Although the museum is not large in size, it has a very insightful history that will take you way back in time. It’s a nice place to come and interact with the locals. If you’re a person who is thrilled by trains, then this is an adventure you wouldn’t want to miss.

Bowie Railroad Museum

Address: 8614 Chestnut Ave, Bowie, MD 20715, United States

Website: Bowie Railroad Museum

Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 4pm (closed on Mon)

2. Watch a baseball match at Prince George's Stadium

Situated in unincorporated Prince George’s County near Bowie, Prince George’s Stadium is a sports venue that plays host to a variety of different sports. If you’re a fanatic of baseball, you can make a short visit to the stadium and enjoy a thrilling game. This stadium serves as the home ballpark of the Bowie Baysox, the Double-A affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles in the Eastern League. It also serves as a recreational park. With features like a carousel and children’s play area, the facility is also a nice place for kids to have fun. You may come for picnics here as there are facilities to host group picnics. Also, pass by the souvenir shop and buy some gifts.

Prince George's Stadium

Address: 4101 Crain Hwy, Bowie, MD 20716, United States

3. Explore Allen Pond Park

Situated just off Northview Drive, Allen Pond Park is a large multi-purpose park that is used for recreation purposes. People of all ages, both tourists and locals, come down here to mingle and have fun. If you were beginning to wonder what would make your day wonderful, just take the whole family to Allen Pond Park. It is very family-friendly and it has a lot of entertainment for kids. There’s a lot more you can do here like skating, tag, football, and swinging, just to name a few. As for adults, there’s also something for you to do. You can rent a boat and enjoy paddling or fishing.

Allen Pond Park

Address: 3330 Northview Dr, Bowie, MD 20716, United States

Website: Allen Pond Park

Opening hours: 6am - 8pm (daily)

4. Learn about the history of Bowie at Belair Mansion

Located in a quiet, peaceful neighborhood on Tulip Grove Drive in Bowie, Maryland, Belair Mansion is a historic home built in 1745 for the then Provincial Governor, Samuel Ogle, and his wife. One of the notable features of the mansion is the 18th-century Georgian-style plantation used in its architecture. This iconic structure is recognized as a historical landmark and listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The mansion was nestled in what used to be a deer park, vineyard, and other plantations. Today, the mansion has become a museum that is dedicated to collecting, preserving, and showcasing materials that relate to the history and culture of Bowie.

Belair Mansion

Address: 12207 Tulip Grove Dr, Bowie, MD 20715, United States

Website: Belair Mansion

Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 12pm - 4pm (closed on Mon)

5. Visit the National Capital Radio & Television Museum


Are you a person who loves gadgets? Then take the opportunity during your vacation to visit the National Capital Radio and Television Museum. Located in a storekeeper’s house on Mitchellville Road, this museum is one of the historical treasures of the area. It was built to educate the public about the history of radio and television technologies. Its mission is to collect, preserve, and exhibit materials that tell the story of how these technologies began. In the museum, you will meet a very knowledgeable and helpful staff who will give you a guided tour of the building. You will be able to see an interesting collection of artifacts like early TVs, French Fry transistors among others.

National Capital Radio & Television Museum

Address: 2608 Mitchellville Rd, Bowie, MD 20716, United States

Website: National Capital Radio & Television Museum

Opening hours: Fri: 9am - 4pm; Sat & Sun: 12pm - 4pm (closed from Mon - Thu)

6. Learn about thoroughbred horses at Belair Stable Museum


Nestled in a green, charming, picturesque neighborhood just off Belair Drive in Bowie, Belair Stable Museum is a gorgeous structure with a U-shape. The museum is only a few blocks from Belair Mansion. If you love horse racing, then this is a tour you wouldn’t want to miss. Learn the history of thoroughbred horse breeding and racing that used to happen in this area. You will find a very knowledgeable staff who will take you on a tour of the museum. You will learn about the famous horses, Gallant Fox and Omaha, the only father-son horses to win the Triple Crown. Explore the Stable master’s house that will spring your memory back to the 20th century.

Belair Stable Museum

Address: 2835 Belair Dr, Bowie, MD 20715, United States

Website: Belair Stable Museum

Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 12pm - 4pm (closed on Mon)

7. Go shopping at Bowie Town Center


Are you in a shopping mood and would like to take your family out to do some shopping? Just get your shopping list ready and head to Bowie Town Center. This is a very popular shopping mall located in the heart of Bowie, boasting about 79 stores. From fashion boutiques and grocery stores to souvenir shops, you will definitely find what you need for your household here. The mall has a kid’s club where you can take the kids to have fun. As you stroll in the mall, the sweet aroma coming from the several restaurants will make you want to have a bite. Like a lifestyle center, this mall offers you a diverse shopping experience.

Bowie Town Center

Address: 15606 Emerald Way, Bowie, MD 20716, United States

Website: Bowie Town Center

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 9pm; Sun: 11am - 6pm

8. Enjoy a thrilling adventure at Six Flags America

Discover one of the iconic attractions in Bowie at Six Flags America. Located in Woodmore CDP, Prince George’s County, Six Flags America is popular and the only amusement park in the area. Flooding with people from the surrounding areas as well as tourists, this theme park does not fail on its promise of delivering fun. The park features facilities such as rollercoasters, a Water Park, and Looney-Tunes-themed rides for kids. Even daredevils find themselves getting scared by these thrilling, intense rides. That’s not the only nerve-wracking experience in the park. Walk to the Hurricane Harbor waterpark and cool off from the heat of the sun by splashing some water. More exciting facilities include towering waterslides and a swimming pool, just to name a few.

Six Flags America

Address: 13710 Central Ave, Bowie, MD 20721, United States

Website: Six Flags America

9. Shop at Bowie Farmers' Market


If you were wondering where you can buy organic food and fresh farm products, Bowie Farmers’ Market has the solution for you. The market is located along Annapolis Road and it’s always flooded with people, both locals and tourists. The market has a kid-friendly atmosphere and you can always come to shop as a family. Bowie Farmers’ Market is usually packed and beautifully colored with fresh vegetables, fruits and cereals. Here is where many locals come to sell their goods in order to earn an income.

Bowie Farmers' Market

Address: 15200 Annapolis Rd, Bowie, MD 20715, United States

Website: Bowie Farmers’ Market

Opening hours: Sun: 8am - 12pm (closed from Mon - Sat)

10. Wander around Governor Bridge Natural Area


Are you an outdoor person who likes exploring nature? Then your vacation just got interesting. Pack your picnic bag and visit Governor Bridge Natural Area, a nature preserve located on Governor Bridge Road. It’s a beautiful, tranquil area covered with lush green forests and gorgeous water bodies. There are lovely trails meandering in the heart of the forest, making it a popular destination for biking and hiking enthusiasts. This is a place where many locals and tourists come to enjoy romantic retreats. The calm waters of the lake provide a good opportunity for those who feel like fishing. Enjoy a thrilling experience while kayaking on the river.

Governor Bridge Natural Area

Address: 7600 Governor Bridge Rd, Bowie, MD 20716, United States

Website: Governor Bridge Natural Area

11. Go hiking in Fox Hill Recreation Center


Situated near Collington and Essington, Fox Hill Recreation Center is a beautiful nature park in Bowie. This is one of the hidden gems of Bowie, boasting eye-catching scenery and breathtaking beauty. If you feel tired from working all week and would like a quiet place to relax and unwind, this is it. The park features well-manicured trails that bring people here for hiking and biking. Explore the different tree species making up the forest and wildlife in the natural habitat. There are perfect spots that you can utilize to enjoy a family retreat or picnic. You will also get a chance to interact with the locals who frequently visit. Other exciting features include ballfields and bathrooms.

Fox Hill Recreation Center

Address: 5001 Collington Rd, Bowie, MD 20715, United States

Website: Fox Hill Recreation Center

12. Shop and dine at Bowie Plaza

Located on Laurel Bowie Road, Bowie Plaza is one of the iconic landmarks in Bowie that attracts tourists from different places. This shopping mall is one of the oldest shopping centers in this area. Considering that the city of Bowie has vibrant, dynamic, and diverse lifestyles, it was necessary to have one common place to shop. That experience of shopping for all things under one roof is what makes Bowie Plaza such a popular shopping destination among the locals. You will find shops, fashion boutiques, and galleries lined in this mall. The place also has fantastic restaurants with some mouthwatering menus. It is a nice place to bring the family for shopping and dining.

Bowie Plaza

Address: 6908 Laurel Bowie Rd, Bowie, MD 20715, United States

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 11pm; Sat: 8am - 10pm; (Closed on Sun)

13. Enjoy a romantic dinner at Jerry's Seafood


Situated in a lovely, quiet neighborhood in Bowie, Jerry’s Seafood “Home of the Crab Bomb” is a wonderful restaurant that popular for its crab specialties. If you were looking for a joint to take your sweetheart for a dinner date, this will just do the magic. The atmosphere in the restaurant is fantastic and the catering staff is fast and courteous. The meals are prepared using locally sourced fresh ingredients to bring out that delicious taste. The menu comprises of mouthwatering selections such as mariner’s platter, crab and shrimp baby bomb, and the crab bomb among other main dishes. Other items on the menu include side dishes, salad dressings, soup, and appetizers.

Jerry's Seafood

Address: 15211 Major Lansdale Blvd, Bowie, MD 20721, United States

Website: Jerry’s Seafood

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 11:30am - 10pm; Sun: 12pm - 8pm

14. Enjoy a vibrant nightlife at Old Bowie Town Grille


Looking for a place you can go and party with your friends around Bowie over the weekend? There is no better place to offer you that kind of entertainment other than Old Bowie Town Grille. Famous for its delicious American delicacies, this is an Irish-themed bar and grill that is always buzzing with people. The burgers and fries are superb, but the live music and open-mic nights are also awesome. The atmosphere in the bar is filled with positive vibes. After you’ve satisfied your appetite, you can grab your favorite drink and enjoy it before you hit the dance floor. By the time you leave here, you’ll have enjoyed an unforgettable night.

Old Bowie Town Grille

Address: 8604 Chestnut Ave, Bowie, MD 20715, United States

Website: Old Bowie Town Grille

Opening hours: Sun - Tue: 11am - 9pm; Wed - Sat: 11am - 10:30pm

15. Play golf at Bowie Golf & Country Club


Discover this little paradise nestled in a tranquil, scenic, romantic environment in the northern part of the city. This is one of the most beautiful, charming, and heartwarming golf courses in Bowie. This place is always streaming with people coming to enjoy picnics, romantic retreats, or just nature walks. Whatever the reason, you cannot find a better place than this golf course. For those who love golf, this is one of those places that they can’t miss out to visit and sharpen their golfing skills or just watch people play. You may want to take some pictures because you do not want to forget such wonderful experiences.

Bowie Golf Club

Address: 7420 Laurel Bowie Rd, Bowie, MD 20715, United States

Website: Bowie Golf Club

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 7am - 8:30pm; Sat & Sun: 6am - 8:30pm

16. Have fun at Jericho Park


We know vacations are all about breaking from the norm and strengthening bonds and family ties. One way to strengthen a cordial relationship is by participating in adventurous outdoor activities together. Situated along Laurel Bowie Road, Jericho Park is one of the most attractive places in Bowie. The park is clean and well-maintained. You will find adults playing baseball and softball while the kids are in the playground having fun too. There is reserved parking within the park and restrooms in case you feel pressed. Also, lovebirds come here to stroll in the woods and enjoy romantic experiences as they admire nature.

Jericho Park

Address: 9510 Laurel Bowie Rd, Bowie, MD 20720, United States

Website: Jericho Park

17. Take your dog for a walk at Bowie Dog Park


Do you have a dog and you’re wondering where you can take it for a walk in Bowie? Bowie Dog Park is a popular dog park where you are likely to encounter different breeds of dogs. The park is situated on an acre (0.4 ha) piece of land situated in Northview Enfield Chase Park. The charming surrounding and the clean nature of the park are some of the main reasons why many people like to bring their dogs here. The park has two sections; one is designated for the large dogs while the other is preserved for the smaller dogs and the more fragile ones. The dogs are let to roam leash-free and interact with other dogs.

Bowie Dog Park

Address: 3600 Northview Dr, Bowie, MD 20716, United States

Website: Bowie Dog Park

Opening hours: 8am - 9pm (daily)

18. Book a wine-tasting tour with Vino 301 Wine Concierge


Are you crazy about wine? Then during your vacation in Bowie, you should make a point of booking a wine-tasting tour with Vino 301 Wine Concierge. This is one of the most adventurous and insightful activities you can participate in as a tourist in Bowie. You get to tour and admire the breathtaking views of vineyards and major wineries in the area. You will learn about the culture, history, and process of winemaking. You will encounter some of the local vintners and wine producers who have perfected the art of wine production. You will be able to experience the flavor, passion, and richness in every sip that you take.

Vino 301 Wine Concierge

Address: Annapolis, Maryland

Website: Vino 301 Wine Concierge

Opening hours: 11am - 5pm (daily)

Enjoy a memorable adventure in Bowie, Maryland

Whether what brings you to Bowie is business or just a vacation, you will definitely need something interesting to keep you engaged and entertained. With a myriad of beautiful attractions and hidden gems to discover, we’ve made sure that you leave Bowie with a long-lasting memory of your getaway.

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