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Travel during the holiday and winter months can be overwhelming—so why not visit somewhere just a few miles from the city? From farms and feasts to shopping and entertainment, Howard County is the destination to make your cold weather season special this year. To learn more about the one-of-a-kind experiences, we talked to the team at Visit Howard County, who shared their top picks for festive fun.
Seasonal Culinary Delights
Hearty cold-weather dishes and seasonal sips will have their moment during Howard County Restaurant Weeks and Craft Beverages. Switch up your date night, family dinner, or drinks with friends and try out new spots from January 17-30––when participating eateries will feature special prix-fixe menus for lunch and dinner.
With a variety of dishes for every craving and budget––including unique cocktail pairings with every meal and a newly expanded partnership with eateries in Koreatown––foodies will discover Howard County’s prized culinary scene.
And if you snap a few stunning photos of your Instagram-worthy experience, be sure to use the hashtag hashtag #hocorestaurantweeks.
Land of Merriment
Howard County boasts merry entertainment for people of all ages. Gather your crew and head to the Colorburst Ice Skating Rink at Merriweather District to hit the ice through February 28. Tickets are required and reservations can be made online.
And with 75 minutes of ice time, you’re sure to skate up an appetite. Head over to one of the nearby restaurants to satisfy any craving.
A Home Away from Home
After the holiday madness, take a staycation and check in for a weekend at one of the area’s affordable hotels or inns. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or action-packed itinerary, the businesses of Howard County will brighten those dark winter months. To learn more about their offerings, visit here.
Festive Feasts
Try one of Howard County’s many restaurants for dine in or carryout. Local restaurants are curating menus with seasonal flavors and infusing cocktails with festive cheer. You can also plan ahead and skip the Christmas cleanup this year by ordering multi-course meals from The Kings Contrivance Restaurant or the Elkridge Furnace Inn.
Check Gifts of Your List
Shop small this year—and support local businesses while you’re at it. With an array of shops, Howard County business owners will help you find the perfect gift for your Valentine. Stroll through sidewalk sales while enjoying festive cocktails and bites in the winter wonderland that is Main Street.
Savage Mill is also a one-of-a-kind shopping destination. A recently converted historic cotton mill, the location boasts vibrant vendors and eateries. For more extensive shopping options, check out the Mall in Columbia which has a variety of retailers to check all the gifts off your list. With well-known department stores and local vendors, the Mall in Columbia is your one-stop destination for whichever present you might be searching for.