Things to do in Ellicott City

There are plenty of things to do in Ellicott City, a historic town in Maryland, most known (locally and by train enthusiasts) for the old Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. Ellicott City has the oldest surviving train station in America. With a population of just over 70,000, Ellicott City is more of a town than a city. Located on the Patapsco River, the town has cute shops, murals, and cafes, making it a perfect half-day trip from Baltimore or Washington, DC.

This post contains affiliate links.

How to get to Ellicott City

You need to drive to get to Ellicott City. It is about an hour from DC with no traffic and 20 minutes from Baltimore. Unfortunately, there are no good public transit routes. I suggest you rent a car or use something like ZipCar, which is popular in both DC and Baltimore.

There is street parking along all the roads and some restaurants have their own parking lots. I’ve found parking easily on Maryland Avenue, across from the B&O Station Museum several times.

Things to do in Ellicott City

Walk up Main Street

Walk up and down Main Street and wander into the quirky shops.

Take Pics of the Street Art

Stop to see the town’s street art with renditions of historic town.

Baltimore & Ohio Ellicott City Station Museum

Visit the free museum to take a look at the old station and railroad cars. The most iconic car is the red caboose at the end of the museum. You can see this through the museum railings too. The station was built in 1831 and was the first stop of the B&O line out of Baltimore.

Check out the Log Cabin

Though not on Google Maps (why not? IDK), one of the old log cabins from the founding days of Ellicott City is located at the end of Main Street. Keep walking up as you’re puttering and you’ll see it. Nearby you’ll see a sign for the National Road—the “first great commercial and travel link from Baltimore to the West.” On your way back down Main Street, walk up Old Columbia Pike as well.

You’ll also pass the cute firehouse on your way up.

Patapsco River

Right as you enter the town, stop to see Oella Waterfront Park. “Park” is pushing its limits here. It is more like a small garden with a bench and access to the river for fishing… There is a plaque with some descriptions of the local flora. It’s also a haven for local butterflies, so keep an eye open!

Where to Eat in Ellicott City

All the cafes and restaurants look cute and smell great as you pass by. I’ve listed some that stood out to me, but I don’t think you can go wrong!

Old Mill Café— Coffee, pastries, and sweet & savory crepes are here. You can get take-out and sit on the benches by the river.

The Trolley Stop— This American fare restaurant is a former tavern and trolley stop.

Manor Hill Tavern & Beer Garden— A great pizza spot and brewery.         

Little Market Café— Stop for cute cafe vibes.

La Palapa Grill and Cantina— Mexican restaurant with generous servings.

Ellicott Distilling Co.— Get a drink here!

When to Visit Ellicott City

I think Ellicott City is great to visit year-round, except in the rain. There is a lot of walking in and out of shops, restaurants, and museums so that could deter your visit. That said, everything is close together so if you have the right rain gear then you won’t be as grumpy. I am like a cat and hate the rain so I’d opt for the Baltimore Visionary Museum or one of the DC Smithsonian museums if you’re around the area and want something to do instead.

Where to Stay in Ellicott City

Although there are not a lot of hotel options in Ellicott City, there are two lovely Vrbo accommodations. The first is absolutely breathtaking and best suited for a group family or friends getaway (or event!). The Inn at Mt Ida has 4 bedrooms and can fit 8 adults. There is a chef on-site and the 200-year-old manor house is stunning. This cozy granite home sleeps four and is an easy walk from Old Ellicott City.