The Board and Brew
About
The Board and Brew is a welcoming board game cafe in College Park where families can enjoy quality time together over hundreds of games and delicious food. With a vast library ranging from classic favorites to modern strategy games, plus a knowledgeable staff to help you choose the perfect game for your crew, it's an ideal rainy day activity or alternative to screen time that gets the whole family engaged and laughing together.
Highlights
- ✓Extensive game library with hundreds of options from toddler-friendly to complex strategy games
- ✓Helpful staff who teach games and make recommendations based on your family's preferences
- ✓Full food and beverage menu so you can snack while playing
- ✓Comfortable seating and spacious tables designed for gameplay
- ✓Great alternative to screen time that encourages family interaction and problem-solving
Pro Tips
- 1.Ask the staff for game recommendations,they're incredibly helpful at matching games to your family's ages and interests, saving you browsing time
- 2.Visit during weekday afternoons for a quieter experience; weekends and evenings can get busy with college students and larger gaming groups
- 3.The cafe charges a small game library fee per person (kids often discounted), but you can play as many games as you want during your visit
- 4.Start with shorter games (20-30 minutes) to gauge your kids' attention span before committing to longer strategy games
- 5.Order food when you arrive,it takes time to prepare, and you'll want snacks ready when you start playing
Best Time to Visit
Weekday afternoons or weekend mornings are ideal for families with younger children, when the atmosphere is calmer and you'll have better access to staff help and table space. Avoid Friday and Saturday evenings when the college crowd fills the venue.
What to Know
There's a small game library fee per person (typically $5-10, with discounts for children) that allows unlimited game access during your visit. Street parking is available on Baltimore Avenue, and the cafe serves breakfast, brunch items, coffee, and light meals that appeal to kids.
Seasonal Notes
Perfect year-round indoor activity, especially valuable during hot Maryland summers and cold winters when outdoor play isn't ideal. A great rainy day backup plan for families visiting the nearby University of Maryland campus or exploring College Park.
More Activities Near College Park
College Park Woods
College Park Woods offers families an accessible introduction to nature exploration right in the heart of College Park. The informal trail system winds through peaceful woodlands, making it ideal for short hiking adventures with little ones who are still building their stamina. It's a wonderful spot to teach kids about local wildlife, collect leaves, and let them experience the joy of discovering nature at their own pace.
Ritchie Park Elementary School
Ritchie Park Elementary School's community playground offers a welcoming neighborhood spot for families seeking casual outdoor play in College Park. With classic playground equipment, basketball courts, and plenty of open green space, it's perfect for burning energy after school or on weekends while keeping things simple and close to home.
Paint Branch Trail
Paint Branch Trail offers families a safe, paved pathway perfect for introducing young cyclists to trail riding or enjoying leisurely nature walks without worrying about traffic. This scenic multi-use trail winds through wooded areas connecting several parks, making it ideal for families who want to combine outdoor exercise with nature exploration in a peaceful setting.
Outdoor Aquatic Center
This modern aquatic facility at the University of Maryland offers families a perfect blend of recreational swimming and fitness fun. With water features that delight younger children and game rooms to keep older kids entertained, it's an ideal spot for families looking to beat the heat or enjoy active indoor play year-round.