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Outdoor Adventures

🧗 Outdoor Adventures for Kids in Columbia, MD

7 hiking, farms, nature centers, and outdoor adventure spots rated and reviewed by families.

Activities & Venues in Columbia

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Benjamin Banneker Historical Park and Museum park in Catonsville, MD🎨 Museum
Photo: Angélica Montoya Ávila
4.7(402)$6 mi · Catonsville

Benjamin Banneker Historical Park and Museum offers a unique combination of history, science, and outdoor exploration that captivates young minds. Kids can learn about the remarkable achievements of Benjamin Banneker,a self-taught African American astronomer, mathematician, and inventor,through interactive exhibits, then burn off energy on scenic nature trails that wind through the 142-acre park.

🕑 2-3 hours
Clark's Elioak Farm farm in Baltimore, MD🌾 Farm
Photo: Clark's Elioak Farm
4.5(2,591)$2 mi away

Clark's Elioak Farm is a beloved Baltimore-area working farm that combines classic farm activities with whimsical storybook magic. Kids can pet friendly farm animals, take pony and hayride tours, explore the enchanted forest filled with rescued storybook characters from the old Enchanted Forest theme park, and enjoy seasonal festivities like pumpkin picking in fall.

🕑 2-4 hours
One Rock Farmacy food store in Ellicott City, MD🌾 Farm
Photo: David Pearman
5.0(8)$5 mi · Ellicott City

One Rock Farmacy offers a delightful agritourism experience where kids can pick their own fresh berries straight from the vine in a beautiful pastoral setting. This working farm combines hands-on fruit picking with educational agricultural experiences, giving children a meaningful connection to where their food comes from while enjoying the outdoors.

🕑 1.5-2 hours
Clark's Farm (produce at Clark’s Elioak Farm) food store in Ellicott City, MD🌾 Farm
Photo: Clark's Farm (produce at Clark’s Elioak Farm)
4.5(31)$$2 mi · Ellicott City

Clark's Elioak Farm is a beloved working farm that combines agricultural charm with whimsical storybook magic. Kids can interact with farm animals in the petting zoo, enjoy pony rides and hayrides, and explore a unique playground featuring original sculptures from Maryland's historic Enchanted Forest theme park, including beloved characters and structures that spark imagination.

🕑 2-4 hours
🧗 Adventure
$$6 mi · Ellicott City

Terrapin Adventures is an exhilarating aerial adventure park in Ellicott City that challenges older kids and teens to conquer zip lines, navigate rope courses high in the trees, and tackle climbing obstacles. Perfect for active families seeking an adrenaline-pumping outdoor experience, this park offers a safe yet thrilling environment where kids can push their boundaries, build confidence, and create unforgettable memories soaring through the treetops.

🕑 3-4 hours including check-in, safety training, and completing 1-2 courses
Trolley Line #9 route in Ellicott City, MD🧗 Adventure
Photo: Gerald Falo
Free6 mi · Ellicott City

Trolley Line #9 offers families a scenic, paved trail through the beautiful Patapsco Valley that's perfect for cyclists of all skill levels, stroller-pushing parents, and little nature explorers. This multi-use path provides a safe, car-free environment where kids can bike independently while parents enjoy the area's natural beauty and historic charm.

🕑 1.5-3 hours depending on how far your family rides and how many nature observation stops you make
BWI Trail route in Glen Burnie, MD🧗 Adventure
Photo: PEANUT
Free12 mi · Glen Burnie

The BWI Trail offers families a scenic 12.5-mile paved loop around Baltimore-Washington International Airport that's perfect for bike rides, scooter adventures, and stroller walks. Kids love watching planes take off and land overhead while getting outdoor exercise, making it an exciting alternative to typical neighborhood walks or park paths.

🕑 1-3 hours depending on distance covered and stops

Also in DC–Baltimore