The holiday season is here, and Howard County, Maryland, invites you to make this your home for the holidays.
Imagine starting your morning with a steaming cup of coffee as snowflakes fall outside your hotel window, spending your afternoons exploring twinkling Main Streets and dazzling light displays, and ending your evenings by the fire.
Located between Baltimore MD and Washington, D.C. Howard County is close enough for a quick trip yet far enough to feel like an escape. If you’re visiting from Philadelphia or New York, Howard County is your key to a simple weekend getaway with extra holiday sparkle.
With so many festive ways to celebrate, shop, and dine, booking an overnight stay is the best way to make the most of the winter season. Howard County’s welcoming stays and small-town charm make the holidays feel just right. After a day of holiday celebrations, you can delight in the cozy retreats of local hotels that will make you feel right at home - only better!
Why Stay Overnight in Howard County, Maryland
Whether you’re visiting family or craving a quick getaway somewhere special for the holidays, our local hotels offer all comforts of home - and more! Find fireplace lounges and festive décor all with easy access to a variety of holiday events and celebrations. Plus you’ll be able to discover a variety of international flavors at some of the best dining options in Maryland!
With everything from boutique inns to full-service resorts, it’s easy to turn your November or December visit into a true retreat. Hotels in Howard County offer amenities to suit every traveler, along with accessible accommodations and thoughtful touches that make every guest feel welcome.
You’ll find festive spirit in every moment of your stay, and a cozy place to return to when the day winds down. No matter where you stay, you’ll be close to the season’s best lights, shopping, and dining.
Holiday Lights at the Columbia Lakefront - Photo credit: Columbia Association
Things to Do During Your Holiday Stay
A holiday visit to Howard County is sure to be filled with magical moments thanks to the incredible celebrations and festive sights throughout the region. Each corner of the county celebrates the season in its own special way!
Columbia, Maryland:
In Columbia, Maryland, you’re always sure to find some sparkle. Take a drive or walk through the Merriweather Symphony of Lights, where you’ll enjoy incredible light displays and holiday magic. Around the Columbia Lakefront, festive lights reflect off the water, setting the scene for romantic dinners, family strolls, and cozy evenings out.
Just steps away, the Merriweather District comes alive with music, food, and winter fun. Lace up your skates at the Color Burst Park Ice Rink for merry memory making, then warm up with a cup of cocoa from a local café or dinner at one of the district’s fantastic restaurants like Smashing Grapes, Clove & Cardamom, Medium Rare, or Blackwall Barn & Lodge.
B&O Ellicott City Station Museum Train Garden
Historic Ellicott City, Maryland:
From the top of Main Street to the legendary Patapsco River, Historic Ellicott City glows with holiday charm and bright lights all season! Stroll along Main Street to explore shops and restaurants decorated for a season of celebration.
Throughout the season you can find festive events, shops and restaurants with holiday flair, and fantastic local shopping. Don’t miss a stop to the B&O Ellicott City Station Museum, America’s oldest Railroad station, where the annual train garden display is available throughout the winter.
Savage, Maryland:
During the holidays, Savage comes alive with an extra special festive spirit! See it for yourself at the annual Yuletide Festival at Savage Mill featuring decorations, music, meet and greets with Santa, and fantastic holiday shopping. Before you go, take a stroll to the Bollman Truss Bridge to capture photos under its glowing holiday lights.
Find more events and activities on the Visit Howard County events calendar!
Holiday Hotel Highlights
Turf Valley Resort is an incredible option for a true holiday escape. Enjoy festive rooms, a handmade holiday and gift market, and even live Christmas concerts during the season. Your little ones will love reservations for Brunch with Santa at Alexandra’s American Fusion restaurant. Between celebrations, treat yourself to the gift of relaxation with a spa treatment at The Spa at Turf Valley, where seasonal services make for a perfect winter indulgence.
Turf Valley Resort Christmas Suite
Make sure you’re close to all the festivities in Downtown Columbia with a stay at the elegant Merriweather Lakehouse Hotel. The property has stunning rooms overlooking Lake Kittamaqundi, where twinkling holiday lights set the mood for evening walks or romantic dinners nearby. With its modern design, scenic views, and proximity to the Symphony of Lights and Merriweather District, this is the perfect base for a memorable holiday stay.
For those who love familiar comforts and a touch of luxury, the DoubleTree by Hilton Columbia offers a warm welcome, and a warm DoubleTree cookie to help you feel at home! Complete with festive décor, an indoor pool, and a cozy lounge for unwinding after a day of exploring. Centrally located, it’s easy to reach Ellicott City’s holiday charm or Columbia’s light displays from the hotel, which offers a convenient shuttle service for guests.
Find relaxing evenings and top tier amenities at the welcoming Residence Inn Columbia. Whether you curl up with a book around the fire, or enjoy shopping nearby at The Mall in Columbia, your holiday getaway will be complete with a stay here that feels just like home.
Book a Holiday Getaway today!
Howard County gives you that space to slow down and actually enjoy it all. Take in the lights, the food, and the laughter while making real memories this season.
No matter which local accommodations you choose, you’re sure to wake up in perfect peace to enjoy the best memory making moments of the year in Howard County.
