College Park

Old Town, College Park Neighborhood

Old Town offers convenient access to multiple transportation options including a nearby rapid transit station connected to a major commuter rail line. The neighborhood features flat terrain and a solid bicycling infrastructure, making cycling trips practical and enjoyable. Local amenities such as supermarkets, restaurants, and cafes are located close to residences, providing comfortable convenience for daily needs. The area benefits from well-distributed green spaces in adjacent neighborhoods, providing opportunities to experience nature and outdoor recreational options. Housing options include a mix of large and smaller apartment buildings as well as single detached homes, suited for a variety of preferences. Parking is accessible and convenient throughout the neighborhood.

Old Town offers a broad selection of green spaces to enjoy, despite its sometimes busy ambience. It is easy to access public green spaces in the neighborhood since there are approximately 20 of them nearby for residents to explore. Finally, thanks to the presence of relatively few pedestrians, this area is relatively quiet, although those who are closer to the airport (College Park) may experience higher levels of noise.

Highlights of Old Town

Parks, schools, dining, and what makes this neighborhood special

🎓 University of Maryland College Park Campus

Bordering Old Town to the west, the UMD campus is a defining feature, offering residents beautiful walking trails, open green spaces like McKeldin Mall, access to sporting events, and a vibrant college-town atmosphere just steps from their door.

🍕 Route 1 Dining Strip

The bustling Baltimore Avenue (Route 1) corridor in Old Town features beloved spots like Marathon Deli, Bagel Place of College Park, and Board and Brew, attracting students and locals alike for casual bites and late-night eats within walking distance.

🏫 Paint Branch Elementary School

Located on College Avenue, Paint Branch Elementary serves Old Town families and supports a tight-knit community feel, frequently collaborating with local organizations and hosting events for neighborhood kids.

🏞️ Calvert Park

Situated on Calvert Road, Calvert Park offers a leafy retreat for Old Town residents with its playground, basketball courts, picnic space, and shaded paths, making it a favorite for outdoor relaxation and neighborhood gatherings.

🚲 Trolley Trail

The College Park Trolley Trail runs parallel to Rhode Island Avenue and connects Old Town to nearby neighborhoods, providing safe, scenic routes for biking, jogging, and walking while celebrating the historical trolley line that once served the area.

Old Town

This September in Old Town

Things to do, events, and what's happening this month

September 2, 2026

UMD Farmers Market (Fall Season Opening)

Tawes Plaza, University of Maryland • 11:00 AM–3:00 PM

A weekly farmers market launching the fall season on campus just steps from Old Town—perfect for grabbing local produce, supporting regional vendors, and connecting with the college community.

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September 18, 2026

Bailamos! – Let’s Dance!

Duvall Field, College Park • 6:00 PM–9:00 PM

A vibrant Hispanic Heritage Month street festival right in College Park offering live music, dancing, food, kids’ crafts, and community connections close to home.

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September 9, 2026

NextNOW Fest at Farmers Market

Tawes Plaza, University of Maryland • 11:00 AM

A creative lunchtime arts performance festival at the UMD farmers market—great for residents interested in innovative, accessible art experiences near Old Town.

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September 25–27, 2026

UMD Family Weekend 2026

University of Maryland Campus

A warm, community-oriented weekend celebrating families and university life—an ideal chance for local Old Town residents to join campus activities and support students.

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September 23, 2026

Jazz Jams at Busboys and Poets

Busboys and Poets (College Park or nearby) • 7:30 PM–9:30 PM

An engaging live jazz jam session featuring local and visiting musicians—an appealing evening outing for music lovers living in or near Old Town.

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From the Neighborhood

Stories, updates, and things to know in Old Town

Know Your Neighborhood

Local characteristics and demographics for Old Town

Neighborhood Characteristics

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Demographics

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