If you’re house hunting in the Washington, D.C. area, you’re in for a pleasant surprise—with four towns in neighboring suburban Maryland you’d be proud to call home. You can delight in the comforts of a less crowded locale and still enjoy all that the District of Columbia has to offer within 25 miles of our nation’s capital. Read on to learn why each of these towns should be added to your must-see list.
Silver Spring, Maryland
Directly north of D.C. by a mere 6 miles, Silver Spring offers unparalleled living so close to the city. Catch live theater at Silver Spring Stage or Round House Theatre—where you’ll enjoy seasoned performances and top-name shows. Or please your palate with a range of cuisine options among the many restaurants and cafés. From American to Middle Eastern and everything in between, enjoy seafood delicacies, casual coffee shops and scrumptious desserts within walking distance of the historic town center. Rock Creek Park passes along the west side of town, offering hiking and bicycling trails as well as picnic areas. Or kick back at one of the town’s movie houses or concert and music venues.
Olney, Maryland
A little farther north of Silver Spring, and about 20 miles from D.C., Olney boasts the best of small town charm with all the comforts of suburban living. In 2013, Money Magazine named Olney one of “America’s Best Places to Live.” Although largely a residential area, Olney maintains ties to its cultural past and old-time character while having grown into a modern community. The historic Olney Ale House, which has been welcoming guests for almost 100 years, is known as a true “Maryland tradition.” Enjoy a diverse array of professional productions at the Olney Theatre Center, from 20th century American classics to today’s new works. And, dining options—from gastropubs and bakeries to farm-to-fork and ethnic cuisine—will surely appeal to the entire family.
Waldorf, Maryland
If a scenic, quieter setting is more to your liking, you’ll love Waldorf in the northernmost part of beautiful Charles County. Although still relatively close to D.C.—about 25 miles southeast of the city and rapidly developing into an urbanized area, Waldorf contains an attractive forest, mostly with oak and pine trees, and features diverse wildlife in its ponds and streams. Civil War history abounds in the area. Visit the former home of Dr. Samuel A. Mudd, the country doctor who set the broken leg of President Lincoln’s assassin, John Wilkes Booth, after he fled Ford’s Theater on that infamous night of April 14, 1865. Or, enjoy hours of fun when you bring the family to the Capital Clubhouse Recreation Center with its ice arena, rock wall and various sports courts.
Frederick, Maryland
Looking for town with history, great shopping and a charming downtown? Look no further than Frederick, Maryland. This thriving community offers a walkable downtown area lined with independently owned shops, many housed in historic buildings harkening back to colonial times. From antiques to boutiques, there’s truly something for everyone. Dining is also at a premium. Fuel up at Beans & Bagels for a quick bite in the morning and end the day at Firestone’s Culinary Tavern for a cheese plate and seared scallops.
Thinking about buying a new home in one of these historic D.C. suburbs? If so, you have lots of options! Check out these exceptional Richmond American communities:
Silver Spring, Maryland
Cloverly Forest
Up to 6 bedrooms
Price coming soon!
Olney, Maryland
Olney Springs
Up to 7 bedrooms
From the low $600s
Waldorf, Maryland
Leighland Meadows [SOLD OUT]
Up to 5 bedrooms
From the mid $300s
Frederick, Maryland
Eastchurch (pictured above)
Up to 7 bedrooms
From the low $400s