The best things to do in Howard County

Skip the long drive, this neighborhood mini waterpark packs a fun slide and a splash pad that keep the kids busy while you actually finish a chapter of your book. Swansfield Mini WaterPark is the quick, close-to-home cool-down your weekday brain will thank you for.

From the Columbia newsletter, August 5, 2026

Merriweather Post Pavilion has that sweet lawn and bandshell combo locals love, plus a calendar stacking everything from "Weird Al" with Puddles Pity Party to Thomas Rhett, Zac Brown Band, and All Things Go Music Festival. Grab a blanket, rally a friend, and let your week sound better.

From the Columbia newsletter, August 8, 2026

Par-72 course amid mature trees & a driving range, a pro shop & a clubhouse with a restaurant/bar.

Relaxed, family-run golf simulator center featuring moving floors, a bar and lessons.

Country club offering golf and other activities, plus dining, event, and wedding facilities.

Casual community pool with diving boards, a twisty slide, and a splash pad.

Relaxed resort featuring 36 holes of championship golf, two 18-hole courses and a pro shop.

Kid-friendly restaurant and entertainment complex featuring pizza, arcade games and bowling, plus laser tag.

Rolling hills, trees, and streams form the backdrop at this public course with a driving range.

Monster-themed mini-golf chain featuring a glow-in-the-dark indoor course, plus arcade games & a DJ.

Simple, modern outpost offering a variety of themed escape rooms with imaginative puzzles for teams.

Chain of indoor trampoline parks featuring freestyle bouncing, dodgeball, fitness programs & more.

Fairway Hills Golf Club is your local wooded, pay and play course, no membership needed and zero pretense. Groove it on the driving range, stock up in the pro shop, play 18 through the trees, then debrief at the clubhouse.

From the Columbia newsletter, August 19, 2026