Lake Kittamaqundi in Columbia, MD. The Important Information.

Lake Kittamaqundi, sometimes called Lake Kitt, is a 27-acre man-made lake positioned within the coronary heart of Columbia, MD. This stunning lake has been a centerpiece of Columbia for the reason that group was established in 1967. On this definitive information, we’ll present all the things you could know to completely benefit from the historical past, recreation, eating, and pure magnificence that Lake Kittamaqundi affords.

Introduction

Lake Kittamaqundi was dug out as a part of the preliminary growth of Columbia by the Rouse Firm. The identify “Kittamaqundi” comes from the Piscataway language and means “assembly place.” The lake was designed to function a central gathering place for Columbia residents. Right this moment, Lake Kittamaqundi stays a preferred spot for walks, fishing, and group occasions.

Traditionally, Lake Kittamaqundi hosted a number of iconic occasions in Columbia, together with the Columbia Metropolis Honest and the Wine within the Woods Pageant. Though these main festivals have moved areas, the lake stays an anchoring level for civic life in Columbia.

Lake Kittamaqundi Fishing

Lake Kittamaqundi is stocked yearly by the Maryland Division of Pure Assets with a number of fish species. Largemouth bass, catfish, sunfish, and trout can all be discovered within the lake.

A Maryland freshwater fishing license is required for anybody 16 years or older to fish on Lake Kittamaqundi. Licenses will be obtained via the DNR web site or at sort out retailers round Columbia. There’s a each day creel restrict of two trout per particular person.

The dock space close to the lakefront plaza is a well-liked fishing spot. Anglers even have success fishing from small boats and kayaks in the primary a part of the lake. Early mornings and evenings are typically the perfect instances to catch fish. Frequent baits and lures embrace worms, minnows, spinners, and crankbaits.

Lake Kittamaqundi Distance

Lake Kittamaqundi is conveniently positioned close to each Baltimore and Washington DC. It sits roughly 36 miles northeast of Washington DC and 10 miles southwest of Baltimore.

The lake is roughly 45 minutes from BWI Airport, 60 minutes from Reagan Nationwide Airport, and 90 minutes from Dulles Worldwide Airport. Additionally it is about 110 miles from Philadelphia.

Public transportation could make accessing Lake Kittamaqundi straightforward and inexpensive. The closest Maryland Transit Administration station is the Columbia City Middle cease, only a brief stroll from the lakefront.

Lake Kittamaqundi Instructions

To achieve Lake Kittamaqundi by automobile, enter these addresses into your GPS:

10275 Wincopin Cir, Columbia, MD 21044

The lake is located beside the Columbia Lakefront neighborhood and throughout the road from The Mall in Columbia. Entry is offered from Wincopin Circle or from the parking heaps alongside Little Patuxent Parkway.

Lake Kittamaqundi Occasions

Whereas large-scale festivals have moved away from Lake Kittamaqundi, it stays an exquisite spot for group happenings. Some annual occasions hosted right here embrace:

• A Fourth of July celebration with dwell music and fireworks
• Fall and winter vacation festivals
• Concert events on the Merriweather Put up Pavilion amphitheater

Casual occasions like yoga meetups, music performances, and film nights additionally happen on the lake amphitheater and dock commonly all through hotter months.

Lake Kittamaqundi Eating places

Many glorious eating choices are inside strolling distance of Lake Kittamaqundi, good for meals earlier than or after you benefit from the lake. Some prime eating places embrace:

• Lak – upscale new American delicacies positioned proper on the lake
• Cured – artisanal charcuterie, cheeses, and sandwiches
• The Melting Pot – fondue restaurant with distinctive eating expertise
• Bon Fresco – informal cafe with wholesome Mediterranean fare
• Kismet Cafe & Tradition – world fusion delicacies and music venue
• Manor Hill Brewing – standard brewpub with craft beers and pub grub

With choices like sushi, ramen, Cuban, Indian, and extra, there’s various delicacies to go well with any style across the lake.

Lake Kittamaqundi Path

A scenic 2.9 mile strolling path encircles Lake Kittamaqundi. This straightforward, paved path affords stunning views of the lake and an opportunity to identify native wildlife. Interpretive indicators describe the historical past, ecology, and geology of the lake space.

The loop path connects to the downtown Columbia lakefront neighborhood on the south aspect. Benches are offered alongside the trail, making it a great stroll for individuals of all ages and health ranges.

Lake Kittamaqundi Issues to Do

There are infinite choices for enjoyable at Lake Kittamaqundi, together with:

• Fishing from the dock
• Paddling or rowing on the water
• Circling the lake on the strolling path
• Birdwatching for city waterfowl
• Taking part in within the interactive fountain as a child
• Attending a pageant or group occasion
• Grabbing dinner and a drink at a lakeside restaurant
• Watching the sundown over the lake
• Staying at The Merriweather Lakehouse lodge positioned proper on the lake

The gorgeous surroundings and central location of Lake Kittamaqundi make it a go-to spot year-round.

Lake Kittamaqundi The place to Keep

Columbia delivers quite a lot of lodging choices close to Lake Kittamaqundi, equivalent to:

• The Merriweather Lakehouse – a boutique lodge positioned proper on Lake Kittamaqundi that provides birding, eating, and live performance packages
• Sheraton Columbia Lodge – upscale lodge adjoining to the lake
• Residence Inn Columbia – all-suite prolonged keep lodge
• Homewood Suites by Hilton Columbia – spacious suite lodging
• Trip leases via Airbnb and VRBO – residences and homes for lease close by

Lodges and trip leases across the Columbia Mall or Little Patuxent Parkway supply comfort to Lake Kittamaqundi inside a 5-15 minute stroll or very brief drive.

Lake Kittamaqundi Birding

As an city oasis, Lake Kittamaqundi attracts ample hen life. Some species to look at for across the lakeshore embrace:

• Mallards, geese, and swans
• Nice blue herons
• Ospreys
• Bald eagles
• Belted kingfishers
• Cormorants

The very best vantage factors for birdwatching are from the dock space or alongside the path on the west shoreline. Early mornings are typically probably the most lively instances to look at birds fishing and feeding. The Merriweather Lakehouse affords particular birding packages for avid birdwatchers.

Conclusion

For over 50 years, Lake Kittamaqundi has served as a lovely centerpiece of Columbia, MD. With a lot historical past, recreation, eating, and group significance, it’s straightforward to see why locals lovingly name it “Lake Kitt.” This information offers an summary of the perfect Lake Kittamaqundi has to supply guests and residents. Plan a day having fun with the pure magnificence and ample actions on the lake quickly!