Columbia City Guide

Food options are diverse with many international cuisines and good vegetarian/vegan options. Late-night places are limited to some diners and fast-food.

Nightlife is relaxed with bars mainly inside restaurants and a few lounges. Live music happens but the scene is small.

Mix of chains and some quality local shops. Coffee culture is relaxed and community-focused.

Tipping is expected at restaurants, taxis, barbers, and housekeeping, usually 15-20%.

Local SIM cards from AT&T, Verizon, or T-Mobile are available with good coverage. eSIMs are supported. ID needed for post-paid plans; prepaid plans ask for basic info.

The city is well-maintained with regular waste service and clean streets.

Some 24-hour pharmacies and minimarts. Emergency rooms open all day, but limited food options at night.

Good selection, including international products at supermarkets like Giant Food, Safeway, Wegmans, and Whole Foods. Stores open early to late, most days including holidays.

Card payments work almost everywhere, but carrying some cash is useful for small vendors and tipping.

ATMs are common at banks like Bank of America and Wells Fargo, supermarkets, and convenience stores. Out-of-network fees typically range from $2.50 to $5 plus your bank's charges.

Good public schools under Howard County system with instruction primarily in English. International schools are rare locally but possible nearby.

Small and quiet. Few meetups and no co-living spaces. Some remote work spots exist.

Known for its parks, lakes, and pathways, with excellent access to green areas throughout town.

Safe, scenic running paths around lakes and through parks are popular.

Several gyms and fitness centers with varied classes and equipment.

Tennis courts are widely located across parks and clubs; some require reservations.

Padel courts are not common in Columbia.

Yoga studios offer varied styles with drop-in and memberships available.

Facilities for BJJ, Muay Thai, Boxing, Taekwondo, Karate, and Judo are available with mostly English-speaking instructors.

Ski resorts in Pennsylvania are 1.5-3 hours away, open December to March with rentals available.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing on lakes are popular in warmer months with rentals available.

Surfing requires a 2.5-3 hour drive to Atlantic Ocean beaches like Ocean City.

No local diving; no coastal access nearby.

High-quality care with English-speaking staff at places like Howard County General Hospital. Pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens have wide hours and drive-thru options.

Tap water is safe and meets all state and federal standards.

Lots of parks, playgrounds, pools, and kid-friendly dining. Attractions include Robinson Nature Center and Columbia Ice Rink.

Generally welcoming with strong legal protections and nearby pride events in Baltimore and D.C.

Pet-friendly with parks, vets, and many places that welcome pets. Policies vary by accommodation.