Lake Kittamaqundi in Columbia, MD. The Important Information.

Lake Kittamaqundi, sometimes called Lake Kitt, is a 27-acre man-made lake situated within the coronary heart of Columbia, MD. This stunning lake has been a centerpiece of Columbia because the neighborhood was established in 1967. On this definitive information, we’ll present every little thing you should know to completely benefit from the historical past, recreation, eating, and pure magnificence that Lake Kittamaqundi gives.

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. At this time, Lake Kittamaqundi stays a well-liked spot for walks, fishing, and neighborhood 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 Sources 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 might be obtained via the DNR web site or at sort out outlets round Columbia. There’s a every day creel restrict of two trout per individual.

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 one of the best occasions to catch fish. Frequent baits and lures embody worms, minnows, spinners, and crankbaits.

Lake Kittamaqundi Distance

Lake Kittamaqundi is conveniently situated 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. It’s also about 110 miles from Philadelphia.

Public transportation could make accessing Lake Kittamaqundi simple and reasonably priced. 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 on the market 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 a beautiful spot for neighborhood happenings. Some annual occasions hosted right here embody:

• A Fourth of July celebration with reside music and fireworks
• Fall and winter vacation festivals
• Live shows 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 recurrently 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 high eating places embody:

• Lak – upscale new American delicacies situated 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 – in style brewpub with craft beers and pub grub

With choices like sushi, ramen, Cuban, Indian, and extra, there may be numerous delicacies to swimsuit any style across the lake.

Lake Kittamaqundi Path

A scenic 2.9 mile strolling path encircles Lake Kittamaqundi. This simple, paved path gives 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 facet. Benches are offered alongside the trail, making it a perfect stroll for folks of all ages and health ranges.

Lake Kittamaqundi Issues to Do

There are countless 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
• Enjoying within the interactive fountain as a child
• Attending a competition or neighborhood occasion
• Grabbing dinner and a drink at a lakeside restaurant
• Watching the sundown over the lake
• Staying at The Merriweather Lakehouse resort situated 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 a wide range of lodging choices close to Lake Kittamaqundi, akin to:

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

Resorts 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 considerable chicken life. Some species to look at for across the lakeshore embody:

• 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 essentially the most energetic occasions to watch birds fishing and feeding. The Merriweather Lakehouse gives particular birding packages for avid birdwatchers.

Conclusion

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