Greenbelt(United States) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

For first-time visitors, staying in the Greenbelt Metro area is ideal—close to the Greenbelt Metro Station, which offers quick access to Washington, D.C. and major attractions like the National Mall and Smithsonian museums. The Hyatt House Washington, D.C. - Greenbelt provides a comfortable, modern stay with free breakfast and Wi-Fi, perfect for families or business travelers.

Another top choice is the Hampton Inn & Suites Greenbelt, located near Greenbelt Park and University of Maryland, offering spacious rooms and a complimentary hot breakfast. Both hotels are within walking distance of local restaurants, shops, and the Greenbelt Cultural Arts Center, making them excellent bases for exploring both suburban charm and urban excitement.

The Holiday Inn Express Greenbelt is the best option for guests seeking easy access to the Smithsonian museums in Washington, D.C. Located just 10 miles from downtown D.C., it’s within a 20-minute drive of the National Mall and major Smithsonian sites like the National Air and Space Museum and National Museum of American History.

The hotel features a free breakfast, indoor pool, and complimentary Wi-Fi. For added convenience, it’s near the Greenbelt Metro Station, providing direct rail access to D.C. in under 30 minutes. Another excellent alternative is the Hampton Inn & Suites Greenbelt, known for its family-friendly rooms and proximity to the University of Maryland campus and Greenbelt Park.

Stay at the Greenbelt Cultural Arts Center Guesthouse (conceptual) for immersive cultural experiences in Greenbelt. This unique lodging, located in the Greenbelt Historic District, reflects the city’s original 1930s planned community design—one of America’s first "green" towns.

Guests can participate in guided tours of the National Historic Landmark district, attend local art exhibitions hosted by the Greenbelt Arts Center, and join community workshops on sustainable living. Many hotels in the area also partner with the University of Maryland to offer lectures on urban planning and social innovation.

Visit during the annual Greenbelt Heritage Festival, where you’ll enjoy live music, historical reenactments, and local cuisine—perfect for experiencing the town’s legacy as a model of cooperative urban development.

For a peaceful and quiet stay, choose West Greenbelt, especially near Cockeod Park and Branch Brook. This area is surrounded by trees, has minimal traffic, and offers a serene atmosphere perfect for relaxation.

The Courtyard by Marriott Greenbelt features rooms facing a landscaped courtyard with natural sound buffers, while the Hilton Garden Inn Greenbelt offers soundproofed rooms and quieter floors away from main entrances. Both are within a 10-minute walk to dining and shopping in the Greenbelt Town Center, balancing tranquility with convenience.

Additionally, several boutique lodges in the historic district provide vintage charm and low foot traffic, ideal for travelers seeking a calm retreat amidst nature.

In Greenbelt, be sure to try:

• Baltimore-style crab cakes at Taverna Greek Restaurant or Lion's Head Café, made with fresh local blue crabs—crispy outside, tender inside.

• Maryland-style collard greens with smoked pork, served at Soul Food Kitchen, a must-try Southern comfort dish.

• Fresh produce and artisanal jams at the Greenbelt Farmers Market, open every Saturday morning.

• Local craft beer at Greenbelt Brewing Company, paired with house-made sandwiches using regional ingredients.

Stay at Holiday Inn Express Greenbelt, which offers a breakfast featuring locally sourced eggs, bread, and fruit. Don’t miss the annual Greenbelt Food Festival in summer, showcasing culinary highlights from across Maryland.

Must-visit landmarks in Greenbelt include:

• Greenbelt Historic District: A National Historic Landmark, one of America’s first planned communities, featuring 1930s-era brick homes and tree-lined boulevards.

• National Museum of Science and Technology: Located near the University of Maryland, showcasing cutting-edge innovations and interactive exhibits.

• Cockeod Park: Over 100 acres of green space with walking trails, a lake, playgrounds, and picnic areas—ideal for outdoor relaxation.

• Greenbelt Cultural Arts Center: Hosts live theater, concerts, art exhibitions, and community events year-round.

• Maryland State House (Capitol Hill): Though not in Greenbelt itself, this historic building represents state governance and is accessible via short commute.

Plan a half-day itinerary starting at the Historic District, walking through Cockeod Park, then visiting the museum and arts center to fully appreciate Greenbelt’s legacy in urban planning and culture.