One of the best ways to get to know a state is through its visitor centers. Oftentimes these miniature museums offer a glimpse into the local history, culture, and ecosystems that cannot be obtained anywhere else. Fortunately, if you happen to find yourself in Howard County, Maryland, Robinson Nature Center is no exception. The nature center itself has a wealth of information on all kinds of topics, with interactive and extensive dioramas that replicate an entire forest frozen in time. Add to that the miles of trails and the pre-industrial ruins that can be found on the grounds and you’re sure to want to spend a day wandering here! Continue reading about the best visitor center in Maryland:

The Robinson Nature Center is located in the heart of Howard County. The center itself is a gorgeous and welcoming building that’s part history museum, part conservation center, and part park — a combo that I can guarantee will dazzle you when you cross the threshold.

One of the first exhibits I encountered at the center was this functioning replica of an 1800s mill. Milling was one of the first industries that drove Howard County’s first big population boom, and is an important part of the local history.

Right down the hall from the mill is the representation of the local ecosystem. You start by exploring the canopy of the trees …

… and make your way down to the forest floor, where you can learn all sorts of things about the animals who live here, from bears and raccoons down to snakes and insects.

There’s a fascinating look at how a beaver dam is constructed, and what the pooling rivers around them might hold beneath the surface.

One of the most stylistically fascinating sections of the center is the night walk, where you can explore the sounds and atmosphere of a typical Howard County evening from the perspective of the critters that live it.

There’s also a planetarium where you can watch regular presentations on outer space and stargaze during the autumn months!

After exploring the center building, I made my way to the trailhead and spent some time wandering beneath the sun-dappled leaves. There are miles of trails to choose from that crisscross the woods.

All along the paths, you’ll find these boxed-off ecological study areas, where local flora are allowed to grow undisturbed by animals or humans.

One of the trails will take you to the ruins of the old Simpsonville Mill, a remarkably well-preserved reminder of the heritage of Howard County. It’s built near a sandy riverbank beach, and it once harnessed the power of the river to turn the mill wheel.

There are tons of little waterways around, so don’t be afraid to wander a bit off-trail if you want to enjoy them!

Do you agree that this is the best visitor center in Maryland? Let us know! You can find everything you need to know regarding entry fees and upcoming events on the Robinson Nature Center’s website. And Columbia has some spectacular restaurants, so after working up an appetite with all this exploration be sure to check out all this small town has to offer!

If you’re planning on a day of exploration and hiking, be sure to consult our Ultimate Hiking Packing List before you head out on your adventure.