Located in Owen Brown Village, this man-made lake provides a perfect respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. Lake Elkhorn was built in 1974 by the Columbia Association and measures 15 feet to the bed at its deepest point. A two-mile path stretches around the water, and the surrounding park is a great place to enjoy a variety of recreational activities. The well-kept lawn off of the main parking area has a quaint gazebo and pavilion for picnics and other activities, and there is a playground for children as well. The biggest draw is the path, which draws runners and bicyclists in significant numbers. Some complain that the footpath is a little too narrow for the amount of traffic it gets, so be cautious. The lake forbids swimming and boating. This is a charming and idyllic public park that is a great place to bring your family to enjoy a relaxing summer afternoon.

Lake Elkhorn Park
7200 Dockside Lane
Columbia, MD 21046
(410) 715-3161
http://www.yelp.com/biz/lake-elkhorn-park-columbia

The Ale House Columbia is a great spot to enjoy a casual dinner, relax with friends over drinks, and watch the game on one of the 30 big screen TVs. With a spacious outdoor patio and three indoor bars, there is room for everyone. Start with a drink from the bar. Over 50 different types of beers are available, including local, global, and house brand beers. Cocktails and wine are also available. The menu is full of modern American fare like Burgers, Salads, Flatbreads, and Tacos. Indulge in some comfort food like the Mac & Cheese, Braised Short Ribs, and Honey Sriracha Wings. Check out the regularly held events like beer tastings, happy hour, and live music. Open for lunch and dinner every day.

The Ale House Columbia
6480 Dobbin Center Way
Columbia, MD 21045
(443) 546-3640
http://www.yelp.com/biz/the-ale-house-columbia-columbia

The 50-acre reservoir known as Centennial Lake is the keystone of this amazing park that draws visitors from all over Maryland to play, relax, and enjoy the great outdoors. The best way to get a handle on the bounty of activities offered here is to take the 2.4 mile loop walk around the gorgeous lake. While there, you’ll find a boat rental outlet so you can take to the water, but be aware that there is no swimming allowed in Centennial Lake. Anglers flock to the park to cast for trout, bass, and other fish that the state stocks in the reservoir. The wetland ecosystem surrounding the lake makes it a great place for birdwatching, with majestic herons, egrets, kingfishers, and more calling it home. The park also has manicured picnic areas, playfields, and more. During the summer, the Parks Department stages a number of concerts at Centennial Park that draw large crowds.

Centennial Park
10000 Route 108
Columbia, MD 21045
http://www.yelp.com/biz/centennial-park-columbia