Written By Malcolm Lawson
Located in Maryland almost midway between Baltimore and Washington D.C. is Fort Meade — a center for a range of military services and federal agencies in intelligence, information, and cyber security. Among others, the installation is home to the Defense Information School, the National Security Agency, and the United States Cyber Command. More than 54,000 military personnel and civilians work at the base and there are even more military retirees living in the vicinity.
About Fort Meade Base
Fort Meade has a variety of amenities on base, including two barber shops, a post office, a library, and a large number of hotels. Fort Meade Transportation Office can help with PCS moves and the Demps Visitor Control Center can provide support with temporary vehicle passes and information.
Something unique about Fort Meade is there are schools on the base — from preschool to high school. The high school offers IB classes and specialized military programs, including Jr ROTC.
Things to Do Near Ft. Meade
There’s plenty to do around Fort Meade, whatever your interests.
Some of the biggest attractions are the museums. These include Fort Meade Museum, which is on post. It has a collection of military items from throughout history. Near the NSA headquarters, you’ll find the National Cryptologic Museum, which covers the history of cryptology, from technology and methods to the people who created them.
There are also a number of historic sites in the area. One of the earliest is Katchef Archeological Site, which has campsites that date back to the Paleo-Indian Clovis period. For more recent history, you can visit historic mansions like White’s Hall and Linthicum Walks.
There are also opportunities to play a range of sports near Fort Meade, including baseball, golf, and swimming at many of the beaches. Finally, there are plenty of activities for families, such as go karts, bowling, and escape rooms.
Where To Live Near Ft. Meade?
The majority of service members who live off base reside in four communities: Columbia, Pasadena, Crofton, and Odenton.
Columbia
With a population of more than 100,000, Columbia is the largest city in the area. It is particularly popular with young residents and families for its large number of coffee shops and parks. It also has several shopping centers. The main shopping center is The Mall, which has more than 200 stores and restaurants as well as a multiplex movie theater.
Pasadena
If you’re looking for more of a rural atmosphere, you may prefer Pasadena. Located just south of Baltimore and home to just 24,000 people, it feels like a suburb of the city. It has a number of parks and beaches on the Chesapeake Bay, making it a top choice if you want to spend your free time out on the water — boating, swimming, or fishing. The rest of the community is mostly residential, although there are three shopping centers and plenty of restaurants.
Read my full article on Living In Pasadena
Crofton
Slightly larger than Pasadena (with 27,000 residents) is Crofton. It is best known for the Crofton Parkway loop, which used to form the gated community. Residents today use the loop as a track for biking and running and it’s the site of several yearly parades. Other trails throughout the community are also perfect for walking and jogging. All this makes Crofton a top choice for anyone with an active lifestyle.
Read my full article on Living In Crofton
Odenton
Finally, there’s Odenton. With 37,000 residents, it’s slightly larger than both Pasadena and Crofton. Like the other communities, there are plenty of green spaces, the most important to which is Patuxent Research Refuge. Another highlight is the Kettler Capitals Iceplex, which is the former rink of the Washington Capitals. Lastly, there are plenty of opportunities for shopping and easy access to several colleges and universities.
If you are PCSing to Fort Meade, you’ll need a real estate agent who understands your requirements. Our team knows the area well and can help you find the ideal property for your family. Contact us for support finding a home in Columbia, Pasadena, Odenton, Crofton, or another community near Fort Meade.
Read my full article on Living In Odenton
