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Museum of Howard County History

4.8
·63 reviews·Ellicott City, United States

Explore Howard County's past in a historic former church, featuring engaging exhibits and popular ghost tours.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

First Friday lunchtimes

Engaging local history programs

CrowdMedium
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Wedding chapel sanctuary.

Museum of Howard County History

Best Time

First Friday lunchtimes

Engaging local history programs

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Howard County's past in a historic former church, featuring engaging exhibits and popular ghost tours.

4.8
(63 reviews)

"Top-notch 'First Friday' programs and spooky ghost tours make this historic venue a must-visit."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Attend a 'First Friday'

Don't miss the 'First Friday' lunch and learn sessions for insightful local history programs.

👻 Consider a Ghost Tour

Experience a spooky and informative ghost tour led by knowledgeable guides.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Howard County History Exhibits

Howard County History Exhibits

Explore the rich past of Howard County and Ellicott City, housed in a former church.

First Friday Lunch & Learn

First Friday Lunch & Learn

Engaging, informative sessions on local history hosted by the Howard County Historical Society.

Ghost Tours

Ghost Tours

Discover the spooky side of Ellicott City with informative and chilling paranormal tours.

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Planning Your Visit

Check for Special Events

The Museum of Howard County History hosts 'First Friday' lunch and learn sessions, often featuring top-notch programs relevant to local history. Check their schedule before visiting to make the most of your trip.

Plan for a Short Visit

This museum is on the smaller side, making it perfect for a focused visit rather than a full day commitment. Consider pairing it with the children's museum next door for a longer outing.

Best Times

When
First Friday lunchtimes
Why
Engaging local history programs
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Quieter exploration
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🎯 Attend a 'First Friday'

Don't miss the 'First Friday' lunch and learn sessions for insightful local history programs. Reddit

👻 Consider a Ghost Tour

Experience a spooky and informative ghost tour led by knowledgeable guides. Reddit

👨‍👧‍👦 Visit the Children's Museum

The children's museum next door offers hands-on fun for younger visitors. Reddit

🤝 Friendly Staff

Expect a warm welcome from the friendly and helpful staff. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Attend a 'First Friday'

Don't miss the 'First Friday' lunch and learn sessions for insightful local history programs. Reddit

👻 Consider a Ghost Tour

Experience a spooky and informative ghost tour led by knowledgeable guides. Reddit

👨‍👧‍👦 Visit the Children's Museum

The children's museum next door offers hands-on fun for younger visitors. Reddit

🤝 Friendly Staff

Expect a warm welcome from the friendly and helpful staff. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(63 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Museum of Howard County History to be an interesting and manageable attraction, particularly for its 'First Friday' programs and the adjacent children's museum. The venue also hosts popular ghost tours. While generally positive, some may find the main museum to be on the smaller side.

"Go monthly for "first friday" lunch and learn sessions put on by the Howard County Historical Society. These programs are top-notch and generally relevant to Howard County. While the programs are worth a visit on their own, the museum is also interesting. Small enough that you will not need to plan a full day. There is also the society's children's museum next door with hands-on experiences for younger kids."

John Bickford

"Did a ghost tour through here and it was so informative and spooky! Our guide Mike was friendly and very knowledge and passionate about the city and the paranormal."

Kimberly Pinzon

"Former Church turned into a Museum about Historic Howard County and Ellicott City. Lovely historical facility run by a staff thats knowledgeable about the local history. It's also a Wedding reception Venue, literally across the street from the Ellicott City Courthouse. You need to contact them about Covid-19 restrictions."

Greg Amiker

What People Like

Engaging 'First Friday' programs
Informative ghost tours
Friendly and helpful staff

What People Dislike

Small museum size

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is located in Ellicott City, across the street from the courthouse. Specific public transport options may vary, so checking local transit schedules is recommended. Parking availability should also be considered, especially on event days. Reddit

Parking information can vary, especially during events. It's advisable to check with the museum or local parking resources for the most up-to-date details. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission details are not explicitly stated in the provided reviews, but the museum is described as 'small enough that you will not need to plan a full day.' It's best to contact the museum directly for current pricing. Reddit

Operating hours are not detailed in the reviews. It's recommended to check the museum's official website or contact them directly for the most accurate information. Reddit

Advance booking is not mentioned in the reviews. However, for special events like 'First Friday' sessions, it might be advisable to inquire about reservations. Reddit

Visitors are advised to contact the museum directly regarding any current COVID-19 restrictions or protocols. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The museum showcases exhibits on the history of Howard County and Ellicott City, housed within a former church. Visitors can expect to learn about the local heritage. Reddit

While the main museum focuses on history, there is a separate children's museum next door with hands-on experiences specifically designed for younger kids. Reddit+1

Yes, the museum venue hosts informative and spooky ghost tours of Ellicott City, often praised for their engaging guides. Reddit

The historical building itself and the exhibits may offer photographic opportunities. However, specific photography policies should be confirmed with the museum. Reddit

The museum is described as small, suggesting a visit can be completed in a relatively short amount of time, making it ideal for a focused exploration. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The museum hosts 'First Friday' lunch and learn sessions, implying some form of catering or dining might be available during these events. Otherwise, external dining options in Ellicott City would be necessary. Reddit

Ellicott City offers various dining establishments. Visitors can explore local restaurants and cafes for meals before or after their museum visit. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary. It's best to inquire directly with the museum staff about their guidelines for taking pictures inside the exhibits. Reddit

The historic former church building and its exhibits likely offer visually interesting elements for photography. The surrounding Ellicott City area also provides scenic backdrops. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Families visiting the Museum of Howard County History will find a great option right next door: the children's museum. This separate facility offers hands-on activities perfect for younger visitors, ensuring they stay engaged and entertained. While the main museum delves into local history, the children's museum provides a fun, interactive experience tailored to kids. Reddit+1

Consider planning your visit to include time for both. You can explore the historical exhibits at your own pace and then let the children burn off energy at the interactive museum. This combination makes for a well-rounded and enjoyable outing for the whole family, catering to different interests and age groups. Reddit

👻 Paranormal Enthusiasts

For those fascinated by the supernatural, the Museum of Howard County History venue offers engaging ghost tours. These tours are known for being both informative and spooky, delving into the paranormal history of Ellicott City. Guides are often praised for their deep knowledge and passionate delivery, making the experience both thrilling and educational. Reddit

If you're looking for a unique way to explore the area's history with a touch of mystery, a ghost tour here is highly recommended. It's a chance to hear local legends and perhaps encounter something unexpected. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Howard County's Past

The Museum of Howard County History is housed in a former church, offering a unique setting to delve into the region's heritage. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing the history of Howard County and Ellicott City, gaining insights into the area's development and significant events. The museum is managed by the Howard County Historical Society, which also hosts special programs.

One of the highlights is the 'First Friday' lunch and learn sessions. These programs are consistently praised for being 'top-notch' and relevant to local history, making them a compelling reason to visit. These events provide an opportunity for deeper engagement with the county's past, often featuring knowledgeable speakers and interactive elements. Reddit

Beyond the historical exhibits, the museum venue is also known for its ghost tours. These tours offer a different perspective on Ellicott City's history, blending informative storytelling with spooky paranormal accounts. Guides are often commended for their passion and knowledge of both local history and the supernatural. Reddit

Family Fun Next Door

Adjacent to the Museum of Howard County History is a children's museum. This dedicated space is designed to provide hands-on experiences for younger visitors, making it an ideal complement to a historical outing. While the main museum focuses on adult-oriented historical content, the children's museum ensures that families with kids can have an engaging and educational experience.

Parents and guardians can expect activities that are both fun and stimulating for children. This makes the combined location a convenient option for families looking to entertain children while also exploring local history. The proximity means a seamless transition between the two attractions. Reddit+1

Visiting both the historical museum and the children's museum offers a well-rounded experience for the entire family. It allows for different age groups to enjoy tailored activities, ensuring everyone leaves with something memorable. The presence of the children's museum significantly enhances the appeal of the location for family outings. Reddit

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