Environmental education centers in Laurel, Maryland

Patuxent Research Refuge, located at 12311 Beech Forest Road in Laurel, Maryland, is a unique institution that serves as both a national wildlife refuge and a research center. Spanning over 12,800 acres, the refuge is dedicated to conserving and protecting wildlife and their habitats through research, education, and outreach programs. Visitors can explore the diverse ecosystems, including forests, wetlands, and grasslands, while learning about the important research being conducted to ensure the long-term health of the environment. With hiking trails, wildlife viewing areas, and educational programs for all ages, Patuxent Research Refuge offers a one-of-a-kind experience for nature lovers and conservation enthusiasts.

High Ridge Park, located at 10100 Superior Avenue in Laurel, Maryland, is a historic park and tourist attraction with a rich history dating back to the colonial era. This park is part of the larger Blandair Regional Park, which includes the North, West, and East sections in Columbia, Maryland. The park offers a variety of outdoor activities and amenities, including multi-purpose fields, basketball courts, skate park, pickleball courts, pathways, and shade structures. The land on which High Ridge Park is situated has been inhabited by various Native American tribes, European settlers, and African Americans over the centuries. The park's history includes ownership by prominent families such as the Talbots, Dorseys, Howards, and Weems, who were involved in farming and slave ownership. The property was eventually purchased by Theodorick Bland, who named it "Blandair" in the mid-19th century.