Landover, MD

About the City
Geography
Climate and Weather
Landmarks and Attractions
Transportation
Sport and Sporting Legends
Museums
Universities and Educational Institutions
Healthcare Institutions and Services
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions

Landover is an unincorporated community in Prince George's County, Maryland, located just east of Washington, D.C. It is a suburban area known for its sports complex, the former home of the Washington Commanders football team, and its proximity to the nation's capital.

About the City

Official Status and Administrative Affiliation

Official Name: Landover, Maryland.
Administrative Role: Landover is an unincorporated area and a census-designated place (CDP) in Prince George's County. It does not have its own municipal government.
Location: It is situated in the state of Maryland, in the United States. Prince George's County is a populous and diverse suburban county located directly east of Washington, D.C., and is known for its large African American population, numerous parks, and major league sports venues.

Historical Names and Nicknames

Landover does not have widely known historical names or nicknames. It developed as a suburban community in the 20th century, with its identity closely tied to the major sports and entertainment complex built there.

Date of Foundation and Age

The area that is now Landover began to develop in the mid-20th century as suburban Washington, D.C., expanded. Its growth was significantly spurred by the opening of the Capital Beltway (I-95/I-495). It was officially recognized as a census-designated place in 1970.

Geographic Location and Coordinates

Geographic Coordinates: 38.9241° N, 76.8875° W .
Location Context: Landover is located on the Atlantic Coastal Plain, approximately 7 miles (11 km) east of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. It is situated near the Anacostia River, which flows into the Chesapeake Bay .
Elevation: The elevation of the area is around 30-40 meters (approximately 100-130 feet) above sea level.

City Type and Economic Specialization

Landover is primarily a suburban residential and commercial hub within the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area. Its economy is heavily influenced by its proximity to the federal government in D.C. and its role as a regional center for sports and entertainment. Key economic elements include:

Sports and Entertainment: Home to the Northwest Stadium (formerly FedExField), the largest stadium in the NFL by seating capacity, which hosts the Washington Commanders football team and major concerts .
Retail and Commerce: Numerous shopping centers and businesses cater to the local suburban population.
Transportation and Logistics: Its location near major highways (I-95/I-495 and I-295) and Washington, D.C., makes it a convenient location for distribution and business services.

Population and Demographics

Population: As an unincorporated area, exact population figures fluctuate. It is part of a densely populated suburban region with hundreds of thousands of residents in close proximity.
City Classification: Landover is a suburban community and part of the larger Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV metropolitan area, one of the largest and most populous in the United States.

City's "Visiting Card" (In Brief)

Landover is best known as the home of the Northwest Stadium, where the Washington Commanders play, and as the location of Six Flags America, a major amusement and water park . For visitors to the D.C. area, it represents a key hub for professional sports and family entertainment just outside the capital city.

Geography

Water Bodies (Rivers, Lakes, Waterfalls)

The primary water feature in the vicinity is the Anacostia River . The river flows along the western edge of the Landover area and is a significant tributary of the Potomac River. The Anacostia Riverwalk Trail provides opportunities for walking, jogging, and biking along the river from Bladensburg, just north of Landover, to the Navy Yard in Washington, D.C. . Various smaller streams and creeks also run through the area, contributing to the local watershed that feeds into the Chesapeake Bay .

Parks and Green Spaces

Landover and its immediate surroundings offer several parks and recreational areas .

Watkins Regional Park: A large county park offering a wide range of family-friendly activities, including hiking and biking trails, a nature center, a miniature golf course, a miniature train ride, and a historic carousel .
Bladensburg Waterfront Park: Located nearby along the Anacostia River, this park offers nature trails, picnic areas, and boat rentals for kayaking and fishing .
Cheverly Community Park: Located in the nearby town of Cheverly, this is a local park with sports facilities and green space .

Climate and Weather

Climate Type and General Characteristics

Landover has a humid subtropical climate (Cfa) , characteristic of the mid-Atlantic region of the United States. This climate is defined by hot, humid summers and mild to cool winters . Precipitation is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year.

Average Temperatures by Month

Temperatures vary significantly between seasons .

Hottest Month: July, with average daily highs around 32°C (89°F) and lows near 22°C (71°F) .
Coldest Month: January, with average daily highs around 6°C (43°F) and lows dipping to -2°C (28°F) .
Extreme Temperatures: Summer temperatures can occasionally exceed 36°C (96°F), and winter lows can rarely fall below -9°C (15°F) .

Precipitation and Humidity

Average Annual Rainfall: The area receives a substantial amount of rain, averaging about 977 mm (38 inches) to 1125 mm (44 inches) per year .
Wettest Months: Late spring and summer tend to be wetter, with May and July often seeing the most rainfall, averaging around 89 mm (3.5 inches) for the month . July has the highest number of wet days, averaging about 11.6 days with measurable precipitation .
Snowfall: Winters bring some snow, with an average annual total of about 75 mm (3 inches) . Most snow falls in January and February, with February seeing the highest average accumulation of around 130 mm (5.1 inches) .
Humidity: Humidity levels are high during the summer months, often making the heat feel more oppressive. Average humidity is often near 80% .

Seasonality and Best Time to Visit

The best times to visit Landover for pleasant weather are late spring and early autumn .

Spring (April-May): Temperatures are mild and pleasant, ranging from 13°C to 25°C (55°F to 77°F), with increasing greenery and blooming flowers.
Summer (June-August): This season is hot and humid, with average highs from 29°C to 32°C (84°F to 90°F). Afternoon thunderstorms are common. This is the peak season for Six Flags America .
Autumn (September-October): This is arguably the best time to visit, with comfortable temperatures ranging from 10°C to 26°C (50°F to 79°F), lower humidity, and vibrant fall foliage .
Winter (November-February): Winters are cold, with highs often below 10°C (50°F) and lows frequently below freezing. Snow and ice are possible, making it the least favorable time for outdoor activities.

Landmarks and Attractions

Northwest Stadium (FedExField)

Full Name: Northwest Stadium (formerly FedExField).
Location: 1600 FedEx Way, Landover, MD.
Description: This massive stadium is the home of the NFL's Washington Commanders. Opened in 1997, it is one of the largest stadiums in the league and a dominant feature of the local landscape. It hosts all Commanders home games, as well as major concerts, soccer matches, and other large-scale events .

Six Flags America

Full Name: Six Flags America.
Location: 13710 Central Ave, Bowie, MD (adjacent to Landover).
Description: A major amusement park featuring over 100 rides, shows, and attractions . It is divided into a theme park with thrill rides like "Joker's Jinx" and "Harley Quinn Spinsanity," and Hurricane Harbor, Maryland's largest water park, complete with a lazy river and water coasters . It's a key family destination in the region.

Prince George's Sports and Learning Complex

Full Name: Prince George's Sports and Learning Complex.
Location: Landover, MD.
Description: A large, multi-purpose facility offering a wide array of indoor and outdoor sports and fitness amenities. It includes an ice rink, indoor track, aquatics center, gymnasiums, and fitness centers, serving as a major community recreation hub .

Watkins Regional Park

Full Name: Watkins Regional Park.
Location: 301 Watkins Park Dr, Upper Marlboro, MD (near Landover).
Description: A beloved county park offering a nostalgic and family-friendly experience. Key features include the restored 1920s Watkins Carousel, a miniature train ride, a nature center, mini-golf, and extensive trails . It is a perfect spot for a relaxing day outdoors.

Old Landover Park

Full Name: Old Landover Park.
Description: A historic park located within the Landover area. It features beautiful landscapes, historic buildings including an 1798 plantation house, and a Civil War museum. It was also the former site of the Landover Redskins football team's training facility. It offers hiking trails and an outdoor amphitheater for concerts .

Transportation

Nearest Major Airports

Landover is well-served by the three major airports of the Washington, D.C., region .

Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA): Located about 10-16 km (6-10 miles) away, across the Potomac River in Virginia. It is the closest airport and is accessible via Metro rail .
Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI): Located about 30 miles (48 km) northeast of Landover, offering many domestic and some international flights.
Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD): Located about 35 miles (56 km) west in Virginia, serving as a major international gateway.

Public Transportation (Metro)

Landover is connected to the Washington, D.C., region's extensive public transit system .

WMATA Metrorail: The neighborhood is served by two stations on the Blue Line and Silver Line:
- Landover Station .
- Morgan Boulevard Station .
- These stations provide direct and convenient rail access to downtown Washington, D.C., including stops at Union Station, the National Mall, and Capitol Hill.

Main Highways

Landover is a major suburban transit hub due to its location at the crossroads of several key interstate highways.

Interstate 95 / Interstate 495 (Capital Beltway): The main interstate circling Washington, D.C., forms the western boundary of Landover, providing access to all points in the region.
Interstate 295 (Anacostia Freeway): This highway runs north-south along the Anacostia River, connecting Landover to downtown D.C. and the I-95/I-495 interchange.
US Route 50 (John Hanson Highway): A major east-west artery connecting Washington, D.C., to Annapolis and the Eastern Shore of Maryland, located just south of Landover.
Maryland Route 202 (Landover Road): A principal local thoroughfare running through the heart of Landover.

Ridesharing and Taxis

Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available and a popular way to get around Landover and to nearby airports and destinations .

Sport and Sporting Legends

While Landover itself may not have a professional sports team of its own, it is home to a major regional sports facility and is located very close to the professional teams in Washington, D.C., and the surrounding area.

Major Sports Facilities in Landover

The most significant sports venue in Landover is the Prince George's Sports & Learning Complex. This facility is a hub for recreational and competitive sports for Prince George's County and the surrounding areas.

Address: 8001 Sheriff Rd, Hyattsville, MD 20785 (Hyattsville address, but located in Landover)
Amenities: The complex boasts a state-of-the-art Field House with a 200-meter indoor track, an indoor pool with a slide and lazy river, multipurpose fields, classrooms, and a jacuzzi . It is designed to promote health and wellness for individuals of all ages.
Events: The facility is well-known for hosting high-quality indoor track and field events . It regularly serves as a venue for school athletic meets, such as the MIAA Group Meet for boys' varsity indoor track . The pool area is a popular spot for families and summer camp field trips .
Community Role: It is considered a great resource for residents, offering a clean, modern environment with a variety of classes and activities for both children and adults .

Professional Sports Nearby

Landover is situated just outside of Washington, D.C., giving residents and visitors easy access to a full range of major professional sports teams. The teams are not based in Landover itself, but are a short drive away and represent the immediate region.

Football (NFL): The Washington Commanders play at Northwest Stadium in Landover's immediate neighbor, Landover, MD.
Basketball (NBA): The Washington Wizards play at the Capital One Arena in downtown Washington, D.C.
Hockey (NHL): The Washington Capitals also call the Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C., their home.
Baseball (MLB): The Washington Nationals play at Nationals Park in Washington, D.C.
Soccer (MLS): D.C. United plays at Audi Field in Washington, D.C.
Women's Basketball (WNBA): The Washington Mystics play at the Entertainment and Sports Arena in nearby Congress Heights, Washington, D.C.

Museums

Landover itself has a limited number of museums within its immediate city limits. However, its location in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area puts it within easy reach of some of the most famous and prestigious museums in the world.

Museums and Cultural Sites Nearby

Residents and visitors to Landover have unparalleled access to the vast array of museums in Washington, D.C., and the surrounding areas.

Smithsonian Institution Museums: A short drive or metro ride away, the Smithsonian museums on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., offer free admission and world-class collections. Key institutions include:
- National Gallery of Art: Houses a vast collection of paintings, sculpture, and decorative arts from the Middle Ages to the present . While a listing places a "National Gallery of Art" at a Landover address, this is highly likely an error or a reference to a satellite office, as the main, world-renowned museum is on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. .
- National Museum of Natural History: Famous for its extensive collections, including dinosaur skeletons, the Hope Diamond, and myriad exhibits on human origins and the natural world .
- Smithsonian American Art Museum: Dedicated to the collection and preservation of American art .
- National Museum of the American Indian: Showcases the history, culture, and arts of Native peoples in the Western Hemisphere .
- National Museum of African Art: Focuses on the rich artistic traditions of Africa .
Specialized Museums Nearby:
- College Park Aviation Museum (College Park, MD): Located just a few miles from Landover, this museum sits on the site of the world's oldest continuously operating airport. It features historic aircraft and exhibits on the history of aviation .
- Prince George's African American Museum and Cultural Center (North Brentwood, MD): This center is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the history and culture of African Americans in Prince George's County .
- Surratt House Museum (Clinton, MD): A historic 19th-century house that tells the story of life during the Civil War and its connection to the Lincoln assassination conspiracy .
- National Museum of Health and Medicine (Silver Spring, MD): Established during the Civil War, this museum contains a unique collection of specimens and artifacts related to the history of military and civilian medicine .
- David C. Driskell Center (College Park, MD): Located at the University of Maryland, this center is dedicated to the study of African American art and the legacy of artist and scholar David C. Driskell .

Universities and Educational Institutions

Landover is home to a few institutions of higher learning and is in close proximity to a vast number of colleges and universities in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area, including major research universities.

Institutions within Landover

Landover hosts a small number of schools, primarily focused on career training and graduate-level theological education.

Denver Seminary - Washington DC: Located at 3600 Brightseat Road, this is a satellite campus of the Denver Seminary, offering graduate-level theological education .
Fortis College-Landover: A private, for-profit 2-year college located at 4351 Garden City Drive, offering career-focused programs in fields such as healthcare and skilled trades .

Major Universities Nearby

Landover's location provides easy access to numerous public and private universities, many of which are nationally and internationally recognized.

University of Maryland-College Park (College Park, MD): Just over 5 miles from Landover, this is the state's flagship public research university. It is a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities and is renowned for its programs in computer science, engineering, criminology, and journalism . Notable alumni include Google co-founder Sergey Brin (Sergey Brin) and journalist Connie Chung (Connie Chung) .
Howard University (Washington, DC): Located about 7 miles away, this is a historically black, private research university of immense historical and cultural significance. It is renowned for its programs in law, medicine, communications, and fine arts . Notable alumni include U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris (Kamala Harris) , writer Toni Morrison (Toni Morrison) , and actor Chadwick Boseman (Chadwick Boseman) .
Georgetown University (Washington, DC): Approximately 10 miles away, this is the oldest Catholic and Jesuit university in the United States, famous for its schools of law, medicine, business, and foreign service . Notable alumni include U.S. President Bill Clinton (Bill Clinton) and actor Bradley Cooper (Bradley Cooper) .
George Washington University (Washington, DC): Located about 9 miles from Landover, this large private university is known for its schools of law, political science, international affairs, and medicine . It has a strong connection to the U.S. government and politics.
University of Maryland Global Campus (Adelphi, MD): A public university focused on adult and online education, located just over 2 miles from Landover .
Prince George's Community College (Largo, MD): A public two-year college located about 4 miles away, offering associate degrees and transfer programs to four-year universities .
Gallaudet University (Washington, DC): The world's only university designed to be barrier-free for deaf and hard of hearing students, located about 6 miles from Landover .
The Catholic University of America (Washington, DC): The national university of the Catholic Church in the United States, located about 6 miles away .
Bowie State University (Bowie, MD): A public historically black university located about 9.5 miles from Landover .
American University (Washington, DC): A private research university known for its programs in international service, public affairs, and law, located about 11 miles from Landover .

Healthcare Institutions and Services

Landover has a selection of healthcare facilities and community health services. For major medical centers and specialized care, residents have access to a wide range of world-class hospitals in the Washington, D.C., and Baltimore metropolitan areas.

Local Healthcare Services in Landover

Us Helping Us: Located at 8240 Professional Pl, Suite 207A, this is a community-based organization that provides low-cost and free health services. Their services include HIV testing (both conventional and rapid), Hepatitis C testing, and testing for other STDs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis. They also offer services for uninsured individuals seeking PrEP .

Specialized Care in Nearby Washington, D.C.

For more specialized medical procedures and reproductive health services, residents of Landover often travel to nearby Washington, D.C.

DuPont Clinic: Located at 1120 19th Street NW in Washington, D.C., this clinic offers specialized reproductive healthcare for patients from Landover and throughout Maryland. They are known for providing advanced sedation options for IUD insertions, including oral and IV sedation, to ensure patient comfort during the procedure. The clinic emphasizes a private, comfortable, and welcoming environment .

Major Hospitals and Medical Centers Nearby

Landover is situated within a short distance of numerous nationally ranked hospitals and health systems.

In Maryland:
- University of Maryland Medical System (Baltimore, MD and Largo, MD): This major health system has its flagship academic medical center in Baltimore (about 30 miles away) and a regional medical center, University of Maryland Capital Region Health, much closer in Largo, MD. The Largo facility provides a wide range of services including emergency care, cardiac care, and cancer treatment.
- MedStar Health: This large non-profit health system operates several hospitals in the region. MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center in Clinton, MD, is located about 10 miles from Landover and provides comprehensive medical and surgical services.
In Washington, D.C.:
- MedStar Georgetown University Hospital: A major teaching hospital and part of the MedStar Health system, known for its specialized care in areas such as cancer, neurology, and transplant surgery .
- MedStar Washington Hospital Center: The largest private hospital in the nation's capital, renowned for its cardiac care, trauma center, and burn unit.
- Children's National Hospital: One of the nation's top pediatric hospitals, offering comprehensive care for children and adolescents.
- George Washington University Hospital: A major teaching hospital affiliated with the George Washington University, providing a full range of medical services .
- Howard University Hospital: A teaching hospital affiliated with Howard University, providing healthcare services with a historical commitment to the local community .

Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions

Landover's culinary scene is a reflection of its location in the diverse Washington, D.C., metropolitan area, with a strong presence of African American soul food traditions and a variety of other international options.

Soul Food and American Fare

Soul food is a significant part of the local culinary landscape in Landover, with restaurants serving classic dishes that have deep roots in African American culture.

MLK Soul Food: Located at 7109 Martin Luther King Jr Hwy in nearby North Englewood, this restaurant is a local spot for soul food, Caribbean, and American fare . Typical dishes found at such establishments include:
- Classic Soul Food Sides: Mac and cheese, collard greens, candied yams, cabbage, and potato salad are staples that accompany main dishes .
- Main Dishes: Offerings often include pork ribs, fried chicken, turkey wings, and carry chicken . A salmon cake breakfast is also available .
- Reviews and Reputation: Reviews for MLK Soul Food are mixed, with some patrons praising the friendly staff and delicious food, like the curry chicken and turkey wings . However, other reviews mention inconsistencies in food quality, with complaints about under-seasoned food, undercooked yams, and changes in ownership affecting the taste . It's a place where experiences can vary, highlighting the challenge of maintaining traditional recipes.

Asian Cuisine and Local Favorites

Beyond soul food, Landover has other dining options that have become local favorites.

Lucky Star: This Asian restaurant has earned a strong reputation as a "neighborhood staple" . With a rating of 4.3 from over 500 reviews on DoorDash, it's a popular choice for takeout and delivery. The menu is extensive, featuring:
- Seafood: The fish sandwich is highly praised as the "BEST in the area" by one regular .
- Chicken Wings: The honey BBQ wings are a personal favorite mentioned by a reviewer, who noted the sauce is particularly good .
- American-Style Subs: The steak and cheese sub is also recommended .
- Other Offerings: The menu includes a wide range of items such as lo mein, fried rice, chef's specials, and tofu dishes . Reviewers consistently mention the food is fresh, hot, and affordable, with generous portions .

A Note on Culinary Traditions

Landover, as part of Prince George's County, which has a majority African American population, is deeply connected to the culinary traditions of the African American diaspora. Soul food restaurants like MLK Soul Food represent a continuation of this heritage, serving dishes that have been passed down through generations. The mixed reviews for such establishments often reflect a deep community knowledge and high expectation for what "real" soul food should taste like, as noted by a reviewer who complained that the food lacked the expected seasoning . This passion underscores the cultural importance of these culinary traditions.