Redland, MD
- About the City
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks
- Transport
- Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
- Museums
- Medical Facilities and Healthcare
Redland is an unincorporated community and census-designated place in Montgomery County, Maryland, offering a blend of historic charm and suburban convenience near Washington, D.C.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
- Official Name: Redland, Maryland.
- Status: Redland is a census-designated place (CDP) and an unincorporated area . This means it has no municipal government of its own and its boundaries are defined for statistical purposes, but it is a recognized populated place .
- Location: It is located in the United States, in the state of Maryland, specifically within Montgomery County . Montgomery County is a major suburban county directly northwest of Washington, D.C., known for its highly educated population, numerous parks, and as a hub for biotechnology and federal government agencies.
Historical Names and Nicknames
- Early Name: The area was initially part of a tract called "Banks' Venture," surveyed in 1752 . The name "Redland" or "Redlands" began to appear around the mid-19th century, likely referring to the area's distinct red clay soil, which was also used for brickmaking . It was shown as an intersection on maps as early as 1862 .
- Modern Nickname: There are no widely known nicknames for Redland itself, but it is often described as part of the "D.C. suburbs" or the "Washington metropolitan area" .
Founding Date and Age
The area that is now Redland began to be settled in the mid-18th century. The land tract "Banks' Venture" was surveyed in 1752 . However, the community of Redland began to take shape around the time of the Civil War in the 1860s . Its growth was spurred by the arrival of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad depot in 1873 . By 1879, it was a well-settled village with a population of about 50 .
Geographic Location and Coordinates
- Geographic Coordinates: Approximately 39°08′N 77°08′W .
- Location: Redland is situated in the Piedmont region of Maryland, about 12 miles north of Washington, D.C. .
- Elevation: The elevation of the CDP is around 124 to 150 meters (407 to 492 feet) above sea level .
City Type and Economic Specialization
Redland is primarily a residential suburb and a commuter town within the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. Its economy is intrinsically linked to the nearby job centers in Rockville, Gaithersburg, and Washington, D.C. . While historically an agricultural community, its modern character is defined by suburban residential development and its role as a bedroom community.
Population and Demographics
- Population: As of the 2020 census, the population of Redland was 18,592 . (Note: the population figure of 147,010 from mapsOf.net is inconsistent with all other sources and likely a data error, as it is larger than the entire county's population).
- City Classification: Redland is a small-to-medium sized census-designated place.
- Demographics: The community is diverse. According to the 2000 census, the racial makeup was 55.04% White, 15.75% African American, 15.94% Asian, and 8.6% from other races, with 15.1% of the population being Hispanic or Latino of any race . The area has a high median household income, reflecting its professional, suburban character .
City's "Business Card" (Brief)
Redland is a window into Maryland's historic countryside, a quiet suburban community that retains its rural roots and historic charm amidst the rapid growth of the Washington, D.C. metro area . With its 19th-century core, local park, and access to the 1,800-mile-long Rock Creek trail system, it offers a scenic escape from big-city life while being just a short trip from the nation's capital .
Geography
Parks and Green Spaces
While Redland itself doesn't have large mountain ranges or coastlines, it is characterized by its green spaces and nearby parks.
- Redland Local Park: A 38-acre public park in the heart of the community offering sports facilities, playgrounds, and open green space .
- Lake Needwood: Located just south of Redland in Rock Creek Regional Park, this 75-acre lake was formed in 1965 by damming Rock Creek . It's a major local recreational hub.
- Bowie Mill Park: A nearby park in the area .
Water Features
- Lake Needwood: This is the most significant water feature in the immediate vicinity. Visitors can rent paddle boats, rowboats, and canoes to explore the lake, and numerous picnic sites offer beautiful views of the water . The lake is part of the larger Rock Creek watershed.
- Rock Creek: A major stream that flows through the area and into Washington, D.C. Its valley forms a green corridor and is home to an extensive trail system.
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
Redland has a humid subtropical climate (Cfa) , characterized by four distinct seasons with warm to hot, humid summers and chilly to cold winters .
Average Temperatures Throughout the Year
Temperatures vary significantly between seasons. July is the warmest month, and January is the coldest .
- January: Average low of -2.6°C (27.3°F) to a high of 4.8°C (40.6°F) .
- April: Average low of 8.7°C (47.6°F) to a high of 19.5°C (67.0°F) .
- July: Average low of 21.5°C (70.6°F) to a high of 31.0°C (87.8°F) .
- October: Average low of 10.2°C (50.4°F) to a high of 19.3°C (66.7°F) .
Precipitation and Humidity
- Rainfall: Redland receives a significant amount of precipitation throughout the year, with an annual average of about 954 mm (38 inches) to 1232 mm (48.5 inches) . The wettest months tend to be in late spring and early summer, with June often being the wettest . The driest month is typically October .
- Snowfall: Average annual snowfall is relatively modest, around 32 cm (13 inches) , with most snow falling in January .
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March-May): Temperatures warm up pleasantly, and nature comes into full bloom. It's a lovely time for outdoor activities, though April and May can see significant rainfall .
- Summer (June-August): This season is hot and humid, with average highs in the upper 20s to low 30s °C (80s to low 90s °F) . Afternoon thunderstorms are common. It's a good time for water activities at places like Lake Needwood .
- Fall (September-November): Widely considered the best time to visit. The weather is mild, the humidity drops, and the region is famous for its beautiful fall foliage .
- Winter (December-February): Winters are cold, with average highs just above freezing and lows below freezing . Snow and ice are possible, but heavy accumulation is infrequent .
Landmarks
Historic District and Buildings
Redland's charm lies in its preserved 19th-century core.
- Redland Historic District: Located along Redland Road, this district features a collection of historic buildings and Victorian houses that offer a glimpse into the community's past as a rural village .
- Redland United Methodist Church: Founded in 1858, this church is one of the community's oldest institutions and remains an active part of local life .
- The Redland Store: A classic country store that has served as a local gathering spot for generations .
Parks and Outdoor Destinations
- Lake Needwood: A major attraction for outdoor enthusiasts. Managed by Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, the lake offers boat rentals, fishing, and picnicking. Numerous hiking trails circle the lake and connect to the larger Rock Creek trail system .
Transport
Main Highways and Roads
Redland is served by several major roads that connect it to the wider region.
- Muncaster Mill Road and Redland Road are the primary local thoroughfares .
- Interstate 270 is a major freeway located just to the west, providing direct access to Frederick to the north and Bethesda and Washington, D.C., to the south.
- Shady Grove Road connects Redland to the Shady Grove metro area and the Intercounty Connector (ICC/Route 200), a toll road offering east-west travel.
Public Transportation
Redland is well-connected to the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area's public transit network .
- Bus: Several Ride On bus routes (operated by Montgomery County) serve the area, including routes 53, 57, 58, and 90 . These provide local connections to shopping centers, schools, and transit hubs.
- Metro: The Shady Grove station on the Washington Metro's METRORAIL RED LINE is located approximately a 51-minute walk (or a short bus ride) from the center of Redland . This station provides direct rail service to downtown Washington, D.C., via Rockville, Bethesda, and Silver Spring.
- Train: The Washington Grove MARC train station is located nearby (about a 54-minute walk) . The MARC Brunswick Line provides commuter rail service to Washington, D.C.'s Union Station during peak hours.
Airports
While Redland has no airport of its own, it is served by the three major airports in the Washington-Baltimore region.
- Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA): Approximately 30 miles south, accessible via Metro and major highways.
- Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD): Located about 25 miles southwest in Virginia.
- Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI): Situated about 40 miles northeast, near Baltimore.
- Nearby Rail Station: The Rockville station (RKV) , a few miles away, provides Amtrak connections in addition to MARC service .
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
Lebanese and Mediterranean Cuisine in Redland
Redland offers a taste of the Eastern Mediterranean, with its culinary scene notably featuring Lebanese and Greek dishes. A long-standing establishment in the area is Phoenicia, which has been serving the community for over two decades .
The cuisine is characterized by healthy, fresh ingredients, with olive oil playing a key role in many dips and sauces. Portions are often generous and designed for sharing . A quintessential dish to try is Hummus, a protein-rich dip made from garbanzo beans, perfect for vegetarians and typically scooped up with pita bread. Another popular dip is Baba Ghanoush, a smooth mixture of roasted eggplant, lemon juice, tahini (sesame paste), and garlic. The eggplant is traditionally cooked over an open flame, giving the dip a distinctive smoky flavor .
For a more substantial meal, the Phoenicia Variety Plate offers a comprehensive sampler of Lebanese specialties. This platter typically includes beef and chicken shawarma (spiced meats carved from a vertical rotisserie), gyro meat (a Greek specialty of ground lamb and beef), kufta kabob (ground beef with onions, garlic, and herbs), chicken kabob, falafel (deep-fried, spiced mashed fava beans or chickpeas), hummus, tabouli salad (chopped parsley, mint, tomatoes, and bulgur), and rice .
Kibbeh is another classic dish found here. It is a blend of bulgur wheat, ground beef, onions, and garlic, often shaped into ovals or patties and deep-fried. It is commonly served with Tzatziki, a refreshing Greek dip made from strained yogurt, chopped cucumbers, garlic, and herbs .
A unique condiment to look out for is whipped garlic sauce, a smooth and subtle white blend of fresh garlic, cornstarch, and olive oil, which is particularly good with grilled meats. Sumac, a sour and fruity spice powder, is also used as a finishing touch on dishes like chicken kabobs .
To end a meal on a sweet note, Baklava—a rich, sweet pastry made of layers of filo filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey—is a traditional choice, best enjoyed with a cup of tea .
Museums
Redland Art Gallery, Cleveland
The Redland Art Gallery, located in Cleveland, is the primary public art museum in the area. Established in 2003, this award-winning regional gallery features a dynamic program of exhibitions across six spaces at its Cleveland and Capalaba locations . The gallery showcases a diverse mix of innovative and culturally significant artworks, featuring local, national, and internationally recognized artists . Visitors have praised the gallery for its beautifully curated exhibitions, which range from contemporary installations to traditional pieces, and for its friendly, welcoming staff .
Redlands Coast Museum
For those interested in local heritage, the Redlands Coast Museum in Cleveland offers a captivating journey through the region's history . The museum holds a vast and varied collection of artifacts that tell the story of the Redlands Coast. Exhibits include detailed period rooms, such as a recreated old-time general store and dining rooms with original furniture, as well as collections of vintage vehicles, including cars, motorbikes, and carts, some over 100 years old . Other sections are dedicated to toys, model ships, and local stories, making it an engaging and informative destination for visitors of all ages. The museum is run by dedicated volunteers and is noted for its well-organized and extensive displays .
Historic Ormiston House
Historic Ormiston House, also in Cleveland, is a heritage-listed site dating back to the early 1860s . Built as the birthplace of the Australian sugar industry in the Moreton Bay region, this well-preserved colonial house offers a glimpse into 19th-century life. Visitors can take a guided tour of the house, which is furnished in the style of the late Victorian period, with knowledgeable volunteers providing historical context . The property also features beautifully landscaped gardens with views over Redland Bay and a small 1960s church, making it a peaceful place to visit and a lovely setting for events like high tea on the verandah . It is open to the public on Sunday afternoons .
Medical Facilities and Healthcare
Residents of Redland, MD, have access to a wide range of healthcare options, with several of the nation's most prestigious medical centers located in the nearby Baltimore area . The density of physicians in the Redland area is significantly higher than the national average, indicating robust access to medical professionals .
Major Medical Centers Nearby
The community is served by world-renowned facilities including Johns Hopkins Hospital and the University of Maryland Medical Center. Other regional hospitals providing care to the area include MedStar Health and Bon Secours Hospital . In addition to these major hospitals, numerous clinics and primary care physicians are available to serve the local population .
Community Health and Environment
The focus on community health is supported by programs offering free screenings and immunizations for children, as well as educational opportunities on preventative care and nutrition .
Regarding environmental health factors, the Redland area has an air quality index of 48, where 100 is the best. The water quality index for the watershed is measured at 50, compared to the US average of 55. The Superfund Index, which measures the environmental health risk from contaminated sites, is 99, where a higher score is better and the US average is 87 .