Cloverly, MD

• About the City
• Geography
• Climate and Weather
• Landmarks
• Transport
• Universities and Educational Institutions
• Museums
• Medical Institutions and Healthcare
• Sports and Sports Legends
• Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions

Cloverly is an unincorporated community and census-designated place in Montgomery County, Maryland, offering a peaceful suburban lifestyle with lush greenery and convenient access to Washington, D.C. and Baltimore.

About the City

Official Status and Administrative Affiliation

Cloverly is an unincorporated area and census-designated place (CDP) located in Montgomery County, Maryland, United States . As an unincorporated community, it does not have its own municipal government but is directly administered by Montgomery County. It is recognized by the United States Census Bureau for statistical purposes and by the United States Geological Survey as a populated place . Montgomery County itself is known for being one of the most affluent and educated counties in the nation, forming a major part of the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area.

Historical Names and Nicknames

Cloverly has not undergone any significant official name changes and is not widely known by historical names. However, in modern times, it is often affectionately described by its residents as a "peaceful retreat" and a "family-friendly community," reflecting its quiet, suburban character away from the hustle and bustle of the nearby major cities .

Date of Foundation and Age

Cloverly does not have a specific "founding date" in the traditional sense, as it developed organically as an unincorporated area. Its growth as a residential community is a more modern phenomenon, part of the post-World War II suburban expansion of the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. It has evolved from its rural roots into the residential area it is today .

Geographic Location and Coordinates

Cloverly is situated in the central part of Montgomery County, Maryland. Its geographic coordinates are approximately 39.1064° N latitude and -76.9995° W longitude . The community is located at an elevation of about 159 meters (522 feet) above sea level . The commercial heart of Cloverly lies at the intersection of New Hampshire Avenue (Maryland Route 650) and Briggs Chaney Road .

City Type and Economic Specialization

Cloverly is primarily a residential suburb and a commuter town. Its primary function is to provide housing for people who work in the major employment centers of the region, particularly in Washington, D.C., and other parts of Montgomery County. The local economy is centered around community-serving businesses, schools, and services. It is not a major industrial, financial, or tourist destination in its own right.

Population and Demographics

As of the 2020 United States Census, the population of Cloverly was 15,285 . By population size, it falls into the category of a small town or large unincorporated community. The population is notably diverse. According to the 2010 Census, the racial makeup was 47% White, 25% African American, 18% Asian, and 10% Hispanic or Latino . The community is characterized by a high percentage of homeowners (78%) and a median household income of approximately $141,000, reflecting its affluence .

"Visiting Card" of the City (Briefly)

Cloverly offers a quintessential suburban experience, characterized by its tree-lined streets, spacious homes, and abundant green spaces. It is a place for those seeking tranquility and a strong sense of community while remaining within easy reach of the nation's capital. Its lush landscapes and well-maintained parks, such as Maydale Conservation Park, are central to its identity as a peaceful retreat from urban life .

Geography

Water Bodies (Rivers, Lakes, Waterfalls)

Cloverly itself does not contain any major rivers, lakes, or waterfalls. Its total area is almost entirely land, with water bodies accounting for a negligible portion of its territory . However, it is part of the larger watershed of the region. Residents looking for larger water-based recreation would typically travel to nearby parks or the Patuxent River and its reservoirs, which are a short drive away in other parts of Montgomery County.

Parks and Green Spaces

Cloverly is notable for its community parks, which serve as focal points for outdoor recreation.

• Maydale Conservation Park: This is a popular local spot, favored for its walking trails and nature programs. It serves as a habitat for various wildlife and is a perfect location for bird watching and nature walks .
• Mildred A. Pumphrey Community Center: This vibrant park offers a welcoming space for recreation and community gatherings. It features well-maintained walking trails, playgrounds for children, and open green areas ideal for picnics and outdoor activities, serving as a hub for local events .
• Cloverly Park: Another local green space within the community .

Climate and Weather

Climate Type and General Characteristics

Cloverly experiences a humid subtropical climate (Cfa) , which is typical for the mid-Atlantic region of the United States. This climate is characterized by warm and humid summers, very cold and snowy winters, and pleasant conditions during the spring and fall .

Average Temperatures by Month

Temperatures in Cloverly vary significantly throughout the year. The table below summarizes the average highs and lows.

*Source: *

The hottest month of the year is July, and the coldest is January .

Precipitation and Humidity

Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year. The average annual rainfall for Cloverly is about 977mm (38 inches) . May tends to be the wettest month, with an average of 3.5 inches of rain . Snowfall is also a significant feature of winter. The community receives an average of 75mm (3 inches) of snow annually, with January and February being the snowiest months . Humidity is typically high during the summer months, contributing to the "warm and humid" feel of the season .

Seasonality and Best Time to Visit

While Cloverly is primarily a residential community, the best times for visitors to enjoy its outdoor parks and natural beauty are during the shoulder seasons.

• Spring (April-May): Temperatures are mild and pleasant, with nature in full bloom, making it ideal for walking trails in Maydale Conservation Park.
• Summer (June-August): Warm to hot and humid. This is a good time for community pool visits and picnics, though outdoor activities are best in the mornings or evenings.
• Fall (September-October): The weather is again comfortable with crisp air and beautiful fall foliage. It's an excellent time for hiking.
• Winter (November-March): Cold with regular snowfall. The area can be scenic after a snow, but many outdoor activities are limited.

Landmarks

Parks and Community Centers as Landmarks

In the absence of large-scale monuments, Cloverly's landmarks are its cherished public spaces that define community life.

• Mildred A. Pumphrey Community Center: This is the heart of community activity in Cloverly. More than just a park, it functions as a central gathering place for residents. It features well-maintained walking trails, playgrounds, and open green areas perfect for picnics, making it an ideal spot for families to enjoy the outdoors and a venue for local events .
• Maydale Conservation Park: This park serves as a key natural landmark. It offers a glimpse into the region's native flora and fauna with its walking trails and nature programs. It's a go-to destination for bird watching and connecting with nature without leaving the suburbs .

Architecture and Historic Character

Rather than individual famous buildings, Cloverly's architectural interest lies in its overall character. The community reflects a balance between its rural past and modern suburban development. This is evident in the presence of some older homes and historic sites that offer a glimpse into its history, mixed with more contemporary residential construction . The local shopping center at the intersection of New Hampshire Avenue and Briggs Chaney Road serves as the commercial and functional hub of the community .

Religious Institutions

Cloverly is home to a diverse array of religious institutions, which act as significant community landmarks. As of 2019, there were 32 religious institutions in the area, representing a variety of faiths including Christian, Ahmadi Muslim, and Jain congregations . These centers serve not only as places of worship but also as community and cultural hubs for residents.

Transport

Major Airports in the Region

Cloverly does not have its own airport but is strategically located between two of the region's major air hubs. It is approximately 30-40 minutes from both.

• Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA): Located across the Potomac River in Virginia, this airport is a major hub for domestic flights and is accessible via the Metro system and major highways .
• Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI): Located north of Cloverly in Anne Arundel County, BWI is a major international and domestic airport, easily reached by car via I-95 .
• Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD): Located in Virginia, this is another major international airport serving the region, accessible via the Dulles Toll Road and I-495.

Public Transportation System

Public transportation in Cloverly is provided by Montgomery County's Ride On bus service, which connects the community to the wider Washington Metropolitan Area transit system.

• Bus Service: Key routes like the Ride On bus 39 serve Cloverly, connecting it to the Glenmont Metrorail station . This provides residents with a vital link to the Washington Metro system, allowing for a car-free commute into Washington, D.C., and other parts of the region.
• Metrorail: The closest Metrorail station is Glenmont, which is the northern terminus of the Red Line .

Major Highways and Roads

Cloverly is well-connected by several major thoroughfares, making it accessible for commuters.

• New Hampshire Avenue (MD 650): This is the primary commercial artery running through Cloverly, connecting it to nearby communities and providing a direct route towards Washington, D.C. .
• Interstate 95 (I-95): The main interstate on the East Coast is a short drive from Cloverly, providing high-speed access to Baltimore, Washington, D.C., and points further north and south.
• Interstate 495 (I-495) / Capital Beltway: The Capital Beltway encircles Washington, D.C., and is easily accessible from Cloverly, allowing residents to reach various parts of the metropolitan area efficiently.
• Georgia Avenue (MD 97) and Columbia Pike (US 29) are other major north-south arteries in the vicinity.

Ride-Sharing and Taxis

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Cloverly, providing convenient transportation to nearby cities, airports, and transit stations. For example, the estimated fare for an UberX from Cloverly to Glenmont is around $13-$14 .

Universities and Educational Institutions

Major Research Universities Nearby

While Cloverly itself is a residential area, it is situated in close proximity to some of the nation's most prestigious research universities, which significantly influence the region.

• University of Maryland, College Park (UMD) : Founded in 1856, UMD is the flagship public research university in Maryland and a global leader in various fields. It is particularly renowned for its programs in computer science, engineering (especially aerospace and robotics), criminology, and agricultural sciences. Consistently ranked among the top 20 public universities in the U.S. by U.S. News & World Report, UMD is a powerhouse of innovation. Its alumni include Google co-founder Sergey Brin and countless leaders in science, politics, and athletics. The university's athletic teams, the Terrapins, compete in the prestigious Big Ten Conference, with a historic rivalry in lacrosse and a passionate fan base.
• Johns Hopkins University (JHU) : Located in nearby Baltimore, JHU is America's first research university, founded in 1876. It is globally synonymous with excellence in medicine, public health, and international studies. Its schools of Medicine, Nursing, and Public Health are consistently ranked #1 in the nation. The university's legacy includes 29 Nobel laureates across various fields. Its influence on the region is profound, with its renowned medical institutions drawing patients and professionals from around the world. The university's lacrosse team is a national legend, embodying the sport's history and tradition.

Specialized Institutes and Academies

• Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) : Also in Baltimore, MICA is one of the oldest and most prestigious accredited art colleges in the United States, founded in 1826. It is a leader in fine arts, graphic design, and illustration, attracting a diverse student body. Its alumni include celebrated artists, animators, and designers who have shaped American visual culture.

Historic Colleges with Rich Heritage

• St. John's College : Located in Annapolis, about 30 miles from Cloverly, this is the third-oldest college in the United States, founded in 1696. It is famous for its unique "Great Books" curriculum, where students spend four years reading and discussing the foundational texts of Western civilization. The historic campus, with its colonial-era architecture and the iconic McDowell Hall, is a destination in itself, reflecting centuries of American educational history.

Modern Campuses as Architectural Landmarks

• The Universities at Shady Grove (USG) : Located in nearby Rockville, this is not a university itself but a pioneering regional higher education center. The campus features modern, sustainable architecture and brings together nine different public universities to offer over 80 undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Its innovative model and contemporary design make it a notable educational hub in Montgomery County.

Famous Schools (Secondary Education)

• Georgetown Preparatory School : Founded in 1789, this is the nation's oldest Jesuit school for boys and the oldest Catholic school in the United States. Located in North Bethesda, just a short drive from Cloverly, it is a highly selective and prestigious private school known for its rigorous academics and distinguished alumni, which include members of the Kennedy family and numerous leaders in business and politics.
• Holton-Arms School : An independent college-preparatory school for girls in Bethesda, also near Cloverly. Founded in 1901, it is renowned for its academic excellence and was attended by Chelsea Clinton during her father's presidency. The school's campus and reputation make it one of the leading educational institutions for women in the region.

Museums

Given Cloverly's residential nature, it does not have museums of its own, but it is a short distance from the world-class cultural institutions of Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, which are easily accessible and effectively serve the area.

Art Museums (Major Collections and Masterpieces)

• National Gallery of Art (Washington, D.C.) : This is one of the premier art museums in the world. Its collection spans from the Middle Ages to the present. Masterpieces include the only painting by Leonardo da Vinci in the Americas, Ginevra de' Benci; Johannes Vermeer's Woman Holding a Balance; and a stunning collection of French Impressionist works by Monet, Renoir, and Degas. The East Building, designed by I.M. Pei, houses a remarkable collection of modern art, including works by Alexander Calder, Henri Matisse, and Jackson Pollock.
• The Walters Art Museum (Baltimore) : Located in Baltimore's Mount Vernon neighborhood, its collection was amassed by William T. Walters and his son Henry and later given to the city. It boasts a breathtaking array of art, from ancient Egyptian mummies and Assyrian reliefs to medieval armor and Renaissance jewelry. A highlight is its collection of Fabergé eggs, one of the finest outside Russia.
• The Phillips Collection (Washington, D.C.) : Founded by art collector Duncan Phillips in 1921, it is America's first museum of modern art. Its intimate galleries are home to iconic works, including Pierre-Auguste Renoir's masterpiece, Luncheon of the Boating Party, and important pieces by Georgia O'Keeffe, Mark Rothko, and Jacob Lawrence.

Historical and Archaeological Museums (Key Artifacts)

• Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History (Washington, D.C.) : One of the most visited museums in the world. Its iconic artifacts include the Hope Diamond, the world's largest blue diamond; a stunning collection of dinosaur skeletons, including a Triceratops; and the meticulously recreated mammal halls. It's a treasure trove of natural history from across the globe.
• Smithsonian National Museum of American History (Washington, D.C.) : This museum houses some of the nation's most cherished symbols, including the original Star-Spangled Banner, the flag that inspired the national anthem; the lunch counter from the Greensboro, NC, sit-ins, a key artifact of the Civil Rights Movement; and Dorothy's ruby slippers from The Wizard of Oz.
• Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture (Washington, D.C.) : Since its opening in 2016, this museum has become a cultural landmark. Its collection is vast and powerful, featuring artifacts like a segregated railway car from the Jim Crow era, Emmett Till's casket, and items belonging to influential figures from Harriet Tubman to Chuck Berry.

Museums of Contemporary Art (Big Names)

• Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden (Washington, D.C.) : Part of the Smithsonian, the Hirshhorn is dedicated to modern and contemporary art. Its cylindrical building, also designed by Gordon Bunshaft, is an architectural icon. The collection includes major works by Andy Warhol, Jeff Koons, Yayoi Kusama, and Barbara Kruger. The surrounding sculpture garden is a public oasis featuring pieces by Auguste Rodin and David Smith.
• Baltimore Museum of Art (BMA) : The BMA is home to the largest public holding of works by French master Henri Matisse in the world, thanks to a generous gift from the Cone sisters. Its contemporary wing features works by Andy Warhol, Cindy Sherman, and Mark Bradford, and its American art collection is also highly significant.

Specialized Museums with Unique Exhibits

• National Air and Space Museum (Washington, D.C.) : Another of the world's most visited museums. Its iconic exhibits include the original 1903 Wright Flyer, Charles Lindbergh's Spirit of St. Louis, and the command module of Apollo 11, which carried the first humans to the moon. The museum tells the story of aviation and spaceflight through its unparalleled collection of historic aircraft and spacecraft.
• National Museum of Health and Medicine (Silver Spring, MD) : Located very close to Cloverly in Silver Spring, this is a fascinating and unique museum. It was founded during the Civil War to study the effects of battlefield injuries. Its famous and sometimes macabre exhibits include the bullet that killed Abraham Lincoln and associated artifacts, as well as a vast collection of anatomical and pathological specimens that have contributed to medical science for over 150 years.

Medical Institutions and Healthcare

Cloverly is ideally situated near some of the world's most renowned medical institutions, particularly in nearby Bethesda and Baltimore.

• MedStar Montgomery Medical Center (Olney, MD) : This is the local community hospital located just minutes from Cloverly in the town of Olney. Founded in 1918, it provides a full range of inpatient and outpatient services, including emergency care, surgery, maternity, and oncology services. It serves as an accessible and essential healthcare resource for Cloverly residents. It is part of the MedStar Health system, which provides connections to more specialized care in the region.
• Suburban Hospital (Bethesda, MD) : A member of Johns Hopkins Medicine, this hospital is a major community and regional hospital in nearby Bethesda. It is a designated Level II trauma center and is particularly known for its cardiac surgery and neurosurgery programs, which are directly affiliated with Johns Hopkins. This integration provides local patients with access to world-class specialists and clinical trials.
• Johns Hopkins Hospital (Baltimore, MD) : Consistently ranked as one of the top hospitals in the United States by U.S. News & World Report, Johns Hopkins is a global leader in virtually every medical specialty. Founded in 1889, it is renowned for its groundbreaking research, innovative treatments, and highly specialized care in areas like neurology and neurosurgery, pediatric oncology (at the Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center and its affiliate, the Johns Hopkins Children's Center), and rheumatology. Numerous medical breakthroughs, including the discovery of restriction enzymes and the development of heparin, occurred here. It is a destination hospital for patients from around the world, including countless heads of state and celebrities.
• Walter Reed National Military Medical Center (Bethesda, MD) : Often referred to as "The President's Hospital," this is one of the nation's most prestigious and largest military medical centers. It provides care for active-duty service members, veterans, and their families, as well as the President and other high-ranking government officials. It is a leader in rehabilitative medicine, prosthetics, and treating traumatic brain injury. The campus is also home to the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences.

Sports and Sports Legends

Cloverly is within easy reach of the vibrant professional and collegiate sports scenes of both Washington, D.C., and Baltimore.

Major Sports Teams Based in the Area

• Washington Commanders (NFL) : The professional football team plays at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland, about a 30-minute drive from Cloverly. The stadium, opened in 1997, has a seating capacity of over 82,000. The team has a storied history, having won three Super Bowls (1982, 1987, 1991) and is a central part of the region's sports culture.
• Baltimore Ravens (NFL) : Based in Baltimore at the state-of-the-art M&T Bank Stadium, the Ravens have a passionate fan base. Since their founding in 1996, they have won two Super Bowl championships (2000, 2012) and are known for their dominant defenses, led by legends like Ray Lewis and Ed Reed, both closely associated with the city.
• Washington Wizards (NBA) : The city's professional basketball team, playing at the Capital One Arena in downtown Washington, D.C. The arena is also home to the Washington Capitals (NHL) , the city's professional hockey team. The Capitals, led by the legendary Alex Ovechkin, won their first Stanley Cup championship in 2018, a historic moment for the franchise and the city.
• Washington Nationals (MLB) : The Nationals are the city's Major League Baseball team, playing at the acclaimed Nationals Park on the Anacostia River in D.C. The team won the World Series in 2019, a dramatic and unforgettable championship run.
• D.C. United (MLS) : One of the most successful clubs in Major League Soccer history, D.C. United has won four MLS Cups and plays at the soccer-specific Audi Field in Washington, D.C.
• University of Maryland Terrapins (NCAA) : As mentioned earlier, the University of Maryland's teams are a huge draw. They compete in the Big Ten Conference, with their main football and basketball venues, SECU Stadium and the XFINITY Center, located in College Park. Their rivalry with Johns Hopkins in lacrosse is one of the most celebrated in all of college sports.

Famous Athletes Associated with the Area

• Len Bias (Basketball) : A legendary University of Maryland basketball player from the 1980s, Bias is one of the most talented athletes in the school's history. Hailing from the Washington, D.C., area, his tragic death in 1986, just days after being drafted by the Boston Celtics, had a profound impact on the university and the sport.
• Sugar Ray Leonard (Boxing) : Born in Wilmington, North Carolina, but raised in the Washington, D.C., area (specifically Palmer Park, MD), Leonard is a boxing icon. A gold medalist at the 1976 Olympics, he became a world champion in five different weight divisions, electrifying the sport with his speed and charisma.
• Kevin Durant (Basketball) : Born in Washington, D.C., and raised in nearby Seat Pleasant, Maryland, Durant is one of the greatest basketball players of all time. He was a national high school player of the year at Montrose Christian School in Rockville, not far from Cloverly, before his legendary college and NBA career.
• Cal Ripken Jr. (Baseball) : Known as "The Iron Man," Cal Ripken Jr. is synonymous with the Baltimore Orioles. Though born in Maryland, his 21-year career, 2,632 consecutive games played, and two American League MVP awards made him a regional hero and a national symbol of durability and excellence.

Major Sports Events and Tournaments

• The Army-Navy Game : One of the most historic rivalries in all of sports, the annual Army-Navy football game is frequently held at Northwest Stadium in Landover. This tradition, which pits the cadets of West Point against the midshipmen of the Naval Academy, is a major national event.
• Chesapeake Bayhawks (Major League Lacrosse) : Lacrosse is deeply rooted in the region. The Chesapeake Bayhawks, a professional team, have won multiple MLL championships and play their home games at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium in Annapolis, drawing on the area's rich lacrosse heritage.

Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions

As a residential suburb, Cloverly's culinary identity is intertwined with the broader food scene of the Washington, D.C., and Baltimore metropolitan area, with a particular emphasis on diverse international cuisines found in nearby communities like Wheaton and Silver Spring.

A Signature Dish: The Half-Smoke

• The Half-Smoke is the iconic sausage of Washington, D.C., and its surrounding areas. It is a coarser, spicier, and larger smoked half-beef, half-pork sausage, typically served in a bun and smothered in a spicy, tangy chili sauce, with mustard and chopped onions. It's the ultimate local hot dog.
• The dish is famously associated with the historic Ben's Chili Bowl on U Street in D.C., which has been serving them since 1958 and has become a landmark visited by presidents and celebrities. It's a beloved staple of the region's street food and diner culture, representing a unique local culinary tradition.

A Unique Regional Ingredient: Maryland Blue Crab

• The Maryland Blue Crab is more than just a seafood; it is a cultural and economic cornerstone of the region. Sourced from the Chesapeake Bay, these crabs are celebrated for their sweet, tender meat.
• They are prepared in a singularly famous way: steamed and coated liberally with Old Bay seasoning, a blend of celery salt, paprika, and other spices that is itself a local icon. The experience of sitting at a picnic table, covering the table with brown paper, and spending hours picking steamed crabs with mallets is a cherished summer tradition for families and friends.

Famous Local Beverage: National Bohemian (Natty Boh)

• National Bohemian, affectionately known as "Natty Boh," is a pale lager that, while now brewed outside the state, remains the iconic beer of Baltimore and the surrounding region. With its mascot, "Mr. Boh," winking from cans and signage, the beer is deeply woven into the local identity. For decades, its slogan was "From the land of pleasant living." It's the drink of choice at Orioles games and a nostalgic symbol of working-class Baltimore.

The Distinctive Street Food: Pupusas

• Reflecting the area's significant Salvadoran population, the pupusa has become a beloved staple of the local food scene, particularly in the Langley Park and Wheaton areas near Cloverly. Pupusas are thick, handmade corn tortillas stuffed with a savory filling, such as cheese (queso), chicharrón (fried pork), or refried beans.
• They are cooked on a griddle until the exterior is slightly crispy and the cheese is melted, and served with a tangy, slightly spicy curtido (a fermented cabbage slaw) and a thin tomato salsa. This is the ultimate example of how the region's immigrant communities have shaped its culinary landscape, offering an authentic and delicious taste of Central America right in the suburbs.

A Festive Dessert: Smith Island Cake

• Designated as the official state dessert of Maryland, the Smith Island Cake is a spectacular and decadent creation. It consists of 8 to 10 thin layers of yellow cake, each separated by a generous spread of cooked chocolate frosting, which also coats the entire cake.
• Originating from the isolated crab-fishing community of Smith Island in the Chesapeake Bay, this cake was traditionally made by home bakers using simple ingredients. Its many layers are a testament to the resourcefulness of the island's women. It's now celebrated across the state and sought after for special occasions, offering a rich, moist, and uniquely Maryland taste of history.

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