Glenn Dale, MD
- About Glenn Dale
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks
- Transport
- Museums and Cultural Sites
- Sport and Recreation
- Universities and Higher Education
- Healthcare and Medical Services
Glenn Dale is an unincorporated community in Prince George's County, Maryland, known for its historic and abandoned Glenn Dale Hospital and the 19th-century Marietta House Museum.
About Glenn Dale
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
Glenn Dale is an unincorporated area and census-designated place (CDP) in Prince George's County, Maryland, United States . As an unincorporated community, it does not have a municipal government of its own and is governed by the county. It is located in the state of Maryland, which is known for its proximity to the nation's capital, Washington, D.C., and its rich colonial and Civil War history.
Historical Names and Nicknames
While Glenn Dale has no widely known historical names or nicknames, the area is inextricably linked with the Glenn Dale Hospital, an abandoned sanatorium that has become a focal point for local legend and ghost stories . The property is officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places .
Date of Foundation and Age
The area that is now Glenn Dale began to develop in the early 19th century. A key historical landmark, the Marietta House, was built around 1812 . The Glenn Dale Fire Association was formed in 1928 to serve the community . The Glenn Dale Hospital opened its doors in 1934 . The community's identity was formalized when it was designated a CDP by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Geographic Location and Coordinates
Glenn Dale is located at coordinates 38°58′58″N 76°48′24″W . It is situated in Prince George's County, approximately 15 miles (24 km) northeast of Washington, D.C. . The center of the CDP is at an elevation of about 121 feet (37 m) above sea level . It is bordered by the city of Bowie to the east and the CDPs of Lanham and Seabrook to the west .
City Type and Economic Specialization
Glenn Dale is primarily a residential suburb within the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. Its economy is closely tied to the nation's capital, with many residents commuting to work in the federal government and related sectors. The area is also known for its historical and recreational sites, which attract visitors.
Population and Demographics
As of the 2020 census, the population of Glenn Dale was 14,698 . This makes it a moderately sized community within the county. The population has grown steadily over the past few decades, from 5,106 in 1980 to its current size . The demographic makeup is diverse, with a majority Black or African American population (60.89%) and significant White (16.61%) and Hispanic or Latino (12.65%) communities .
"City's Business Card" (Briefly)
Glenn Dale is best known as the location of two contrasting historical sites: the abandoned Glenn Dale Hospital, a decaying sanatorium with a haunting history and a magnet for urban explorers, and the meticulously preserved Marietta House Museum, a Federal-style plantation home that offers a window into 19th-century life, including the complex history of slavery. It is a quiet suburban community with deep historical roots just outside the bustling capital.
Geography
Water Bodies
The hydrology of the Glenn Dale area is characterized by the Patuxent River and its tributaries . The stream Folly Branch forms part of the CDP's western boundary . These waterways contribute to the area's green spaces and offer opportunities for outdoor recreation.
National and Nature Parks
Recreational opportunities in and near Glenn Dale include several parks and natural areas. Glenn Dale Community Park offers local green space, and the Glenn Dale Splash Park provides a seasonal water play area . Nearby, the Patuxent River Trail offers opportunities for hiking and biking along the river . For those seeking camping options, several parks are within a short drive:
- Greenbelt Park is located approximately 9 miles away and offers 175 campsites at an elevation of 121 ft .
- Louise F. Cosca Regional Park is about 10 miles away with 23 campsites at 223 ft .
- Cedarville State Forest is roughly 17 miles away with 27 campsites at 198 ft .
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
Glenn Dale has a humid subtropical climate, classified as "Cfa" under the Köppen Climate Classification system . This climate is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild to cool winters .
Average Monthly Temperatures
The area experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year. The warmest month is July, with average high temperatures reaching 32°C (90°F) and average lows around 21°C (70°F) . The coldest month is January, with average high temperatures of about 4°C (39°F) and average lows dipping to -3°C (27°F) . The average annual temperature is around 14°C (57°F) .
Precipitation and Humidity
Glenn Dale receives a significant amount of precipitation throughout the year, with an annual average of approximately 1380 mm (54.3 inches) . The wettest month is October, with an average of 143.3 mm of precipitation, while the driest month is November, with 86.1 mm . Humidity levels are relatively high, averaging around 80% . Precipitation is mostly rain, which accounts for about 92% of the annual total. Snowfall is possible but limited, primarily occurring from December through March, with the highest chances in January and February .
Sunshine and UV Index
The area enjoys a fair amount of clear skies, especially from July to November, which are described as having "much clear sky" . The longest day of the year is around June 21st, with approximately 14 hours and 54 minutes of daylight .
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March-May): Spring sees temperatures warming from cool to warm, with average highs ranging from 12°C (54°F) in March to 23°C (73°F) in May. This season is characterized by "strong precipitation" . It can be a pleasant time to visit as the landscape greens up.
- Summer (June-August): Summers are hot and humid. June through August are the hottest months, with July being the peak. This is also a period of "strong precipitation" but with "much clear sky" . It is the best time for water-based activities like the Glenn Dale Splash Park.
- Fall (September-November): Autumn is a popular time to visit, with temperatures gradually cooling from warm in September (highs of 27°C/81°F) to cool in November (highs of 13°C/55°F). October is the wettest month, so visitors should be prepared for rain . The fall foliage is a major draw in the region.
- Winter (December-February): Winters are cool to cold. Average highs in December are 8°C (46°F), dropping to 4°C (39°F) in January. Snow is possible but not usually heavy . This is the off-season for most outdoor activities.
Landmarks
Marietta House Museum
The most significant historical landmark in Glenn Dale is Marietta, a historic house museum located at 5626 Bell Station Road . This Federal-style brick house was built in 1812-13 by Gabriel Duvall, who was serving as an Associate Justice of the United States Supreme Court at the time . The house is a 2.5-story structure with a two-story rear wing added in the 1830s . It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places (added July 25, 1994) and is also part of the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom .
The historic site sits on 25 acres of Marietta's original 690-acre tobacco plantation . It includes not only the main house but also Judge Duvall's original brick law office, a stone and brick root cellar/harness room, a family cemetery, and the grounds . The site is significant for its architecture and for its history, particularly regarding the institution of slavery. Enslaved people built the house, and for decades, between nine and forty enslaved individuals from families like the Ducketts, Butlers, Jacksons, and Browns lived and worked on the plantation . Today, the house is furnished to reflect the Duvall family's occupancy and is open for public tours and special events . It is owned by the Maryland National Capital Park and Planning Commission .
Glenn Dale Hospital
Another prominent landmark, though of a very different nature, is the abandoned Glenn Dale Hospital. This large facility, consisting of 23 buildings on 210 acres, was built in 1934 as a tuberculosis sanatorium . It was designed by Nathan C. Wyeth, the architect responsible for the Key Bridge and the original Oval Office . At its peak, the hospital housed around 600 patients and 500 staff . It operated as a hospital until 1982, when it was closed due to asbestos contamination .
Since its closure, the hospital has fallen into ruin and has become a site of local legend, inspiring numerous ghost stories and attracting urban explorers and ghost hunters . Despite the folklore, the site was never an insane asylum or a prison; it was always a hospital . In 2011, the hospital was added to the National Register of Historic Places . It is currently owned by the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, which is seeking a developer to rehabilitate the property .
Glenn Dale Golf Club
For decades, the Glenn Dale Golf Club served as a community recreation hub. Owned and operated by the Shields family from 1958 until its closure in August 2019, the public golf course was built on property once owned by Supreme Court Justice Gabriel Duvall . The club was known for its commitment to junior golf and was home to LPGA professional Troy Beck's golf academy .
Transport
Nearest Major Airports
While Glenn Dale does not have a commercial airport, it is conveniently located near several major airports serving the Washington, D.C. and Baltimore region.
- Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) is approximately 20 miles (32 km) to the southwest.
- Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) is approximately 35 miles (56 km) to the west.
- Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) is approximately 25 miles (40 km) to the northeast.
Train and Public Transit
Public transportation options in Glenn Dale itself are limited . However, nearby stations provide connections to the regional rail network.
- MARC Train (Penn Line): The nearest MARC train stations are in Seabrook and New Carrollton. A train from Baltimore's Penn Station to New Carrollton takes about 46 minutes . From the New Carrollton station, one can take a local bus to Glenn Dale.
- Amtrak: Amtrak trains, including the Northeast Regional, also serve the New Carrollton station, providing high-speed rail connections to cities like Boston, New York, and Washington, D.C. .
Bus Service
Bus service in the area is provided by the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), which runs Metrobus routes. Key routes serving the area include the P20, which connects the New Carrollton Station to stops like Lanham-Severn Road and Greenbelt Road near Glenn Dale . Greyhound also provides intercity bus service from a stop in Hyattsville/New Carrollton .
Major Highways
Glenn Dale's location in the Washington suburbs makes it accessible by several major highways.
- Maryland Route 450 (Annapolis Road) forms the southern boundary of the CDP .
- Maryland Route 193 (Greenbelt Road) runs along part of the western boundary .
- The area is also easily accessible from the Baltimore-Washington Parkway (MD 295) and Interstate 95/495 (the Capital Beltway) , which provide connections to the wider region.
Getting Around Without a Car
While a personal car is the most practical way to navigate Glenn Dale due to its suburban layout, other options exist . Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are available . The area has some infrastructure for walking and biking, including trails, but its effectiveness depends on the specific destination . For longer trips or for reaching transit stations, a car or rideshare is often necessary.
Museums and Cultural Sites
Marietta House Museum
The most significant historical site in Glenn Dale is the Marietta House Museum . This historic house was the center of a former 690-acre tobacco plantation built between 1812 and 1813 for Gabriel Duvall, who served as an Associate Justice of the United States Supreme Court from 1811 to 1835 . The house is a prime example of late Federal-style brick architecture .
Today, the museum is dedicated to interpreting the complex and interconnected lives of the Duvall family and the numerous enslaved families—including the Ducketts, Jacksons, Browns, and Butlers—who lived and labored there until Maryland ended slavery in 1864 . The site is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is also part of the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom . Visitors can tour the federal-era house, the original brick law office, the root cellar, and walk the 25-acre grounds .
Nearby Museums
For those interested in exploring more history, several museums are located within a short drive of Glenn Dale :
- Belair Stable Museum (Bowie, MD): This museum, housed in a 1907 stable, showcases the history of Thoroughbred racing and is the home of two Triple Crown winners .
- Montpelier Mansion (Laurel, MD): A fine example of Georgian architecture, this historic house was built between 1781 and 1785 and has welcomed distinguished guests like George Washington .
- Riversdale (Riverdale Park, MD): Also known as the Calvert Mansion, this National Historic Landmark is a five-part, stucco-covered brick plantation home built between 1801 and 1807 .
- National Capital Radio & Television Museum (Bowie, MD): This museum traces the history of broadcasting with a collection of vintage radios and televisions .
Sport and Recreation
Glenn Dale Golf Club
The primary recreational sports facility in the area is the Glenn Dale Golf Club . Designed by George Cobb and opened in 1956, this semi-private club offers an 18-hole course that provides a sporty challenge for golfers . The course features a par of 70 and measures 6,282 yards from the black tees .
The club is well-equipped with practice facilities, including a driving range, putting green, and chipping green . Amenities include a clubhouse with a bar and snack bar, a pro shop, and rentals for clubs and electric carts . The golf pro is Troy Beck .
Sports in Nearby Washington, D.C.
As Glenn Dale is located within the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, residents and visitors have easy access to all the major professional sports teams and venues in the nation's capital. This includes teams in football, baseball, basketball, hockey, and soccer.
Universities and Higher Education
While Glenn Dale itself does not host a university, it is situated in a region rich with higher education opportunities. There are 63 colleges within a 50-mile radius of Glenn Dale, enrolling over 500,000 students . The closest university is just 3.2 miles away .
Closest Universities
- Bowie State University (Bowie, MD): Located only 3 miles from Glenn Dale, this public university is a member of the University System of Maryland and is a historically black university .
- Prince George's Community College (Largo, MD): About 7 miles away, this is the closest community college, offering a wide range of associate degrees and certificate programs .
Major Research Universities Nearby
Within a short drive, one can find some of the nation's most prestigious research institutions :
- University of Maryland, College Park: Approximately 7 miles from Glenn Dale, this is the flagship public university of Maryland, ranked #10 for Best Public Universities in America. It is a leading research institution with over 40,000 students .
- Georgetown University (Washington, D.C.): About 16 miles away, this private Jesuit university is one of the most selective in the country, with a 13% acceptance rate .
- Howard University (Washington, D.C.): Located 13 miles away, this is a top-tier historically black private university .
- Johns Hopkins University (Baltimore, MD): While further away in Baltimore, this world-renowned research university is ranked #10 in the nation and is accessible to Glenn Dale residents .
Healthcare and Medical Services
Glenn Dale has several medical practices located within the community, primarily along Annapolis Road, offering a range of outpatient and specialized services. For comprehensive hospital care, residents have access to major medical centers in the surrounding areas.
Medical Practices in Glenn Dale
- Comprehensive Womens Health: Located at 12150 Annapolis Rd, this practice specializes in obstetrics, gynecology, and family medicine, with 11 physicians on staff. They accept Medicare and Medicaid .
- Medpro Hospitalists Llp: Also at 12150 Annapolis Rd, this group offers a range of services with specialists in family medicine, geriatric medicine, infectious disease, and internal medicine .
- Prime Medicine Llc: Situated at 12150 Annapolis Rd, this practice focuses on family and internal medicine .
- Natural Family Wellness: Found at 12200 Annapolis Rd, this practice offers a unique approach with specialties in family medicine, holistic medicine, and integrative medicine .
Major Hospitals and Medical Centers Nearby
For emergency and specialized hospital care, several major medical centers are located within a short distance:
- Luminis Health Doctors Community Medical Center (Lanham, MD): This is the closest full-service hospital to Glenn Dale, providing emergency services, surgical care, and a range of medical specialties.
- University of Maryland Medical System (Multiple Locations): With medical centers in Baltimore and throughout the region, this system provides access to world-class specialty care, including the renowned R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center.
- MedStar Health (Multiple Locations): The MedStar Health system has several hospitals in the Washington, D.C. and Baltimore area, including MedStar Washington Hospital Center and MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, offering comprehensive medical and surgical services.
Local Cuisine
Glenn Dale is a primarily residential community, and its local dining scene consists mainly of modern American restaurants and franchises. For a taste of the region's history, one can look to the culinary traditions of the broader state of Maryland. While not unique to Glenn Dale, the area is famous for its Blue Crabs, especially when prepared with Old Bay Seasoning. Maryland is renowned for its steamed blue crabs, crab cakes, and crab soup, a tradition deeply rooted in the Chesapeake Bay's culture and history. This cuisine is celebrated throughout the state, especially during the summer months. The closest place to experience authentic Maryland seafood would be in the coastal towns of Annapolis or along the bay. There is no information available on a unique local dish, drink, or ingredient specific only to Glenn Dale.