La Plata, MD
- About the City
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks and Attractions
- Transport
- Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
- Museums
- Sport and Sporting Legends
- Universities and Educational Institutions
- Medical Institutions and Healthcare
La Plata is a town in Maryland, USA, and the county seat of Charles County. Known for its historic resilience, it was named after the Río de la Plata and rebuilt after a tornado in 2002. It's a residential hub with local attractions, near the historic Port Tobacco and offering access to parks and the Potomac River.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
- Full Official Name: La Plata, Maryland.
- Administrative Role: La Plata is the county seat of Charles County .
- Location: The town is located in the state of Maryland, in the Southern Maryland region of the United States. This area is known for its deep colonial history, waterfront communities along the Potomac River and the Chesapeake Bay, and its proximity to the nation's capital, Washington, D.C.
Founding Date and Age
- Year Founded/Incorporated: La Plata was officially incorporated in 1888 .
- Age: As of 2026, the town is 138 years old.
- Founding Legend: According to local lore, the town was named by Colonel Samuel Chapman, whose family owned thousands of acres in the area. After traveling to South America with his son for health reasons, he encountered the Río de la Plata in Argentina and Uruguay and decided to name a portion of his Maryland property "La Plata" . The town's development accelerated in the 1870s with the construction of a section of the Pennsylvania Railroad through the area .
Geographic Location and Coordinates
- Geographic Coordinates: 38°32′3″N 76°58′24″W (38.534258, -76.973377) .
- Location Context: La Plata is situated in Southern Maryland, approximately 40 km (25 miles) south of Washington, D.C. . It lies near the Potomac River, which forms the border with Virginia.
- Elevation: The center of town is at an elevation of approximately 58 meters (190 feet) above sea level .
- Geographical Type: La Plata is an inland town located in the Atlantic coastal plain, characterized by a gently rolling landscape.
City Type and Economic Specialization
La Plata functions primarily as an administrative center (as the county seat) and a residential community. Many residents are employed by the Charles County government, while a significant portion commutes to work in nearby cities like Waldorf, Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, including major installations like Andrews Air Force Base and Naval Air Station Patuxent River . The town is developing into a local business and commercial hub for Southern Maryland .
Population and Demographics
- Population: As of 2025 estimates, the population of La Plata is 11,330, showing continued growth from the 2020 census count of 10,159 .
- City Classification: La Plata is classified as a small town.
- Demographic Note: The town has a diverse and growing population. The racial makeup is approximately 48.8% White, 35.1% African American, and 3.8% Asian . It is a relatively affluent community with a median household income of $121,707 and a low poverty rate of 3.51% .
City's "Calling Card" (Brief)
La Plata is a resilient and historic Southern Maryland town that serves as the heart of Charles County. It offers a blend of small-town charm with its historic buildings and local theater, while its revitalized downtown and proximity to the Potomac River and Washington, D.C., make it a peaceful yet connected place to live and visit.
Geography
Water Bodies (Rivers and Parks Nearby)
While not directly on the water, La Plata is close to several significant aquatic environments.
- Potomac River: The historic Potomac River is located approximately 30 minutes from La Plata, offering a variety of recreational opportunities. Families can enjoy fishing, kayaking, canoeing, or simply relaxing by the riverbank. The scenic views along the river make it a lovely spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll .
- Gilbert Run Park: Located about 20-30 minutes away in Charlotte Hall, this park features a 60-acre lake (Wheatley Lake) available for fishing, pedal boating, rowboating, and canoeing .
- Smallwood State Park: Approximately 25 minutes from La Plata, this park provides access to Mattawoman Creek, where visitors can fish or go canoeing .
National and State Parks
Several parks in the vicinity offer outdoor activities and a connection to nature.
- Cedarville State Forest: About a 20-minute drive from La Plata, this extensive forest offers scenic hiking trails that wind through lush woodlands, providing opportunities to observe local wildlife and enjoy the tranquility of nature. Trails are suitable for both casual walkers and more experienced hikers .
- Smallwood State Park: Located roughly 25 minutes away, this park features hiking trails, picnic areas, and access to Mattawoman Creek. Its natural beauty and diverse ecosystems make it a wonderful place to connect with nature .
- Thomas Stone National Historic Site: Just outside La Plata in Port Tobacco, this site is the home of Thomas Stone, a signer of the Declaration of Independence. The National Park Service operates a visitor center and offers guided tours of the historic estate .
Islands and Historic Villages
- Port Tobacco: While not an island, the historic village of Port Tobacco is located just at the western edge of La Plata . Dating back to 1727, it is Maryland's smallest town (with a population of around 15) and is home to the Port Tobacco Courthouse Museum and the historic St. Thomas Manor, the oldest continuously occupied Jesuit residence in the world .
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, La Plata has a humid subtropical climate, abbreviated as "Cfa" on climate maps . This area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild to cool winters.
Average Temperatures
- Summer: Summers in La Plata are hot and humid. Average high temperatures in the warmest months (July and August) are around 31°C (88°F) , with overnight lows near 20°C (68°F) .
- Winter: Winters are mild to cool. Average high temperatures in the coldest month (January) are around 7°C (45°F) , with lows near -3°C (27°F) .
Precipitation and Humidity
- Rainfall: La Plata receives consistent rainfall throughout the year, with no distinct dry season. The area averages about 1,100 mm (43 inches) of precipitation annually.
- Humidity: Humidity levels are generally high year-round due to the region's proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and the Chesapeake Bay, contributing to the "humid" aspect of its subtropical climate.
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit La Plata for pleasant weather is during the spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) . These seasons offer mild temperatures, lower humidity, and beautiful natural scenery, ideal for exploring the town and nearby parks and historic sites.
- Spring (March-May): Temperatures warm up from cool to pleasantly warm. This is a great time for hiking in Cedarville State Forest before the summer heat arrives.
- Summer (June-August): Expect hot and humid conditions. This season is suitable for water-based activities like boating on the Potomac River or Gilbert Run Park's lake.
- Fall (September-November): Temperatures cool down, and the humidity drops. The changing fall foliage in the surrounding countryside makes this a particularly scenic time to visit.
- Winter (December-February): Winters are generally mild but can be chilly and occasionally see light snow. It's a quiet time to explore indoor attractions like museums and local restaurants.
Landmarks and Attractions
[Port Tobacco Courthouse]
- Full Name: Port Tobacco Courthouse / Port Tobacco Museum.
- Location: Commerce St, Port Tobacco Village (just west of La Plata) .
- Description: The centerpiece of the historic village of Port Tobacco, this reconstructed courthouse dates back to 1819 (the original courthouse here burned in 1895) . Upstairs, a small museum is maintained with exhibits on local history and archaeological findings from the area, one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in the nation. Occasional tours are given with costumed docents .
[La Plata Train Station Museum]
- Full Name: La Plata Train Station Museum.
- Location: La Plata, Maryland .
- Description: Housed in the historic railroad depot, this museum offers visitors a glimpse into the area's railroad past . It stands as a testament to the town’s historical connection to the railways, which played a significant role in its development from the 1870s onward .
[Mount Carmel Monastery]
- Full Name: Mount Carmel Monastery (Carmelite Monastery).
- Location: Just outside La Plata, near the main campus of the College of Southern Maryland .
- Description: Founded in 1790, this Catholic convent is a historic religious site and is recognized as the first Carmelite monastery in the United States. It is an important part of the region's Catholic heritage .
[St. Thomas Manor]
- Full Name: St. Thomas Manor / St. Ignatius Church.
- Location: 8855 Chapel Point Road, Port Tobacco Village .
- Description: This is the oldest continuously occupied Jesuit residence in the world. The mission was founded in 1641 to minister to the Potapoco Native Americans. It was here that John Carroll, the first Catholic bishop in the United States (and later founder of Georgetown University), was invested in his robes. Outbuildings include a small, mid-19th century wood-frame slaves' quarter, adding to its profound historical significance .
[Port Tobacco Players Theater]
- Full Name: Port Tobacco Players Theater.
- Location: La Plata, Maryland .
- Description: This community theater is a hub for local culture, showcasing local talent in a variety of performances throughout the year . It's a key part of La Plata's artistic and social scene.
[Tilghman Lake Park]
- Full Name: Tilghman Lake Park.
- Location: La Plata, Maryland .
- Description: This park provides a serene setting for outdoor activities right in town. It features walking trails, areas for picnics, and fishing opportunities in the lake, making it a popular spot for families and individuals seeking recreation .
Transport
Major Highways
The primary method of travel to and from La Plata is by road. Four state highways serve the town, with the most significant being U.S. Route 301 (Crain Highway) .
- US 301: Heads south across the Potomac River via the Governor Harry W. Nice Memorial Bridge into Virginia, eventually reaching Richmond. To the north, it connects La Plata to Waldorf and the Washington, D.C. beltway (I-495) .
- Maryland Route 6 (MD 6): The main east-west highway, following Port Tobacco Road and Charles Street through town, connecting to Port Tobacco to the west and Charlotte Hall to the east .
- Maryland Route 225: Follows Hawthorne Road westward from US 301, leading to Maryland Route 210 near Indian Head .
- Maryland Route 488: Follows La Plata Road northeast from MD 6 to Maryland Route 5 near Bryantown .
Nearest Airports
La Plata does not have its own commercial airport. Residents and visitors rely on major airports in the Washington, D.C.-Baltimore region.
- Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA): Located approximately 40-50 miles north, across the Potomac River in Virginia, this airport handles many domestic flights.
- Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD): Situated about 60-70 miles northwest in Virginia, it is a major international hub.
- Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI): Located about 60-70 miles northeast, near Baltimore, it is another major international and domestic airport.
Public Transportation
Public transportation options from La Plata are primarily focused on commuter travel to Washington, D.C.
- Bus Service: Commuter bus services (such as the 650 route mentioned by Moovit) connect La Plata to Washington, D.C. . The journey to downtown D.C. takes approximately 64 minutes by bus from the La Plata Park & Ride lot . Local public transit options within the town itself are limited.
Railway Station
- La Plata Station: The town has an historic train station, now home to the La Plata Train Station Museum. While freight trains may still pass through, the station is no longer a stop for intercity passenger rail service like Amtrak . The nearest Amtrak stations with regular service are likely in larger cities like Alexandria, VA, or Washington, D.C.
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
While La Plata itself is a smaller community, its location in Southern Maryland places it within a region with distinct culinary traditions, heavily influenced by the Chesapeake Bay. The nearby waters and historic farming practices define the local food scene.
Maryland Blue Crab (Callinectes sapidus)
The undisputed king of Southern Maryland cuisine is the Maryland Blue Crab. This isn't just an ingredient; it's a cultural cornerstone.
- Description: The blue crab is a regional specialty, celebrated for its sweet, delicate meat. The most iconic way to enjoy it is as Maryland-style steamed crabs. Whole crabs are liberally seasoned with Old Bay, a quintessential local spice blend of celery salt, paprika, and other spices, then steamed and served on tables covered in butcher paper.
- Traditions: Picking steamed crabs is a beloved summer tradition, often a social event for families and friends. You're expected to wield a mallet and crack the shells yourself.
- Where to eat it: This is classic casual fare, enjoyed at crab houses and seafood shacks throughout the region, especially during the warmer months .
Crab Cakes
Another signature dish is the Maryland Crab Cake.
- Description: A true Maryland crab cake is defined by its minimal use of fillers (like breadcrumbs). The star is large lumps of fresh crab meat, lightly bound with mayonnaise, egg, and seasoning, then broiled or pan-fried. The goal is to taste the crab, not the filler.
- What makes it unique: The quality of the local crab meat is what sets this dish apart. It is served in everything from high-end restaurants to casual pubs.
Smith Island Cake
For dessert, the Smith Island Cake, the official state dessert of Maryland, is a must-know item, though its origin is from the island communities in the Chesapeake Bay.
- Description: This cake is famous for its architecture: it consists of 8 to 15 thin, delicate layers of yellow cake with a cooked chocolate frosting between each layer and on top. The result is a rich, decadent, and towering cake.
- Tradition: It originated from the isolated communities of Smith Island and was a way for home bakers to create a special cake using simple ingredients.
- Where to find it: While you'll find it across Maryland, it's a point of pride in the Southern Maryland region and a true taste of the bay's heritage.
Museums
La Plata is home to a distinctive art gallery, and its location in Charles County means other unique cultural sites are a short drive away.
Art Galleries in La Plata
The primary art space in the heart of La Plata is Glow Tattoo & Art Gallery.
- Full name: Glow Tattoo & Art Gallery .
- Description: Founded in 2016, this is an all-female custom tattoo shop that also houses an art gallery. Located in downtown La Plata, the gallery space showcases not only local artists but also features a virtual gallery highlighting artists from around the world. The exhibitions change every few months with a new themed show, providing a dynamic and accessible art experience in the county seat of Charles County .
Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center (Nearby in Solomons, MD)
For a larger and more traditional museum experience, the Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center is located in nearby Solomons, Maryland, where the Patuxent River meets the Chesapeake Bay .
- Description: This unique venue features a 1/4-mile walking path that meanders through the woods past permanent and loaned sculpture. A significant draw is its collection of over thirty works on loan from the Smithsonian Institution and the National Gallery of Art .
- Artists in the collection: The sculpture garden includes works by internationally acclaimed artists such as Barbara Hepworth, Jean Arp, and Kenneth Snelson .
Sport and Sporting Legends
As a smaller town, La Plata does not have major professional sports franchises. However, it is located within an hour's drive of Washington, D.C., and its surrounding areas, which are home to numerous professional teams. Furthermore, the local community college has an active athletics program.
College of Southern Maryland (CSM) Athletics
The College of Southern Maryland (CSM) , with its La Plata campus, is the center of local sports. CSM fields teams that compete in the Maryland Junior College Athletic Conference (MD JUCO) and the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCBA) .
- Teams: The CSM Hawks have men's and women's teams in sports including:
- Baseball
- Softball
- Basketball
- Soccer
- Cross Country
- Home Games: Local residents can catch collegiate-level games on campus, providing a community-focused sporting experience.
Professional Sports Nearby
For major league sports, residents and visitors can easily travel to the Washington, D.C., area. While not in La Plata, these teams define the regional sports landscape:
- NFL (Football): The Washington Commanders play at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland, approximately 40 minutes from La Plata .
- MLB (Baseball): The Washington Nationals, the 2019 World Series champions, play at Nationals Park in Washington, D.C.
- NBA (Basketball): The Washington Wizards play at the Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C.
- NHL (Hockey): The Washington Capitals, multiple Stanley Cup champions, also play at the Capital One Arena.
- MLS (Soccer): D.C. United, one of the most historic clubs in Major League Soccer, plays at Audi Field in Washington, D.C.
Universities and Educational Institutions
Higher education in La Plata is centered around one major institution and a unique collaborative center that expands educational opportunities in Southern Maryland.
College of Southern Maryland (CSM)
The cornerstone of higher education in La Plata is the College of Southern Maryland (CSM) .
- Full name: College of Southern Maryland (CSM) .
- Type and Location: A public, two-year community college with its main campus, the La Plata Campus, located at 8730 Mitchell Road .
- Description: CSM is a comprehensive community college offering associate degrees, certificates, and workforce training programs. It serves as a vital access point for higher education in the region, with a strong focus on transfer programs for students who wish to continue their studies at four-year universities . The college serves nearly 5,000 students and has a student-to-faculty ratio of 16 to 1 .
The Universities at La Plata
A unique and significant educational feature is The Universities at La Plata.
- Full name: The Universities at La Plata .
- Description: This is a regional higher education center located on the campus of the College of Southern Maryland. Founded in 1997 as the Waldorf Center for Higher Education, it moved to the CSM campus and was renamed in July 2020 .
- Partnership: The center is a partnership between CSM and four-year institutions, most notably the University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) . This allows students in Southern Maryland to pursue bachelor's and master's degrees from UMGC without leaving the region, by taking hybrid classes at the La Plata location .
Colleges and Universities Nearby
La Plata's location places it within a reasonable commute of a vast array of other colleges and universities. There are nearly 50 schools within a 30-mile radius . This includes major institutions such as:
- George Mason University in Fairfax, VA .
- Georgetown University and George Washington University in Washington, D.C. .
- University of Maryland Global Campus and Prince George's Community College in the Adelphi/Largo area .
Medical Institutions and Healthcare
La Plata is well-served by a regional medical center and has other healthcare options in the immediate area. For specialized care, residents have access to the vast medical network of the Washington, D.C. and Baltimore metro areas.
University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Center
The primary healthcare facility in La Plata is the University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Center.
- Full name: University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Center .
- Location: 5 Garrett Avenue, La Plata, MD 20646 .
- Description: This is a full-service, acute care hospital serving Charles County and the surrounding region. As a member of the University of Maryland Medical System, it provides a wide range of services, including emergency care, surgical services, and various specialized treatments. It is a key healthcare provider for the community .
Other Nearby Medical Centers
In addition to the hospital in La Plata, several other major medical centers are located within a short drive, offering more specialized or tertiary care.
- MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center: Located at 7503 Surratts Road in nearby Clinton, MD, this is another full-service hospital in the region .
- Adventist HealthCare Fort Washington Medical Center: Found at 11711 Livingston Road in Fort Washington, MD, this facility provides healthcare services to the southern Prince George's County area .
- Washington Hospital Center: For the most advanced specialized care, the Washington Hospital Center at 110 Irving Street in Washington, D.C., is a major teaching hospital and one of the largest in the capital region .
Local Clinics
La Plata is also home to several local clinics and specialized practices, such as La Plata Pediatrics & Family Health, LLC, providing accessible, community-based outpatient care .