Rockville, MD, Revealed: Get to Know the Community
New to Rockville, Maryland? As you embark on your move to Montgomery County, acquaint yourself with the local community with the help of Storage Sense’s guide to the city. Get to know the area as we share our favorites, and take advantage of Storage Sense’s services as you are settling into your new space. In this guide, we’ll explore the unique facets of Rockville and let you in on the city’s hidden gems. Find family fun, breathtaking views, and your new top eateries right here in the city.
Table of Contents
I. Explore Rockville, MD: Things to Do
Lake Needwood in Rockville MD by John Brighenti lic CC BY 2.0 DEED
Rockville, Maryland: Where Community & Opportunity Thrive
Get Outdoors with Rockville’s Parks & Nature Areas
Rockville takes pride in its green spaces, with many picturesque parks offering residents the opportunities for outdoor activities. Woodley Gardens Park is a local favorite, offering well-maintained baseball fields, tennis courts, and a playground that makes it a hit with families. Its picnic areas are perfect for gatherings, and the surrounding greenery provides a peaceful backdrop for a day out. Dogwood Park complements the city with its vast open spaces, sports fields, playgrounds, and walking paths.
Civic Center Park encompasses the historic Glenview Mansion and its formal gardens, art gallery, and nature trails. It’s a splendid venue for cultural events, art exhibitions, and weddings, aside from being a tranquil retreat for nature lovers. Appreciators of the arts would also enjoy Mattie J.T. Stepanek Park in King Farm, a tribute to the young poet and peace advocate, Mattie Stepanek. The park features a large playground, picnic pavilions, and a Peace Garden, embodying Mattie’s vision of hope and peace.
Rock Creek Regional Park extends over 1,800 acres, including Lake Needwood and Lake Frank. It’s a haven for fishing, boating, hiking, and picnicking. The park’s trails connect to the Rock Creek Hiker-Biker Trail, offering miles of exploration through diverse habitats. Croydon Creek Nature Center is nestled within 120 acres of forest preserve and offers an interactive experience with the local flora and fauna. It’s a fantastic educational resource, providing nature programs, exhibits, and guided walks. For a quieter, more intimate setting, Fallsgrove Park features serene walking paths, a playground, and a pond. There are plenty of ways you and the family can find fun and adventure outdoors in Rockville!
Experience Professional Sports Just a Short Drive Away
With our proximity to D.C., Rockville certainly gets caught up in the professional sports scene. Residents find themselves within easy reach of various professional sporting events in the greater Maryland area. Catch a game for the Washington Commanders, Wizards, or Capitals all within a 45-minute drive of our city. For those fans that lean more north, Baltimore is just 50 minutes up Interstate 95. Whether you are seeing the Orioles or Ravens in action or just take advantage of the venues as the homesteads play your favorites, you have tons of access to all the sports games you could want.
Try Local Flavors
- Gyuzo Japanese BBQ: Indulge in a sizzling experience at Gyuzo, where premium meats meet tabletop grilling. Authentic Japanese flavors elevate your dining adventure as you choose from an array of marinated meats and fresh vegetables, grilling them to perfection at your table. Gyuzo Japanese BBQ promises a delectable fusion of flavors and interactive culinary delight.
- The Spot: The Spot stands out with a vast menu of options. From Asian-inspired dishes to American classics, this restaurant caters to a broad spectrum of tastes. The modern and inviting ambiance adds to the overall dining experience, making it a local favorite.
- Sushi Oishii: Sushi Oishii is the go-to destination for sushi lovers in Rockville. Offering an extensive menu of fresh and expertly crafted sushi rolls and sashimi, this Japanese gem provides an authentic and elevated dining experience.
- La Limena: Offering a taste of Peru, La Limena serves up traditional dishes like ceviche, lomo saltado, and arroz con pollo, along with an assortment of pisco cocktails. The colorful decor and friendly service add to the restaurant’s charm.
- Matchbox: A great spot for American fare, Matchbox is known for its wood-fired pizzas, gourmet burgers, and creative appetizers. The restaurant has a contemporary vibe, with an open kitchen that allows diners to watch their meals being prepared. The outdoor seating area is popular during warmer months.
- Silver Diner: A modern take on the classic American diner, Silver Diner offers a menu that emphasizes local and organic ingredients. With options ranging from traditional diner breakfasts to vegan and gluten-free dishes, there’s something for everyone. The nostalgic decor and jukeboxes at each table create a fun and retro dining experience.
What Makes Rockville Special?
1. Our Location in the Baltimore-Washington Metropolitan Area
Living in Rockville, MD, provides a unique advantage for both professionals working in Washington, D.C., and those who relish the cultural and recreational opportunities the capital offers. Rockville’s strategic location and transportation infrastructure stand out as major benefits for residents and visitors alike.
The ease of access to D.C., and its surrounding areas also means that day trips and weekend explorations are right at your fingertips. Whether it’s visiting the Smithsonian museums, enjoying the cherry blossoms at the Tidal Basin, hiking in the Shenandoah Valley, or exploring the historic streets of Annapolis and Alexandria, our location makes these excursions easy.
2. Deep-Rooted Historical Ties
Rockville was settled in the 18th century. The area was referred to by multiple names, including Owen’s Ordinary, Hungerford’s Tavern, and Daley’s Tavern. The early settlement was marked by agricultural practices and a close-knit community spirit that laid the foundation for Rockville’s unique charm. Through the Civil War, the city saw its share of both Confederate and Union soldiers that past through. The city’s Beall-Dawson House and the Stonestreet Museum of 19th Century Medicine stand as testaments to its 19th-century life and the area’s medical history.
In the mid-20th century, Rockville experienced significant growth and transformation with the arrival of railroad connections to Washington, D.C.. The expansion of residential areas turned Rockville into a thriving suburban city. The once agricultural community evolved into a hub for families seeking a peaceful yet dynamic lifestyle.
3. Our Friendly & Welcoming Community Spirit
Whether you are a new family in town, a student studying at a nearby university, or a working professional, the city has vast opportunities year-round for you to get together with community other members. Here are some of the standout annual community events in Rockville.
Rockville Memorial Day Parade
One of Rockville’s most cherished traditions is its Memorial Day Parade, an event that has been held for over 70 years. As one of the oldest Memorial Day parades in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area, it honors veterans and military families with a procession that includes marching bands, drill teams, community groups, and floats. The parade marches through the heart of Rockville, creating a sense of pride and remembrance among the community members. This event is a poignant reminder of the city’s respect for those who have served the country, and it offers a day of family-friendly activities, including ceremonies, music, and food.
Hometown Holidays Music Fest
The Hometown Holidays Music Fest is a weekend-long celebration that takes place every year over Memorial Day weekend, leading up to the Memorial Day Parade. This event transforms Rockville Town Center into a lively festival ground, with multiple stages hosting live music performances spanning various genres. In addition to the music, attendees can enjoy the Taste of Rockville, which features local restaurants offering samples of their best dishes. The event also includes children’s activities, making it a perfect outing for families looking to kick off the summer in style.
Rockville Farmers Market
While not a single event, the Rockville Farmers Market is an essential part of the community each week from May through November. It brings together local farmers, bakers, and artisans to sell their fresh produce, baked goods, and handcrafted items. The market not only supports local agriculture and small businesses but also serves as a gathering place for residents to meet, shop, and enjoy the community.
Rockville Arts Festival
The Rockville Arts Festival is an annual celebration of the arts, attracting artists and artisans from across the region. This juried event showcases a wide array of artistic mediums, including painting, photography, ceramics, jewelry, and sculpture. Located in the Rockville Town Square, the festival offers visitors the chance to admire and purchase unique artworks. It also features live music, artist demonstrations, and activities for children, making it a culturally enriching experience for the entire family.
Moving to Rockville? Follow These Easy Movers Tips
Identify Emergency Services & Important Resources
From utilities to healthcare facilities and schools, knowing your important local contacts is one of the first steps you should take as you settle into your new home. Make sure your utilities are set up promptly before your move-in date. Take note of your closest emergency room, fire station, and police department. If you have children, Montgomery County Public Schools is an excellent choice for education, as are the numerous private schooling options in the city. Make sure you are properly set up in all areas of your move!
Create an Organized Packing/Unpacking Plan
A successful relocation depends on planning and strategic packing. Start by clearly labeling each box with its contents and designated room to streamline the unpacking process, and compile a comprehensive inventory list to keep track of all items and ensure nothing goes missing. Stock up on high-quality packing materials—durable boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper, and strong tape—to safeguard your valuables, and consider using specialized containers for delicate items like dishes or clothing to maintain organization and protection during the move.
Choosing the right moving company is crucial; opt for one with a solid reputation and familiarity with Rockville. Seek recommendations from future neighbors or local online communities, and verify the company’s credentials and insurance to prevent any surprises. For those requiring temporary storage, explore local options like Storage Sense for a variety of unit sizes and temperature-controlled options, ideal for downsizing or interim solutions.
Storage Sense, Your Storage Solution in Rockville, MD
As you move into Rockville, Storage Sense serves as a reliable partner in addressing storage needs. The facility’s commitment to security and convenience can provide you with peace of mind as you handle the unpredictability of your move. We offer a variety of self storage options, so you can find an affordable match for your needs. Explore our storage selection online today!
Choosing temperature-controlled storage guarantees the safeguarding of your possessions, particularly delicate items like electronics, wooden furniture, and documents. Maryland encounters varied weather conditions, and our temperature-controlled units uphold a steady environment, shielding your belongings from temperature variations and potential harm. The convenience of drive-up storage units, on the other hand, provides quick and easy access to your belongings. Perfect for those frequent visits or when you need to load and unload bulky items, our drive-up storage units save you time and effort. Talk to our experts to see which option can best serve you.
We even provide secure parking spaces tailored for your cars, boats, and RVs. Our fenced and well-lit parking area ensures the safety of your vehicles while offering the flexibility you need. Rockville residents with limited parking space or those seeking a safe place for their recreational vehicles can trust our dedicated parking solutions. With 24/7 surveillance and easy access, Storage Sense can handle all your self storage needs! Check out our available self storage units today.
Carson Kennedy
About the Author: Carson is an outgoing and personable marketing student at Millersville University who is constantly looking for ways to do better and be better. Outside of working on his studies, you may find him reading philosophy, exercising, or entertaining his Golden Retriever, Lucy.
Katie Mest
About the Author: Katie Mest is a Content Marketing Specialist at Storage Asset Management in York, PA. She specializes in writing about the self storage industry, including storage tips and helpful resources. Outside of work, Katie enjoys spending time exploring the outdoors and snuggling in with a crochet project and her cat, Billie.
