An Introduction to Calvert Hills
Nestled just south of the University of Maryland campus, Calvert Hills isn’t just a place on the map—it’s a close-knit neighborhood with a personality all its own. Lined with mature trees and historic homes, this peaceful pocket of College Park offers residents an inviting atmosphere that strikes a perfect balance between small-town charm and college town convenience. If you’re considering a move, here’s an honest, neighborly take on what it’s like to live in Calvert Hills.
Community Vibe: Friendly Faces and Familiar Names
One of the first things you’ll notice about Calvert Hills is the genuine sense of community. Neighbors wave as they walk their dogs along Princeton Avenue or tend to their gardens on Harvard Road. It’s not unusual to spot kids riding bikes or see a porch gathering on a warm evening. Longtime residents are quick to welcome newcomers, and there’s a shared pride in maintaining the area’s character.
Community events, organized through the Calvert Hills Citizens’ Association, help keep the neighborhood connected. From garden tours to holiday gatherings in Calvert Park, these events offer easy ways to meet people and feel at home.
Types of Housing: Character and Diversity
Calvert Hills boasts an eclectic mix of housing that adds to its charm. Along streets like Bowdoin Avenue, Dartmouth Avenue, and Norwich Road, you’ll find:
- Early 20th-century bungalows and Craftsman homes, many lovingly restored
- Classic American Foursquares and quaint Cape Cods with inviting front porches
- Newer infill homes and a handful of tasteful renovations, blending in with historic facades
Most lots are spacious for a College Park address, with leafy backyards ideal for families, pets, or a backyard barbecue. The diversity of homes means there’s something for everyone— whether you’re looking for a starter home, something larger for a growing family, or a place to age in place.
Walkability: A Pedestrian’s Paradise
One of Calvert Hills’ biggest perks is its walkability. The neighborhood is arranged in a grid pattern, making it a cinch to navigate on foot or by bike. In less than ten minutes, residents can walk to:
- The College Park Metro Station (perfect for D.C. commuters)
- Calvert Road Park, a local green oasis
- Shops and restaurants along Route 1, from coffee shops to casual eateries like Vigilante Coffee and The Board and Brew
A favorite local route is the Trolley Trail, a paved walking and biking path that winds through Calvert Hills and connects to College Park’s other neighborhoods, as well as Hyattsville’s lively Arts District to the south.
Schools and Family-Friendliness
Calvert Hills attracts many families who put a premium on education and a supportive environment. School-aged children typically attend College Park’s public schools, including:
- College Park Academy (a public charter middle and high school with high academic marks)
- Paint Branch Elementary (located nearby, with a focus on STEM and the arts)
Families benefit from local playgrounds in Calvert Park and organized activities in the summer. The sense of “looking out for each other’s kids” is still strong here, reinforcing the neighborhood’s reputation as a safe, nurturing place for families.
Parks and Green Spaces: Room to Roam
Outdoor lovers are right at home in Calvert Hills. At its heart is Calvert Park—an expansive, leafy area featuring:
- Playgrounds and open fields perfect for soccer, frisbee, or a picnic
- Basketball and tennis courts
- Shady walking trails that attract joggers, stroller-pushing parents, and dog walkers
For bigger adventures, the neighborhood connects easily to Paint Branch Stream Valley Park and Lake Artemesia, which are ideal for biking, bird-watching, or simply enjoying the water views. Green spaces are a point of pride here—many residents mention them as a top reason for loving their neighborhood.
Safety and Peace of Mind
Security and peace of mind are high priorities for Calvert Hills residents. The neighborhood benefits from its tight-knit vibe, where most people know their neighbors and keep an eye out for each other’s homes. The City of College Park also maintains a robust community policing program and works closely with the Calvert Hills Citizens’ Association to address concerns quickly.
While no area is immune to the occasional burst of student activity from the nearby university, most residents agree Calvert Hills feels safer and quieter than many surrounding areas.
Proximity to Downtown and Major Employers
Location is another huge plus. Calvert Hills residents enjoy:
- Fast access to the College Park Metro for hassle-free commutes to D.C., Silver Spring, or Bethesda
- Quick drives or bike rides to the University of Maryland—a major area employer
- Easy access to downtown College Park’s restaurants, libraries, grocery stores, and entertainment
Being able to live in a tranquil neighborhood without sacrificing access to urban amenities is a huge draw, especially for professionals, university-affiliated families, and those who want the best of both worlds.
What Residents Love Most
Ask anyone who has called Calvert Hills home, and you’ll get a chorus of positives. Residents mention:
- The neighborhood’s “hidden gem” quality—close to everything, but just off the beaten path
- A walkable lifestyle that’s rare in the D.C. metro area
- A lively, diverse community with both young families and longtime residents
- The unique character of the homes and tree-lined streets
- Access to excellent parks and outdoor recreation
Above all, most say it’s the people—neighbors who look out for each other, greet you by name, and contribute to keeping Calvert Hills the special place that it is.
Is Calvert Hills Right for You?
If you’re seeking a community with historic charm, walkability, green spaces, and an active, friendly spirit, Calvert Hills should definitely be on your list. It’s the kind of neighborhood where a stroll to the park can turn into a new friendship, and where you’ll feel welcome from your very first day.
Whether you’re a young family, young professional, or just searching for a peaceful corner of College Park with easy city access, Calvert Hills is a place where “welcome home” really means something.