What is the Discovery District?
The Discovery District is an extension of the University of Maryland’s innovation endeavors and encompasses the University’s original M Square Research Park. Born out of a public-private partnership between the Corporate Office Properties Trust, St. John Properties and the University of Maryland, the Discovery District is where industry, government and research come together.
This reimagined University of Maryland research park has developed into a revolutionary ecosystem comprised of both small and large organizations, highlighting the best that UMD and the surrounding community have to offer. The $300 million project spans five acres of university land surrounding The Hotel at University of Maryland and has already begun to breathe new energy into this college town during the summer months, one of the primary goals of the venture.
Conveniently located between Washington D.C. and Baltimore, the UMD Discovery District is within ten miles of many federal laboratories, government agencies, policy institutes, media outlets, and embassies. These partners foster research, support small businesses and nurture the growth of new technology. And with flexible office space for small start-ups and large businesses alike, there’s room for everyone.
Attractions
On top of business offerings and research space, the Discovery District is full of and surrounded by amenities of all types, offering the district’s hard workers plenty of ways to unwind after a long day. Here is just as small sample of what you can find when you visit the Discovery District.
The Hotel at UMD
Not only is the The Hotel at the University of Maryland home to several restaurants, a beautiful lobby bar, and a full-service spa, the AAA rated 4-diamond hotel consists of nearly 300 rooms and 43,000 square feet of conference space. It’s a fantastic spot for both visitors and locals to kick back and relax or use as a “base” to experience College Park and the greater Washington D.C. area.
The Art Walk
This outdoor park hosts a rotating collection of art installations among its green space and trails, making it a great place to wind down after work. What’s more, Art Walk’s food truck hub is home to a variety of cuisines and plenty of seating space, perfect for a quick bite before heading back to the office.
The Hall CP
The Hall CP is part bar, part restaurant, and part entertainment space. Visitors can grab a bite, sip drinks on the patio, watch the big game at one of the community tables, and enjoy comedy shows or live music. It’s an ideal gathering space for anyone visiting, living, or working in the Discovery District.
The UMD Arboretum and Botanical Garden
This 150-year-old, 1,300 acre arboretum and garden is a collaborative project between the department of Plant Sciences & Landscape Architecture and Facilities Management. Its ever-changing landscape displays a beautiful array of forestry, plants and flowers as well as a natural history dating to the early days of the University.
Discovery District Tenants
The Discovery District currently houses more than 60 organizations, spanning a variety of industries from aerospace to hospitality, to tech, and even nonprofits. Here are just a few of the businesses that call the Discovery District home.
Airgility
Airgility is making an impact by creating unmanned aerial systems that can fly anywhere – completing missions such as search and rescue, border protection, medical supply drops, and much, much more.
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
NOAA’s Center for Weather and Climate Prediction provides real time monitoring of climate data for use by the government as well as public and private industries around the world.
Quantum Startup Foundry
The University of Maryland is home to an expansive quantum research enterprise, and the Quantum Startup Foundry provides support to entrepreneurs focused on bringing quantum tech to the market. This partnership is a perfect illustration of what the Discovery District is all about.
Book Your Stay Near the Discovery District
The Hotel at the University of Maryland is located right in the heart of the Discovery District. In addition to its luxurious guest rooms, stunning Lobby Bar, and delicious restaurants, the Hotel UMD was specifically designed to accommodate a variety of conference and meeting events. Whether you’re hosting a meeting with five collaborators or a formal gala with hundreds of guests, we have the perfect space for you. Contact us today to start planning your next gathering.