Columbia

Longfellow, Columbia Neighborhood

Harper's Choice is a calm and inviting neighborhood known for its quiet atmosphere and well-distributed green spaces close by. The residential options include a variety of single detached homes, townhouses, and small apartment buildings, offering spacious layouts with three or more bedrooms. Residents benefit from convenient access to primary and secondary schools throughout the area, fostering educational opportunities within easy reach. The neighborhood features numerous bike lanes that support comfortable cycling across the community. Dining needs are met with several local restaurants and cafes, while grocery stores are accessible for many residents. Parking is ample, contributing to hassle-free vehicle use.

The character of Harper's Choice is exemplified by its relaxed environment. The noise levels in this part of the community are very low, as the streets are usually very peaceful. Finally, although the neighborhood does not contain any public green spaces, parks are very well-situated in nearby neighborhoods, resulting in them being easy to get to from the majority of locations within Harper's Choice.

Highlights of Longfellow

Parks, schools, dining, and what makes this neighborhood special

🌳 Longfellow Park

Located at the heart of the neighborhood on Hesperus Drive, Longfellow Park is a beloved green space featuring a large playground, baseball fields, basketball courts, and picnic pavilions, making it a gathering spot for local families and community events.

🏫 Longfellow Elementary School

Situated on Hesperus Drive, Longfellow Elementary is known for its strong academic reputation and active PTA, serving as a cornerstone for neighborhood families and fostering a tight-knit community spirit.

🍽️ Food Trucks at Longfellow Pool

In the summer months, residents flock to the Longfellow Pool on Green Mountain Circle where local food trucks regularly set up, creating a casual and family-friendly dining hangout after a swim.

🛒 Harper's Choice Village Center

Just minutes away via Cedar Lane, this shopping plaza serves Longfellow residents with a Safeway, restaurants like Hunan Legend, the Harper's Choice Pharmacy, and essential services within easy reach.

🚴 Columbia Association Pathways

The neighborhood is interwoven with Columbia’s scenic pathway system, offering residents access to miles of trails for walking, running, and biking, including picturesque routes through woods and along Wilde Lake.

Longfellow

This September in Longfellow

Things to do, events, and what's happening this month

September 3, 2026

Final Farmers Market of the 2026 Season

Merriweather Row Plaza, Columbia, MD • 3:00 PM–7:00 PM

This marks the last chance in the season for Longfellow-area residents to shop fresh produce, local treats, handmade crafts, and support small businesses right in Columbia’s Merriweather District.

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September 8, 2026

Pop‑Up Farmer's Market at Howard County Health Department

Howard County Health Department, Columbia, MD • 11:00 AM–1:00 PM

A convenient mid‑week pop‑up market offering fresh local produce in Columbia, easily accessible for Longfellow residents looking to grab goods without traveling far.

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September 19–20, 2026

Festival of India

Howard County Fairgrounds, Ellicott City, MD

A vibrant cultural festival featuring Indian music, dance, cuisine, and fashion—an enriching regional event just minutes from Columbia that offers diverse cultural experiences for residents.

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September 26, 2026

Patapsco Literary Festival

Ellicott City, MD • 10:00 AM–8:00 PM

A full‑day celebration of literature close by with author talks, readings, panels, and live music—perfect for book lovers and families seeking cultural programming near Longfellow.

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September 9–30, 2026

Food Truck Wednesdays in the Merriweather District

Merriweather District, Columbia, MD

Weekly evenings of diverse and delicious food right in the heart of Columbia—ideal for Longfellow residents seeking casual, local dining and community atmosphere during mid‑week.

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September 26, 2026

Glitter Slime (ages 6–10)

Central Branch, HCLS, Columbia, MD • 1:00 PM–1:45 PM

A fun, hands‑on craft activity at the local library for younger children, offering Longfellow families an engaging, educational—and delightfully messy—afternoon event.

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From the Neighborhood

Stories, updates, and things to know in Longfellow

Know Your Neighborhood

Local characteristics and demographics for Longfellow

Neighborhood Characteristics

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Demographics

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