Kettering, MD

County: Prince George's

History

Kettering, Maryland

Kettering, Maryland is an unincorporated community located in Prince George's County, in the southeastern part of the state. The community is part of the larger Upper Marlboro area and falls under the jurisdiction of the Prince George's County government.

Kettering began as a planned community in the late 1960s and early 1970s. It was developed by the Kettering Corporation, which sought to provide affordable housing options and a suburban lifestyle to residents of the fast-growing Washington, D.C. metropolitan area.

The development of Kettering took place in multiple phases. The first phase, known as "Kettering by the Park," was completed in 1968 and included single-family homes surrounding a large park. Over the next decade, additional phases were added, including townhouses, apartment buildings, and shopping centers.

The community was designed with a focus on recreational amenities. Kettering boasts several parks and open spaces, including the 40-acre Kettering Largo-Felicia-Fort Gardens Park, which offers a variety of sports fields, playgrounds, and walking trails. The community also features a community center with a swimming pool, tennis courts, and various programs for residents.

Over the years, Kettering has grown and evolved. It has attracted a diverse population, including families, professionals, and retirees. The community is known for its strong sense of community and active homeowner associations, which play a role in maintaining the overall quality of life in the area.

Today, Kettering is a thriving and bustling community. It offers a range of amenities and conveniences, including shopping centers, restaurants, and nearby medical facilities. Its proximity to major highways and public transportation options makes it an attractive location for commuters working in Washington, D.C. and other parts of the region.

In summary, Kettering, Maryland started as a planned community in the late 1960s with a focus on providing affordable housing and a suburban lifestyle. It has since grown into a vibrant community with various recreational amenities and a diverse population.

Attractions

Watkins Regional Park

Watkins Regional Park

A large park with recreational areas, picnic spots, hiking trails, a carousel, mini-golf, and a nature center.

Six Flags America

A theme park featuring thrilling rides, water slides, live entertainment, and a variety of dining options.

Prince George's Stadium

Home to the Bowie Baysox, a minor league baseball team affiliated with the Baltimore Orioles. Catch a game and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

FedExField

Located nearby in Landover, MD, this is the home stadium of the Washington Football Team (NFL). Attend a game or take a tour of the stadium.

The Show Place Arena

A multi-purpose venue hosting various events, including concerts, theater performances, trade shows, and sporting events.

Lake Arbor Golf Club

A golf course offering 18 holes and beautiful views. Perfect for golf enthusiasts looking to enjoy a round of golf.

ShowPlace Arena Farmers Market

Held on Sundays, this farmers market offers fresh produce, artisanal products, food vendors, and live music.

Watkins Nature Center

This center provides opportunities to learn about and explore the local flora and fauna through exhibits, educational programs, and nature trails.

Cedarville State Forest

Located nearby in Brandywine, MD, this state forest offers hiking trails, camping facilities, fishing areas, and picnic spots.

Mellwood Art and Entertainment Center

This venue hosts art exhibitions, workshops, concerts, and other cultural events.

Please note that some of these attractions may have specific operating hours or require advance booking, so it is advisable to check their websites or contact them before planning a visit.

Climate

Kettering, Maryland is located in Prince George's County, which is part of the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States. The climate in Kettering is considered to be a humid subtropical climate. Here are some key characteristics of the climate in Kettering:

Summers

Kettering experiences hot and humid summers with average high temperatures ranging from the mid-80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (around 29-33 degrees Celsius). High humidity levels are common during this time, making it feel even hotter. Thunderstorms and occasional heatwaves can occur as well.

Winters

Winters in Kettering are mild to cool, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to mid-40s Fahrenheit (around 1-7 degrees Celsius). Snow is possible but relatively rare, and temperatures rarely drop below freezing for extended periods. However, cold snaps can occur during some winters.

Spring and Fall

Spring and fall seasons in Kettering are mild and transition periods. Spring brings warming temperatures, with average highs increasing from the mid-50s to low 70s Fahrenheit (around 13-23 degrees Celsius). Fall sees temperatures cooling down from the high 70s to low 50s Fahrenheit (around 25-10 degrees Celsius), with colorful foliage.

Precipitation

Kettering receives a significant amount of rainfall throughout the year, averaging around 44 inches (around 112 cm) annually. Rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the seasons, but summer months tend to be slightly wetter. Thunderstorms and showers can occur, especially during the summer months.

Overall, Kettering, MD experiences a relatively moderate climate, with distinct seasons and average temperatures for the region.

Neighborhoods

Kettering is an unincorporated community located in Prince George's County, Maryland. It is situated in the southeastern part of the county, just outside the Capital Beltway (I-495), making it a convenient location for commuting to Washington, D.C. and other neighboring areas. Kettering primarily consists of several neighborhoods, each offering its own unique characteristics and amenities. Here are some notable neighborhoods within Kettering:

Kettering

The central neighborhood of the area, often referred to as "Kettering" itself, is a well-established residential area with predominantly single-family homes. It features tree-lined streets and a mix of architectural styles, including colonials, split-levels, and ranch-style houses. Kettering is known for its community-oriented atmosphere and proximity to schools, parks, and recreational facilities.

Largo

Located adjacent to Kettering, Largo is another prominent neighborhood in the area. It is home to the popular Largo Town Center, a shopping and entertainment destination that includes a mall, movie theater, and various retail stores. Largo is also home to the Prince George's Community College and numerous townhome and apartment complexes, offering various housing options.

Upper Marlboro

Situated southeast of Kettering, Upper Marlboro is the county seat of Prince George's County. While not directly part of Kettering, it is in close proximity and offers historic charm with its courthouse, local shops, and historical sites. Upper Marlboro is a vibrant and growing area with a mix of suburban and rural communities.

Watkins Park

Located on the northeastern side of Kettering, Watkins Park is known for its large, beautiful public park named Watkins Regional Park. The park provides various recreational activities, including picnic areas, walking trails, a carousel, a miniature train, and a nature center. Surrounding the park, there are a mix of single-family homes and townhouses within family-friendly neighborhoods.

Largo Town Center

Situated near the Largo neighborhood, Largo Town Center is an emerging mixed-use development encompassing residential, commercial, and entertainment properties. The area includes luxury apartments, restaurants, retail stores, and office spaces. It is conveniently adjacent to Largo Town Center Metro Station, providing easy access to the Washington, D.C. metro area.

These are just a few of the notable neighborhoods in and around Kettering, Maryland. Each area offers its own advantages and attractions, making Kettering a diverse and appealing place to live.

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