Girls Night Out in Howard County, MD: Best Spots for Moms to Meet
When was the last time you had a night out with just the girls? If you’re anything like me, a girls night out has become more of a necessity than a luxury. We give so much of ourselves to our families every single day, and while we love them endlessly, sometimes a cocktail, a good laugh, and a night with girlfriends is the best kind of recharge.
If you’re around Howard County, you’re in luck. I’ve got a great mix of restaurants, cozy wine spots, and super fun activities to help you reconnect with your crew (and with yourself). Whether you’re in the mood for wine and conversation or something a little more adventurous, there’s something for every kind of mom vibe.
Restaurants Perfect for Girls Night Out
Cured / 18th & 21st – Upscale, Trendy, and Great for Cocktails
Cured 18th & 21st is my go-to when I want to dress up just a little and feel like a grown-up again. Cured has such a cool modern vibe, and if you’re into charcuterie boards, this is the jackpot. Upstairs at 18th & 21st, it gets swankier with live jazz and strong cocktails, perfect for a girls night where you actually get to hear each other talk.
Grille 620 – Stylish and Chill
This one hits the sweet spot between casual and classy. It’s the type of place where you can show up in jeans or heels and feel right at home either way. I’ve had some of my favorite catch-up convos over their sliders and sangria.
The Food Market – Bold Flavors & Fun Energy
The Food Market in Columbia is a newer gem that’s full of energy and flavor. It’s got this modern, buzzy vibe that makes it feel like a real night out, even if you’re wearing mom jeans. The menu is full of inventive takes on comfort food, and the cocktails? Let’s just say they don’t disappoint.
Wine Bars and Breweries
Some nights you just want to sit, sip, and vent about all the things, without anyone asking for a juice box.
BIN 604 Wine + Spirits
Technically in Baltimore, but BIN 604 is worth the quick drive. It’s a cozy little gem with curated wine flights and a knowledgeable staff who won’t make you feel dumb for asking what “tannins” are. Perfect for an intimate girls night out or celebrating a birthday.
Black Flag Brewing Co.
Another Ellicott City favorite. Black Flag feels like your cool friend’s basement-turned-brewery. Super chill, dog-friendly, and usually hosting some kind of trivia or event.
Walker’s Tap & Table – Cozy, Creative, and Local Favorite
Tucked away in Marriottsville, Walker’s Tap & Table has that cozy-chic vibe I love. Think rustic wood interiors, a rotating tap list, and a menu with unexpected twists on classics (their Brussels sprouts? Life-changing). It’s perfect for a girls night out that feels special but still totally relaxed.
The Wine Bin (Ellicott City) – Charming and Community-Focused
This place is such a hidden gem in Historic Ellicott City. The Wine Bin is part boutique wine shop, part cozy hangout. On warm evenings, they even host outdoor movie nights with wine tastings, yes, please! It’s perfect for a chill, low-key night with your girls and a bottle you can’t pronounce (but definitely enjoy).
Beyond Dinner: Fun Activities
Paint Night at Pinot’s Palette
Yes, we’re talking canvas, brushes, and wine. Whether you’re an aspiring artist or you’re just there for the vino and vibes, paint nights at Pinot’s Palette are such a fun way to do something different. You’ll leave with a masterpiece… or at least a good story.
Board & Brush
This is DIY heaven, with wine. Board & Brush lets you get crafty while sipping with your crew. You’ll create a custom wood sign (you know, the kind you always see on Pinterest but never have time to make). It’s therapeutic, hands-on, and you walk out with something you actually want to hang in your home.
Axe Throwing at Stumpy’s Hatchet House
Hear me out, Stumpy’s Hatchet House is way more therapeutic than it sounds. Throwing sharp objects at a wooden target? Kinda feels like letting go of every crayon-on-the-wall moment. It’s safe, it’s supervised, and it’s surprisingly empowering.
Live Music or Karaoke at Nottingham’s Tavern
Some nights you just need to sing your heart out to 90s hits with your besties. Nottingham’s brings the energy with live music and karaoke nights. It’s casual, fun, and just the right amount of nostalgic.
Tips for Planning the Perfect Girls Night
Babysitter Share: Split the cost and book a babysitter for all families. The kids get a playdate, and the moms get their night out.
Weeknight vs. Weekend: Don’t sleep on Thursday night girls night out dates, places are less crowded and you’re home by 10.
Keep it Low-Stress: Not every girls night out needs to be a full production. Sometimes the best nights are the ones where you just show up and laugh until your cheeks hurt.
What Are You Waiting For? Start Planning Your Night Out in Howard County, MD
I truly believe that making time for yourself, without guilt is one of the healthiest things you can do as a mom. So whether it’s dinner, drinks, paint, or karaoke, I hope this inspires you to schedule that night out.
