Named in 1696 for Denmark and Norway's prince (the husband of the heir to the throne of England, Princess Anne), the county was once famous for its tobacco auctions, which are still held in its southern end. Tobacco created a wealthy leisure class that enjoyed cricket, fox hunting, and horse racing, a sport still popular in the area. Much of the county today remains affluent.

Nature lovers should try to make a visit to the National Wildlife Visitor Center. Flight fans can check out the world's oldest continuously operating airport in College Park. For those who prefer 60-second thrills, Six Flags is full of roller coasters, waterslides, and kiddie rides. Sports fans may not be able to see the Redskins, but they can get a fix at a Maryland Terrapins game or at a Bowie Baysox minor-league baseball game. Historic sites, including the Surratt House Museum, are scattered throughout the county.

To tour the county, start in College Park and work your way up to Laurel. Then head south to the heart of the county before visiting sites along the Patuxent and Potomac rivers.