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Top Attractions
Maryland is home to some of the most iconic attractions in the United States. From the National Aquarium in Baltimore to the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum in St. Michaels, there’s something for everyone. For history buffs, the Antietam National Battlefield is a must-visit site, while the Ocean City Boardwalk is perfect for families looking for some fun in the sun.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, Maryland has plenty of hidden gems to discover. The Catoctin Wildlife Preserve and Zoo is home to over 300 animals, including rare and endangered species. For nature lovers, the Patuxent Research Refuge is a great spot for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife photography.
Food Scene
Maryland is known for its delicious seafood, especially crabs and oysters. The Old Ebbitt Grill in Washington, D.C. is a popular spot for Maryland-style crab cakes, while the Annapolis Seafood Market serves up fresh seafood caught daily. For those with a sweet tooth, the Berger Cookie is a local favorite.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling on a budget? Maryland has plenty of affordable options for accommodations, dining, and activities. The state park system offers camping and cabin rentals at a fraction of the cost of traditional hotels, while food trucks and local markets are great places to grab a cheap meal. Many museums and attractions offer free admission on certain days of the week.
Outdoor Adventures
From hiking and biking to kayaking and fishing, Maryland is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. The Appalachian Trail runs through the western part of the state, while the Chesapeake Bay is a popular spot for boating and watersports. The Assateague Island National Seashore is a must-visit for beach lovers, and the Deep Creek Lake area offers skiing and snowboarding in the winter.
Historical Landmarks
Maryland played a key role in American history, and there are countless landmarks and sites to explore. The Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine in Baltimore was the inspiration for the Star-Spangled Banner, while the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park tells the story of the famous abolitionist. The U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis is also worth a visit.
Family-Friendly Activities
Maryland is a great destination for families, with plenty of kid-friendly attractions and activities. The National Children’s Museum in Washington, D.C. is a hands-on learning experience for kids of all ages, while the Maryland Science Center in Baltimore has interactive exhibits and a planetarium. The Adventure Park at Sandy Spring has zip lines, ropes courses, and other outdoor activities.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something unique, Maryland has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to discover. The American Visionary Art Museum in Baltimore showcases outsider art and unconventional exhibits, while the National Museum of Civil War Medicine in Frederick tells the story of medicine during the Civil War. The National Shrine Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes in Emmitsburg is a peaceful and spiritual retreat.
Natural Wonders
Maryland is home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders on the East Coast. The Great Falls of the Potomac in Potomac is a stunning waterfall and popular spot for hiking and kayaking. The Cunningham Falls State Park in Thurmont is home to the largest cascading waterfall in Maryland, while the Rocks State Park in Jarrettsville has stunning rock formations and hiking trails.
Vibrant Nightlife
Maryland has a thriving nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues to choose from. The Power Plant Live! complex in Baltimore has multiple bars and clubs within walking distance, while the Rams Head Live music venue hosts national and local acts. The Annapolis Arts District also has a variety of bars and restaurants with live music.
Local Markets
For a taste of local flavor, Maryland has plenty of farmers markets and food halls to explore. The Baltimore Farmers’ Market & Bazaar is the largest producer-only market in Maryland, with over 250 vendors. The R. House food hall in Baltimore has a variety of food and drink options from local chefs and artisans, while the Pike & Rose complex in North Bethesda has a weekly farmers market.
Beaches and Mountains
Maryland has something for everyone when it comes to outdoor recreation. The state has over 4,000 miles of coastline, with popular beach destinations like Ocean City and Assateague Island. The Appalachian Mountains also run through western Maryland, with popular hiking destinations like the Catoctin Mountain Park and the Appalachian Trail.
Cultural Immersion
Maryland is a melting pot of cultures, with a rich history and diverse population. The National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C. tells the story of African American history and culture in the United States, while the Walters Art Museum in Baltimore has a collection of art from around the world. The Maryland Renaissance Festival in Annapolis is a celebration of medieval culture and history.
Art and Music Scene
Maryland has a thriving arts and music scene, with galleries, museums, and venues showcasing local and national talent. The Baltimore Museum of Art has a collection of over 95,000 works of art, while the American Film Institute Silver Theatre and Cultural Center in Silver Spring shows independent and classic films. The Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia is a popular outdoor music venue.
Walking Tours
Walking tours are a great way to explore Maryland’s history and culture. The Annapolis Ghost Tour takes visitors on a spooky journey through the city’s haunted past, while the Maryland Historical Society in Baltimore offers a variety of walking tours on topics like maritime history and Civil War history. The Frederick Walking Tour takes visitors through the city’s historic district.
Architectural Marvels
Maryland has some of the most unique and historic architecture in the United States. The Maryland State House in Annapolis is the oldest state capitol still in continuous legislative use, while the George Peabody Library in Baltimore is a stunning example of 19th century architecture. The B&O Railroad Museum in Baltimore has a collection of historic trains and locomotives.
Historical Sites
From colonial settlements to Civil War battlefields, Maryland has a rich history that is reflected in its many historical sites and landmarks. The St. Mary’s City historic district is a living history museum that tells the story of Maryland’s first capital, while the Antietam National Battlefield in Sharpsburg is the site of the bloodiest single day in American history. The Fort Frederick State Park in Big Pool is a well-preserved fort from the French and Indian War.
Biking Routes
Maryland has a variety of scenic biking routes for cyclists of all levels. The Baltimore and Annapolis Trail is a paved trail that runs from Annapolis to Glen Burnie, while the Western Maryland Rail Trail runs through the countryside from Hancock to Big Pool. The Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Towpath is a 184.5 mile trail that runs from Washington, D.C. to Cumberland.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking for a relaxing and rejuvenating getaway, Maryland has a variety of wellness retreats and spas. The Inn at Perry Cabin in St. Michaels has a luxurious spa and wellness center, while the Even Hotel in Rockville offers fitness-focused amenities like in-room workout zones and healthy dining options. The Sierra Club Retreat Center in Silver Spring is a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature.
Adventure Sports
If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, Maryland has plenty of adventure sports to choose from. The Chesapeake Bay is a popular spot for kiteboarding and windsurfing, while the Wisp Resort in McHenry has skiing and snowboarding in the winter and ziplining and mountain biking in the summer. The Savage River Reservoir in Grantsville is a popular spot for kayaking and canoeing.
With so much to see and do, Maryland is the perfect destination for your next adventure. Whether you’re looking for outdoor recreation, cultural immersion, or historical landmarks, there’s something for everyone in the Old Line State.