The state of Maryland has earned the moniker “America in Miniature.” It’s an accurate description of the diverse and accommodating Mid-Atlantic state. It is home to a wide variety of landscapes, including beaches, cities on the water, mountains, parks, and coastal hamlets.
Its proximity to the nation’s capital are Tourist Attractions ensures its continued modernity, while the region’s rich history gives the state a firm footing in the past. The best places to visit in Maryland range from bustling urban centers like Baltimore and Annapolis to picturesque watering holes found throughout the state.
10. Deep Creek Lake
Deep Creek Lake is a man-made lake located in the lush Maryland woodlands. Outdoor enthusiasts from near and far flock to the lake and its surrounding area, which shares the same name. The winter months see a huge influx of skiers to the mountains surrounding Deep Creek Lake. More than a half dozen local courses are open for the summer season, providing ample opportunities to tee off.
Although there are plenty of water-based activities to choose from, spending time on dry land is also a lot of fun. A horse-drawn carriage ride through the Amish Miller Farm will allow you to see how the Amish live.
9. Chesapeake Bay
Historically referred to as Great Shellfish Bay, the Chesapeake Bay is one of the world’s largest estuaries. Numerous Maryland attractions are situated on the bay’s shores, providing visitors with a wide range of options for how to spend their time there.
While crossing the Chesapeake Bay Bridge from Sandy Point, you can take in the water views, or you can visit the Methodist community on Smith Island. Don’t leave the area without trying the Maryland blue crab, a delicacy that is uniquely Chesapeake Bay.
8. Frederick
The historic city of Frederick is a must-see for any collector of old things. Frederick, a town that was founded in the middle of the 18th century, has kept its historic charm and is now home to many excellent antique malls, local dealers, and artists.
The Barbara Fritchie House is just one of many historic residences open to the public. The furniture and decor of this home are authentic to the time period, and Barbara Fritchie is remembered as a hero for proudly flying the Union flag as General Stonewall Jackson marched by. If you’re looking for antique souvenirs, Market Street is the place to go, though the Francis Scott Key Mall is a sizable alternate.
7. Swallow Falls State Park
The American military’s bloodiest day was at the Battle of Antietam. Therefore, the Antietam National Battlefield is a significant site that visitors should visit. Beginning your tour of the expansive battlefield at the Visitor Center is recommended.
There’s an audio tour available for the subsequent nearly nine miles of the path. This is the best resource out there for true Civil War buffs. The Pry House Field Hospital Museum is also worth a look, with its excellent displays chronicling the enormous challenges faced by medical personnel during the conflict. Lastly, hikers can take in the area’s scenery and history Tourist Attractions along the Antietam Remembered or Union Advance Trails.
6. Swallow Falls State Park
The beautiful Swallow Hills State Park can be found just beyond Oakland. The Youghiogheny River flows right through the park’s borders, creating lots of stunning rapids and beautiful gorges. The Muddy Creek Falls in Swallow Falls State Park is a 50-foot waterfall that is sure to be the highlight of any trip there.
The waterfalls are reached after a short, one mile hike through scenic hemlock forests. Hiking the slightly more than five miles between Swallow Falls and Herrington Manor State Park is a good option if you’re in the mood for a longer, more strenuous hike.
5. Assateague Island.
Assateague Island is a barrier island in the Chesapeake Bay off the coast of Maryland. This deserted island is split in two: one side is a state park, and the other is a national seashore protected by the United States government. Famous for its herds of free-roaming ponies, who can be seen prancing along the beach dunes, this stunning island is a must-see.
Enjoy the scenery, hear the ocean waves, and look out for the various bird species that make their home along the Life of the Dunes Trail. Most of the island’s beaches are suitable for swimming, and at the more popular ones, lifeguards are posted.
4. We have Annapolis
Annapolis, Maryland, the state capital, is a major metropolitan area home to numerous interesting destinations. Nearly all of the buildings in the central business district are of historical significance, with many dating back to the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries. People from all over come to Annapolis to hang out at the City Dock.
The dock is always lively with music and, of course, huge ships coming in and out every day. The Armet-Leftwich Visitor Center is where you can schedule a tour of the United States Naval Academy.
3. The Chesapeake & Ohio Canal
More than a hundred miles of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal were constructed in the middle of the 1800s, stretching from Washington, DC, to Cumberland. In most places, you can follow the canal’s paths and go for a stroll, ride your bike, or just take in the scenery.
Several strategic points along the canal are surrounded by a wealth of attractions thanks to the area’s rich historical legacy. Both the Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center and the Williamsport Visitor Center offer boat tours in the summer. While few people make it all the way along the trail, even a short visit to a significant site can leave a lasting impression.
2. The City of Ocean
Ocean City, as its name suggests, is a city on the coast. Being on the Atlantic Ocean means that the 10-mile sandy beach, and all accompanying recreational activities, are a big reason to visit. At the beach’s southern end in Ocean City is the historic boardwalk, a popular tourist destination.
The boardwalk features a variety of attractions, including games, live entertainment, shops, restaurants serving traditional beach fare, and the Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum.
1) Baltimore
When in Maryland, visit the vibrant city of Baltimore, and don’t miss the action in the harbor area. The National Aquarium in the city’s Inner Harbor is home to over 17,000 marine animals, from seahorses to sharks, and is a top tourist destination.
All of the marine life in the world can be observed in a single, enormous glass tank, and there are even 4D films that show off the ocean floor. The Top of the World, a 27-story observation deck, can be found in the Inner Harbor as well.
A pirate ship ride, complete with a crew in pirate garb and a cannon, is the perfect way to get in the spirit of the city’s pirate-themed adventure.
Is Maryland worth visiting?
Maryland is often called America in Miniature thanks to its varied landscape and diversity of cultures and attractions. But while the state may be small, its sprawling shorelines, lively cities and historical sites make it an ideal vacation destination