Maryland Travel Guide: Best Places to Visit & Top Attractions

Nicknamed the Old Line State, Maryland is known for its Chesapeake Bay seafood, historic landmarks, and diverse landscapes. Whether you’re exploring coastal towns, hiking in the Appalachian Mountains, or visiting iconic battlefields, this guide covers the best places to visit in Maryland.

Where is Maryland?

📍 Location: Mid-Atlantic, Eastern United States
🌆 Major Cities: Baltimore, Annapolis, Ocean City, Frederick
🌊 Bordering States: Pennsylvania, Delaware, Virginia, West Virginia
🔗 Visit Maryland Tourism

Best Time to Visit Maryland

🌸 Spring (March-May): Great for cherry blossoms, outdoor festivals, and mild weather.
☀️ Summer (June-August): Peak season for beach trips, boating, and seafood festivals.
🍂 Fall (September-November): Ideal for fall foliage, crab feasts, and historic tours.
❄️ Winter (December-February): Best for holiday markets, skiing, and museum visits.

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Top Attractions & Destinations in Maryland

1. Baltimore – The Charm City

Baltimore is Maryland’s cultural and historic hub, home to waterfront attractions, museums, and great seafood.

⚓ Best Things to Do in Baltimore:

Inner Harbor & National Aquarium – Explore marine life exhibits and historic ships.
Fort McHenry National Monument – Birthplace of The Star-Spangled Banner.
Fell’s Point – A historic waterfront district with cobblestone streets and lively pubs.

📍 Location: Central Maryland
🔗 Visit Baltimore

2. Annapolis – The Sailing Capital of the U.S.

Annapolis is Maryland’s capital and a must-visit for maritime history, seafood, and colonial charm.

⛵ Top Attractions in Annapolis:

United States Naval Academy – Take a tour of this prestigious military school.
Historic Downtown Annapolis – Walk through 18th-century streets lined with boutiques and cafes.
Chesapeake Bay Sailing Tours – Enjoy a sunset cruise or sailing lesson.

📍 Location: Eastern Maryland
🔗 Visit Annapolis

3. Ocean City – Maryland’s Top Beach Destination

Ocean City is a popular summer retreat known for its boardwalk, sandy beaches, and family-friendly attractions.

🏖️ Best Things to Do in Ocean City:

Walk the Ocean City Boardwalk – A three-mile stretch filled with food, shops, and entertainment.
Relax on the Beach – Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Assateague Island National Seashore – Spot wild ponies and enjoy secluded beaches.

📍 Location: Eastern Shore
🔗 Visit Ocean City

4. Chesapeake Bay – The Heart of Maryland

The Chesapeake Bay is a boater’s paradise and home to charming waterfront towns and fresh seafood.

🦀 Best Chesapeake Bay Experiences:

Eat Maryland Blue Crabs – Try a classic crab feast in Kent Island or St. Michaels.
Visit St. Michaels – A quaint bayfront town with a maritime museum.
Go Boating or Kayaking – Explore scenic waterways and hidden coves.

📍 Location: Throughout Maryland
🔗 Explore Chesapeake Bay

5. Antietam National Battlefield – A Historic Civil War Site

This battlefield marks the bloodiest single-day battle in U.S. history.

🏛️ Best Things to See at Antietam:

Sharpsburg Battlefield Tour – A scenic drive through historic battlefields.
Burnside’s Bridge – A famous Civil War landmark.
Antietam National Cemetery – A tribute to the soldiers who fought here.

📍 Location: Western Maryland
🔗 Visit Antietam

Best Outdoor Adventures in Maryland

🚣 Kayaking in Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge – A serene paddle through marshlands and birdwatching areas.
🚴 Biking the C&O Canal Towpath – A scenic trail along historic waterways and forests.
🏔️ Hiking at Cunningham Falls State Park – Features Maryland’s largest cascading waterfall.
🎣 Fishing at Deep Creek Lake – A top spot for bass, trout, and water sports.

Where to Stay in Maryland

🏨 Luxury Hotels & Unique Stays:

The Inn at Perry Cabin (St. Michaels) – A luxury waterfront resort with sailing excursions.
Sagamore Pendry Baltimore – A stylish hotel in the historic Fells Point district.

🏕️ Best Cabins & Campgrounds:

Assateague Island Camping – A unique experience camping near wild horses.
Greenbrier State Park Cabins – A scenic getaway with lake access and hiking trails.

Tips for Visiting Maryland

✅ Try Maryland Crab Cakes – A must-have seafood dish when visiting the state.
✅ Visit in Fall for Foliage – The Western Maryland mountains offer beautiful autumn colors.
✅ Take a Scenic Drive Along the Bay – Explore hidden gems along the Chesapeake Bay.
✅ Plan for Humid Summers – The coastal areas can get warm and muggy in July and August.

Nearby Travel Destinations

If you’re visiting Maryland, consider these nearby states:

Washington, D.C. – See the National Mall and Smithsonian museums (45-minute drive from Baltimore).
Virginia – Explore Colonial Williamsburg or Shenandoah National Park (2-hour drive from Annapolis).
Pennsylvania – Visit Gettysburg or Philadelphia for rich American history (1-hour drive from Western Maryland).

Final Thoughts

With its stunning coastline, rich history, and outdoor adventures, Maryland offers a diverse travel experience. Whether you're sailing on the Chesapeake Bay, exploring Civil War battlefields, or enjoying fresh seafood by the beach, Maryland is a must-visit for history buffs, nature lovers, and foodies alike.

For more Mid-Atlantic travel guides, check out our Virginia Travel Guide and Delaware Travel Guide.