Maryland MD History Culture Best Places Food and Things to Do 

Maryland is a small state with an unusually large variety of places to see and things to do. It has the Atlantic Ocean, the Chesapeake Bay, mountains, forests, beaches, rivers, historic towns, large cities and quiet rural communities. Maryland is often called America in Miniature because so many different landscapes and experiences can be found within its borders. The state covers about 10460 square miles of land and water and is known for its long connection with the Chesapeake Bay. For travelers searching for the best places to visit in Maryland, there is no single answer. Baltimore offers museums, harbor attractions, history and famous Maryland food. Annapolis offers colonial history, sailing and beautiful waterfront streets. Ocean City provides beaches and a classic boardwalk vacation. Western Maryland offers mountains, forests and outdoor adventures. The Eastern Shore brings small towns, seafood, farmland and Chesapeake Bay scenery. Southern Maryland offers historic communities and waterfront experiences. Maryland is also an important state in American history. It was one of the original thirteen colonies and played a major role in the American Revolution, the War of 1812, the Civil War, the Underground Railroad and the development of transportation in the United States. The state is also closely connected with African American history, maritime traditions, agriculture, immigration, music and seafood culture. If you are planning a Maryland vacation, Maryland road trip or weekend getaway, this guide explains Maryland history, Maryland culture, the best places to visit in Maryland, Maryland food, famous Maryland attractions and the best things to do in Maryland. Maryland History Maryland history begins long before European settlement. Indigenous peoples lived around the Chesapeake Bay and throughout the region for thousands of years. The Chesapeake Bay itself has an extremely old natural history. Maryland state records explain that Indigenous people were living around the Chesapeake area thousands of years ago and that the modern bay developed after melting glaciers flooded the Susquehanna River valley. European settlement became an important part of Maryland history during the seventeenth century. Maryland was established as an English colony and became one of the original thirteen colonies. Historic St Mary's City is one of the best places to understand early colonial Maryland. It was founded in 1634 and served as Maryland's first capital. Today visitors can see reconstructed buildings, living history demonstrations and a reconstructed sailing ship connected with the early colony. Maryland also became known for religious diversity. The colony was associated with the Calvert family and was established in part as a place where Catholics could live and worship with greater freedom than was possible in many other English colonies. Annapolis later became an important center of Maryland political life. The Maryland State House is one of the most important historic buildings in the state. Annapolis was also the temporary capital of the United States, and important events connected with the American Revolution took place there. The Maryland State House remains the oldest state capitol in continuous legislative use in the country. The American Revolution changed Maryland as it changed the rest of the colonies. Maryland soldiers became known for their role in the Revolutionary War, and the state's Old Line State nickname is connected with the First Maryland Regiment. Maryland tourism explains that the nickname comes from the bravery of Maryland soldiers who fought against a much larger British force. The War of 1812 created another major chapter in Maryland history. British forces attacked the Baltimore area in 1814. Fort McHenry defended Baltimore Harbor during the famous bombardment. Francis Scott Key watched the battle and was inspired by the American flag still flying over the fort. His experience led to the words that became The Star Spangled Banner. Today Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine is one of the most important historical attractions in Baltimore. Visitors can walk around the fort, learn about the battle and understand why the site became connected with the American national anthem. Maryland was a border state during the Civil War. It was a slave state but remained in the Union. This created deep divisions within communities and families. Marylanders fought on both sides of the conflict, and battles took place within the state. Antietam National Battlefield in western Maryland is one of the most important Civil War sites in the United States. The Battle of Antietam took place near Sharpsburg in 1862 and became one of the bloodiest single day battles in American history. Other Maryland Civil War sites include Monocacy National Battlefield near Frederick and many historic locations throughout the state's Heart of the Civil War region. Maryland tourism describes the state's Civil War history as an important part of its overall heritage. Maryland also has an important connection to the Underground Railroad and the history of freedom seekers. Harriet Tubman was born in Maryland and later became one of the most famous freedom seekers and Underground Railroad conductors in American history. Today visitors can explore places connected with her life and legacy. The Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Visitor Center in Dorchester County is an important destination for learning about her life, the Underground Railroad and the experiences of enslaved African Americans in the region. Maryland history also includes transportation and industry. Baltimore became an important port and railroad center. The B and O Railroad Museum in Baltimore tells the story of American railroad development and includes historic locomotives and a famous roundhouse. Maryland tourism identifies the museum as a major historic attraction. Maryland Culture Maryland culture is strongly influenced by geography. The Chesapeake Bay and its rivers have shaped local food, work, transportation and traditions for generations. The water is central to Maryland identity. Fishing, crabbing, boating, sailing and seafood have long been part of life around the Chesapeake Bay. 

Maryland's Eastern Shore and Western Shore 

Developed different local traditions, but both are closely connected with the bay. Maryland culture also reflects its location between the Northeast and South. Baltimore has an urban culture with strong traditions in food, sports, arts and music. Rural Maryland has farming communities, historic towns and agricultural traditions. Western Maryland has a mountain culture influenced by the Appalachian region. The state also has a rich African American cultural heritage. Maryland has historic sites connected with Harriet Tubman, Frederick Douglass and other important figures. Frederick Douglass was born into slavery in Maryland and became one of the most important writers, speakers and abolitionists in American history. Maryland's cultural heritage can be explored through museums, historic neighborhoods, heritage areas and local festivals. The state has thirteen certified heritage areas that connect historic sites, communities, landscapes and cultural attractions. Music and the arts are also important. Baltimore has a long history of jazz, blues, classical music and contemporary arts. Smaller communities across the state host festivals, theater performances, craft events and local art programs. Sports are another major part of Maryland culture. Baseball and football have strong followings, while lacrosse has a particularly important place in Maryland's sporting identity. The state has many college sports communities as well. Maryland culture is therefore not one single tradition. It is a mixture of Chesapeake Bay life, Mid Atlantic city culture, Appalachian traditions, African American heritage, farming communities, maritime history and modern American life. Best Places to Visit in Maryland Maryland offers many destinations, but several places are especially useful for first time visitors. Baltimore Maryland Baltimore is the largest city in Maryland and one of the best places to begin exploring the state. The Inner Harbor is the city's most famous visitor area. It is surrounded by attractions, restaurants, museums, waterfront paths and historic ships. The National Aquarium is one of Baltimore's major attractions and is a popular choice for families and visitors interested in marine life. Maryland tourism also highlights the aquarium as one of the state's major attractions. Baltimore is also a great place for history lovers. Fort McHenry is nearby, while the B and O Railroad Museum, USS Constellation and other historic attractions explain different parts of the city's past. The city has historic neighborhoods such as Fells Point and Mount Vernon. Fells Point is known for its waterfront atmosphere, old buildings, restaurants and shops. Mount Vernon has historic architecture, cultural institutions and the Washington Monument. Baltimore is also one of the best places to try authentic Maryland food. Crab cakes, steamed blue crabs, Old Bay seasoning and other Chesapeake Bay foods are easy to find. Annapolis Maryland Annapolis is the capital of Maryland and one of the most charming historic cities in the state. The city is famous for its waterfront, sailing culture, historic streets and colonial architecture. The Maryland State House is a major attraction and provides a direct connection to American political history. Annapolis is also home to the United States Naval Academy. Visitors interested in naval history and architecture can learn more about the academy through available tours and visitor programs. Walking around downtown Annapolis is one of the simplest and most enjoyable things to do. Historic streets lead toward the waterfront, where boats fill the harbor. Annapolis is especially attractive for travelers who enjoy seafood restaurants, sailing, historic buildings and a relaxed waterfront atmosphere. Ocean City Maryland Ocean City is one of Maryland's most popular beach destinations. The city has a long sandy beach, a famous boardwalk, amusement attractions, shops and restaurants. It is particularly popular with families during the summer. The Ocean City Boardwalk is a major attraction. Visitors can walk along the waterfront, enjoy rides, buy snacks and experience the traditional American beach vacation atmosphere. Ocean City is also a good place for seafood. Restaurants serve crab, fish, oysters and other coastal dishes. If you are looking for things to do in Maryland in summer, Ocean City should be near the top of the list. Frederick Maryland Frederick combines history with a lively modern downtown. The city has historic buildings, restaurants, art galleries, breweries and local shops. Maryland tourism describes Frederick as a place that combines historic character with modern food, arts and cultural experiences. Frederick is also a useful base for exploring Civil War history. Monocacy National Battlefield is nearby, and other historic sites can be reached by car. For travelers who enjoy walking through old streets, eating at local restaurants and visiting independent shops, Frederick is one of the best Maryland weekend destinations. Deep Creek Lake Maryland Deep Creek Lake is the largest inland body of water in Maryland and one of the state's best outdoor destinations. During warm weather, visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, hiking and other lake activities. In winter, the area becomes a popular destination for snow sports. The surrounding mountains make Deep Creek Lake very different from the Chesapeake Bay and coastal areas of Maryland. It is a good choice for families, couples and outdoor travelers who want a mountain vacation without leaving Maryland. Chesapeake Bay The Chesapeake Bay is not a single town but it is one of the most important places to experience Maryland. The bay shapes the state's geography, history, food and culture. Visitors can explore waterfront towns, take boat tours, go fishing, eat seafood, watch birds or simply enjoy the scenery. Maryland tourism promotes Chesapeake Bay travel through scenic drives, boating experiences, seafood destinations and waterfront communities. The bay is particularly beautiful around sunrise and sunset. Small towns such as St Michaels and other Eastern Shore communities provide a slower travel experience compared with Baltimore or Washington area destinations. St Michaels Maryland St Michaels is a popular Eastern Shore destination with a strong maritime identity. The town has historic streets, waterfront views, restaurants, shops and museums. The Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum is one of its most important attractions. St Michaels is a good destination for a relaxed weekend. Visitors can walk around town, eat seafood, explore maritime history and spend time beside the water. Harpers Ferry Area and Western Maryland Western Maryland offers a different side of the state. The region includes mountains, forests, rivers, historic communities and outdoor recreation. Visitors can hike, bike, fish, camp and explore historic sites. The C and O Canal Towpath is especially popular with hikers and cyclists. It follows the historic Chesapeake and Ohio Canal route and offers a way to experience both nature and transportation history. Maryland's official tourism information describes Western Maryland as a region with opportunities for outdoor recreation, history and architecture. Maryland Food Maryland food is one of the strongest reasons to visit the state. When people think about Maryland food, they usually think about blue crabs. Chesapeake Bay blue crabs are deeply connected with Maryland culture. Steamed crabs are traditionally seasoned and served in large quantities, often with corn and other simple side dishes. Eating steamed crabs is not just about the food. It is a social experience where people gather around a table, crack shells and spend time together. 

Old Bay seasoning is another famous part of Maryland food culture

It is strongly associated with seafood and is commonly used on crabs, shrimp, fries and other foods. Crab cakes are another Maryland favorite. A good Maryland crab cake focuses on crab meat rather than filling. Restaurants throughout the state offer different versions. Maryland tourism highlights steamed crabs, oysters, crab dishes and Old Bay as important parts of the state's food identity. Oysters are also important. The Chesapeake Bay has supported oyster harvesting for generations, although environmental changes have affected the bay's seafood resources. Maryland is also known for soft shell crab. These are crabs harvested shortly after molting, when their shells are still soft enough to eat. Smith Island Cake is Maryland's official state dessert. It comes from Smith Island in the Chesapeake Bay and is made from many thin layers of cake separated by frosting. Some versions contain as many as sixteen layers. Another food worth trying is Maryland fried chicken. The state has its own traditions surrounding fried chicken, and local restaurants can offer recipes that differ from what visitors may find elsewhere. Maryland food also includes pit beef, especially around Baltimore. Pit beef is slow roasted beef often sliced thin and served in sandwiches. Bertha's mussels, Baltimore lake trout and various seafood sandwiches are other foods that can be encountered in the state. For dessert and bakery lovers, Maryland has many local bakeries and small town food businesses worth exploring. Things to Do in Maryland There are enough things to do in Maryland to fill several vacations. Visit the National Aquarium The National Aquarium in Baltimore is one of the state's best known attractions. It is a strong choice for families and anyone interested in ocean life and aquatic ecosystems. Explore Fort McHenry Visit Fort McHenry to learn about the War of 1812 and the story behind The Star Spangled Banner. Walking through the fort helps visitors understand why Baltimore became such an important military and maritime location. Walk Around Annapolis Spend several hours exploring historic Annapolis. Walk along the waterfront, visit historic buildings and enjoy a meal at a local restaurant. Eat Maryland Blue Crabs Trying steamed blue crabs should be on the list of things to do in Maryland for almost every first time visitor. It can be messy, but that is part of the experience. Visit the Chesapeake Bay Take a boat tour, go fishing, visit a waterfront town or simply enjoy a meal overlooking the water. Go to Ocean City Beach Spend a day swimming, relaxing on the beach and walking the boardwalk. Ocean City is particularly good for a traditional family beach vacation. Explore Maryland State Parks Maryland has state parks and forests across its mountains, coastal areas and inland regions. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources says state public lands provide opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, canoeing and camping. Popular outdoor destinations include Assateague State Park, Patapsco Valley State Park, Sandy Point State Park, Cunningham Falls State Park, Rocky Gap State Park and Deep Creek Lake State Park. Hike in Western Maryland Western Maryland is an excellent place for hiking and mountain scenery. Trails range from easy walks to challenging hikes. Fall is particularly attractive because forests can become filled with colorful leaves. Visit Antietam National Battlefield Civil War history travelers should visit Antietam National Battlefield. The battlefield is a powerful place to learn about the Civil War and the human cost of the conflict. Learn About Harriet Tubman The Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Visitor Center provides an important opportunity to learn about slavery, freedom and the Underground Railroad. This is one of the most meaningful historical experiences available in Maryland. Explore Historic St Mary's City Historic St Mary's City is ideal for travelers interested in colonial history. Living history programs and reconstructed buildings help explain what Maryland was like during its earliest years. Ride a Bike on the C and O Canal Towpath Cyclists and hikers can use the C and O Canal Towpath to experience Maryland's history and natural scenery at the same time. Visit Maryland Wineries Maryland has vineyards and wineries in several regions. Frederick County and other areas around central and western Maryland are good places to explore local wine. Explore Small Towns Some of the best Maryland travel experiences happen in smaller towns. Places such as St Michaels, Berlin, Chestertown, Frederick and historic communities around the Chesapeake Bay offer local restaurants, independent stores, historic architecture and slower paced travel. Maryland Outdoor Activities Maryland is an excellent state for outdoor recreation. The state's geography makes this possible. Maryland has Appalachian mountains in the west, the Chesapeake Bay in the center, marshlands on the Eastern Shore and Atlantic beaches along the coast. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources describes the state's public lands as offering outdoor opportunities ranging from hiking and biking to fishing, canoeing and camping. Hiking is popular throughout the state. Patapsco Valley State Park near Baltimore provides trails, forests, rivers and historic sites. Cunningham Falls State Park offers mountain scenery and waterfalls. Assateague Island is known for its coastal environment and wild horses. Fishing is another major activity. The Chesapeake Bay, Deep Creek Lake, rivers and smaller lakes provide many opportunities. Boating and kayaking are particularly popular around the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. Camping is available in many state parks and forests. Maryland for Families Maryland is a good destination for families because it offers many different types of attractions. Baltimore provides the National Aquarium, museums and harbor attractions. Ocean City provides beaches, rides and a boardwalk. Western Maryland provides hiking, lakes and outdoor adventures. Families can also visit wildlife attractions, historic sites and science museums. The state tourism organization promotes family friendly attractions and outdoor experiences throughout Maryland. 

Maryland for History Lovers 

Maryland is one of the best states in the country for history travel. A single trip can include colonial history, Revolutionary War history, the War of 1812, Civil War battlefields, African American history, railroad history and maritime history. Fort McHenry, Antietam National Battlefield, Historic St Mary's City, the Maryland State House, the B and O Railroad Museum and Harriet Tubman related sites provide very different historical experiences. The state also has numerous heritage areas that connect museums, historic towns, trails and cultural attractions. Maryland for Nature Lovers Nature lovers can experience almost every major type of landscape except a true desert. There are mountains in western Maryland, forests throughout the state, the Chesapeake Bay, rivers and wetlands, beaches and barrier islands. The variety is one reason Maryland has earned the nickname America in Miniature. If you enjoy mountains, visit western Maryland. If you enjoy beaches, go to Ocean City or Assateague Island. If you love water, explore the Chesapeake Bay. If you prefer forests and hiking, visit the state parks. Best Time to Visit Maryland Maryland can be visited throughout the year. Spring is a good time for gardens, hiking, historic towns and outdoor activities. The weather is usually comfortable, and nature begins to turn green. Summer is the busiest season for beaches, boating, swimming and outdoor vacations. Ocean City can become especially busy during the summer months. Fall is one of the best times to visit western Maryland because of colorful foliage. It is also a comfortable season for hiking, road trips and exploring historic towns. Winter is quieter and can be a good time for museums, restaurants, historic attractions and indoor activities. Western Maryland can also offer winter recreation around Deep Creek Lake. Before traveling, check weather conditions, seasonal opening hours and event schedules because outdoor attractions and local businesses can change their hours during different seasons. Maryland Road Trip Ideas A Maryland road trip can be designed around almost any interest. A history road trip could begin in Annapolis, continue to Baltimore and Fort McHenry, then travel toward Frederick and Antietam before continuing into western Maryland. A Chesapeake Bay road trip could include Annapolis, Kent Island, St Michaels, the Eastern Shore and other waterfront communities. A beach road trip could focus on Ocean City and Assateague Island. An outdoor road trip could include Patapsco Valley, Cunningham Falls, Deep Creek Lake and other western Maryland parks. A food focused road trip could combine Baltimore crab houses, Chesapeake Bay seafood, Eastern Shore restaurants, Maryland wineries and Smith Island Cake. Maryland tourism provides road trip ideas and scenic itineraries that combine Chesapeake Bay communities, outdoor activities, food and history. How Many Days Do You Need in Maryland A weekend is enough for a short Maryland getaway, but five to seven days gives you more opportunities to experience different parts of the state. For a three day Maryland trip, Baltimore and Annapolis make a good combination. For a five day Maryland vacation, add Frederick, a Chesapeake Bay destination or Ocean City. For a seven day Maryland road trip, you can combine Baltimore, Annapolis, the Eastern Shore, Ocean City and western Maryland. If you are interested mainly in history, you may want to spend more time around Baltimore, Annapolis, Frederick and southern Maryland. If you are interested in nature, give yourself more time in western Maryland, along the Chesapeake Bay and on the Eastern Shore. Maryland Travel Tips The first Maryland travel tip is to avoid thinking of the state as one single destination. Maryland has distinct regions, and each one feels different. Baltimore is urban and historic. Annapolis is maritime and colonial. The Eastern Shore is quieter and strongly connected with the Chesapeake Bay. Western Maryland is mountainous and outdoors focused. Southern Maryland has a mixture of history, farmland and waterfront communities. Ocean City is a classic beach destination. The Washington area suburbs provide museums, shopping, restaurants, parks and easy access to the nation's capital. A car is useful if you want to explore several regions. Public transportation can be useful in Baltimore and around the Washington metropolitan area, but rural destinations generally require more planning. Food should be part of the travel plan. Maryland is not a place where you need to eat only at major tourist restaurants. Local seafood markets, crab houses, diners, bakeries and small town restaurants can provide some of the most memorable meals. Also remember that Maryland seafood is seasonal and local conditions can affect availability and prices. Why Maryland Is Worth Visiting Maryland is worth visiting because it offers an unusually broad travel experience in a relatively small area. You can begin your morning in a historic city, spend the afternoon beside the Chesapeake Bay and finish the day eating fresh seafood. You can explore Civil War history one day and hike through mountain forests the next. You can visit the state capital in Annapolis, see the famous flag related history of Fort McHenry, explore Baltimore's Inner Harbor, eat Maryland crab cakes, walk the beach in Ocean City and finish a road trip in the mountains of western Maryland. The state's history is equally diverse. Maryland played roles in colonial America, the American Revolution, the War of 1812, the Civil War, the Underground Railroad and the development of American transportation. Its African American heritage, Chesapeake Bay culture and maritime traditions remain important parts of its identity. Maryland food makes the state even more distinctive. Steamed blue crabs, crab cakes, oysters, soft shell crab, Old Bay seasoning and Smith Island Cake are closely connected with Maryland's identity. For outdoor travelers, the state offers hiking, biking, camping, fishing, canoeing, boating, beaches and mountain recreation. For families, there are aquariums, zoos, museums, amusement attractions, beaches and outdoor parks. For couples, there are waterfront towns, historic inns, wineries, restaurants and scenic drives. For history lovers, there are battlefields, historic homes, museums and heritage areas. For food lovers, there are crab houses, seafood restaurants, bakeries, wineries and local food traditions.  Maryland is much more than a state between Washington DC and Pennsylvania. It is a destination with its own strong identity, history and culture. The Chesapeake Bay is at the heart of that identity. The bay has influenced Maryland food, transportation, jobs, communities and traditions for centuries. Baltimore provides the energy of a major American city with museums, historic neighborhoods, sports, restaurants and waterfront attractions. Annapolis provides colonial history, sailing and one of the most attractive waterfront settings in the state. Ocean City provides beaches, boardwalk entertainment and a traditional summer vacation. Frederick combines historic architecture with restaurants, art and modern local culture. Western Maryland provides mountains, forests, lakes and outdoor adventure. The Eastern Shore offers quiet towns, seafood, farmland and Chesapeake Bay scenery. Southern Maryland brings together historic sites, waterfront communities and rural landscapes. The best things to do in Maryland depend on what kind of traveler you are, but the state makes it easy to combine different experiences. You can build a trip around history, food, beaches, nature, culture or all of them together. If you are searching for the best places to visit in Maryland, start with Baltimore, Annapolis, Ocean City, Frederick, the Chesapeake Bay and western Maryland. If you are searching for Maryland food to try, begin with blue crabs, crab cakes, oysters, soft shell crab, Old Bay seasoned dishes and Smith Island Cake. If you are searching for things to do in Maryland, consider Fort McHenry, the National Aquarium, historic Annapolis, Antietam National Battlefield, Maryland state parks, the Chesapeake Bay and the beaches of Ocean City. Maryland's biggest advantage is variety. The state can give you history in the morning, seafood at lunch, a hike in the afternoon and a beautiful waterfront sunset in the evening. That combination is what makes Maryland one of the most interesting places to explore in the Mid Atlantic United States.