Famed for its waterways, major city of Baltimore, and wealth of history, the compact U.S. state of Maryland has a lot to offer any visitor.
Resting on Chesapeake Bay and alongside the Atlantic Ocean, this means that an abundance of waterways is there just waiting to be explored, while city sights, historical attractions and sporting events are in abundance too.
Baltimore has long been known as a major seaport and a fun fact for any traveller – the birthplace of the U.S. national anthem is in Fort McHenry. The National Aquarium is also housed in the Inner Harbor, as is the Maryland Science Center and the area, unsurprisingly, boasts an array of seafood eateries including swanky crab shacks.
For some fine dining eateries, head to Magdalena Restaurant, Charleston or Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar and if you’re looking for a refined place to rest your head then the five-star Four Seasons on the harbour should do just fine. An oasis in the city, harbour views, a sumptuous spa and rooftop pool all aid in creating a calming break from all the sightseeing and travelling. For the ultimate in luxury stays, opt for the presidential suite with epic views of the water, a full marble bathroom and none other than a baby grand piano in the suite. The suite also boasts a media room, dining room, pantry, living room and study – perfect for entertaining.
From music and performances, shopping, sports, museums and art galleries, monuments restaurant and activities to explore and partake in, it is difficult to know where to start! Major league baseball team, the Baltimore Orioles can be found at Oriole Park at Camden Yards, while NFL team, the Baltimore Ravens play at M&T Bank Stadium. Pimlico Racecourse hosts a number of horse racing events of which you can place your bet with TVG, while The Timbers at Troy Golf Course hosts spectator sports and events and visitors are invited to play as well.
Beyond Baltimore
Head outside of Baltimore to discover the 10 miles of beaches at Ocean City, which rests alongside the Atlantic, and offers the traditional east coast image of boardwalks, fishing and carousels, all topped off with stunning sunsets on the beach and a totally relaxed way of living.
Home to the U.S. Naval Academy and commonly referred to as the sailing capital of the country, Annapolis boasts a rich maritime history alongside some more modern-day traditions. Those boat lovers out there are encouraged to visit in October for the annual United States Sailboat Show – the world’s largest and most prestigious – involving a collection of the newest models offering guests opportunity to discover and talk with those in the industry.
Discover the history of the area with a tour of the Naval Academy and learn of African American history at the Banneker-Douglass Museum. Take a tour of Maryland State House, which was built in 1772 and promises an interesting insight into historical moments in the country’s past.
It would be impossible to visit Maryland without sampling some of the renowned local cuisine – crab. The state is known for its fishing and produces the largest amount of blue crab in the country, so if you’re a fan of the shellfish then it would be remiss of you to not tuck into some here. Head to Maryland’s upper Eastern Shore to the likes of Kent, Cecil and Queen Anne’s county to discover the crab and oyster trial. Wind your way around the locale sampling some fine cuisine along the way. Sail, paddle-board, eat and explore your way around the waters and historic towns that rest on the shores.
Bayard House in Chesapeake City offer distinguished dining, as does Opsrey Point Inn in Rock Hall and Rustico Restaurant and Wine Bar in Stevensville. Stop off at the Brampton Bed and Breakfast inn in Chestertown to reside in a highly rated cottage, suite or room and continue on to discover the lighthouses, marinas, beaches and trails in the surrounding area.
For those looking to head inland and explore Western Maryland, a world of adventure awaits. Wisp Resort in McHenry offers winter skiing and summer trails and golf, while nearby Adventure Sports Center International provides a range of exhilarating activities including white water rafting, rock-climbing, kayaking, geocaching and biking. Wine lovers can take a driving tour of the region’s wine country, while a hike around the Eastern Continental Divide in Garrett County comes highly recommended for the views of Meadow Mountain and New Germany Lake.
Whichever part of Maryland you would like to visit and whatever you are interested in, you can be sure that this state can provide just the type of holiday experience you are looking for.
