We’ve covered hundreds of places in Maryland to visit, but which ones are worth driving the distance? If you ask me, ALL OF THEM. However, if you only time have for a few, the following 15 spots will be worth your while every time.
- Assateague Island
Flickr / Mrs. Gemstone Maryland’s wild horse beach is worth the journey for its sprawling water views and of course, the curious creatures. You can even spend a weekend camping here, waking up to a local paradise each morning.
- McHenry
Flickr / R Q The town of McHenry has so many rustic attractions, it’s hard to believe. Take out a boat on Deep Creek Lake, ski at Wisp Resort, or test the rapids at the man-made Adventure Sports Center International. You’ll definitely want to spend a few days here to take it all in.
- Crisfield
Flickr / kennykunie Seafood is abundant in the Old Line State but nobody does it quite like Crisfield. This village is filled with watermen, catching and providing the freshest crabs you’ve ever experienced. A journey here is a Maryland must-do.
- Chesapeake City
Flickr / Mandy Jansen This quiet town is nestled along the Chesapeake & Delaware Canal. Spend time on the water, shop at the local boutiques, and munch on delicious food while watching boats chug along the waterway. So much charm packed into this one spot.
- Ocean City
Flickr / Ashley Harrigan Maryland’s most popular beach is frequented by not only Marylanders, but out-of-staters seeking a week-long excursion. There’s so much to do here, although if the only thing you want to partake in is the beach, that’s okay too. While in the area, pay a visit to the nearby town of Berlin as well.
- Solomons
Flickr / Chris Williamson This island is abundant with fishing opportunities but if you are just seeking a place to relax, it’s perfect for that too. The sunsets are also pretty spectacular.
- Annapolis
Flickr / Charlie Stinchcomb Maryland’s capital city has a little bit of everything. Several of the local restaurants are bucket list worthy and the water views can’t be beat. If you’re a lover of history, you’ll especially enjoy this spot.
- Kent Island
Flickr / Wayne Thume Kent Island boasts the absolute best view of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. There are several properties available to rent for the perfect weekend getaway on the water.
- St Michaels
Flickr / Darren and Brad Bed & breakfasts, restaurants, shops, events, and more makes St Michaels a Maryland gem. The local vibe is inviting. So much so, that you may never want to leave.
- Frederick
Flickr / ehpien Downtown Frederick has come a long way in recent years and you could spend an entire weekend exploring all the local stores, galleries, and eateries. It’s also a short drive away from nearby battlefields and parks.
- Oakland
Flickr / Lindley Ashline Oakland is just about as far west as you can get in Maryland. This railroad town is full of charm and especially comes to life during autumn as it transforms into a copper-colored mountain paradise. Be sure to also check out Swallow Falls State Park while you’re in the area.
- Havre de Grace
Flickr / Mark This cozy waterside town has unique boutiques and restaurants. Concord Point Lighthouse is also a favorite spot among visitors and photographers.
- Baltimore
Flickr / Henk Sijgers Baltimore needs no introduction but what many people don’t know are all of the attractions outside of the harbor. Be sure to also check out the Walters Art Museum, magnificent Peabody Library, and Thames Street Oyster House as well.
- North Beach
Flickr / Terri North Beach has a lovely boardwalk, shops, and eateries. What’s so special about this area is that it’s also extremely close to Chesapeake Beach. Visit both of these spots and you’re in for a quaint yet beautiful experience.
- National Harbor
Flickr / beliefbeyond The National Harbor is abundant with a little bit of everything. The Capital Wheel is a must-do, as you can see parts of DC and Virginia from the top. It’s especially picturesque at sunset.
What other spots in Maryland are worth the distance? Feel free to share below and also check out some of Maryland’s best vacations.
Flickr / Mrs. Gemstone
Maryland’s wild horse beach is worth the journey for its sprawling water views and of course, the curious creatures. You can even spend a weekend camping here, waking up to a local paradise each morning.
Flickr / R Q
The town of McHenry has so many rustic attractions, it’s hard to believe. Take out a boat on Deep Creek Lake, ski at Wisp Resort, or test the rapids at the man-made Adventure Sports Center International. You’ll definitely want to spend a few days here to take it all in.
Flickr / kennykunie
Seafood is abundant in the Old Line State but nobody does it quite like Crisfield. This village is filled with watermen, catching and providing the freshest crabs you’ve ever experienced. A journey here is a Maryland must-do.
Flickr / Mandy Jansen
This quiet town is nestled along the Chesapeake & Delaware Canal. Spend time on the water, shop at the local boutiques, and munch on delicious food while watching boats chug along the waterway. So much charm packed into this one spot.
Flickr / Ashley Harrigan
Maryland’s most popular beach is frequented by not only Marylanders, but out-of-staters seeking a week-long excursion. There’s so much to do here, although if the only thing you want to partake in is the beach, that’s okay too. While in the area, pay a visit to the nearby town of Berlin as well.
Flickr / Chris Williamson
This island is abundant with fishing opportunities but if you are just seeking a place to relax, it’s perfect for that too. The sunsets are also pretty spectacular.
Flickr / Charlie Stinchcomb
Maryland’s capital city has a little bit of everything. Several of the local restaurants are bucket list worthy and the water views can’t be beat. If you’re a lover of history, you’ll especially enjoy this spot.
Flickr / Wayne Thume
Kent Island boasts the absolute best view of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. There are several properties available to rent for the perfect weekend getaway on the water.
Flickr / Darren and Brad
Bed & breakfasts, restaurants, shops, events, and more makes St Michaels a Maryland gem. The local vibe is inviting. So much so, that you may never want to leave.
Flickr / ehpien
Downtown Frederick has come a long way in recent years and you could spend an entire weekend exploring all the local stores, galleries, and eateries. It’s also a short drive away from nearby battlefields and parks.
Flickr / Lindley Ashline
Oakland is just about as far west as you can get in Maryland. This railroad town is full of charm and especially comes to life during autumn as it transforms into a copper-colored mountain paradise. Be sure to also check out Swallow Falls State Park while you’re in the area.
Flickr / Mark
This cozy waterside town has unique boutiques and restaurants. Concord Point Lighthouse is also a favorite spot among visitors and photographers.
Flickr / Henk Sijgers
Baltimore needs no introduction but what many people don’t know are all of the attractions outside of the harbor. Be sure to also check out the Walters Art Museum, magnificent Peabody Library, and Thames Street Oyster House as well.
Flickr / Terri
North Beach has a lovely boardwalk, shops, and eateries. What’s so special about this area is that it’s also extremely close to Chesapeake Beach. Visit both of these spots and you’re in for a quaint yet beautiful experience.
Flickr / beliefbeyond
The National Harbor is abundant with a little bit of everything. The Capital Wheel is a must-do, as you can see parts of DC and Virginia from the top. It’s especially picturesque at sunset.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
