Top Things to do in Maryland
Top Hotels in Maryland
- 1. Hyatt Place Ocean City / Oceanfront
- 2. Princess Royale Oceanfront Resort
- 3. Royal Sonesta Harbor Court Baltimore
- 4. Hampton Inn & Suites Baltimore Inner Harbor
- 5. Carousel Oceanfront Hotel & Condos
- 6. Graduate Annapolis
- 7. Historic Inns of Annapolis
- 8. Staybridge Suites Baltimore - Inner Harbor, an IHG Hotel
- 9. Dunes Manor Hotel, Suites & Court
- 10. Grand Hotel
Countries
10 Outdoor Activities in Maryland That You Shouldn't Miss
Maryland is known as “America in Miniature” because of its great variations in topography and culture. This makes it a perfect east coat travel destination for those who would like to experience a little bit of everything. From amusement parks, to beaches, to mountains and historical sites, there is plenty to see and do. Each region of Maryland provides its own unique and fun activities to do. If you're headed for some fun in the sun in Ocean City on its eastern coast, be sure not to miss the Ocean City Beach, the Boardwalk, or Trimper's Rides and Amusement Park for an all-ages fun experience. Central Maryland is home to a Six Flags theme park, the Annapolis Golf Club, and countless hubs of art and culture such as the African Art Museum and Annapolis Opera, Inc. Heading to western Maryland? It is perfect for lovers of nature and the outdoors, with the Washington Monument State Park, Wisp Resort ski slopes, and the spectacular Muddy Creek Falls.
Restaurants in Maryland
1. Great Allegheny Passage
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 235 reviews
The Great Allegheny Passage soars over valleys, snakes around mountains, and skirts alongside three rolling rivers on its nearly level path from Cumberland, Md. to Pittsburgh. Cyclists pass through the Cumberland Narrows, cross the Mason-Dixon Line, top the Eastern Continental Divide, wind their way through Pennsylvania’s breathtaking Laurel Highlands, journey through the region’s coke, coal, mining, and steel-making corridor, and end at Pittsburgh’s majestic Point State Park. Stunning views of waterfalls, gorges, river valleys, and farmland are everywhere, especially from outside the Big Savage Tunnel, from the sweeping Salisbury Viaduct, at both ends of the Pinkerton Tunnel, and via the Ohiopyle High and Low Bridges. Riders overlook the joining of rivers at Confluence, McKeesport, and Pittsburgh, and can explore adjoining peninsulas, state parks, hollows, wildflower stands, and forests on foot at many places along the trail.
Reviewed By obsidian2017 - Dearborn, United States
I biked this with three friends. Over the course of two days, we biked about 100 miles, starting from Pittsburgh, overnight stop in Connellsville, then to Ohiopyle and back to Connellsville. The trail is incredibly well tended--not only clean and cleared but also with great signage indicating miles to go to next city. In addition, many cities have air pumps and water stations. It is an incredibly beautiful trail and mostly level. The crushed limestone is almost like pavement. Ran into one of the guides/marketing staff for one of the cycling groups that helps tend the trail. He was full of useful info. From him, we learned that biking from Ohiopyle to Falling Water was less than ideal--no trail, no shoulder, lots of car traffic, curves, and inclines. So, once in Ohiopyle, we took a shuttle (offered by the local outfitter) up to Falling Water and back. That was perfect.
2. Quiet Waters Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 461 reviews
This rural park has a short but scenic route for biking.
Reviewed By goldenparadox - Elkridge, United States
I have a dog that loves water, so I came here for the dog beach. It wasn't huge, but the area was perfect for my dog to enjoy the sand and water. Other dogs and people were friendly. Only thing I wish is that was a gate-- couldn't take my guy off leash because the entry was wide open. Next time I will bring a chair so I can relax and catch some rays while my dog plays and relaxes. I'm going to bring a longer lead to tie him to so he'll have a little more freedom than a leash, but he'll still be contained. The park is well marked and labeled, so it wasn't hard to find my way around. If you're looking for the dog park and dog beach, follow the paw print arrows-- it's at the very "back" of the park. I will definitely be back to explore the other areas. They have very nice paved paths, most ranging less than a mile, but a few about a mile and a half long. I'm excited to see it in the spring when everything starts growing and blooming. To get in (they call it a parking fee) is $6. I will most likely just buy the yearly pass because if you go 6-7 times, it pays for itself. And the money is going to a park. Well worth it!
3. Torrey C. Brown Rail Trail
4. Gunpowder Falls State Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 80 reviews
Known for its excellent trout fishing, the topography of this scenic park includes tidal marshes and wetlands to steep, rugged slopes.
Reviewed By Jjccjc06 - Glen Arm, United States
Seriously - just got back from the beach in NC, so I’m picky about beaches, and this was a pretty good beach fix for 20 minutes from home. Nice clean bathhouse with a snack bar and a sandy beach. Water was delightful - warm and relatively clean. There were trees with good shade and picnic tables right behind the beach. I don’t think I could handle the weekend crowds, but the two weekdays I’ve been there have been really pleasant!
5. Catoctin Mountain Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 208 reviews
You can't visit the Presidential retreat of Camp David here, but you can take advantage of the park's 25 miles of scenic hiking trails plus many outdoor activities including camping, fishing and picnicking.
Reviewed By StacyinANP - Annapolis, United States
The Visitor Center, even when closed, has hiking maps available. Hike the 8-mile loop or take some shorter hikes to see rock formations, vistas, and the beautiful fall colors. Some of the trail is easy or moderate, some of the trail is strenuous and rocky, check the map. Wear closed-toed shoes and pack water and snacks. It took us 3.5 hours to do the 8-mile loop. Go early if you want to park at the Visitor Center. The cleanest port-a-potty’s I have ever seen. A beautiful fall day seeing the colors of nature!
6. C&O Canal Towpath
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 43 reviews
Reviewed By redsnut1355 - Baltimore, United States
This is a great place to bring your bike and bike ride along the towpath on the canal. The bike trail follows the Potomac river all the way into Georgetown or you can go north. Great visitors center at the parks entrance. Plenty of parking. This summer a section of the canal will be repaired and you will be able to ride on one of the canal boats. Also has an easy to walk to view the falls from the Maryland side.
7. Ocean City Beach
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 4,223 reviews
Reviewed By paul3776 - Paramus, United States
The beaches in Ocean City are kept beautifully clean with white soft sand, mild surf and miles of sun fun.
8. Flag Ponds Nature Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 118 reviews
Reviewed By 635micheller
Attempted to go to the park, but they are still only allowing Calvert County residents to access the park due to COVID. We did go three years ago and it was beautiful. Unfortunately it appears we will have to wait until the COVID restrictions are lifted to visit again. However, the State parks are open to all.
9. Salisbury Zoo
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 500 reviews
Reviewed By 591karenp - Pocono Mountains Region, United States
First started visiting this great zoo back in 1999 while living on the Eastern Shore for a few years and raising our family. The variety of animals as well as programming are top notch, especially for a donation based facility. Fast forward 20+ years and it has maintained its charm as well as commitment to both the residents as well as surrounding community.
10. Terrapin Nature Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 114 reviews
This award-winning 276-acre nature park features a 3.25-mile oyster chaff walking trail, which meanders through wildflower meadows, wetlands, tidal ponds, woodlands and sandy beaches. The trail provides a unique vantage point for viewing an incredible variety of waterfowl, wildlife and plant species. A gazebo and wheelchair-accessible boardwalk, located along the beach afford a spectacular view of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, and park benches located along the trail provides a brief respite for the weary. The trail, which wanders over several ridges, across marshlands and through woodlands, features two observation blinds overlooking the tidal ponds. The trail connects to the County’s Cross Island Trail system. Nearby free parking for the Cross Island Trail system is available at Old Love Point Park. Portable toilets are available year round. Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
Reviewed By gravyman57 - Stevensville, United States
This park is a fantastic place to take friends and family when visiting Kent Island. Great view of the bridge, sunsets, and a very natural beach with trails. Nice place to relax in nature
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