Overview

Maryland may be small in size, but it’s packed with diverse landscapes, rich history, and coastal charm. Known as “America in Miniature,” the state offers everything from mountain hikes and beach escapes to bustling cities and colonial towns. With the Chesapeake Bay at its heart, Maryland is a haven for seafood lovers, history buffs, and nature seekers alike.

  • Capital: Annapolis
  • Largest Cities: Baltimore, Columbia, Germantown, Silver Spring, Waldorf
  • Population: ~6.2 million (2024 est.)
  • Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time (UTC−5) / EDT (Daylight Saving)
  • Climate: Humid subtropical in the east, humid continental in the west

Top Destinations in Maryland

Baltimore

A historic and cultural city with a scenic Inner Harbor, world-class museums, and neighborhoods full of character.

Annapolis

The state capital and sailing capital of the U.S., known for its colonial architecture and the U.S. Naval Academy.

Chesapeake Bay

An iconic estuary offering boating, crabbing, lighthouses, and waterfront towns like St. Michaels and Oxford.

Ocean City

A classic beach town with a lively boardwalk, amusement rides, and miles of sandy Atlantic shoreline.

Western Maryland

A mountainous region filled with hiking trails, scenic railways, state parks, and outdoor adventure.

Must-See Attractions

  • Fort McHenry (Baltimore) – The birthplace of the national anthem
  • National Aquarium (Baltimore) – A top-rated aquatic attraction
  • U.S. Naval Academy (Annapolis) – Historic campus tours and museum
  • Assateague Island National Seashore – Famous for its wild horses and natural beauty
  • Deep Creek Lake – Western Maryland’s year-round outdoor playground

Things to Do

  • Sail or kayak on the Chesapeake Bay
  • Visit historic towns and lighthouses along the Eastern Shore
  • Feast on blue crabs and seafood at a waterfront crab shack
  • Bike or hike the C&O Canal Towpath
  • Attend maritime festivals, Civil War reenactments, or county fairs

Getting There & Around

Major Airports

  • Baltimore/Washington International (BWI), Reagan National (DCA), Dulles International (IAD – nearby)

Transport

  • Amtrak and MARC trains connect Baltimore, DC, and beyond
  • Light rail and metro systems serve the Baltimore–Washington corridor
  • Rental cars ideal for exploring small towns, state parks, and beaches

Best Time to Visit

  • Spring (Apr–Jun): Great weather and seafood season begins
  • Summer (Jul–Aug): Beach trips and crab feasts
  • Fall (Sep–Nov): Foliage in the west, harvest festivals, and cooler temps
  • Winter (Dec–Feb): Quieter cities and cozy mountain getaways

Local Food & Culture

  • Cuisine: Coastal and comfort food traditions meet international flair
  • Specialties: Steamed blue crabs, crab cakes, Old Bay seasoning, pit beef, Smith Island cake (state dessert)
  • Drinks: Maryland rye whiskey, local wines, craft beers, and Black-Eyed Susan cocktails
  • Events & Festivals:
  • Maryland Seafood Festival (Annapolis)
  • Artscape (Baltimore) – The largest free arts festival in the U.S.
  • Preakness Stakes – The second leg of the Triple Crown
  • National Folk Festival (Salisbury)
  • Ocean City Sunfest

Souvenirs from Maryland

  • Old Bay seasoning and crab mallets
  • Smith Island cake or baking kits
  • Chesapeake Bay-themed art or ornaments
  • Maryland flag apparel (it’s one of the most iconic!)
  • Nautical gifts from Annapolis or beach towns

Fun Facts

  • Maryland is home to the first railroad station in the U.S.
  • The Star-Spangled Banner was written during the Battle of Fort McHenry
  • The Maryland flag is based on the heraldic banner of a 17th-century English baron
  • Annapolis served as the U.S. capital for a brief period after the Revolutionary War
  • The state has over 4,000 miles of shoreline

Suggested Itineraries

3-Day Maryland Highlights

  • Day 1: Baltimore – Inner Harbor, Fort McHenry, and crab feast
  • Day 2: Annapolis – U.S. Naval Academy and historic downtown
  • Day 3: Chesapeake Bay – explore St. Michaels or take a scenic boat ride

5-Day Bay to Mountains Road Trip

  • Day 1: Baltimore – museums, harbor, and food
  • Day 2: Annapolis – coastal charm and maritime history
  • Day 3: Eastern Shore – St. Michaels, Oxford, and Assateague Island
  • Day 4: Deep Creek Lake – outdoor recreation and scenic drives
  • Day 5: Return via Antietam Battlefield or historic Frederick

Cities

  • Baltimore