At the Crossroads of Conflict In the spring of 1861, as the Civil War broke out and divided the nation, Maryland braced itself for battle. Living near the Potomac River, the conflict’s pivotal border between North and South, Maryland’s citizens would witness the brutality of the war firsthand. The long clash engulfed homes, towns and livelihoods, leaving its mark here and in the area’s many battlefields. Local citizens, though divided by conviction, were united by[...]
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Explore the timeless traditions and deep maritime roots of Western Shore towns along the Chesapeake Bay. Go sailing, bird watching, museum hopping or just relax on a sandy beach. The recreational opportunities are plentiful with each golden Chesapeake Bay day. Enjoy a relaxing beach getaway, navigate the bay’s waters, visit a heritage site or savor a delicious seafood meal. From bayside towns to fishing communities, this byway showcases the history and culture of this region[...]
Celebrating Maryland’s Capital Region's rich farming traditions and its rapidly growing legacy as a premiere wine growing region, the Legacy Wine Trail is Maryland’s newest, and a great getaway just a short trip from Baltimore and D.C. Utilizing deep, dark soils and historic farms once dedicated to tobacco, these Maryland wineries are creating a new tradition. Get out in the fields and get hands-on experience with the grapes that make these great wines. Use this[...]
Best Buys Around Baltimore In Baltimore, venture to the shops in Hampden Village including a must see for antique lovers, CHARLOTTE ELLIOTT. This two-story gold mine showcases vintage artifacts from all over the world; you’re sure to covet ornate furnishings, ancient pottery, vintage fashions, and historic texts. Other popular stops RUST-N-SHINE in Highlandtown and Ryan’s Relics’ two locations on Belair Road. Find Your Treasures Near D.C. Just outside of Washington, D.C., another marvelous metropolitan antiquing[...]
As the air turns cool and crisp, enjoy Maryland’s beautiful sunsets and autumn in all its splendor on these unforgettable foliage tours and Scenic Byways. Don't miss Garrett County’s Annual Autumn Glory Festival. The five-day celebration of autumn celebrates the beauty of the fall foliage in Maryland and includes a display of highly decorated floats, concerts, art exhibits, antique and craft shows and much more! Explore Western Maryland's scenic byways, quaint small towns, historical attractions[...]
Fine Dining Downtown Annapolis is home to plenty of fine dining options. Opt for an elegant night out at Ruth’s Chris Steak House or Lewnes’ Steakhouse. Both are perfect options for a date night. Another favorite, with impeccable service and wine pairings, is Carrol’s Creek Café. The best part? You can step outside any of these restaurants and stroll the streets of Downtown Annapolis. Harbor views included! Traditional Seafood For traditional seafood, follow the Maryland[...]
1608 – Captain John Smith explores the Chesapeake Bay 1631 – English trading post established on Kent Island 1632 – Maryland Charter granted to Cecilius Calvert by King Charles I 1633 – Ark and Dove sail from the Isle of Wight, England 1634 – Ark and Dove arrive at St. Clements Island; St. Mary's City founded 1649 – "An Act Concerning Religion" passed; Puritans founded Providence (now Annapolis) 1664 – Slavery allowed by law in[...]
Southern Maryland Wineries In just a short time, the wineries of the Patuxent Wine Trail have carved out a reputation for making some of the best wines on the East Coast. Just like the nearby Cove Point Lighthouse has guided mariners for nearly two centuries, the Cove Point Winery serves as the beacon for a modern generation of discerning wine aficionados. Serving up an intriguing menu of fruit and dessert wines, Cove Point Winery truly[...]
From Western Maryland’s Deep Creek Lake to the Chesapeake Bay, and with rivers and lakes in between, there are ample opportunities to get on—or in—the water in Maryland. Here are some highlights from around the state. Deep Creek Lake Water Sports If you are looking to zip around the water on a powerboat, water-ski or go tubing, head to Deep Creek Lake . You can also rent a pontoon boat, kayak, or paddleboard and just[...]
Western Maryland Western Maryland is a great place for outdoor adventures. You can climb Maryland's highest mountain, swim in numerous lakes, hike the Appalachian Trail, brave white-water rapids or enjoy all kinds of winter sports from skiing to ice fishing. The three counties of Western Maryland, where fall foliage arrives first and winter usually stays the longest, were Maryland's last frontier. One of the most important events in Western Maryland in the early 1800s was[...]