With thousands of miles of shoreline along our Chesapeake Bay, Atlantic coastal bays, mighty rivers and western lakes, Maryland has hundreds of hotspots for watching birds on the water. Just like the birdbath in your backyard, Maryland waters are magnets for birds of all varieties. During the fall and spring, millions of birds pass through Maryland during their epic migrations to rest and feed along our shorelines. Winter is a magical time on Maryland waters[...]
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When it comes to ice cream, Maryland is full of firsts. First ice cream on the continent? Check. Governor Thomas Bladen served up the sweet, creamy treat way back in 1744 (it was strawberry, if you’re wondering). First commercial sales of ice cream? Check again. A Baltimore milkman by the name of Jacob Fussell began the commercial selling of ice cream in Baltimore in 1851, and we’re still leading the way with the Maryland’s Best[...]
The experience of outdoor movies allows viewers to enjoy food, drink and good company in a variety of casual settings while seeing the stars "under the stars." Here are locations in Maryland that offer outdoor movies, many of them are free. In some instances, viewers can purchase food and drink on-site. Please check individual location websites before heading out for the most up-to-date information. EASTERN SHORE Movies on the Beach Families can gather for a[...]
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[...]
A Dangerous Journey Escaping bondage and running to freedom was a dangerous and potentially life-threatening decision. Making the choice to leave loved ones, even children behind was heart-wrenching. Surviving exposure without proper clothing, finding food and shelter, and navigating into unknown territory while eluding slave catchers all made the journey perilous. At Maryland’s Network to Freedom sites and programs, you can discover personal stories about the ways enslaved people struggled for freedom and how others[...]
In Maryland’s many museums, you’ll find enlightening exhibits for all ages and interests, from fine art and science to history and maritime culture. Family Fun at Inner Harbor Museums At the family favorite National Aquarium in Baltimore, get up close and personal with sharks and 17,000 other fish, birds, amphibians, reptiles and mammals in habitats that include replicas of a coral reef and tropical rain forest. Across the harbor, bring the kids (or the kids-at-heart)[...]
When you buy from local farms you get the freshest products and you're supporting independent family farms which helps strengthen the local economy. And to satisfy your sweet tooth, the Ice Cream Lovers' Guide to Maryland will lead you to the Maryland’s Best Ice Cream Trail featuring cow-to-cone creameries with their own dairies and other sweet places to enjoy summer's favorite, ice cream. Click on the county below to find a Farmers Market near you[...]
Surprise him with a chocolate and beer pairing or indulge her with a romantic spa getaway. Escape to a quiet cottage by the Chesapeake or a Western Maryland mountain cabin or fall in love all over again over a candlelit meal prepared by a celebrity chef. Valentine’s Day is in the heart of FeBREWary, visit our craft beer lover’s events page to find the perfect craft beer retreat, set out to explore a Maryland Wine[...]
Museums and Galleries In Baltimore City and Central Maryland, see art from antiquity at the Walters Art Museum, and modern masterpieces at the Baltimore Museum of Art; don't miss the James E. Lewis Museum of Art - it's stunning collection of African and African-American art highlights this museum dedicated to the mingling of art and cultures from around the globe. In Annapolis, the Elizabeth Myers Mitchell Gallery at St. John's College attracts 10,000 visitors a[...]
Maryland's Many Nicknames Maryland has been called "America in Miniature" because so much is packed into its 10,460 square miles of land and water. You can find just about any kind of natural feature here, except a desert. That's because water is almost everywhere in Maryland. The "America In Miniature" title also applies to the role Maryland has played in our nation's history, from the founding of the United States to the present. And like[...]