Natural Wonders Itinerary

Situated along the Chesapeake & Delaware Canal, picturesque and charming Chesapeake City is the perfect place to kick off your Maryland adventure.

Start your day with a scenic, canal-side bike ride on the Ben Cardin C&D Canal Trail, or enjoy a relaxing boat tour with Chesapeake Water Tours.

For lunch, don’t miss Café on the Bay, a convenient and adorable spot with irresistible sandwiches and water views. Next, head to the C&D Canal Museum. This landmark is chock-full of family-friendly exhibits and programming that highlight the history and significance of its namesake waterway.

Finish out your day unwinding with a glass in hand at Bohemia Manor Farm, an expansive riverfront winery and estate. Follow up happy hour with a seafood feast at the Chesapeake Inn.

Get some shut-eye at the Ship Watch Inn, a cute B&B with waterfront views.

Feel like horsing around? Elkton is one of many Maryland towns that celebrates the state’s rich equestrian heritage.

Kick off your day by hiking and biking through the natural landscapes at Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area. After you grab a horse-themed memento at Fair Hill Saddlery, grab a hearty seafood lunch at Baker’s. Next, enjoy the fruits of your labor at Milburn Orchards, where they have pick-your-own fruits, a farm market and seasonal events.

Close out the day at Elk River Brewing Co., featuring a refreshing variety of local craft brews and live music.

When you’re ready to call it a night, get some well-deserved rest at the cozy and tranquil Elk Forge B&B Inn.

From its significant role in the War of 1812 to its reputation as the “Decoy Capital of the World,” this cute town is historic, quirky and altogether un-skippable.

Scratch your antiquing itch at one of many shops like JoRetro. Next, check out the beautifully preserved Concord Point Lighthouse & Keeper’s House. In the afternoon, hit the links at the acclaimed Pete Dye-designed Bulle Rock Golf Course.

Alternatively, spend the day at the beautiful and historic Susquehanna State Park, where you can hike, bike, fish, ride horses, picnic and even visit a working grist mill.

Notable food and drink choices include Water Street Seafood for steamed crabs and fresh local seafood dishes, and the waterfront MT FELIX Winery.

Stay over at the Vandiver Inn, a meticulously restored Victorian mansion located in the heart of town.

Bel Air is home to open skies, a bustling downtown and lots of outdoor adventure. 

Wake up with a little help from the specialty offerings and welcoming ambiance of Coffee Coffee. Then hit the trails on the MA & PA Heritage Trail, a historic destination that follows the original Ma & Pa railroad route.

Get a dose of history at the Historical Society of Harford County, where artifacts and educational programs help you step into the region’s storied past. Take a lunch break at Sunny Day Café, a delicious and authentic Main Street standby.

Finally, don’t miss Independent Brewing Company, a renowned craft beer hot spot, complete with a rotating selection of inspired beers and brewery tours.

For lodging, MaryLar Manor at Thomas Run Farm offers charming accommodations in an idyllic farm setting.

Rolling hills and relaxing moments are what Monkton is all about.

Ease into your day by strolling through the fine arts gallery at Manor Mill, a historic mill that plays host to a retail shop for local artisans, live music and community events. You won’t want to miss Ladew Topiary Gardens, an exquisite 22-acre property featuring picnic-perfect landscapes and a full calendar of seasonal events.

Once dinnertime rolls around, try Manor Tavern. This elevated and inviting restaurant is beloved for its diverse menu and seafood specialties.

Settle in for the night at The Monkton Hotel, a historic landmark dating back to 1859 that sits right beside the scenic NCR Trail and Gunpowder River.