Maryland is one of those states that has everything travelers want and more. It has many different moods and flavors, from tranquil oceanfront to large, bustling city life to quiet country town. It all depends what you’re looking for. Planning a trip to Maryland requires patience, because there are so many different places from which to choose. First decide what sort of atmosphere is desired; chances are that Maryland will yield up the perfect destination.
The Allure of the Ocean Meets Great Food, Shopping, and More
By far, one of Maryland’s most popular seaside destinations is Ocean City. This huge, vibrant city, full of fantastic restaurants, family-oriented attractions, a magnificent boardwalk, and great shopping, is a must-see. You certainly won’t go hungry while traveling Ocean City’s tourist strip known as Coastal Highway; from the cheap to the downright ritzy, restaurants abound. The kids might not be the only ones begging for sweets; walk into one of Ocean City’s many Candy Kitchen stores (try the make-your-own sundaes) and prepare to accommodate everyone’s sweet tooth.
The boardwalk is a bustling walkway from which to view the glorious Atlantic Ocean (and maybe stop for some carnival-style food and a souvenir or two). I recommend getting an oceanfront balcony; there’s nothing quite like waking up before dawn and watching the sun rise over the mighty Atlantic. For early-bird beachcombers there is the possibility of finding some beautiful shells, but just make sure to get there before the crowds.
The Ocean City boardwalk is home to the Ocean City Life-saving Station Museum, full of artifacts from the state’s maritime history. Especially interesting are the dollhouses created to show what life was like in the Victorian era. If museums aren’t an interest, just drive down to the rocky Inlet, which you’ll probably share with fishermen and hardy swimmers. If you’re lucky enough to catch the waves on a windy day, just stay awhile and watch the power of the water slapping against the shore.
For a great family activity, stop by at one of Ocean City’s mini golf courses. This provides hours of fun and good old-fashioned memories. Just miles from Ocean City, Assateague Island seems a world away. The kids will enjoy catching glimpses of the famous wild ponies that roam the island, but they are just part of the draw. Assateague is a quiet place, full of wetlands, huge sand dunes, and a small wooden walkway that disappears at the water’s edge.
Never A Dull Moment in Baltimore, No Matter What You Seek
Does Baltimore seem daunting? It’s too big, too bustling, too modern. That may be so, but it would be terrible to visit Maryland and choose not to see one of the state’s biggest and most famous cities. One of the best attractions in Baltimore is undoubtedly Inner Harbor. It combines the look and feel of an oceanfront town, complete with food, shopping, and family activities, with modern big city appeal. Try to spend at least two days in this area.
For the “brainy” people in the group, kids who love to learn, or people who are willing to try anything, visit the Maryland Science Center. Still not tired of learning? There’s always the National Aquarium, a gigantic complex crammed full of wildlife and lots to see and do. If you’re not afraid of heights, the tower known as “Top of the World” provides a wonderful vantage point from which to truly see Baltimore. Kids not too happy about this? Stop by the Maryland Zoo for any animals they may not have seen in the Aquarium.
Since this city is all about water, Baltimore Maritime Museum is a good choice for a day trip. Check out World War II presentations and the museum’s lighthouse (it’s not original; it was moved from another destination). History lovers will want to head out to Fort McHenry National Museum and follow in the footsteps of the man who wrote the Star Spangled Banner. Edgar Allan Poe’s former residence might be of interest also. There are many more attractions throughout Baltimore; there literally is something for everyone.
Religion and History in Some of Maryland’s Smaller Cities
What is Emmitsburg’s draw? For some, religion is a big part of its appeal. Those of the Catholic faith may wish to visit the National Shrine of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton and the National Shrine Grotto of Lourdes; even for those who aren’t Catholic, this is a beautiful place to relax and soak in the spirituality. Mount St. Mary’s College, found in the lovely valleys and hills near Emmitsburg, is a nice stop just for the photo opportunities.
Frederick is the place to go for those interested in the Civil War; some historic offerings include Barbara Fritchie’s home and the National Museum of Civil War Medicine. The battleground known as Monocacy is located close to the city for even more Civil War appeal.
