Need a fun day trip or weekend escape in the Mid-Atlantic? Head to Elkton! Discover charming small-town vibes, scenic parks, historic sites, and easy access to waterfront adventures. Whether you're exploring trails, learning local history, or savoring Maryland crab cakes, Elkton offers a peaceful retreat close to major cities like Philadelphia and Baltimore.

Elkton, MD Highlights:

  • Elk Landing: Visit this historic site where colonial settlers and early American leaders once lived, located where the Big Elk Creek meets the Elk River.
  • Meadow Park: Relax at this town park featuring sports fields, walking trails, a playground, and peaceful picnic spots.
  • Cecil County Arts Council: Browse galleries, local artist exhibits, and creative community events right in downtown Elkton.
  • Milburn Orchards: Enjoy seasonal apple picking, pumpkin patches, farm markets, and family activities at this beloved farm just outside of town.
  • Big Elk Creek: Kayak, fish, or hike along this scenic waterway that winds through forested landscapes and historic properties.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Elkton is during the spring through fall (April–October). Warm weather is ideal for outdoor activities, orchards, and local festivals. Fall offers beautiful foliage and harvest season fun, while summer is perfect for river recreation and hiking. Winter is quiet but cozy for local shopping and museum visits.

How to Get There

  • If you are traveling by car: Elkton is conveniently located just off I-95, about 1 hour from Philadelphia and 1 hour from Baltimore.
  • By Train: Amtrak service is available to nearby Newark, DE (about 15 minutes from Elkton), with rental cars or rideshares available.
  • By Plane: The nearest major airports are Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) and Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), both about an hour away.

Where to Stay

  • La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Newark – Elkton – Modern hotel with free breakfast, indoor pool, and easy access to downtown and highways.
  • Hampton Inn Elkton – Comfortable and family-friendly hotel offering complimentary breakfast and a convenient location near local attractions.
  • Elk Forge Bed & Breakfast Inn – Historic inn set on five wooded acres featuring charming rooms, a day spa, and serene walking trails.

Best Things to Do

Pick Your Own Sweetness at Milburn Orchards

Pick Your Own Sweetness at Milburn Orchards

© Milburn Orchards

Milburn Orchards is a delightful you-pick family farm operated in Elkton for five generations, known for its signature fresh apple cider crafted from apples grown on site at the farm.

All apple ciders are made from three to four apple varieties and are pasteurized for safety, available between apple harvesting time and the end of December. Visitors can explore the farm's "Big Back Yard" and pick for their own cherries, blueberries, raspberries, apples, and blackberries throughout the harvest season.

Local produce and farm-raised beef and pork are sold throughout the year at the farm's on-farm market, while homemade pies, pastries, and baked goods are served up from its bake shop.

Family-friendly attractions include an Ice Cream Deck serving up Hershey's and Kilby hand-scooped ice cream and playground equipment areas for visitors of all ages to enjoy.

1495 Appleton Rd, Elkton, MD 21921, Phone: 410-398-1349

Celebrate Heritage and Strength at Fairhill Scottish Games

Celebrate Heritage and Strength at Fairhill Scottish Games

© Lukassek/stock.adobe.com

Fairhill Scottish Games is one of the Maryland area's premiere Scottish festivals, attracting more than 500 competitors and performers each year from around the world.

The festival, which has taken place each year for more than six decades, attracts some of the world's best Scottish musicians, dancers, and athletes, celebrating traditional Scottish and Celtic culture for several days across the grounds of the Fair Hill Race Track.

Visitors can enjoy lively competitions such as caber tosses, bagpipe contests, fiddling competitions, and dance-offs or participate in demonstrations of traditional cultural practices and art forms.

A full vendor market is also showcased on site, along with food tents set up throughout the fairgrounds serving up Scottish and American fare. Scottish teas are available for tasting at the event's full-service tea room.

4600 Telegraph Rd, Elkton, MD 21921, Phone: 410-392-8765

Activities and Attractions for Couples:

Snap Scenic Memories at Gilpin’s Falls Covered Bridge

Snap Scenic Memories at Gilpin’s Falls Covered Bridge

© Kirk/stock.adobe.com

Gilpin's Falls Covered Bridge stretches across North East Creek in Cecil County, originally constructed by bridgewright Joseph George Johnson in 1861.

The historic bridge spans a length of 119 feet and showcases lovely Burr arch styling and wooden trusses. It was erected just upstream of Samuel Gilpin's mills and dam at the time of its construction.

Though it is closed to vehicular traffic today, it was restored to its historic condition in 1959 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, open to the public as a pedestrian bridge for foot traffic today.

Visitors can view its unique architectural elements, including sheltering clapboard walls, king-post trusses, and arched timber beams as they walk across the state's longest remaining covered wooden bridge.

North East Rd, North East, MD 21901

Find Fall Fun and Flavors at Walnut Springs Farm

Find Fall Fun and Flavors at Walnut Springs Farm

© Walnut Springs Farm

Walnut Springs Farm is a delightful family-operated farm that has been operated by the Johnson family for over 40 years, located within the lovely town of Elkton for over 75 years. The farm, which is overseen by Ruth Ann and Phil Johnson, has offered pick-your-own experiences for customers each year since 1975, showcasing delicious strawberry, blueberry, sweet cherry, and red and black raspberry fields open to the public for picking during harvest months. Environmentally-friendly farming practices guarantee all fruits are safe for eating. Elderberries are also sold for wholesale to restaurants and food companies, with some elderberry products available onsite for visitor purchase. School tours are available for local area student groups with advance reservation.

4040 Blue Ball Rd, Elkton, MD 21921, Phone: 410-398-3451

Where to Eat

If You Crave Comfort Food Classics, Dine at Baker’s Restaurant

If You Crave Comfort Food Classics, Dine at Baker’s Restaurant

© Baker's Restaurant

Baker's Restaurant was originally established in the early 20th century as the Milk Bar, a small country store offering limited dine-in counter service fare. Since 1958, the restaurant has been operated as a full-service breakfast, lunch, and dinner joint, known for its delicious American classics. Diners can choose from selections like classic or cowboy-style reuben sandwiches, beer-battered cod filets, Maryland crab cakes, and golden-fried shrimp platters. Homestyle entrees are also on the menu, including favorites like roast beef brisket sandwiches, shepherd's pies, country-fried steak, and Chesapeake chicken Imperial. Shareable plates focus on creative eats like fried green beans, Jersey Shore-style beer-battered onion rings, and homemade turkey chili.

1075 Augustine Herman Hwy, Elkton, MD 21921, Phone: 410-398-2435

Step Into Local Legends at The Historical Society of Cecil County

Step Into Local Legends at The Historical Society of Cecil County

© The Historical Society of Cecil County

The Historical Society of Cecil County was established in 1932 to collect, preserve and showcase historical artifacts which are relevant to the county. To this end, the society has assembled a large collection of fascinating items that history enthusiasts would enjoy seeing. Their collection includes many artifacts and documents which can be viewed in the genealogical library, the Military Museum, the local history library and an historic log cabin which is under restoration. The bulk of the artifact collection can be viewed at the John F. DeWitt Military Museum which displays exhibits from the Revolutionary War through to Desert Storm.

135 E. Main Street, Elkton, MD 21921, 410 398 1790

Grab a Tasty Bite at JoJo’s Super Dogs

Grab a Tasty Bite at JoJo’s Super Dogs

© JoJo's Super Dogs

JoJo's Super Dogs is a unique diner in Elkton specializing in creative hot dog offerings topped with delicious seasonal and regional toppings. The diner, which originally opened in 2005, moved to its current location in 2015 along East Pulaski Highway and has become one of Cecil County's favorite artisanal dining destinations. Diners can enjoy creative hot dog concoctions such as crabmeat-topped Chesapeake dogs, sauerkraut-topped New York City dogs, red onion sauce and home fries-topped Idaho dogs, and baked bean-topped Boston dogs. Classic American-style entrees served up throughout the week include homemade Maryland-style crab cakes, Arizona chicken platters, and open-faced hot turkey or roast beef sandwiches. At breakfast, diners can choose from favorites like Belgian waffles, build-your-own breakfast sandwiches, and sausage biscuits and gravy plates.

214 E Pulaski Hwy, Elkton, MD 21921, Phone: 410-392-9830

If You Love Craft Beer, Toast at Elk River Brewing

If You Love Craft Beer, Toast at Elk River Brewing

© Elk River Brewing

Conveniently located right on Main Street, Elk River Brewing is your friendly local craft brewery. The brewery was established by Brad and Jessica Carrillo, both of whom love beer and wanted to create a suitable craft brewery to serve local Elkton residents and visitors. The tap room always has a fine selection of brews on tap, including something to suit all tastes. The selection includes several fine IPA’s, Blonde Ale, American Pale Ale, Red Ale, Brown Ale and a couple of rich Stouts. Monday is always Whiskey Night, Tuesdays and Wednesdays usually feature music and/or Bingo. The Tap Room is open Tuesday to Saturday.

112 E. Main Street, Elkton, MD 21921, 443 207 8454

If you are interested in local events:

  • Cecil County Fair (July) – Celebrate the region’s agricultural heritage with livestock shows, rides, food vendors, and family entertainment in nearby Fair Hill.
  • Elkton Fall Fest (October) – Street festival featuring live music, crafts, food, and kids’ activities in the heart of downtown Elkton.
  • Christmas in Elkton (December) – Holiday festivities including parades, lights, and seasonal shopping downtown.

If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Elkton, Maryland:

  • Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area (15–20 min) – Hike, ride horses, or attend equestrian events in this expansive nature preserve and park.
  • Chesapeake City (20 min) – Visit this charming historic canal town filled with waterfront restaurants, galleries, and boat tours.
  • Lums Pond State Park (20–25 min) – Enjoy boating, fishing, hiking, and even ziplining adventures at Delaware’s largest freshwater pond.
  • Newark, DE (15 min) – Explore this vibrant college town with shops, restaurants, and cultural events near the University of Delaware.
  • North East, MD (20 min) – Stroll a quaint Main Street full of boutiques, antique stores, and waterfront dining at the head of the Chesapeake Bay.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • Where is Elkton located?
    • Elkton is a charming town located at the navigational head of the Elk River. It was originally known as the Head of Elk due to its historical use as a travel route to the nearby Chesapeake Bay.
  • Why was Elkton known as the "Gretna Green of the East"?
    • During the 19th and 20th centuries, Elkton became a popular elopement site for area couples, earning the nickname “Gretna Green of the East.”
  • What attractions can visitors enjoy in Elkton?
    • Elkton offers lovely rustic attractions that provide visitors with an authentic small-town Maryland experience.
  • What is a notable historic site in Elkton?
    • The town is home to Maryland’s oldest preserved historic covered bridge, which can be traversed on foot throughout the year.
  • What annual events take place in Elkton?
    • Each year, the city hosts the Fairhill Scottish Games, which attract more than 500 Scottish and Celtic performers and competitors.

At a Glance:


Best Time to Visit Places to Stay Top Activities
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes. Elk Forge Bed & Breakfast – A charming and historic stay near nature trails. Visit Elk Neck State Park – Hike scenic trails and see the famous Turkey Point Lighthouse.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and great for water activities. Hampton Inn Elkton – A convenient stay with modern amenities. Go boating or fishing on the Chesapeake Bay – Enjoy the water and fresh seafood.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air and beautiful autumn foliage. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Newark-Elkton – A well-rated and budget-friendly option. Explore Milburn Orchards – Pick apples, enjoy hayrides, and try fresh cider donuts.
Winter (December-February) – Cool and cozy with holiday charm. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Elkton – A comfortable and convenient choice. Stroll through historic downtown Elkton – Enjoy boutique shopping and local dining.

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