From charming country inns to full service resorts, Maryland offers many great options for a relaxing weekend getaway. Head to Chesapeake Bay or National Harbor to enjoy romantic water views, a choice of restaurants and activities. Or check into a historic MD inn surrounded by nature where you can rejuvenate in a tranquil setting with great food and friendly service.
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» The Chesapeake Beach Resort and Spa - 1 hour 10 minutes from Baltimore
Chesapeake Beach Resort and Spa located along Maryland’s waterfront is a perfect destination for day trips, weddings, family reunions, or an exciting adventure getaway. You can take advantage of year-round fun at this resort with marina water activities, casino game rooms and bingo games, luxurious trips to the rejuvenating spa, or entertaining concerts.
You have the choice of staying in one of 72 rooms and suites on your weekend getaway, some of which feature limited views while others have complete waterfront views. Each cozy room includes a separate workspace, a K-cup coffee maker, an iHome docking station, and free Wi-Fi access.
During your stay, you have the option of dining at any of the three tempting restaurants including the incredibly appealing Rod’N'Reel Restaurant that serves fresh Southern Maryland seafood and overlooks the waterfront.
4165 Mears Avenue, Chesapeake Beach, Maryland 20732, 866-312-5596
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» Savage River Lodge
Savage River Lodge is a lavish wooded retreat that is completely surrounded by the Savage River State Forest, which spans more than 700 acres throughout the Frostburg area. The 40-acre resort offers 18 miniature guest lodges for overnight stay, which have been handcrafted from white pine and are designed to coexist in harmony with their natural surroundings. Lavish amenities in all cabins include gas-burning fireplaces, pull-out sofas, and spacious outdoor porches. Eight unique yurt accommodations are also offered, featuring leather furniture, domed skylights, and beverage bars. Complimentary breakfast is delivered to each cabin and yurt each morning, with more than 13 miles of hiking trails available for visitors to explore the outdoors around them. A New American-style restaurant and bar is also offered, along with a ski shop, common-use library, and communal fire pit.
1600 Mt Aetna Rd, Frostburg, MD 21532, Phone: 301-689-3200
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» Inn at Herrington Harbour - 1 hour 15 minutes
The Inn at Herrington Harbour in Chesapeake Bay, Maryland, is a perfect vacation place for water and boat lovers. With incredible views, 600 private boat slips, direct waterway access to the bay, and a 2-mile eco-trail this getaway is the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
With 34 spacious guest rooms some of which include private patios with revitalizing outdoor hot tubs, the inn is a great romantic vacation idea. You can also choose one of eleven unique suites with separate living and kitchen areas featuring subtle decorations that will allow you to truly appreciate the beauty of the bay.
You can dine at either Chesapeake Market and Deli, or at Mango’s Bar and Grill, which features amazing views that will make your meal taste even better. You can also unwind by walking through the beautiful and peaceful gardens. If you are looking for romantic resorts in Maryland with a diverse choice of activities, this is a great place to visit.
7161 Lake Shore Drive, North Beach, Maryland 20714, 410-741-5100
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» The Harbour Inn - 1 hour 30 minutes from Baltimore
The St. Michaels Harbour Inn, Marina & Spa, is located in the heart of Chesapeake Bay in St Michael’s, Maryland. It is the perfect option for an overnight getaway or longer vacation stay; you will love spending time on the water, shopping, antiquing, or eating fresh fish during your stay. This property has 49 deluxe rooms including 32 light-filled suites with beautiful views of the Bay. Amenities include daily continental breakfast with an omelet bar, Wi-Fi access throughout the property, a complimentary shuttle service, and bicycles, which you can use to take a leisurely ride around the area.
The Harbour Inn has three dining options available for guests. The Harbourside Grill, with its covered decks, warm fireplace, and unforgettable views, is a particular favorite, and it serves lunch, dinner, and cocktails. Complete your stay with a relaxing trip to the Spa at Harbour Inn and treat yourself to a body wrap, massage, or other indulging treatment.
101 N. Harbor Rd, St. Michaels, Maryland 21663, 410-745-9001
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» The Reynolds Tavern - 35 minutes from Baltimore
Visiting the Reynolds Tavern in Annapolis, Maryland, a timeless luxurious Bed and Breakfast connected to one of the oldest taverns in the United States, is a wonderful vacation experience. Conveniently located in the heart of Church Circle, Reynolds Tavern is mere steps from the State Capitol, and it is also quite close to the United States Naval Academy.
Some of the rooms feature original hardwood floors and original staircases, and the center hall is largely unchanged from its 1747 design. You can feel the rich tradition and history of the establishment throughout your stay. The Reynolds Tavern features three refined two-room suites decorated with gorgeous antiques, exquisite oriental rugs, and soft, cozy bedding, all of which provide absolute comfort.
During your stay, you can enjoy lunch or dinner at the historic Reynolds Tavern, a restaurant with a rich ambience, amazing food, and a deep connection with history. You will not want to miss the classic experience of High Tea, which is served daily.
7 Church Circle, Annapolis, Maryland 21401, 410-295-9555
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» Resorts in Maryland: Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay - 1 hour 30 minutes from Baltimore
Located in Cambridge, Maryland, Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Golf Resort, Spa and Marina is a 400-acre retreat overlooking the Choptank River that is perfect for a family getaway or a romantic escape. During your stay, you will have access to all the comforts and amenities a luxury Hyatt Resort typically provides.
Whether you choose a standard room, a room with a view, a suite, or the Regency Club room, you will have a delightful stay during which you can enjoy amenities including a refrigerator, microwave, cable TV, and free Wi-Fi. If you are hungry, you can choose from one of seven onsite restaurants.
Tee-up at the championship 18-hole River Marsh Golf Club, practice your serve at the tennis courts, splash around the indoor and outdoor pools, and experience indulging pampering treatments at Sago Spa and Salon. If you are looking for romantic spa getaways in Maryland, this is relaxing vacation spot.
100 Heron Blvd. at Route 50, Cambridge, Maryland, 21613, 410-901-1234
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» Resorts in Maryland: Wisp Resort
Wisp Resort is an amazing destination getaway for skiers, golfers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Guests can enjoy the western mountains of Maryland by skiing down 172 acres of slopes that receive over 100 inches of snow each season. Alternatively, you can enjoy a challenging mountainside game of golf at the beautiful 18-hole Lodestone Course.
With 102 suites and 67 deluxe guest rooms available, everyone in your party will be able to relax during your stay. Each room and suite includes a refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, cable television with over 80 channels, and complimentary Wi-Fi access, making the resort a true mountain home away from home.
During your stay, you have access to six dining options including the rustic lodge DC’s Bar & Restaurant, which serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. If you are looking for year-round romantic Maryland resorts, Wisp Resort provides the perfect water, ski, golf, shopping, and adventure getaway for all your friends and family.
296 Marsh Hill Road, Mchenry, Maryland 21541, 301-859-3159
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» Resorts in Maryland: Gaylord National Resort
From the moment you check in to The Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in National Harbor, MD, you will be in awe of your surroundings, and from the lobby atrium, you can see stunning views of the Potomac River and the nation’s capital.
One of the highlights of your stay will definitely include a visit to the 20,000 square fitness center featuring a pool, cardio equipment, and free weights. At Relache Spa, you can indulge in world-class treatments like wraps, massages, scrubs, or facials. Guest room options include deluxe rooms and suites, some of which overlook the atrium or river. Room amenities include cable TV, work areas with ample electronic connections, mini-fridges, and coffee service.
There are six fabulous onsite dining options. The Pose Rooftop with wrap around floor to ceiling windows overlooking Washington DC provides breathtaking and historical views you will not want to miss.
201 Waterfront Street, National Harbor, Maryland 20745, 301-965-4000
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» The Columbia Inn at Peralynna
Located in the rolling hills of Columbia, MD, the historic Columbia Inn at Peralynna provides a luxurious, tranquil setting for romantic getaways, upscale business trips, corporate retreats, and intimate weddings. This unique, elegant boutique hotel captures the feel of a luxurious bed and breakfast.
During your stay, you can enjoy mingling with others by playing a game of pool, having a coffee in the atrium, or admiring the impressive four-story Great Room with games, movies, and books. The Columbia Inn at Peralynna offers 17 uniquely decorated room and grand suites. The Renaissance rooms are decorated with timeless antiques and replicas that will make you feel as though you have been transported to another era.
Your stay includes daily, delicious, made-to-order breakfasts with pastries you will crave long after you’ve returned home. Before leaving, be sure to enjoy wine, cheese, and crackers as you sit in the atrium from where you can take in spectacular views.
10605 State Route 108, Columbia, Maryland 21044, 410-715-4600
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» Great Oak Manor
Located on Chesapeake Bay in Chestertown, Maryland, the Great Oak Manor is an 18th century country-style bed and breakfast. Experience a blend of relaxation and sophistication as you sit by the water watching the sunset and let your mind roam free at this historical estate. The Great Oak Manor features cheerily decorated common rooms where you can socialize, read, and enjoy freshly prepared snacks, coffee, or tea. Bicycles and paddleboards are available for use so you can experience the fun and adventure of the Eastern Shore.
The Manor has 12 inviting suites with elegant touches including plush towels, feather beds, and the finest bath amenities. Each morning you will wake up to a fresh homemade breakfast that you can savor while taking in the stunning bay views.
10568 Cliff Rd, Chestertown, Maryland 21620, 410-778-5943
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» The Sandaway
Located just steps from the sand in Oxford, Maryland, the Sandaway blends the comfort of a hotel with world class service and the charm of a bed and breakfast. This location has convenient access to the beach as well as spectacular views, and the establishment provides a pampering experience that will delight you.
When making reservations at the Sandaway, you can choose from 18 uniquely decorated spacious suites and rooms. The Waterview Sandaway Suite, which has a private entrance from the screened porch, is a popular choice for honeymooners and anniversary couples.
Spend some time on the warm sandy beach in a cozy chair, try kayaking, or take advantage of an in-room massage. When you are ready to unwind, head to the beach house, which is stocked with snacks and beverages. You can see amazing views of the bay and enjoy a light fresh breakfast while you savor your time away.
103 West Strand Road, Oxford, Maryland 21654, 888-726-3292
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» Chez Amis Bed and Breakfast
In French, Chez Amis means “among friends,” making it an apt name for this bed and breakfast, which provides a relaxing, intimate, and indulgent getaway. This quaint four-room Bed and Breakfast located in historic downtown Annapolis is walking distance from several shops, restaurants, the waterfront, the State Capitol, and the United States Naval Academy.
Chez Amis has four individually decorated rooms that come with down comforters, coffee / tea selection, free Wi-Fi access, complimentary beverages, and concierge service. The spacious State House Room with large windows overlooking the capitol domes and a separate living area is exceptionally comfortable.
Chez Amis also provides a mouthwatering hand crafted three-course breakfast prepared daily. After trying Elly’s famous Lemon Curd, you will want to take jars home to help you savor the memories of your stay. Things to Do in Annapolis
85 East Street, Annapolis, Maryland 21401, 888-224-6455
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» Laurel Grove Inn
The Laurel Grove Bed and Breakfast has incredible river views and provides a peaceful and memorable getaway for every guest. This inviting escape features a private dock on the South River and three acres of a large wooded area so guests can enjoy the great outdoors.
There are five uniquely decorated suites that will ensure your stay is comfortable and tranquil. You might want to consider staying in the River Hill Suite, which features a private entrance and separate living space with large windows providing spectacular views. A plush couch is ideal for lounging and enjoying a relaxing afternoon.
The Laurel Grove Inn has several comfortable, beautifully decorated common spaces to enjoy including the Waterfront Veranda, a perfect place to sip coffee or tea. A continental breakfast is provided during weekdays, and full breakfast is served on the weekend.
2881 South Haven Rd, Annapolis, MD 21401, 443-370-2394
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» Gramercy Mansion
Located close to Baltimore’s Inner Harbor in Stevenson, Maryland, the Gramercy Mansion Bed and Breakfast is an ideal location for anniversaries and weddings. This historical secluded mansion sits on 45 acres of exquisitely maintained gardens, including the Koinonia Organic Farm and a wildlife preserve.
There are eleven elegantly decorated rooms and suites with amenities including cable TV, microwave, refrigerator, fresh flowers, and high-speed Internet access.
The property includes the Carriage House, which is open year round and displays timeless antiques and artwork. It is an ideal location for events, business meetings, retreats and weddings. Each morning, you can enjoy a fresh American breakfast served in the dining room, on the covered terrace, or in your room. The wine dinners scheduled throughout the year are a favorite event among many guests, and they are served with the historic backdrop of the mansion.
1400 Greenspring Valley Road, Stevenson, MD 21153, 410-486-2405
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» Rocky Gap Casino and Resort
While staying at the Rocky Gap Casino and Resort, you can appreciate beautiful panoramic views of the lush green mountains and nearby lake that will take your breath away. You can spend a pleasant evening in the casino, have an outdoor adventure, or treat yourself to a pampering treatment.
Accommodations at the Rocky Gap Casino consist of Mountain and Resort guest rooms and suites. Each spacious room is modern in design and provides leisure and comfort. Amenities include a coffee maker, microwave, refrigerator, and complimentary wireless Internet access.
This escape is perfect for golf enthusiasts, who can enjoy a beautiful 18-hole course designed by Jack Nicklaus. Alternatively, you can spend time at the Spa at Rocky Gap and treat yourself to a wrap, facial, manicure, pedicure, or body treatment. The resort features five dining options including A Little Munch, which serves sandwiches, snacks, beer, and delightful baked goods.
16701 Lakeview Road, Flinstone, MD 21530, 301-784-8400
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» Haley Farm Spa and Retreat Center
From the moment you climb the steps to the wrap around deck with wood rocking chairs, you will settle in to a relaxing yet exciting experience at Haley Farm Spa and Retreat Center in Oakland, Maryland. The appeal of this 65-acre farm is the variety of activities in which you can partake, including sports adventures that are available year-round, pampering services at the delightful spa, or participate in meditation, yoga classes, and hiking.
When staying at Haley Farm Spa and Retreat Center, guests can choose from four room types. Each of the buildings is warmly decorated and provides space for leisurely relaxation; the rooms include separate living areas, kitchens, and Jacuzzi tubs. Hayley’s Lakeside Cottage has three bedrooms and stairs that lead directly to your private dock. The cottages are perfect for a family or friend getaway.
16766 Garrett Highway, Oakland, MD 21550, 301-387-2471
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» Hotel Brexton
Hotel Brexton is a historic boutique hotel providing you with an intimate, first-class luxury vacation experience. Located in the culturally diverse Mt. Vernon area of Baltimore, the Queen Anne Style Hotel Brexton celebrates all walks of life. It is located in the midst of a thriving gay and lesbian scene in an area that features amazing restaurants, shops, bars, and events.
With 6 types of rooms to choose from ranging from a Queen guest room to a Superior King room, all of which are spacious, bright, and comfortable, you will thoroughly enjoy your stay at the Hotel Brexton. Each room includes free Wi-Fi access and pampering bath amenities including a plush robe that will make you want to laze around for hours on end.
Each morning, you will wake up to a delicious European Breakfast with delightful pastries. You will not want to miss enjoying a caffeinated beverage at the European Latte Lounge or snacking on wine and cheese, providing an opportunity to mingle and meet other guests.
868 Park Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21201, 443-478-2100
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» 1840s Carrollton Inn
The 1840s Carrollton Inn, located in the heart of Jonestown close to Little Italy and the Inner Harbour, gives you a traditional bed and breakfast experience you won’t soon forget. It features several connected row houses dating to the early 19th century that surround a beautiful and tranquil courtyard.
There are 13 uniquely decorated suites with historic pieces of furniture that will make you feel as if you have travelled back to the turn of the century. Each room includes cable, high-speed Internet access, a refrigerator, microwave, complimentary beverages, plush robes, and fresh flowers.
The 1840s Carrollton Inn is perfect for leisurely trips, business travels, or an intimate weekend. You will love starting your day with a fresh homemade breakfast served in the dining room or delivered to your room. The service is outstanding, and this bed and breakfast will continue to spoil you throughout your stay.
50 Albemarle Street, Baltimore, MD 21202, 410-385-1840
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» The Inn at 202 Dover - 1 hour 15 minutes from Baltimore
The Inn at 202 Dover is a AAA Four-Diamond award and Michelin-recommended Bed and Breakfast and restaurant located a block away from Easton, MD that was built in 1874. When booking your stay, you can choose between five unique suites decorated with authentic and replica antiques, ensuring an elegant and timeless experience. Modern amenities such as air jet tubs, steam showers, cable TV, and high speed Internet access will make you feel pampered throughout your visit.
You will receive first-class, luxury treatment starting with a glass of sherry upon your arrival. Your night will end with nightly turndown service and fresh fruit, delicious cookies, or chocolate treats. Dine at the Peacock Restaurant & Lounge, which boasts an incredible wine list. Be sure to participate in the Inn’s timeless traditions of the Inn, including traditional High Tea served each Thursday.
202 East Dover Street, Easton, Maryland 21601, 866-450-7600
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19 Best Romantic Weekend Getaways in Maryland
- The Chesapeake Beach Resort and Spa - 1 hour 10 minutes from Baltimore, Photo: The Chesapeake Beach Resort and Spa
- Savage River Lodge, Photo: Savage River Lodge
- Inn at Herrington Harbour - 1 hour 15 minutes, Photo: Inn at Herrington Harbour
- The Harbour Inn - 1 hour 30 minutes from Baltimore, Photo: The Harbour Inn
- The Reynolds Tavern - 35 minutes from Baltimore, Photo: The Reynolds Tavern
- Resorts in Maryland: Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay - 1 hour 30 minutes from Baltimore, Photo: Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay
- Resorts in Maryland: Wisp Resort, Photo: Wisp Resort
- Resorts in Maryland: Gaylord National Resort, Photo: Gaylord National Resort
- The Columbia Inn at Peralynna, Photo: The Columbia Inn at Peralynna
- Great Oak Manor, Photo: Great Oak Manor
- The Sandaway, Photo: The Sandaway
- Chez Amis Bed and Breakfast, Photo: Chez Amis Bed and Breakfast
- Laurel Grove Inn, Photo: Laurel Grove Inn
- Gramercy Mansion, Photo: Gramercy Mansion
- Rocky Gap Casino and Resort, Photo: Rocky Gap Casino and Resort
- Haley Farm Spa and Retreat Center, Photo: Haley Farm Spa and Retreat Center
- Hotel Brexton, Photo: Hotel Brexton
- 1840s Carrollton Inn, Photo: 1840s Carrollton Inn
- The Inn at 202 Dover - 1 hour 15 minutes from Baltimore, Photo: The Inn at 202 Dover
- Cover Photo: Courtesy of science photo - Fotolia.com
More Romantic Getaways in MD
Bethesda
Bethesda started out as a tiny crossroads village and has blossomed into a bustling and modern city with a thriving arts scene and many attractions for visitors. Patrons of the arts can start their Bethesda cultural journey at Strathmore, a brilliant center for the arts featuring visual arts in the Mansion House galleries, an outdoor sculpture garden and several music halls where you can listen to all genres of music from jazz to opera. You can watch performing arts at the Round House Theater and Imagine Stage, or make your way to the elegant concert hall of the Bethesda Blues and Jazz Supper Club for an entertaining evening.
Bethesda has over 20 art galleries you can visit as well as the Ratner Museum, which focuses on Jewish culture and American history and showcases many sculptures by Phillip Ratner. At the National Museum of Health and Medicine you can learn all about Civil War medicine, modern advances in medicine and all about human anatomy. If you are visiting with children, you can treat them to a fascinating learning experience at KID Museum, or take under-fives to Kidville to burn up some energy. Round off your busy day at one of Bethesda’s 200 restaurants that serve just about any kind of cuisine you can imagine.
Weekend Trips from Baltimore: Ocean City
Although Ocean City is primarily a beach destination, you will be pleasantly surprised by the number of other attractions the city has to offer, including art and culture and loads of family fun. Ocean City has over eight miles of beautiful clean beaches where you can swim, sun bathe, learn to surf, or canoe and kayak. You could try your hand at surf or pier fishing or charter a boat and get out into deep water to catch a big one – Ocean City is officially the White Marlin capital of the world. During the summer, you can enjoy many free beach activities in the evenings such as movies, concerts, and Beach Olympics, or simply stroll along the Ocean City Boardwalk and ride the 100-year old carousel at Trimper’s Rides and Amusements.
For more water activities, you can visit Jolly Roger’s Splash Mountain Water Park or head to Frontier Town and Fort Whaley, which features a Water Park, campground and High Ropes Adventure Park. Golfers can choose from 17 championship golf courses in and around Ocean City. You can attend a variety of musical shows at Music Pier on the Ocean City Boardwalk, which is home to the Ocean City Pops Orchestra, or watch a local theatrical performance at the Brown Box Theatre.
Annapolis
Maryland’s capital Annapolis is nestled on the beautiful Chesapeake Bay and is often referred to as “The Sailing Capital of the World”. In addition to an abundance of covetable sail boats the city offers a great mix of history and fun. You can explore the quaint brick streets of Annapolis on a Four Centuries Walking Tour or an Annapolis City Segway Tour or simply do a self-guided walking tour.
To see some of the best historic attractions, you can tour the U.S. Naval Academy, which includes The United States Naval Academy Museum, followed by a tour of the Maryland State House (1772), the oldest State Capitol still in legislative use. Historians can delve into African-American history at the Banneker-Douglass Museum or tour Hammond Harwood House, one of the finest examples of British Colonial homes in America.
After all that history, you can stroll down to Ego Alley in historic Downtown to see some of the most stunning and exotic yachts. If you would like to get out on the water yourself, you can go on a cruise with Woodwind or Watermark Cruises or take sailing lessons at the Annapolis Sailing School. At Annapolis Canoe and Kayak you can rent everything you need for a day of fun out on the water. Foodies should not miss an Original Annapolis Seafood Crawl. Read more: 25 Best Romantic Restaurants in Annapolis, Maryland.
Deep Creek
Deep Creek in Western Maryland is an outstanding destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering year-round sports and recreation. You can enjoy almost unlimited outdoor fun at the Deep Creek Lake State Park, which offers camping, fishing, swimming, and both motorized and non-motorized water sports. You can choose from jet skiing, wake boarding, sailing, canoeing, and kayaking rentals to make the most of every moment. Children will also enjoy visiting The Deep Creek Lake State Park Discovery Center. If you enjoy hiking, you can head to New Germany State Park, or you could learn to fly fish at the Streams and Dreams Retreat on the Youghiogheny River. The brave and adventurous can try some thrilling white-water rafting, rock-climbing, and rappelling with Adventure Sport Center International.
In fall, you can enjoy the Autumn Glory Festival, and when the winter snows arrive, the Wisp Resort becomes a playground for winter sports where you can try ice-skating, skiing, snow-boarding, snow shoeing, and even dog sledding with Husky Power Dogsledding. When you need a break from all the outdoor adventures, you can visit the Simon Pearce Glassblowing Workshop or the Spruce Forest Artisan Village, where you can visit several historic buildings, attend a workshop or just watch sculptors, potters, wood turners, and other artisans at work.
Cumberland
Cumberland in western Maryland is a quaint historical city which will appeal to visitors looking for a combination of great outdoor activities, history, arts, and culture. You can join the many cyclists who come from all over America to take on the 150-mile Great Allegheny Passage, a system of paved trails that link Cumberland to Pittsburgh, and together with the C & O Canal Towpath form a 318-mile non-motorized trail all the way from Washington DC to Pittsburgh. If this seems a bit over the top, you can hike, cycle, canoe, or kayak in the Green Ridge State Forest, which is surrounded by good camping areas including Hidden Springs Campgrounds and Rocky Gap State Park.
In the well preserved Cumberland downtown area you can visit historic buildings that now house museums, art galleries, shops, and restaurants. A few of the historic places you can visit include Alleghany Museum, the Queen City Transport Museum, the Arteco Gallery, the Saville Gallery, and the C & O Canal Cumberland National Historic Park, where you can see a replica of a canal boat, and get maps and brochures from the Visitor’s Center. You can enjoy the performing arts and great musical entertainment at the Cumberland Theatre, the New Embassy Theatre, and Windsor Hall at Town Center, and great alfresco dining in pedestrian Baltimore Street.
St. Michaels
The charming Chesapeake Bay town of St. Michaels offers a perfect retreat from the bustle of city life with an emphasis on laid-back water sports, relaxation, and marvelous fresh seafood. You can explore beautiful Chesapeake Bay on a yacht cruise from Sail Selina II Boat tours, set sail on the Rebecca T. Ruark from Chesapeake Bay Charters to learn all about the ecology and history of the bay or step on board the Patriot, a replica of a 1930’s steam ferry for a narrated historical tour. To get even closer to the water, you can rent equipment for canoeing, paddle-boarding, and kayaking from Tilghman Island Marina and Rentals or Shore Pedal and Paddle.
St. Michael’s Harbor dates back to the 1600’s, and a visit to the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum will introduce you to the region’s maritime history. History enthusiasts can follow this up with a Chesapeake Lighthouse Tour, a Chesapeake Ghost Walk, and a visit to the St. Michaels Museum at St. Mary’s Square. There are several parks in and around St. Michael’s where you can go walking, jogging, hiking, or cycling, including Hollis Park and Seymour Avenue Park. St. Michaels offers good shopping and great dining, and the best way to round off your busy day is to enjoy a steaming bowl of locally caught Maryland blue crabs.
Hagerstown
Hagerstown in Washington County dates back to 1762 and was once the scene of several famous Civil War battles; today, Hagerstown offers visitors a good combination of outdoor activities, history, arts, and culture for visitors to enjoy. There are many historic Civil War sites you can visit, either on a self-guided tour or at your own pace. One novel way to see the Antietam Battlefield is by horse-drawn carriage on a narrated Bonnymead Farm Horse and Carriage Tour. Other historic sites you may find of interest include the Beaver Creek School Museum, the Hagerstown Aviation Museum, and the Hagerstown Railroad Museum & Engine 202 City Park.
You can head to quaint Hagerstown Downtown and the Arts and Entertainment District to find great shopping and dining and many cultural attractions including the Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, the Washington Country Arts Council Gallery and the Maryland Theatre, where you can listen to a recital by the Maryland Symphony Orchestra.
If you are looking for a good place for hiking and biking you will find the C & O Canal National Historical Park hard to beat, but there are also a variety of other parks and green spaces for recreation. Foodies will not want to miss the Hagerstown City Farmer’s Market and the Pennsylvania Dutch Market of Hagerstown for fresh local produce and crafts.
Salisbury
Salisbury is situated in south-east Maryland and offers visitors a range of interesting historical and cultural attractions for all ages. If you are a baseball fan, you can visit the Eastern Shore Baseball Hall of Fame for a nostalgic look at the history of baseball. Also be sure to catch a game at the Arthur W. Perdue Stadium. Those interested in history can visit the Adkins Historical Museum and Complex, which includes ten beautifully preserved historic buildings, or visit Poplar Hill Mansion, a wonderful federal style house museum.
To enjoy some outdoor recreation you can visit Pemberton Historical Park, where you can go on a nature trail through various habitats including wetlands, forests and meadows, all of which are great for hiking and bird watching. You can also go on guided canoe excursions which combine a bit of history with lots of fun and learning, and during the summer children can sign up for Pemberton Historical Park’s Summer Nature Camp.
In addition to Pemberton Historical Park, there are several other good attractions for families including the Ward Museum of Wildfowl Art, the Salisbury Zoo, and the Jolly Roger Amusement Parks in near-by Ocean City. If you are interested in art, you should not miss the Art Institute and Gallery, which hosts regular workshops and exhibitions.
Baltimore
Choosing Baltimore for your next weekend getaway will reward you with an amazing choice of activities suited to both couples and families. Baltimore Inner Harbor is chock-full of attractions and makes a great place to start your visit. You can get an aerial perspective of the city from the Top of the World observation level of the World Trade Center and then visit The Historic Ships in Baltimore’s maritime museum. The National Aquarium, which boasts a remarkable two- million gallon tank filled with sea creatures is another activity to try. The Inner Harbor is home to the fascinating Maryland Science Center, which provides interactive exhibits for all ages.
History buffs can visit the B&O Railroad Museum, the George Peabody Library on the Johns Hopkins University Campus, the Fort McHenry National Monument and the historic Fell’s Point, where they can see many charming 18th and 19th century storefronts and homes.
Art lovers can enjoy a visual feast at The Walters Art Museum and The Baltimore Museum of Art. Families can take the children to the Port Discovery Children’s Museum, the Maryland Zoo (where they can see over 250 animal species), and to Urban Pirates for a family adventure cruise on a replica pirate boat. Just about everyone will enjoy reliving their childhood at Geppi’s Entertainment Museum, which celebrates comic books and pop culture.
Catoctin Mountain National Park
A weekend visit or day trip to Catoctin Mountain National Park will give you the chance to stretch your legs, get back to nature, and learn all about the environment, surrounded by fresh air and pristine forests. The park offers several activities for day trippers, but to really appreciate the surroundings, you should try and spend a night or two sleeping under the stars. You can choose to pitch a tent in Owens Creek Campground, bring along your trailer (max length allowed is 22ft), or rent a cabin.
Hiking, picnicking, and bird watching are the main activities in the park and there are several trails available to suit all fitness levels, ranging from one-mile gentle family trails to the more strenuous eight-mile loop. Along the way, you can enjoy beautiful forests and plants and do some great bird watching.
If you visit in June, you can watch a Spring Blacksmith Demonstration. The park also offers weekend ranger-led programs during the summer months, including a popular Outdoor Skills for Teens program, which teaches young people about responsible camping, respecting the environment, and leaving the minimal footprint. Catoctin Mountain National Park is open year round but is at its best during the spring wildflower season, which starts in early April, and the fall foliage season, which usually peaks in mid-October.
Driving Distances from Baltimore
| From Baltimore To | Driving Time |
| Chesapeake Beach, MD | 1 hour 10 minutes |
| Easton, MD | 1 hour 15 minutes |
| North Beach, MD | 1 hour 15 minutes |
| St. Michaels, MD | 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Annapolis, MD | 35 minutes |
| Cambridge, MD | 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Mchenry, MD | 3 hours 10 minutes |
| National Harbor, MD | 55 minutes |
| Columbia, MD | 20 minutes |
| Chestertown, MD | 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Oxford, MD | 1 hour 40 minutes |
| Annapolis, MD | 35 minutes |
| Stevenson, MD | 20 minutes |
| Catonsville, MD | 15 minutes |
| Flinstone, MD | 2 hours |
| Oakland, MD | 3 hours |
