Maryland

Destination Overview

It’s been said that Maryland is like “America in miniature”. Low-lying beaches and wetlands teeming with wildlife in the east, hills of oak forests and Appalachian pine groves in the west, and 2,500 miles of scenic byways in between lend credibility to the pet name of this tiny Mid-Atlantic state. A visit to any of its famous cities will reveal that what Maryland lacks in size, it more than makes up for in impressive scenery, local culture, and mouth-watering seafood.

Maryland’s abundant waterways are a huge draw for visitors. The Chesapeake Bay and the countless sailboats that speckle it provide the perfect backdrop for photos taken on the cool blue waters. Spend a day exploring Assateague Island, where wild horses roam free, or kick back to a free summer concert at North Beach, considered the “Jewel of the Chesapeake Bay”. In the western part of Maryland, Deep Creek Lake offers 65 miles of shoreline, jaw-dropping fall foliage, and water sports galore. For a classic beach getaway, venture out to Ocean City, Maryland’s zany beach town on the Atlantic Ocean. No matter where you go, be sure to stop for a taste of Maryland’s famous blue crab, prepared whichever way you like!

The Old Line State is brimming with American history, with enough museums and historical sites to create a fascinating adventure. It was at Fort McHenry in the war of 1812 where Francis Scott Key wrote the reverent song, “Star Spangled Banner”, which later became the USA’s national anthem. One of the Civil War’s most pivotal battles took place at Antietam National Battlefield, which is a beautiful national park worth seeing today. There is always the opportunity to do some exploring on your own. Try biking along the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway. On the Maryland side of the Potomac river lies Mallows Bay, the site of a massive ship graveyard. 230 ships were purposely sunk there during World War I, and the wrecks have become a reef that supports teems of wildlife today. It’s a must-see for the curious-minded couple.

Cities in Maryland possess a certain charm that is unmatched by other urban centers of similar size. Annapolis, Maryland’s pretty capital city, is widely known to the maritime community as America’s Sailing Capital. Be sure to witness the city’s weekly Wednesday Night Sailboat Races. National Harbor, just across the Potomac river from Washington D.C., affords spectacular views of the Capitol building from its “Capital Wheel” ferris wheel. Honeymooners may book the VIP Gondola for a touch of luxury and a glass floor. Baltimore is Maryland’s largest city and cultural hub. Experience the fun of Baltimore Harbor by boat, and see a concert at the Pier Six. Catch an Orioles baseball game and visit Babe Ruth’s Birthplace Museum. Or simply meander the quaint cobblestone streets and Old English pubs of Fells Point, the charming old section of the city.

A honeymooners’ visit to Maryland will reveal a small state that packs a surprising amount of beauty, culture, and history. Whether the two of you prefer a low-key getaway on a sandy beach or the action packed adventure of an urban jungle, if you’re in Maryland, you needn’t look far.