6 Cutest Small Towns In Maryland To Visit In 2024

Maryland is a historic state in the Mid-Atlantic region with a bustling tourism industry. Besides its vibrant and beautiful cities, this state is home to cute towns, most of which are flanked or cut through by gorgeous waterbodies. Additionally, these towns feature mountains, verdant forests, and colorful downtowns that complement their natural scenery and offer endless adventures. Regardless of your idea of fun, there is something to satisfy everyone in these towns across Maryland.

From Havre de Grace to Boonsboro, make it a goal to visit these cutest towns in Maryland in 2024, and the year will forever be fresh in your memory.

Chesapeake City

Chesapeake City is a scenic small town of just below 800 residents that punches more than its weight in terms of natural beauty and touristy allure. The town lies by the functioning Chesapeake and Delaware Canal, sparkling with picturesque charm. While in this town, head to this canal to explore its waters on a vessel or head to the C & D Canal Museum to learn about the area’s glorious past.

Next, hit the Ben Cardin C&D Canal Recreational Trail to bike, hike, and enjoy the town’s waterfront scenery. For wine lovers, the Chesapeake Wine Trail offers access to 15 wineries, all of which are within 40 minutes of the town.

Solomons

Solomons is a charming town at the mouth of Patuxent River where it joins the Chesapeake Bay. Once here, visitors are invited to enjoy the visual pleasures of the Patuxent River via the town's boardwalk, which also features seafood restaurants for some delicious meals. Afterward, rent a boat in one of the town’s marinas for sightseeing cruises. Do not miss out on a visit to the Calvert Marine Museum, where several exhibits provide insights into the natural and maritime history of the area.

More adventures await at the nearby Calvert Cliffs, which offers opportunities for picnicking, swimming, hiking, and hunting. Wrap up the Solomons Island experience with a visit to Annmarie Gardens to explore its outdoor sculptures and enjoy art exhibitions.

Havre de Grace

Havre de Grace is one of the most beautiful towns in Maryland, located at the entry point of the Susquehanna River and head of Chesapeake Bay. Thus, it presents loads of stunning natural sights and bountiful recreational activities for visitors. For the relaxed traveler, explore the town's picturesque charms at the waterfront by strolling its boardwalk, which stretches from Concord Point Light to the Yacht basin. At the Yacht basin, savor views of many yachts docking at the bay and rent a sailboat to explore the waters.

Blend the experience with a healthy dose of history by hopping the town’s museums, starting with the Decoy Museum, which is remarkable for preserving the area’s art history. Havre de Grace Maritime Museum is also a worthy mention as it explores the town's maritime history. After the exploration, grab some delicious seafood at MacGregor’s Restaurant & Tavern or Water Street Seafood.

Thurmont

Thurmont is a lovely small town in Frederick County positioned on the foothills of the Catoctin Mountains. Once here, head to the nearby Cunningham Falls State Park, home to the largest cascading waterfalls in Maryland. The park is also home to a 43-acre artificial lake, where visitors can swim, boat, fish, hike, and camp around. Additionally, Big Hunting Creek flows through the park for those who want to fish trout. Visitors can also explore the Catoctin Mountain Park, featuring 25 miles of hiking trails, campgrounds, and a picnic area, and great trout fishing spots. It is also interesting to note that Catoctin Mountain is home to the historic Camp David, a retreat hub for US presidents.

Experience something different, and maybe sensational, at the Catoctin Wildlife Preserve and Zoo, featuring natural ponds and animals, such as bears, panthers, alligators, lemurs, zebras, and pythons. Before leaving town, check out the town’s scenic covered bridges, including the Roddy Road Covered Bridge (built in the 1850s) and Utica Covered Bridge (built in 1834).

Cumberland

Cumberland is a fascinating destination to visit along the Potomac River in Allegany County. Visitors will be spoiled for options here, although a good starting point is the Canal Place Heritage Area located on the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. This spot features a station plaza, picnic area, shops, and the Cumberland Visitor Center, which features educative displays about the history of the canal and the town. For more history, visitors can head to the Washington Street Historic District to bask in the splendor of the town's architectural brilliance.

The most elite buildings to capture in the district include the towering Allegheny County Courthouse (built in the 1700s), Emmanuel Episcopal Church (built in 1755), and Queen City Hotel (constructed in 1871). For thrilling adventures, rent a bike or get hiking boots and hit the Great Allegheny Passage Trail to enjoy the gorgeous natural scenery of Maryland.

Boonsboro

Boonsboro is an adorable small town at the foot of the South Mountains, rich in natural beauty and attractions. A visit here automatically sets one up for several sightseeing tours and exhilarating experiences. For starters, the Crystal Grottoes Caverns, just outside the town, is a place of wonder and magic. As the only show cave in Maryland, exploring its magnificent interiors comes with a bit of pride and privilege. Proceed to the Greenbrier State Park to catch postcard-perfect sunset views of its 42-acre lake, or boat, swim, fish, and kayak on the waters.

For hikers, head to the Annapolis Rock/Black Rock Cliff on the Appalachian Trail to enjoy panoramic forest views, including the Greenbrier Lake. While in this town, don’t forget to visit the iconic Washington Monument Park to see a 40-foot tower erected in honor of President George Washington. The park also has access to the Appalachian Trail for hikers and is a good spot for picnics. Wrap up with a slice of history at the Boonesborough Museum of History, housing diverse collections of historic artifacts, including Egyptian, religious, and Civil War objects.

The true essence of natural beauty, warmth, and serenity is reflected across the small towns of Maryland. These towns offer a break from the cares of life and serve as launch pads for various adventurous pursuits. For those particularly seeking retreats in 2024, these cute towns are home away from home, with low population, serenity, and a laid-back aura. As a plus, they feature rich local cultures as well as delicious cuisines, and reassuring hospitality, making them ideal destinations.