7 Gorgeous Historic Towns in Maryland
Besides its spectacular natural scenery, Maryland is a culturally diverse state teeming with captivating history and rich culture. Spread across its borders are several little-known towns that preserve the state’s cultural heritage through local landmarks, sights, crafts, and celebrations that have been passed down from one generation to the other. From the quaint Eastern Shore fishing villages to the Western towns steeped in immigrant backgrounds, these charming locations take great pride in maintaining their distinct cultural identities.
Touring the small towns in Maryland promises a unique experience rarely witnessed in the big cities. Their rural setting guarantees a laidback retreat away from the crowds with an exciting mix of outdoor opportunities. Whether seeking an immersive journey through history, hoping to sample exotic culinary offerings, or planning to partake in rare local traditions, these Old Line State destinations deliver a satisfying cultural experience.
Cumberland
Cumberland’s rich heritage involves once serving as the headquarters of America’s first president and being the site of the country’s first National Road. Fortunately, the town preserves this cultural wealth at different historical sites, including George Washington’s Headquarters. In this modest one-room log cabin lies unparalleled history dating back to 1794, when George Washington used it as a military command post. Cumberland is also home to the Allegheny Museum, which offers a deeper dive into the colorful history of Western Maryland through a vast collection of exhibits inside a restored 1930 neo-classical revival building.
During its heydays, the town was also a vital railway stop between Chicago and Baltimore, a heritage you can explore at the Cumberland Visitor Center. The facility houses a spacious exhibit offering a look into the history of the C&O Canal. While in Cumberland, you can’t miss a ride on the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad. This historic train takes visitors on fun sightseeing tours through the Allegheny Mountains, exposing them to the beauty of the town’s countryside.
Easton
This beautiful town on Maryland’s Eastern Shore is renowned for hosting the prestigious Academy Art Museum. The remarkable complex promotes the local art scene through exhibits, classes, and events tailored to enhance the cultural heritage of the Eastern Shore. Being the Talbot County Seat, Easton houses the Talbot Historical Society, which showcases the region’s rich history. You can check out an array of archives and artifacts depicting Easton’s past before hanging out at the well-manicured gardens surrounding the museum.
Meanwhile, the Amish Country Farmers Market offers a rich cultural experience, with an opportunity to interact with Amish heritage. Besides enjoying a family-friendly atmosphere, you can sample various homemade Amish foods, from soft pretzels and fudge to candies. The vendors also display unique Amish furniture and other handmade crafts that will make for a spectacular souvenir. For accommodation, the historic Tidewater Inn in the heart of downtown offers a rustic experience with a legacy dating back to 1874.
Hagerstown
Dubbed “Maryland’s Heart of the Civil War Heritage,” Hagerstown was caught in the crossroads of the infamous conflict, hosting several battles, including the 1863 Battle of Hagerstown. Today, it houses an impressive collection of well-preserved 18th and 19th-century structures as a window into its rich heritage. At Hagerstown Roundhouse Museum, you can learn about the town’s railroad history by perusing different exhibits, including model railroads. The Jonathan Hager House Museum is another noteworthy landmark dating back to 1739. It was built by a German immigrant and town founder, Jonathan Hager. Inside, you’ll find historic furniture, artifacts, and other relics from the 18th century.
Elsewhere, the Washington County Museum of Fine Arts is a must-visit for art lovers. The museum, established in the early 1900s, hosts a permanent collection of American paintings, sculptures, and Old Masters worth exploring. Hagerstown also has a rich German heritage that it proudly maintains through different aspects. One of the best places to experience its European roots is the Pennsylvania Dutch Market. You can enjoy a unique shopping experience with fresh produce, meats, and home-baked Amish goods on offer.
Salisbury
This scenic riverfront town in Wicomico County traces its history back to 1732. It boasts a historic downtown housing a selection of museums and a bustling cultural scene. Some of the top sites to check out in Salisbury include the Ward Museum of Wildfowl Art. The museum is home to the world’s most comprehensive wildfowl carvings collection, featuring wood decoys, sculptures, and other bird-related art from around the globe. Furthermore, the Poplar Hill Mansion is another historic landmark to check out. With a legacy dating back to the 1700s, it is the region’s oldest Federal House and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
A tour of the house exposes you to period furnishings, with a glimpse into Federal Era American history. Outdoor enthusiasts will fancy exploring the 262-acre Pemberton Historical Park, which offers hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing opportunities. While there, don’t forget to check out Pemberton Hall, an 18th-century plantation with a mansion within the park grounds. Finally, Mogan’s Oyster House is an excellent stop if you want to sample local cuisine, and it serves delicacies like crab cakes, steaks, and oysters.
Cambridge
Cambridge is one of the most culturally significant towns in Maryland and features a rich African American heritage, with a history intertwined in slave trading. This coastal community houses several historical sites, highlighted by the Harriet Tubman Museum and Educational Center. Inside this magnificent facility, you can browse exhibits and watch a short film documenting the legacy of Harriet Tubman, with a focus on events like the Civil War, the Underground Railroad, and slavery. On the other hand, the Richardson Maritime Museum focuses on the region’s seafaring heritage. The beautiful facility showcases 300 years of maritime history through diverse exhibits of old sea vessels.
Also, you can’t miss out on the Choptank River Lighthouse, an iconic town landmark that illuminated the way for vessels sailing down the Choptank River. Before leaving Cambridge, it's worth trying out the famous Chesapeake Bay cuisine. While there are several eateries in the town, you can stop by Ocean Odyssey Crab House & Seafood Restaurant for delicacies like fish tacos and crab cakes.
Saint Mary’s City
As one of the first European settlements in Maryland, this former colonial town promises a nostalgic experience featuring a treasure trove of historical gems. The first stop for tourists in town is the Historic St. Mary’s City Visitor Center. This living history museum presents the perfect prelude to exploring the state’s first city and impresses with a mix of historical treasures. Inside the museum complex, you’ll come across St. John’s Site Museum, which was constructed in 1638. It houses a world-class collection of historical documents, archives, and other memorabilia chronicling the colorful history and culture of St. Mary’s City.
Another noteworthy landmark to check out is Maryland Dove, a 17th-century English ship credited with making the maiden expedition from England to Maryland Province. Although it is just a replica of the original ship, it still offers an interesting look into the storied beginnings of the town and state. When not soaking in the rich history of St. Mary’s City, you can explore the beautiful outdoors at the nearby Point Lookout State Park.
Annapolis
Maryland’s capital, Annapolis, is an excellent destination for history buffs in the state, promising an interesting look into the formative years of the town, state, and country at large. Its rich historical heritage involves serving as the country’s capital in the late 1700s. Today, it hosts the Maryland State House, which is one of the oldest state capitols in the country. Annapolis’s location on the Chesapeake Bay means it has a lengthy maritime heritage that you can explore at the Annapolis Maritime Museum and Park. Touring the facility introduces you to a fine collection of artifacts, documents, antique vessels, and other relics chronicling the town’s nautical history.
The Annapolis Historic District is home to a fair share of sites that you can’t afford to miss out on. Among them is the William Paca House & Garden, built in 1763. The house belonged to the former Maryland governor, William Paca, and sports a gorgeous Georgian façade. Furthermore, the Hammond-Harwood House takes you back to 1774 when it was built and is one of the few British colonial houses still standing in the country.
From historic colonial sites to annual festivals celebrating diverse immigrant cultures, each of these towns in Maryland tells an important part of the state's cultural story. These towns, each unique in character, are more than just dots on a map; they are custodians of the state's past, keeping alive traditions that have shaped their identity. Whether through preserved old-world architecture, living history museums, or carrying on craft traditions, their efforts guarantee that rich heritages will continue the tradition of inspiring residents and visitors for generations to come.
