9 Close-Knit Towns to Visit in Maryland
While Maryland is widely known for its thriving metropolitan areas, the scenic state also hides away dozens of quiet hamlets where life moves at a more leisurely pace. In these lesser-visited towns, one can truly experience the heart of the Old Line State, from its tight-knit communities to its historic charm. Residents of these tucked-away locales exemplify Southern hospitality, greeting newcomers with genuine warmth and inviting them to be part of their day-to-day.
The following close-knit yet charming towns to visit in Maryland, from Monkton to Hancock, are ideally suited for those seeking simple pleasures, rich heritage, and welcoming atmospheres away from the urban commotion of the United States. Steeped in culture and beauty, each maintains an unhurried way of life, representing Maryland's enduring small-town values.
Crisfield
This beautiful town on the shores of the Chesapeake Bay fosters generational bonds with its storied history and sumptuous seafood. The Crisfield Heritage Foundation offers a glimpse of the region's chronology, which dates back to the 17th century. It has several artifacts from the past and organizes the annual Crisfield Heritage Festival. Immediate access to the calm waters of the Chesapeake Bay promises visitors easygoing excursions at Somers Cove Marina. Besides its relaxed environment, guests can charter vessels for sailing, fishing, and boating adventures.
Janes Island State Park favors outdoorsy travelers craving the freedom of the open space. It spans over 2,900 acres of pristine beaches, salt marsh, and 30 miles of water trails. This results in numerous recreational activities in a secluded setting, such as kayaking, camping, canoeing, and hiking.
Hancock
This tiny village in Washington County is also in the narrowest part of the state, and most of its residents know one another. Hancock keeps things simple with rustic Civil War sites and modest antique malls. It has several social spots where townsfolk constantly converge, including Blue Goose Fruit Market & Bakery. This is an appropriate stop for a casual shopping experience where you can find gift items, Amish fudge, gourmet candies, ciders, and delicious pies. The environment is similar to Jimmy Joy's Log Cabin Inn, which has a warm atmosphere and specializes in steaks and seafood, headlined by their trademark blue crabs.
Meanwhile, the Sideling Hill Welcome Center exposes guests to a geological interest area with ancient rock layers and interpretive exhibits. It also provides a rest area with spectacular vistas of the surroundings and a small footbridge as a vantage point.
Solomons
This island getaway in Calvert County harbors a close-knit community of about 2,300. Travelers discover the beauty of the Chesapeake Bay in Solomons through laid-back trips on the water courtesy of Cruisin Tikis Solomons Island. Enjoy the scenery and spot wildlife during a cruise on the Patuxent River and the surrounding area. The Drum Point Lighthouse is a conspicuous landmark on the island. It stands out as one of the few remaining screw-pile lighthouses in the state and hosts the Calvert Marine Museum, which preserves the area's maritime heritage through diverse artifacts.
A charming blend of beautiful nature and sophisticated arts draws tourists to Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center. The area houses 30 acres of woods, meadows, and fields, with a ¼-mile walking path that allows visitors to browse the intricate sculptures installed in different garden sections.
Monkton
Thirty minutes to the north of Baltimore, Monkton's sprawling rural scenery makes for an excellent getaway to relax and unwind amid a welcoming community in Baltimore County. It is home to some of the most alluring natural spaces, highlighted by the Ladew Topiary Gardens. The award-winning gardens date back to the 1930s, spanning 22 acres with dozens of topiaries and a picturesque mile-long nature walk. Art enthusiasts can look forward to a distinct experience at Manor Mill. This restored grist mill hosts a fine arts gallery, a yoga station, a meditation center, music performances, and woodworking.
Elsewhere, beer lovers can head to Inverness Brewing for tasty craft brews to go with farm-to-table cuisine. Apart from the food and drinks, the location provides scenic panoramas of the surroundings and a serene setting.
Westminster
Multiple annual traditions and small-town living cultivate a strong sense of community in this Carroll County locale. Guests get some background on the region at the Carroll County Farm Museum. This historic farm complex preserves over a dozen antique structures, including a blacksmith's shop, a barn, a tin shop, and a general store with artifacts depicting life in the 19th century.
The Westminster Community Pond is a popular convergence point in Westminster, providing locals with a tranquil space to relax amid natural beauty. This waterfront park has quiet walkways from where you can watch cute birds. The 320-acre Bear Branch Nature Center offers more outdoor pleasure along its multi-use trails and on the pleasant shores of Lake Hashawha. Visitors can hike, fish, and spot the thriving wildlife in the area.
St. Mary's City
Between its living history sites and alluring natural spaces, St. Mary's City assures vacationers of an eye-opening encounter. It was founded in 1634 as the state's first European settlement and maintains relics of the period. You can get a vivid glimpse of this when ranging over Historic St. Mary's City, which consists of old buildings and an archeological museum telling the story of Maryland's first capital. Additional historical insights await at the St. John's Site Museum, which conserved the foundation of a 17th-century home. Guests can peruse original artwork and artifacts, offering a window into the past.
Meanwhile, those with an affinity for the arts can expect an immersive time at the Nancy R. and Norton T. Dodge Performing Arts Center. It features a 700-capacity auditorium that hosts concerts, plays, and other stage performances.
Oakland
One of the most naturally endowed towns to visit in Maryland, this isolated getaway in Garrett County beckons first-timers to embrace the outdoor lifestyle. It notably hosts Swallow Falls State Park, which boasts spellbinding scenery. Multiply pathways meander through lush woodlands, picnic areas, and meadows, but the highlight is the 53-foot Muddy Creek Falls.
One of the best ways to discover Oakland's history is to visit the Oakland B & O Railroad Museum. The site stores different artifacts from the past and a vintage train that you can hop aboard for a nostalgic ride during the era. Vacationers can also find unique collectibles at Cabin Fever Antiques and Collectibles. The store sells all kinds of souvenir items that make for the perfect memorabilia when you leave the town.
Leonardtown
This charming village in the heart of St. Mary's County delights vacationers with a walkable downtown area, breathtaking waterways, scenic landscapes, and welcoming residents. Historians can explore Leonardtown's past at the Old Jail Museum and Leonardtown Visitor Center. Constructed in 1876, it is the country's oldest sheriff's station and retains original cells from a period when prisoners were segregated according to race and gender. Touring Tudor Hall takes you back to 1744, exposing the middle-class lifestyle in the Georgian-style mansion of Phillip Key. The structure is also one of the oldest in the region.
Those seeking an escape to the open can head to Leonardtown Wharf Park. This mellow waterfront park provides an idyllic spot to relax and enjoy sweeping views of the Potomac River. It has picnic spots, a walking dock, and a playground, inviting families for a day out.
Thurmont
Popularly known as the "Gateway to the Mountains," Thurmont is a favorite destination among ardent outdoorsmen. It provides endless adventures at Catoctin Mountain Park. This vast wilderness stretches over 5,000 acres and offers hiking, rock climbing, camping, fly fishing, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Meanwhile, Cunningham Falls State Park amazes newcomers with its visual spectacles. The site is defined by dense forests surrounding a 43-acre artificial lake, but the focal point is a stunning 78-foot waterfall, which is the state's highest cascade.
Thurmont promises rare encounters with diverse animals at the Catoctin Wildlife Preserve. The sanctuary covers 100 acres and provides a habitat to over 300 animal species. Visitors enjoy pleasant interactions with meerkats, parrots, monkeys, and lemurs during a fantastic safari.
Final Thought
Whether drawn to the scenic mountains of historic Thurmont or the coastal culture and waterfront ambiance found amongst generational seafood traditions in Crisfield, visitors are sure to experience the authentic bonds and downhome spirit that characterize Maryland's lesser-known towns. Together, these exciting towns to visit in Maryland demonstrate an enduring sense of neighborly camaraderie and devotion to heritage traditions amid scenic backdrops that continue to enrich lifestyles and travel far from the touristy hustles and bustles of places like Ocean City.
