These 10 Towns In Maryland Were Ranked Among US Favorites In 2024
Covering just 12,407 square miles, Maryland is the 42nd largest of the 50 states. However, despite its small stature, it is large enough to be home to some of the travelers' favorite towns in the US. These towns are popular tourist destinations from the Eastern Shore to the far western mountains, and they offer a unique combination of historical significance, natural beauty, and unique architecture. Their appeal to visitors and singular charm cannot be denied, as showcased by their popularity amongst US citizens from coast to coast.
Havre de Grace
The charming, historic town of Havre de Grace, Maryland, has consistently been ranked among US favorites. Located in Harford County, where the Chesapeake Bay and the Susquehanna River meet, Havre de Grace (translated to "port of grace") makes the most of its riverside location.
The town's unique region provides beautiful waterfront views and boating, fishing, and kayaking access. The Promenade, a 3/4-mile boardwalk along the Susquehanna River, is a great way to experience scenic vistas and see some town landmarks, such as Tydings Park, the Decoy Museum, and Concord Point Lighthouse. On any given day, walkers, runners, cyclists, and those who just want to enjoy the view can be seen on the Promenade.
Havre de Grace's rich history stems from the War of 1812 when British forces attacked it. The Susquehanna Museum at the Lock House provides a more detailed history of this event, as well as the backstory of the town itself.
Visiting Havre de Grace would not be complete without seeing Concord Point Lighthouse. Built in 1827, this is the second oldest lighthouse in Maryland. Admission is free to climb to the top of the lighthouse, from which the views of the Susquehanna River and Chesapeake Bay are spectacular.
Easton
The Eastern Shore town of Easton blends history, nature, and culture to create a charming, quaint town welcoming tourists. Sitting along the Chesapeake Bay, near the head of the Tred Avon River, Easton is surrounded by rivers and creeks within five minutes of water in any direction. The town's history dates back to the 18th century, and when walking around its tree-lined streets today, you will see much colonial and Victorian architecture.
The arts make up a large part of Easton's character, as it is sometimes referred to as the cultural hub of the Eastern Shore. Art galleries, studios, and public art installations are throughout the town. The Academy Art Museum offers visitors a variety of art classes, exhibits, and events. If live performance is more to your liking, visit the Avalon Theatre, a historic venue that hosts concerts, plays, and performances by local and national acts.
The quaint downtown area of Easton appeals to many visitors, as it is filled with unique shops, boutiques, and specialty stores. Enjoy strolling its historic streets and checking out antiques, local crafts, high-end fashion, and home goods.
Berlin
When you visit Berlin's historic downtown area, you will begin to understand why Budget Travel named the town one of "America's Coolest Small Towns" in 2014. With Victorian-style architecture and buildings dating to the 18th and 19th centuries, Berlin's small-town charm and welcoming community make it a favorite for tourists.
About eight miles from both Ocean City and Assateague Island, Berlin provides the perfect getaway for those who want to be close enough to visit the beach but don't want to stay in a loud, bustling beach town. Movie producers have recognized the significance of Berlin, filming 1998's "Runaway Bride" and 2001's "Tuck Everlasting" there.
Many are impressed by the number of shops and boutiques along Berlin's Main Street, which include local crafts, apothecary items, clothing, foods, and more. Art can also be found in glass-blown artwork, fine jewelry, bakeware and dinnerware, and home decor.
Street festivals are popular in Berlin, including the Berlin Fiddlers' Convention each September, the Berlin Bathtub Races every June, and the Berlin Farmers Market, which is open on Sundays from May through September.
Ocean City
A popular coastal destination known for its vibrant beach atmosphere, Ocean City regularly ranks among visitors' favorite towns in Maryland. Many go there to luxuriate in the town's ten miles of sandy beaches facing the Atlantic Ocean. Others enjoy the unique mixture of shops, food, amusement rides, and attractions along the town's three-mile boardwalk.
Having the word "Ocean" in its name, it is no wonder that water-oriented activities are prevalent in Ocean City. Water sports like jet skiing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and parasailing can all be experienced. If you want to participate in these activities on calmer waters, head to the nearby Assawoman Bay.
Known as the "White Marlin Capital of the World," Ocean City is the perfect destination for those who appreciate the sport of fishing. You will see fishermen fishing off the town's pier, casting lines from the beach, or deep-sea fishing on charter boats. The White Marlin Open, the world's largest and richest billfish tournament, is held annually in August and has attracted celebrity participants in the past, such as Michael Jordan, Emeril Lagasse, and Wade Boggs.
Other festivals and events held in Ocean City that lure visitors include Springfest each April, the Sunfest each October, Bike Week in September, and the Winterfest of Lights from November through January. A newer festival, the three-day musical Oceans Calling Festival, is held in September and draws national recording artists such as Blink-182, The Offspring, and The Beach Boys!
Annapolis
Located in Anne Arundel County, Annapolis is not only the capital of Maryland but has also been referred to as "America's Sailing Capital." Situated at the mouth of the Severn River on the Chesapeake Bay, it is home to the Annapolis Sailboat Show, the largest in-water sailboat show worldwide.
If these reasons were insufficient to convince you of Annapolis' place among favorite US towns, consider its rich history. From 1783 to 1784, Annapolis served as the nation's temporary capital. Visitors can walk along its cobblestone streets and gaze at its colonial architecture today. You can even explore the Maryland State House, the oldest state capitol still in continuous legislative use.
Annapolis' busy waterfront allows visitors to rent kayaks or paddleboards, enjoy a relaxing tour of the Chesapeake Bay, and take part in a sailing excursion. The waterfront is central to life in the town, and many appreciate just relaxing by the harbor and watching the boats pass by. Spectacular views of sunsets can also be had here.
If you prefer green spaces, visit Quiet Waters Park, located between the South River and Harness Creek. It consists of 340 acres of park where you can hike and bike on its trails, picnic, and use the dog park.
Cumberland
Surrounded by the Appalachian Mountains, Cumberland is an older, historic city in a valley ensconced by natural beauty. Its historic architecture, many Victorian homes, and renovated historic buildings, which are now shops, art galleries, and restaurants, give Cumberland a charm all its own.
Cumberland sits at the western end of the Chesapeake & Ohio (C&O) Canal Towpath, a dirt and stone path running 184.5 miles along the canal between the Georgetown area of Washington, DC, and Cumberland. Cyclists and hikers often use the towpath to experience the area's natural beauty. Check out the C&O Canal National Historical Park while you are there and its collection of recreational, national, and historical artifacts relating to the canal. You are likely to see some of the more than 200 rare and threatened species of plants and animals that have found sanctuary in the park.
Art and culture are vital to Cumberland's character. This is evident in the many art galleries and craft shops in the downtown section. Cultural festivals such as Mountain Maryland Plein Air and Heritage Days celebrate the region's creativity and history.
Oakland
If you travel as far west as possible in Maryland, you will come to the charming town of Oakland. Nestled in the Allegheny Mountains, Oakland is a perennial favorite among travelers, not just for its most famous nearby landmark, Deep Creek Lake. Maryland's largest freshwater lake, Deep Creek Lake, is popular in all seasons, turning into a ski, ice fishing, and snowmobiling paradise in the winter and a boating, swimming, fishing, and kayaking paradise in summer.
Historic downtown Oakland is on the National Register of Historic Places. Its quaint Main Street was one of Maryland's first designated Mainstreets and offers a wide variety of shops and restaurants in easy walking distance. Visit the Garrett County Historical Society Museum while you are there to learn about the founding and history of the county. Museums dedicated to transportation and the railroad are also featured downtown.
Although any time of the year is excellent for visiting Oakland, the town truly comes alive in autumn. This is evidenced by the annual Autumn Glory Festival, which highlights the area's beautiful, unparalleled fall foliage and features a parade, a carnival, and banjo, mandolin, and fiddle state championships. Seeing the mountains and forests burst into vibrant shades of gold, red, and orange makes Oakland a popular destination for leaf-peeping.
Saint Mary's City
Saint Mary's City is located on the St. Mary's River, a tributary of the mighty Potomac River. It is a charming waterfront village between Southern Maryland's farms and St. Mary's River, often listed among travelers' favorite Maryland cities.
Founded in 1634 and one of the oldest colonial settlements in the US, Saint Mary's City is a living history museum and archaeological site. It was the state's first capital, and today, its historic area features colonial buildings, interactive demonstrations, and costumed interpreters.
As it is an active archaeological site, Saint Mary's visitors can witness ongoing excavations. Pottery, tools, and other artifacts from the colonial period are continuously being unearthed. Check out the Visitor Center for a closer look at what has been discovered.
The St. Mary's River and surrounding area offer visitors opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and birdwatching. Its scenic trails and quiet waterfront are perfect for a relaxing afternoon. If you are looking for a bit more action, check out the RiverFest, held each September and featuring tours, exhibits, vendors, and the area's wildlife.
Frederick
Frederick is located in the northern part of Maryland, an easy hourlong car ride from Baltimore and Washington, DC. With a rich history, diverse cultural attractions, various outdoor activities, and a vibrant downtown area, it is easy to see why the town is continually listed among travelers' favorites.
Frederick was an important town in the Civil War, and much of the city's historic area reflects this today. Visit the National Museum of Civil War Medicine, which offers insight into the medical practices of the era. The Architectural Museum will give you a glimpse into what colonial life was like in Frederick. Check out Mount Olivet Cemetery to see the final resting place of Francis Scott Key, author of the nation's national anthem.
The town has a thriving arts community, including numerous art galleries and public art installations. The Delaplaine Arts Center provides art exhibitions, classes, and workshops, and the Weinberg Center for the Arts hosts live performances, films, and more in a historic theater.
Surrounded by stunning countryside, Frederick offers visitors plenty of opportunities to get outside. Nearby parks such as Catoctin Mountain Park, Gambrill State Park, and Cunningham Falls State Park provide scenic views, hiking trails, picnic areas, fishing areas, and camping facilities.
Elkton
Located in the northeast corner of Maryland and the county seat of Cecil County, Elkton is a charming town with a rich history and a variety of activities for visitors. Sitting along the Elk River, at the northern headwaters of the Chesapeake Bay, Elkton offers many opportunities for fishing, boating, and hiking. For these reasons and more, Elkton ranks among travelers' favorite Maryland towns.
Founded by Swedish mariners and fishermen in 1694 and originally called "Head of Elk," Elkton's location gave it significance during both the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812. Many colonial structures can still be seen in Elkton's quaint, charming downtown area today.
Nature is a large part of Elkton's appeal. Elkton's Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area covers 5,656 acres and borders Pennsylvania and Delaware. Natural beauty, unspoiled fields, and woodland areas characterize it. Camping, fishing, hunting, hiking, and horseback riding are all popular activities in the area.
Thousands are drawn to Elkton for four days each October when the Fair Hill Special Event Zone hosts the Maryland 5 Star equestrian event. It is one of only two five-star events in the US and the seventh in the world. Dressage, show jumping, and cross-country events are showcased during this special event.
The unique character of the state of Maryland has never been more evident than it is in the presentation of these towns. Whether searching for waterfront activities and relaxation in Ocean City or Easton or long for the mountain splendor of Cumberland or Oakland, you cannot go wrong in visiting any of these popular Maryland destinations. The state's diverse terrain, variety of outdoor recreational opportunities, historical significance, and breathtaking scenery mean that you are guaranteed to be entertained no matter which of these Maryland towns you visit.
