Why This The United States Town Deserves More Attention
If you're looking for a peaceful small town that combines history with natural beauty, look no further than Berlin, Maryland, in Worcester County. This small town with a population of just over 5,000 is just 132 miles from Baltimore, 133 miles from Washington, DC, and 145 miles from Philadelphia.
Some have viewed the town of Berlin as simply a stopping-off point on the way to the larger resort town of Ocean City, Maryland. However, Berlin has a charm and appeal of its own that should inspire you to visit. Why else would Budget Travel name Berlin one of "America's Coolest Small Towns" in 2014? There are many more reasons to visit Berlin than just its proximity to Ocean City.
Historical Attractions
Originally the home of Assateague and Pocomoke Indians, Berlin began in 1677 as a 300-acre land grant of Burley Plantation. In 1868, it was officially named Berlin. Today, it maintains a historical feel with its Victorian-style architecture and structures dating from the 18th and 19th centuries. Almost 50 buildings currently existing in town are on the National Register of Historic Places. Take a walking tour of Berlin by downloading the Berlin History Walking Tour Map at the Berlin Main Street website. You'll see historical structures such as Burley Manor, Burley Cottage, and the Calvin B. Taylor House Museum.
Nature and Outdoors
Nature is a prominent theme throughout Berlin, and many outdoor attractions are available to help you partake in it. The town is home to four parks, including Stephen Decatur Park on Rt. 113 and Tripoli Street; Dr. William Henry Park on Flower Street; John Howard Burbage Park on William Street; and Heron Park on Old Ocean City Boulevard. Within these parks, you can enjoy playground facilities, picnicking, nature trails, and wildlife watching.
If you crave hustle and bustle, travel just nine miles east to Ocean City, with its busy boardwalk and crowded beaches. You can take pleasure in boating, fishing, swimming, and boardwalk attractions there. When you tire of the crowds, head back to the peaceful civilization that exists in Berlin.
You can explore the area by air by taking a flight in a vintage aircraft from Ocean City Plane Rides in Berlin. It is the perfect way to see all of the Berlin area, including the busy beach of Ocean City and the natural beauty of nearby Assateague Island. You might even get to see the iconic wild horses of Assateague from the air.
Downtown Berlin
Travel down Berlin's Main Street, where you can purchase goods from over 60 shops. These include, but are not limited to, Victorian Charm, Bruder Hill, and World of Toys. You won't go hungry in Berlin, either. The Sterling Tavern serves food and happy hour beverages. Oaked at the Globe, housed in a renovated 100-year-old theatre, offers food, drinks, and live music. Lodging choices in Berlin include the historic Atlantic Hotel on Main Street, The Inn Berlin on Harrison Avenue, and Holland House Bed and Breakfast on Bay Street.
Berlin's Main Street is so iconic that two filmmakers have chosen to use it as a backdrop to their films. In 1998, "Runaway Bride" featured Berlin's historic district and downtown shops, including the Atlantic Hotel, in its fictional town of Hale, Maryland. In 2002, Disney filmed "Tuck, Everlasting" in Berlin, transforming it into the fictional town of Treegap. The streets of the town were altered to include dirt roads, horses, and carriages.
Arts and Entertainment
The arts are important to the town of Berlin, too. Berlin has been designated an Arts and Entertainment District by the Maryland State Arts Council. The town features art galleries, live music venues, and more than 10 restaurants, all of which were included in the state council's decision to designate the town. Create your own hand-blown glass ornament at Jeffrey Auxer Glass Design Studio. Gaze at the expansive wall mural at the Berlin Welcome Center. See the beautiful sidewalk mural on Pollinator Way, next to the Island Creamery. Visit the Dr. Reverend Charles Albert Tindley mural on the Bruder Hill building on Commerce Street.
Gaming, dining, and fun can be had in Berlin at Ocean Downs Casino on Racetrack Road, just off Maryland Route 589. Opened in 1949, the casino features live and simulcast harness racing and dining at your choice of four eateries. You might try your luck at the casino's slot machines, table games, or sports books. Ocean Downs Casino is currently owned by Churchill Downs, Inc.
Local Events
Being a small town, Berlin has its share of unique small-town events. In fact, there are 50 events held each year. The Berlin Farmers Market is open on Sundays from May through September, and features fresh local area produce and baked goods. In July, the Berlin Bathtub Races are held, featuring an extraordinary parade of bathtub-inspired vehicles down Main Street. The Berlin Fiddlers' Convention occurs each September, presenting two days of free, live bluegrass music.
After reading about Berlin, Maryland, and its history, natural beauty, Main Street, small-town individuality, and appeal to various filmmakers, just one question remains. Why haven't you visited this small US town that deserves more attention? Plan your visit to Berlin, Maryland, today.
