7 Most Scenic Drives in Maryland

Between the scenic shores of the Atlantic Ocean and the picturesque peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Old Line State is endowed with stunning natural landscapes best explored on a road trip. Maryland offers diverse scenic drives that wind through charming towns, lush forests, and breathtaking waterfronts, giving travelers a unique perspective on the state’s beauty and history. Each route showcases the rich tapestry of the state's geography and culture, from the serene views along the Chesapeake Bay to the rolling hills of Western Maryland.

Whether you’re seeking a leisurely drive to admire the fall foliage, a coastal journey to enjoy the ocean breeze, or a historic route highlighting the past, there’s a perfect drive for everyone. Check out some of the most scenic drives in Maryland, where each turn reveals new vistas and hidden treasures, making every journey an unforgettable adventure in this captivating state.

Cambridge To Ocean City

This Eastern Shore excursion lasts just over an hour and introduces visitors to some of the region's most sought-after destinations. It begins with an immersive historical lesson about the Underground Railroad and the heroic exploits of Harriet Tubman at the Harriet Tubman Museum and Educational Center. About 10 miles into the trip, the Linkwood State Wildlife Management Area compels you to stop and connect with nature for a while. It offers a serene, isolated environment with hiking and wildlife-watching opportunities across its over 300-acre expanse. After a long and adventurous journey, you can finally relax and rest on the sandy shores of Ocean City Beach.

Emmitsburg To Bel Air

It only takes one and a half hours to dive from Emmitsburg to Bel Air. Along the route, there is so much to see and do, starting with the Taneytown History Museum. Several historical artifacts throughout the facility recount the captivating chronology of the town.

Westminster is a suitable stop if you fancy connecting with Mother Nature. It has the Westminster Community Pond, whose serene setting allows guests to let loose and meditate.

When feeling hungry, Chuck E. Cheese in Parkville serves delicious wings and pizzas in a family-friendly atmosphere. At the end of the trip, you can reward yourself with a casual shopping experience at the Bel Air Farmers' Market. Besides purchasing fresh produce and local crafts, you can interact with friendly vendors.

Friendsville To Cumberland

It takes less than an hour to complete this adventurous trip, which takes you through some of the most scenic landscapes in rural Maryland. Get inspired by irresistible views of the Youghiogheny River at the Youghiogheny Overlook Welcome Center in Friendsville, which is also an excellent spot for a picnic. Notable attractions to anticipate stopping over include Casselman River Bridge State Park in Grantsville, which features a photogenic historic bridge from 1813. Besides the photo opportunity, you can try fly fishing and picnicking.

In Frostburg, uncover intimate local history at Thrasher Carriage Museum. The museum impresses with a collection of horse-drawn carriages from the late 19th century and early 20th century. When you finally reach Cumberland, complete the journey with a sip of sweet-tasting wines at Charis Winery & Distillery.

Poolesville To Sharpsburg

This hour-long drive exposes drivers to important historical sites and monuments that tell an interesting story about the state. But before immersing in history, start with exploring the great outdoors at Dickerson Conservation Park in Dickerson. This lovely nature area sits on the banks of the Potomac River, traversed by beautiful nature trails. Later, take a detour to the rustic village of Frederick, where you can explore fascinating stories at the National Museum of Civil War Medicine.

In nearby Jefferson, stop for lunch at Brookside Inn. The restaurant serves delicious comfort food, including chicken wings and trash-can nachos. Finally, the excursion will be wrapped up with a tour of the Antietam National Battlefield, which commemorates a notable battle during the American Civil War.

Ocean City To Snow Hill

Popularly known as the Cape to Cape Scenic Byway, this 30-minute journey represents one of the most scenic drives in Maryland. Along the drive, travelers can enjoy 10 miles of pristine Atlantic Ocean beach. Start with a visit to the Ocean City Boardwalk to enjoy spectacular water vistas. Additionally, you can detour to Assateague Island in Berlin to admire a carefree herd of wild ponies grazing on grassy shores or stroll along the isolated waterfront trails to revel in the scenery.

The Mermaid Museum is another notable point of interest in Berlin, especially if you appreciate quirky attractions. You can pause for a few minutes to explore a whimsical collection of mermaid-related exhibits. Furthermore, Snow Hill grants visitors a blast from the past at the Julia A. Purnell Museum, initially built as a church in 1891.

Williamsport To Greensburg

This 26-minute journey has no shortage of attractions and experiences, so expect to spend significantly more time on the road. It begins with an outdoor escape to discover crucial state history at the C&O Canal National Historical Park. The 184-mile canal can be explored by hiking or biking and tells the story of how the canal was a lifeline for communities along the Potomac River. Stop in Funkstown for some takeaway pizza at Stonebridge Pizzeria & Pub to ensure you are driving on a full stomach.

Meanwhile, take some time to coof off and enjoy the fresh air at Smithburg's Lions Community Park. Alternatively, tour Lewis Orchards & Farm Market and purchase sweet apples plucked from the farm.

Point Of Rocks To Cumberland

This fantastic journey, lasting about one and a half hours, covers the Maryland section of the Journey Through Hallowed Ground Byway. The route starts at Point of Rocks and heads northwards through the historical towns of Frederick. Here, you can explore curious Civil War history at the Monocacy National Battlefield. The drive continues past Thurmont, which provides several points of interest worth stopping by. These include the photogenic Roddy Road Covered Bridge and the Catoctin Wildlife Preserve Zoo. As you go by Smithsburg, pause for a quick meal at China 88, which serves delicious Asian cuisine. Finally, there is no better way to cap off the journey than with a switch from behind the wheel to a ride on the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad for a laid-back sightseeing excursion punctuated by the irresistible peaks of the Allegheny Mountains.

Maryland's scenic drives offer an incredible way to experience the state's diverse landscapes and rich history. Whether driving by the tranquil shores of the Chesapeake Bay or hilly roads through the Blue Ridge Mountains, each route presents unique vistas and captivating moments waiting to be discovered. The above scenic drives in Maryland are an excellent way to decompress and unwind while taking a break from the busy city landscape, introducing tourists to the unmatched beauty in the countryside of the United States.