Southern Maryland, a captivating region easily accessible from Washington, D.C., unveils a tapestry of natural beauty and historical significance. Embracing over 1,000 miles of shoreline along the graceful Patuxent and mighty Potomac Rivers, as well as the expansive Chesapeake Bay, the nation’s largest estuary, this area beckons travelers with promises of discovery. Comprising the counties of Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary’s, Southern Maryland offers a diverse array of attractions, from maritime adventures to echoes of the past, ensuring a memorable experience for every visitor.
1. Embark on a Crabbing Expedition in the Seafood Capital of the World
Venture to Crisfield, Maryland’s southernmost town, nestled directly on the Chesapeake Bay, and immerse yourself in its rich maritime heritage. Founded as a bustling fishing community in the 19th century, Crisfield proudly proclaims itself the "Seafood Capital of the World." While opportunities abound for harvesting oysters and reeling in rockfish, the true star of Maryland’s culinary scene is undoubtedly the blue crab.
From April to December, recreational crabbing season transforms the bay into a playground for locals and tourists alike. Before casting your net or setting your crab pots, it’s essential to obtain the necessary license and familiarize yourself with the regulations set forth by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. Crabbing is not merely a pastime here; it’s a cherished tradition. Join the locals in this beloved activity and savor the delectable reward of fresh, succulent blue crabs.
2. Step Back in Time at Historic St. Mary’s City
No visit to Southern Maryland is complete without experiencing the allure of Historic St. Mary’s City, a captivating outdoor living history museum. Located on the very site of Maryland’s first colony and original capital, this museum transports visitors to a bygone era.
Explore meticulously recreated exhibit areas, including a majestic tall ship that evokes the spirit of maritime exploration. Wander through a Woodland Indian Hamlet, gaining insights into the lives of the indigenous Yaocomaco people. Witness the workings of a tobacco plantation, complete with livestock, offering a glimpse into the region’s agricultural past. Stroll through the Town Center, where a recreated inn, store, and other essential structures bring colonial life to vibrant life.
Costumed interpreters, brimming with historical knowledge, engage visitors with hands-on activities, providing an immersive experience of colonial life. Guided tours, available by reservation, offer deeper dives into specific aspects of this fascinating period in history.
3. Savor the Flavors of the Patuxent Wine Trail
Prepare to be pleasantly surprised as you discover the burgeoning wine scene along the Patuxent River. While Maryland may not be the first place that springs to mind when considering wine regions, the wineries that grace the banks of this river are producing exceptional wines that rival those found elsewhere on the Eastern Seaboard.
Concentrated primarily in Calvert and St. Mary’s counties, the region’s climate and soil composition bear a striking resemblance to that of Tuscany, Italy. Many of the wineries have embraced this inspiration, designing their estates to resemble charming Tuscan villas, complete with breathtaking views of the vineyards and the nearby Chesapeake Bay.
Chardonnay, Vidal Blanc, and Cabernet Franc grapes thrive in this region, but a diverse array of wines awaits discovery. Embark on a tasting adventure at some of the area’s top wineries, such as Cove Point Winery in Lusby or Running Hare Vineyard near Prince Frederick, and let your palate be your guide.
4. Trace the Escape Route of Lincoln’s Assassin
Delve into the intriguing historical narrative surrounding John Wilkes Booth’s escape following his assassination of President Abraham Lincoln at Ford’s Theatre in Washington, D.C. Unbeknownst to many, Booth fled into Southern Maryland, remaining at large for two weeks before his capture and death.
Follow Booth’s trail to the Surratt House Museum, the former home of Mary Surratt, a Confederate sympathizer who provided refuge to the assassin in the days following the tragedy. Learn about the life of the first woman executed by the U.S. government and the turbulent events that shaped this pivotal moment in American history.
5. Unearth Prehistoric Treasures at Calvert Cliffs State Park
Witness the dramatic beauty of Calvert Cliffs State Park in Lusby, where towering cliffs, formed over 10 million years ago, dominate the Chesapeake Bay shoreline for approximately 24 miles in Calvert County.
These cliffs serve as a treasure trove of prehistoric fossils, attracting visitors eager to discover the remains of ancient creatures that once roamed the region. Keep your eyes peeled for fossils of whales, sharks, rays, and seabirds, offering a glimpse into the area’s distant past.
Beyond fossil hunting, the park offers a sandy beach for relaxation, over 10 miles of hiking trails for exploration, picnic areas for outdoor dining, and a unique recycled tire playground for children.
6. Expand Your Knowledge at the Calvert Marine Museum
Immerse yourself in the cultural and natural history of Southern Maryland at the Calvert Marine Museum in Solomons Island. This family-friendly museum explores the region’s story through three captivating themes: regional paleontology, the estuarine life of the tidal Patuxent River and Chesapeake Bay, and the maritime history of the region.
Indoor exhibits showcase a diverse collection of models, paintings, woodcarvings by skilled artisans, aquariums teeming with marine life, fossils, and historic boats. Outdoor exhibits include a boat basin, a playful river otter habitat, and a recreated salt marsh, providing an immersive experience of the region’s natural environment.
Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Drum Point Lighthouse, a beautifully restored landmark complete with furnishings from the early 20th century. Guided tours are available year-round, offering insights into the lives of the lighthouse keepers and the importance of these beacons to maritime navigation.
7. Explore Aviation History at the Patuxent River Naval Air Museum
Since World War II, the Patuxent River Naval Air Station has served as a vital hub for the evaluation and refinement of naval aircraft and flight systems. The Patuxent River Naval Air Museum in Lexington Park pays tribute to this legacy, dedicating itself to naval aviation research, development, testing, and evaluation.
Engage with interactive flight simulators and explore exhibits that showcase the intricacies of engines and propulsion, art and photography, weapons systems, naval aviation in space, and more. An outdoor aircraft park displays over 20 naval aircraft, offering a close-up look at the evolution of aviation technology.
Before departing, browse the Flightline Gift Shop for aviation and military-themed merchandise, a perfect memento of your visit.
8. Witness Shipwrecks at Mallows Bay Park
Discover a unique archaeological wonder at Mallows Bay Park in Nanjemoy, a National Marine Sanctuary that offers a captivating blend of history and nature. The waters of the Potomac River along Mallows Bay are home to the "World War I Ghost Fleet," the largest ship graveyard in the Northern Hemisphere.
This diverse collection of shipwrecks encompasses over 200 known vessels, dating back to the Revolutionary War and World War I. Explore this underwater museum by kayak, arranging a guided tour through Atlantic Canoe & Kayak for an unforgettable experience.
9. Immerse Yourself in Art at Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center
Escape to the serene beauty of Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center in Solomons Island, a 30-acre oasis showcasing over 30 works of art from the Smithsonian Institution and the National Gallery of Art. Stroll along the quarter-mile walking path, admiring the sculptures that blend seamlessly with the natural landscape.
The Arts Building hosts a variety of exhibitions, featuring works by regional and national artists. Explore the gift shop and café for unique treasures and refreshments. A variety of annual festivals, family activities, and public programs enrich the visitor experience.
10. Tour Historic Sotterley Plantation
Journey back in time at Historic Sotterley, a plantation listed on the National Register of Historic Places and the sole surviving Tidewater plantation in Maryland that is fully interpreted and open to the public. Located in Hollywood, the property overlooks the scenic Patuxent River, encompassing nearly 100 acres of open fields, gardens, and shoreline.
Explore several outbuildings, including a 19th-century schoolhouse, a smokehouse, and an original slave cabin dating back to the 1830s. Guided tours of the 1703 Manor House and specialty tours are available, providing insights into the lives of the families who lived and worked on this historic plantation.
11. Enjoy Coastal Recreation at Point Lookout State Park
With its prime location along the Chesapeake Bay and the Potomac River, Point Lookout State Park in Scotland offers a wealth of recreational opportunities. Swim in the refreshing waters, cast a line for a relaxing fishing experience, launch a boat for a scenic cruise, or settle in for a night of camping at one of the 143 wooded campsites or six available cabins.
The onsite Civil War Museum and Marshland Nature Center offer seasonal public programs and demonstrations, highlighting the natural environment and the history of Point Lookout, where more than 52,000 Confederate soldiers were imprisoned during the Civil War.
12. Discover the History of the Piney Point Lighthouse
Visit the Piney Point Lighthouse Museum & Historic Park, home to the oldest lighthouse on the Potomac River. Constructed in 1836, the lighthouse stands as a testament to maritime history.
Explore the six-acre park, featuring a pier, kayak launch, boardwalk, picnic area, and sandy beach (not suitable for swimming or fishing). The museum showcases artifacts from the World War II U-1105 Black Panther German submarine, which lies just offshore in an area designated as the state’s first Historic Shipwreck Dive Preserve. A maritime exhibit displays historic wooden boats that once graced the waters of the Chesapeake Bay.
13. Escape to Chesapeake Beach
The historic town of Chesapeake Beach, located in Calvert County, beckons with its tranquil secluded beaches, inviting restaurants by the shore, and fun family events. Cool off at the Chesapeake Beach Water Park, featuring waterfalls, water slides, a lazy river, and other exciting attractions.
For a relaxing getaway, consider the Rod ‘N’ Reel Resort, offering comfortable guest rooms, two restaurants, a full-service spa, an indoor heated swimming pool, a fitness center, and more.
14. Explore Nature at the American Chestnut Land Trust
The American Chestnut Land Trust, established in 1986, protects approximately 3,000 acres of wetlands, forest, and farmland in Calvert County. Canoe through 1.5 miles of salt marshes and wooded freshwater wetlands, observing the pristine natural environment.
Explore the trust’s 22 miles of self-guided hiking trails, immersing yourself in the beauty of the region’s diverse ecosystems. Guided hikes and canoe trips are offered seasonally, providing opportunities for deeper exploration.
15. Experience the Thrill of Racing at Maryland International Raceway
For motorsports enthusiasts, the Maryland International Raceway in Mechanicsville offers an exhilarating experience. As the largest motorsports raceway in the state, the facility can accommodate 10,000 spectators.
Attend one of the more than 100 events held annually, typically from March through November. Witness the power of drag racing machines, including Pro Stocks, Pro Mods, Funny Cars, Jet Cars, and more.
16. Discover Archaeology and Nature at Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum
Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum, a 560-acre property located in Southern Maryland, offers a captivating blend of archaeology and natural beauty. The Visitor Center features interactive exhibits that share the archaeological history of Calvert County and the Chesapeake Bay Watershed.
The Maryland Archaeological Conservation Laboratory (MAC Lab) houses over 8 million artifacts, representing a rich repository of the region’s past. The park also offers picnic areas, hiking and biking trails, and opportunities for canoeing and kayaking.
