It’s National Travel and Tourism Week! In the #SpiritofTravel, we’re highlighting a handful of our favorite Southern Maryland tourism spots for you to put on your travel list when we’re no longer under our current circumstances.
1. Annmarie Sculpture Garden
Located just outside Solomons, Annmarie Garden features a walking path meandering through woods past works on loan from the Smithsonian Institution along with other artful surprises, a children’s natural play space and native gardens. The center hosts exhibits, a unique gift shop, Nature Nook and the artLAB, a creative re-use space. All ages will enjoy events and festivals, hands-on activities, public art programs and a beautiful setting.
2. Mallows Bay-Potomac River National Marine Sanctuary
Recently named a National Marine Sanctuary, Mallows Bay is perfect for kayakers and small boaters with a boat ramp. You can paddle through old WW1 ghost fleet ships for a unique, historical experience. Mallows Bay has been described as a bird watcher’s paradise, as well as having tremendous wildlife viewing opportunities.
3. Historic St. Mary’s City
This museum of living history and archaeology sits atop the site of Maryland’s first colony and first capital. Here, visitors are encouraged to experience life in the 17th century. Visit a tall ship, an early plantation, an Indian hamlet, and other indoor and outdoor exhibits spread across 800 acres along the St. Mary’s River.
4. Calvert Cliffs State Park
Hike through this 1,460-acre wooded state park to the majestic Calvert Cliffs on the Chesapeake Bay. Ideal for hiking, picnicking, fishing and fossil hunting. It’s a scenic two-mile walk to the gorgeous beach.
5. Samuel Mudd House
Featured on “Maryland Civil War Trails: Escape of an Assassin,” the house and farm commemorate the life of Dr. Samuel Mudd, the physician who treated the injured leg of John Wilkes Booth after he assassinated President Abraham Lincoln in April of 1865.
6. The Maryland Dove
This historic ship in St. Mary’s City is a re-creation/replica of Dove, an early 17th-century English trading ship, one of two ships which made up the first expedition from England to the Province of Maryland. The modern Dove was designed by the naval architect and naval historian William A. Baker.
7. Calvert Marine Museum
The only museum on the East Coast with two lighthouses and two iconic Chesapeake work boats that can take visitors out on the water. Come and learn how the prehistoric past, maritime heritage and natural environments come together to tell a unique story of the Chesapeake Bay. See skates, rays, river otters and fish in the aquariums, and the largest collection of Miocene fossils anywhere outside of the Smithsonian.
8. Historic Port Tobacco
The first incorporated community in Maryland, the village currently offers 3 sites open to the public with seasonal guided tours, special events and educational activities by appointment. A stop on several of the state and of the state and national scenic byways visitors are encouraged to stop at the village and enjoy a tour and scenic picnic venue.
9. Piney Point Lighthouse
The oldest lighthouse on the Potomac River presides over a waterside park with a kayak launch, pier and picnic area. Museum exhibits include historic wooden boats of the Chesapeake Bay, lighthouse history, and that of a WWII German submarine submerged just offshore. Climb the oldest lighthouse on the Potomac (constructed in 1836), see historic boats and maritime history in the museum, learn about the U1105 Historic Shipwreck Dive Preserve, stroll the beach, paddle about in your kayak & enjoy 6 acres of park, pier & more.
