Maryland

The Free State

Maryland may be small in size, but it’s packed with variety - earning its nickname “America in Miniature.” Within just a few hours’ drive, you can experience mountains, lakes, farmland, historic towns, thriving cities, and over 3,000 miles of shoreline, including the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean.

Western Maryland: Mountains and Outdoor Adventure

In Western Maryland, the Appalachian foothills offer a natural playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Hike forested trails, go white-water rafting, or enjoy skiing and snowboarding at Wisp Resort. Deep Creek Lake is a popular summer destination for boating, water skiing, and fishing, while nearby historic landmarks like the C&O Canal and Antietam National Battlefield appeal to those interested in Civil War history and heritage travel.

Central Maryland: Cities, Culture and Waterfront Life

Heading into Central Maryland, you’ll find a mix of urban culture and waterfront charm. Baltimore, Maryland’s largest city, is home to the iconic Inner Harbor, the National Aquarium, and world-class museums like the Walters Art Museum and American Visionary Art Museum. Just down the road is Annapolis, the state capital and sailing mecca, where cobbled streets meet Chesapeake Bay views. This area also offers farm-to-table dining, historic inns, and opportunities for sailing and kayaking.

Southern Maryland: Colonial Roots and River Landscapes

Southern Maryland is steeped in colonial history. Visit St. Mary’s City, the site of Maryland’s founding in 1634, or enjoy bass fishing and boating along the Potomac River. The countryside here offers a slower pace, dotted with tobacco barns, lighthouses, and waterside communities.

The Eastern Shore: Beaches, Boardwalks and Bay Towns

Across the Eastern Shore, the landscape changes again. This region is home to Ocean City, a lively beach resort with a classic boardwalk and nine miles of Atlantic coastline. Inland, you’ll find scenic byways leading to charming towns like St. Michaels and Cambridge, surrounded by salt marshes, historic seafood shacks, and open water ideal for sailing. Don’t leave without trying Maryland’s world-famous blue crabs, fresh from the Chesapeake Bay.

How Maryland Compares

Delaware and Maryland share a love for coastal living and maritime heritage – Delaware with its tranquil beaches and small-town charm, and Maryland with its bustling harbours and historic ports. Both offer travellers a true taste of the Atlantic coast. Meanwhile, Kansas, with its open plains and prairie landscapes, represents another face of America’s natural beauty – vast, expansive, and full of quiet wonder. Together, these states reflect the nation’s remarkable diversity from oceanfront horizons to golden grasslands.

A Compact State with Big Variety

Whether you’re after historic landmarks, outdoor adventure, beach escapes, or cultural experiences, Maryland delivers it all in one compact and accessible destination.

Last Updated: 17/12/2025