Quick List: 12 Classic Things to Do in Maryland

• Watch the wild horses at Assateague Island National Seashore

• Walk the Ocean City Boardwalk and grab Thrasher’s fries

• Explore the National Aquarium and Inner Harbor in Baltimore

• Tour the U.S. Naval Academy and historic streets of Annapolis

• Paddle or boat on Deep Creek Lake in Western Maryland

• Hike the Billy Goat Trail along Great Falls and the C&O Canal

• Hunt for shark teeth at Calvert Cliffs State Park

• Visit Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park

• Stroll small-town streets in St. Michaels and the Eastern Shore

• Take a fall foliage ride or ski trip near Wisp Resort

• Spend an evening in Fells Point for cobblestones, bars, and live music

• Time your visit around a big seasonal event like the Maryland Renaissance Festival

Outdoor Things to Do in Maryland (Parks, Trails, and Beaches)

For my money, the best way to get a feel for the state is to step outside. We aren't just about crab cakes; the landscape here is genuinely stunning if you know where to look.

You have to start with Assateague Island National Seashore. It is easily one of the most unique spots on the East Coast. You’ve probably seen photos of the wild horses roaming the beaches, but seeing them in person is something else. It’s a fantastic spot for camping right on the sand, though you'll want to keep in mind the entrance fee is around $25 per vehicle.

If you prefer hiking boots over flip-flops, head toward the Potomac River for Great Falls and the C&O Canal. The Billy Goat Trail is a local favorite for avid hikers—it’s rocky, rugged, and offers incredible views of the rushing water. Just bring about $20 for the vehicle entrance fee.

For a completely different vibe, drive out to Western Maryland to Deep Creek Lake. It’s a true four-season destination. In the summer, it’s all about boating and wakeboarding, but come winter, locals flock to Wisp Resort for skiing.

Closer to the coast, Calvert Cliffs State Park offers a unique adventure: fossil hunting. The beach is famous for shark teeth washing ashore, so keep your eyes peeled while you hike the trails. If you just want a peaceful walk among flowers, Brookside Gardens in Wheaton is a gorgeous, manicured escape that’s perfect for a relaxing stroll.

Things to Do in Baltimore and Annapolis

When you're ready to swap nature trails for cobblestones and city skylines, Maryland’s two main hubs deliver in a big way.

In Baltimore, the Inner Harbor is usually day one for visitors. The National Aquarium is a legitimate bucket list item—it’s world-class, though tickets run about $50 for adults, so plan ahead. While you're at the water's edge, you can tour the Historic Ships docked right there. For a dose of culture that doesn’t hit the wallet, check out the Walters Art Museum or the Baltimore Museum of Art; both offer free admission, which is a rare treat these days.

History buffs should not miss Fort McHenry. Standing on the grounds where the Star-Spangled Banner was written is a powerful experience. You can walk the park grounds for free, though entering the historic zone costs about $15. Afterward, head over to Fells Point, a historic waterfront neighborhood with cobblestone streets that feels like stepping back in time—except now it’s packed with great dining and boutique hotels.

Then there’s Historic Annapolis, the "Sailing Capital of the World." It feels completely different from living in Baltimore. The pace is a bit more refined. You can tour the U.S. Naval Academy, wander down Main Street, or just watch the boats in the harbor.

Things to Do on Maryland’s Eastern Shore

If you cross the Bay Bridge heading east, you’re entering a different world. The Eastern Shore is all about slowing down, getting on the water, and eating well.

Ocean City is the heavy hitter here. It’s classic American summer nostalgia. You’ve got to walk the iconic 3-mile boardwalk and grab a bucket of Thrasher’s French Fries (don't ask for ketchup; they don't do that here). It’s busiest from May to September, so expect crowds.

For a quieter, more upscale weekend, St. Michaels is the place to be. It’s a quaint historic town known for boutique shopping and high-end dining. While you're there, the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum gives you a great backstory on the local waterman culture.

Nature lovers should detour to Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge. It’s one of the best spots in the region for birdwatching—you are almost guaranteed to spot a bald eagle—and the calm waters are perfect for kayaking. And of course, no trip to the Shore is complete without dining at a waterfront crab house. rolling up your sleeves and picking steamed Maryland blue crabs is practically a state sport.

Free and Low-Cost Things to Do in Maryland

If you’re trying to keep costs down, Maryland has plenty of free or low-cost options. Many state parks only charge a small parking fee for a full day of hiking, beach time, or picnicking. The Baltimore Museum of Art and the Walters Art Museum offer free admission, and you can walk historic waterfronts in places like Annapolis, Fells Point, and St. Michaels without spending more than the cost of a coffee. Even popular spots like the Ocean City beach itself are free—you just pay for parking, food, and rides.

Dive Into History and Culture

Maryland’s history goes way deeper than just the national anthem. If you venture away from the cities, you’ll find sites that tell the story of the nation.

Antietam National Battlefield is incredibly moving. It was the site of a pivotal Civil War battle, and the driving tours help you visualize the scale of what happened there. Similarly, Monocacy National Battlefield near Frederick offers another perspective on the Civil War's impact on the region.

For a look at colonial life, Historic St. Mary’s City is a living history museum built on the site of Maryland’s first capital. It’s immersive and great for understanding the state’s origins.

One of the most important recent additions to our cultural landscape is the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park in Dorchester County. The interactive exhibits on her life and work are deeply inspiring and well worth the drive.

Unique and Lesser-Known Attractions

Once you’ve done the aquarium and the boardwalk, there are some quirky spots that locals love to show off.

In Ellicott City, you’ll find remnants of The Enchanted Forest. Many of the nostalgic storybook figures from this old theme park have been moved to Clark’s Elioak Farm, making for a fun, slightly surreal afternoon.

If you want to go underground, check out Crystal Grottoes Caverns near Boonsboro. It is Maryland's only show cave and offers a cool look at geological formations.

For something a bit different (and maybe a little spooky), the National Museum of Health and Medicine in Silver Spring covers medical history in a way that is fascinating, if a little macabre. Speaking of spooky, Ghost Tours are huge here, especially in older towns like Frederick and Annapolis. They are a fun way to learn local history with a side of chills.

Seasonal Things to Do in Maryland (By Time of Year)

Finally, timing is everything. What you do here really depends on the calendar.

• Spring: We get our own beautiful cherry blossoms, specifically in the Kenwood neighborhood, without the massive crowds of D.C.

• Summer: It’s all about beach trips to Ocean City or catching a concert at Merriweather Post Pavilion. The State Fair in Timonium is also a classic end-of-summer tradition.

• Fall: This is arguably the most beautiful time of year. Take a foliage drive on the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad or go pumpkin picking at local spots like Gaver Farm. Don't miss the Maryland Renaissance Festival—it runs from late August to October and is a massive event.

• Winter: We embrace the cold with holiday lights. The ICE! exhibit at National Harbor is impressive, and the Symphony of Lights in Columbia is a local family favorite.

Things to Do in Maryland: FAQs

What is the number one attraction in Maryland?

There’s no official ranking, but the National Aquarium in Baltimore and the Ocean City Boardwalk are consistently at the top of most lists. If you only have a day or two, starting with one of those gives you a good feel for the state.

What is one thing Maryland is known for?

Maryland is famous for blue crabs and Old Bay seasoning. Sitting down to a steamed crab feast at a waterfront crab house is as “Maryland” as it gets.

Why is Maryland called “America in Miniature”?

Within a few hours’ drive you can hit ocean beaches, quiet farmland, historic port cities, suburbs, and mountain town cabins. That mix of landscapes and lifestyles in a small footprint earned Maryland the “America in Miniature” nickname.

What are some free things to do in Maryland?

You can walk the Inner Harbor, explore historic neighborhoods, visit several free museums in Baltimore, or spend a day at many state parks for only a small parking fee. Local festivals, waterfront concerts, and community events also pop up throughout the year.

Is Maryland worth visiting for a weekend trip?

Yes. In a single weekend you can mix a day in Baltimore or Annapolis with a hike, a short beach trip, or a stop on the Eastern Shore, depending on the season. The short drive distances make it easy to see a lot without spending your whole trip in the car.