An alternative respite from the humdrum of the city in nearby Washington DC, Maryland offers a selection of interesting towns including the über-urban Baltimore and the fast-expanding Frederick, while still exuding a small town feel.
Explore: Annapolis • Baltimore • Chestertown • Cumberland • Ocean City • Oxford • Solomons Island • St Michaels
Many beautiful parks dot the state to the delight of nature lovers, while shopping enthusiasts should have their plastic ready. Even though it’s not exactly New York City, Maryland has no shortage of vibrant shops and big malls.
Baltimore, the prized city with cosmopolitan feel, is the biggest and the oldest city in the state. Packed with a number of historical landmarks such as the American Visionary Art Museum and the Babe Ruth Birthplace and Museum, Baltimore is also the birthplace of the famous poet Edgar Allan Poe, hence it is also home to the famous Edgar Allan Poe House.
Baltimore isn’t only about history though. The Inner Harbor is a hub of fun and excitement, with endless trendy clubs and pubs. The Harborplace shopping pavilions are a mecca for shopaholics while Oriole Park at Camden Yards and Ravens Stadium offers a variety of spectator sports for the energy-charged bunch.** **
An ever-expanding town, not many people know that Frederick, now the second largest city in the state, was once a small, cozy town. A number of popular, hip nightclubs can be found here so party-goers can boogie down on the dance floor all night long.
It’s not officially a young town but don’t feel overwhelmed by the fact that everyone you meet in Frederick after 19:00 appears to be under the age of 25. To please the older, more sophisticated lot, the city has several antique and craft shops in the historic district.
A bit low-key compared to the bustling Baltimore and trendy Frederick, Annapolis is the state’s capital city. There are many important American landmarks to be found here including the statehouse, the Old Treasury and the United States Naval Academy.
Just as Maine is famous for its lobster, Maryland is proud of its blue crab, found everywhere along the estuary. Blue crab dishes are particularly popular in Baltimore and Annapolis. Baltimore-Washington International Airport serves both local and international flights daily.