8 Maryland Towns Where Time Stands Still
A historic, cultural, and geographic delight, the great state of Maryland is indeed one of America’s most beautiful destinations to discover first-hand. An official part of the Union since 1788, the wonderful “Old Line State”, features an extensive coastline full of splendid Atlantic Ocean views, while fascinating stories from the Revolutionary period abound, making any vacation here sure to be one filled with special memories.
But while such major cities like Baltimore and Annapolis are Maryland’s best known, the state also boasts a number of equally charming smaller towns that can truly give the sense of time standing still. Here all the treasures associated with Maryland shine brightly in quieter and less crowded communities, all while given guests the chance to enjoy a slower pace of life.
Mount Airy
Located at the approximate midway point between Baltimore and Washington D.C., the pretty town of Mount Airy is a picturesque delight for all who visit, offering plenty of charm and Americana. First settled in the 1830s, today this humble community boasts a population of just under 10,000 residents, and time spent in the downtown and on Main Street certainly gives vibes of yesterday.
Explore the Historic District (listed entirely on the National Register of Historic Places) and see a variety of preserved 19th- and early 20th-century edifices, that help create a unique sense of time standing still. Add in a cute assortment of local businesses and a smile will be sure to come along very quickly. These include Mamma Angela Sicilian Restaurant, the CarterQue BBQ & Grilling Co., and the Mount Airy Commons Boutique Store amongst others. There are also a number of great wineries in the area like Black Ankle Vineyards and Elk Run Winery, offering guests some of Maryland’s best in locally produced alcohols.
Havre de Grace
Right along the mouth of the Susquehanna River and the head of the famed Chesapeake Bay, the town of Havre de Grace (from the French for Harbor of Grace) is surely one Maryland’s most scenic seaside communities. Incorporated in 1785 with a name attributed to the Marquis de Lafayette, Havre de Grace became an important 19th-century port town and a center for hunting, particularly waterfowl, thanks to its location along the Susquehanna River and Chesapeake Bay. Today nearly 15,000 inhabitants call Havre de Grace home, which continues to entice guests with its scenic beauty, historic intrigue, and welcoming ambience.
Visit the beautiful Promenade Boardwalk and admire the tranquil waters, while fun activities on the River include fishing, boating, kayaking, and loads of pretty hiking and biking trails. Then be sure to visit the historic Concord Point Lighthouse (1827), where tremendous and breathtaking views of the Bay and River never go out of style. Finally for a truly unique accommodation experience, why not spend a few nights at the Spencer Silver Mansion, a 19th century home that serves as an exquisite bed and breakfast. Immerse oneself in an environment of the past, while enjoying the comforts of modern living, and close access to such fine local businesses like Water Street Seafood and the Tidewater Grille.
Leonardtown
Leonardtown serves as the seat of St. Mary’s County in southern Maryland, and its foundational roots can be traced all the way back to the mid 1600s. With a modern population of some 4,500 inhabitants, this quiet, historic town enjoys a close vicinity to Washington D.C., (around some 60 miles). Once a busy steamboat port, visitors can still get a sense of centuries worth of history here and landmarks contribute to a timeless appeal.
These include the Tudor Hall Mansion (1798) and the Old Jail Museum (1858), amongst others in the Historic District. From there enjoy the sights of the Leonardtown Wharf, as popular activities like kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and even simple picnicking warm hearts. Finally, for some of Maryland’s best seafood dining, be sure to try the offerings like Crabknockers and The Front Porch, with always a wonderful view in sight. And naturally, one cannot miss the famed Oyster Festival in the Fall, where plenty to eat, live entertainment, vendors galore, and even a shucking competition will impress the young and old alike.
Ocean City
A wonderful Atlantic Ocean resort town, the inviting Ocean City is indeed a place where one can temporarily forget about their troubles and relax alongside some of Maryland’s best coastline. Established in the 1870s with the purpose of attracting tourism, while only some 7,000 permanent residents call the community home many hundreds of thousands more visit each year, particularly in the summer months. Featuring comfortable warm temperatures during this period, guests have access to awesome beaches and vistas, ideal for every age and interest. Stroll along the Ocean City Boardwalk and enjoy its many shops, vendors, foods, and live entertainment, that make for the true highlight of any outing.
Meanwhile, history lovers can also appreciate Ocean City, and several landmarks are even listed on the National Register of Historic Places. These include St. Paul's by-the-Sea Protestant Episcopal Church (1901) and the Ocean City Life-Saving Station (1891), which houses exhibits on marine biology and the history of life at sea. And be sure not to forget about the Jolly Roger Amusement Park, which in addition to carnival rides also has mini golf courses and a waterpark.
Oakland
Seat of Garrett County within the Appalachian Mountains, Oakland is a lovely town near the border with the state of West Virginia. Established as a rail town in the 1860s, nearly 2,000 residents call this historic place home that also boasts plenty of stunning natural scenery. Set among the scenic valleys of western Maryland, Oakland is surrounded by forests and streams that feed into the Potomac River, providing plenty of natural beauty for visitors to enjoy.
For the history enthusiast, Oakland will definitely please and time spent in the Historic District transports guests to the height of the town’s status as an important rail center. Explore the Oakland Historic District, which includes landmarks such as the former Oakland Station (1884) and the County Courthouse (1907), offering a glimpse into the town’s rich rail-era history.
From there enjoy some fine American kitchen favorites at local businesses like the Firewater Kitchen & Bar and Ace’s Run Pub, where warm hospitality is the order of the day. And naturally, the area’s outdoor beauty is hard to ignore and besides the aforementioned mountain views, adventures at the nearby Wisp Ski Resort and Swallow Falls State Park will be sure to leave a great impression.
St. Mary’s City
Perhaps one of Maryland’s most fascinating historic places, St. Mary’s City stands out as the state’s oldest colonial settlement dating back to 1634. Once the capital of the Province of Maryland, in the modern day, just over 900 permanent residents call this community home which continues to maintain a very unique colonial ambience that in turn creates a feeling of stepping into a time machine. Also home to the campus of St. Mary’s College of Maryland (1840), St. Mary’s City is bordered by the same named River (a tributary of the Potomac) and guests will very much enjoy a quieter pace of life never short on intrigue.
Learn more about early America through time spent in the Historic District where costumed interpreters in character answer questions, while the St. John’s Site Museum and the Reconstructed State House immerse visitors in the daily goings on of the 17th and 18th century. And do not forget to check out the replica of the Maryland Dove sailing ship, a recreation of a typical early 1600s vessel.
Berlin
Berlin lies very near Maryland’s Atlantic Coast where a modest population of just over 5,000 reside; established in 1868 and supposedly named for the historic “Burleigh Inn,” this charming town offers an old world charm, and all ages can enjoy its quaint ambience. Visit the historic Main Street where notable landmarks include the Calvin B. Taylor House (1832), the Stevenson Chandler House (1790s), and the Stevenson United Methodist Church (1912), amongst many others listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Additionally, outdoors fun can also be enjoyed in Berlin where warm summers and cool winters are the norm. Spend the day at the nearby Assateague State Park, where you can enjoy fishing, camping, and wildlife watching, including the park’s famous wild horses; (Note that hunting is allowed only in designated areas with proper permits.) While back in town proper green spaces including Stephen Decatur Park and Dr. William Henry Park are perfect for calm picnics and other activities like tennis and basketball.
Crisfield
Known as the “Seafood Capital of the World,” Crisfield is located along the Tangier Sound of the Chesapeake Bay. Founded back in the 1660s as a fishing village, over the centuries the settlement grew into an important center for fishing and trade, particularly for its rich oyster beds. Soon its seafood trade expanded to serve all parts of the nation and this rich tie to the Ocean continues today.
Home to a modern population of nearly 2,500, Crisfield remains a popular destination both for its scenic views and of course its very fresh Atlantic seafood offerings. Enjoy some of the best in lobsters, crab, clams, mussels, and more at eateries like Chesapeake Bay Seafood & Steaks and Waters Edge Café, while browsing the goods at The Bay Gift Vault and the Weathered Porch is a great way to bring home that perfect souvenir.
From there visit the adjacent Janes Island State Park, a special marsh island giving close encounters with birds and marine mammals and other fun activities. Enjoy swimming, fishing, picnicking, and camping, in an area spanning some 3,000 acres. And be sure to take a boat tour of the area or a ferry to the nearby Smith and Tangier Islands.
It's About Time in Maryland
The seventh state admitted to the Union back in 1788, the historic and naturally splendid Maryland gives would be visitors plenty to admire. From Atlantic coast delights to intriguing colonial histories, the “Old Line State” should be on the list of any tourist looking to discover some of the very best of the northeastern United States. And though Baltimore and Annapolis will undoubtedly come to mind first, there are plenty of equally captivating smaller towns in the state, that can really give the sense of time standing still.
Whether it is the immersive 17th-century ambience of St. Mary’s City or the breathtaking Chesapeake Bay views in Havre de Grace and Crisfield, these small towns are definite gems of Maryland that all ages can appreciate. So when planning the next trip and looking for some very special Americana, put Maryland on the top of the list and experience the special charm and wonder through time spent in these truly wonderful communities.
