The One Maryland Town Everyone Should Visit At Least Once
The eastern shore of Maryland is one of the most active sections of coastline in America, with multiple small towns and bustling summer destinations, each with its own blend of history, culture, and fresh seafood. Berlin is located at the confluence of the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, giving it a unique blend of these attributes. Because it is quaint and small, it lacks the same tourist vibe as the bustling boardwalks of nearby Ocean City. Here, you will find storefronts housed in historic buildings such as the Greyhound Indie Bookstore, unique stops such as Beach Memories Glass Studio, and a downtown that was once featured in a classic Julia Roberts film. All in all, this charming Maryland town is something everyone should experience at least once.
A Victorian Era Town with Hollywood History
Hundreds of years ago, Berlin began as the crossing of colonial roads and sprawling farmland. This was back in 1677, long before the likes of George Washington leading a revolution. The town did not officially become recognized until 1868, following the end of the Civil War. At this point, the town began to grow substantially with the introduction of railway lines and traffic connecting multiple states to this area. In the 1800s, large homes were being constructed throughout the center of town, many of which still exist along Main Street today.
The small town's insistence on preserving the architecture of Victorian homes, such as the Queen Anne and Italianate styles, made it the ideal setting for the fictional town of Hale, Maryland, in the popular late 1990s film Runaway Bride, starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere. Even nearly 30 years later, fans of the romantic comedy still wander the community's main streets, pointing out film locations.
Grabbing a Bite in Charming Berlin
Baked Dessert Cafe is one of the most popular stops in Berlin because it is where the famous Peach Dumpling was born. All the treats here are made from scratch, but really, it’s the dumpling that people are traveling great distances to indulge in. The Hale Peach was such a staple in old-time Berlin that it would be a natural choice for the imaginary name of the popular 1999 movie's setting.
In an old, restored movie theatre that used to be the spot for rowdy entertainment and vaudeville performances, you can now find the popular dining spot Oaked at The Globe. While there are still echoes of the dramatic past in the occasional dinner theater murder mystery show and regular musical performances, the draw is the American fare, crafted into delectable dishes like signature crab cakes and steaks.
Interesting Stops on Your Trip
The Greyhound Indie Bookstore is housed in the old Ayres Building, built in 1895 and held by one family for decades. The place opened in 2018 and was the brainchild of author Susan Ayres Wimbrow and her husband, Maury, when they realized Berlin simply had no independent bookstores. Walk inside, and you can shop through the shelves full of classics, modern popular novels, and even a wide selection of stories from regional authors.
You can get a look at an interesting profession in action at the Beach Memories Glass Studio in Berlin. Here, when you visit, you can observe craftsworkers take molten glass and turn it into decorative pieces, as has been done for centuries. Beyond educating guests on the time-honored artisan craft of glassblowing, the property also features an on-site showcase of creations ranging from home décor to jewelry. This is an excellent space to avoid the typical mass-produced trinkets and get authentic, hand-crafted creations.
Nearby Towns to Explore
Ocean City
Just nine miles east, Ocean City stands as Maryland’s top seaside escape. Tall hotels line the shore, rising above crowds drawn by rides, games, and salt-heavy air. Along its three-mile boardwalk, sugary funnel cakes, taffy, and entertainment are all there to be found. The Life-Saving Station Museum is one of the places along this strip where you can learn about the history of life-saving services and how they relate to Ocean City.
Snow Hill
Fifteen miles from Berlin, you will find Snow Hill, a quiet look at life long ago on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Founded in 1686 by English colonists, it once held special status as an official harbor under King William and Queen Mary. Along the winding Pocomoke River, the aging architecture is meticulously preserved, some dating back even before the American Revolution. Good examples of this include All Hallows Episcopal Church, built in 1756, and the Samuel Gunn House. Most of the town falls within its protected historic zone, nearly eight out of ten blocks.
Salisbury
If you head west about thirty miles, you will reach the sizable city of Salisbury. This community is entirely anchored around Salisbury University, making what would be a quieter city alive with busy streets, museums, shops, and entertainment. With a population of nearly 30,000, this is one of the Eastern Shore’s most visited and beautiful destinations, with attractions like the Salisbury Zoo and the artful replicas in exhibits celebrating old hunting traditions at the Ward Museum.
Do Not Sleep On Seeing Berlin
When you are looking for a community that holds its history, its charm, and its coastal living vibes around every corner, you need to stop and see Berlin. Skip out on tourist meccas like Ocean City and see what Berlin has to offer, with a quieter coastline you can actually explore without the crowds. You get the same great dining in spots like The Globe Restaurant and natural attractions that captivate your entire group, making this a one-of-a-kind town you really need to see at least once.
