9 Ideal Destinations For A 3-Day Weekend In Maryland
Bordered by Pennsylvania in the north and both the Atlantic and Virginia in the south, Maryland, or the Old Line State, as George Washington supposedly suggested, is a vacationer’s goldmine. That statement is as true with regard to its rich history—as it is about its culture, gorgeous scenery, and many pretty beaches — including ones in Ocean City and Assateague Island. The vistas, the sylvan splendor, the visual drama, is better experienced than told. Then again, from almost any ground in Maryland, one is conveniently close to such big cities as Washington DC, the Big Apple, and Philadelphia. That means Maryland can make for a quick weekend getaway. Wondering how to plan your trip? Here are the 9 ideal destinations for a 3-day weekend In Maryland.
Penn Alps Restaurant & Craft Shop
It's a common saying that whatever you're going through in life, eat first. Your weekend trip to the 7th state will likely start on a Friday. Whether by road trip or a quick flight, you’ll need a good brunch—something delicious and satisfying. Since our first recommendation is Deep Creek Lake and its surrounding area, choosing an eatery nearby is ideal. Your first stop in Maryland should be historic Grantsville, a small mountain community that originally started as an Amish settlement. Penn Alps Restaurant is a cozy, rustic spot offering outstanding food in a warm, homey atmosphere just steps from downtown Grantsville. Enjoying a tasty brunch near Casselman River State Park—and the river that gives the park its name—is a perfect way to kick off a Maryland adventure.
Deep Creek Lake
Here's the truth: no trip to Maryland is complete without spending a few hours at Deep Creek Lake. Probably the most popular spot in the state, especially for outdoor lovers, a visit to Deep Creek Lake is worth every penny. On your way from the restaurant, you'll cross the Casselman River Bridge, which, when it was finished, was the largest single-span stone arch bridge on Earth. Calmly nestled in the peaceful mountains of western Maryland, and covering about 3,900 acres, Deep Creek Lake is the largest inland body of water in Maryland. Besides its breathtaking serenity, water activities here include swimming, boating, and fishing—among countless others. Make no mistake, Deep Creek Lake and the surrounding park can easily fill an entire day.
Savage River Lodge
After watching the setting sun reflected on the sparkling lake, it's time to head to Savage River Lodge, which can be easily arranged with a reservation. Luckily, it's only about 45 minutes from Deep Creek Lake. Located roughly 10 miles from Frostburg—a small college town nestled at the top of Georges Creek Valley—Savage River Lodge is surrounded by over 700 acres of state forest. Enclosed by sweeping green landscapes, this property offers a true retreat in every sense. Promoting what they call “a rare brand of privacy,” the lodge is both an architectural delight and a secluded getaway. Additionally, guests can enjoy 14 miles of hiking trails that are accessible right on the property.
Fort Frederick State Park
After enjoying a hearty breakfast at Savage River Lodge, it will be time to hit the road. Our next stop is Fort Frederick State Park, located just over an hour away from Savage River Lodge. This historic site is considered one of the largest fortifications built by English colonists in North America. Built in 1756, the stones that make up this unique fort have withstood the Revolutionary War; it served as a prison for British soldiers, during the American Civil War, and through both World Wars. An adventurer from Maryland will marvel at the fort’s 18-foot-high stone walls, which once witnessed the French and Indian War. Also, surrounded by a park along the edge of the Potomac, visitors can enjoy scenic hiking trails, great camping spots, and incredible sightseeing.
Annapolis Downtown
As one of the original 13 states, Maryland is a treasure trove—at least in terms of history. The Maryland State House, for example, located in Annapolis, is the oldest state capitol still in continuous legislative use. Additionally, downtown Annapolis boasts a wealth of 18th-century architecture—and features many buildings older than the first known publication of the phrase "United States of America." For perspective, the Old Line State is home to more colonial buildings still standing than anywhere else in the United States. Also, unlike any other state, all homes of the Maryland signers of the Declaration of Independence still exist, and all are located in Annapolis. The Chase-Lloyd home, for instance, at 22 Maryland Avenue, built by a signer of the Declaration of Independence, is among the first Georgian-style mansions in America.
Historic Inns of Annapolis
If visiting Annapolis feels like a trip into history, staying at the Historic Inns of Annapolis offers the experience of actually being part of that history. You can sleep in the same places where delegates to the 1783-1784 Continental Congress once stayed. For history enthusiasts, this will be a memorable experience. Located directly across from the Maryland State House, Historic Inns not only embody history but are also surrounded by it. The collection includes Maryland Inn, the Robert Johnson House, and the Governor Calvert House. The oldest, built in 1727, is the Governor Calvert House, featuring charming colonial gardens perfect for outdoor relaxation.
Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum
After enjoying a good rest in a place whose historical significance is hardly rivaled, it will be time to hit the road again for something a bit different. Our recommendation is the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, conveniently located about an hour away. This trip involves crossing the William Preston Lane Jr. Memorial Bay Bridge, informally known as the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. When completed, this 17-mile bridge was the longest continuous over-water steel structure in the world — and is now one of the scariest on Earth. At the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum in St. Michaels, visitors shouldn’t expect to find passive exhibits behind glass walls. Instead, real people share the rich, fascinating history of the area. Additionally, several artifacts, visual arts, and watercraft are part of this museum’s offerings.
Bistro St. Michaels
After what will be a trip of a lifetime across the bridge and at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, hunger pangs will start to set in. Fortunately, the dining scene in this area of the state is top-tier. One place you may want to check out is the under-the-radar Bistro St. Michaels. Known for its impressive, market-fresh menu, Bistro St. Michaels holds TripAdvisor’s Travelers Choice Award for the Best of the Best. Expect to receive top-tier service while enjoying French-inspired, classically prepared cuisine on a beautiful back patio where everything seems just about perfect. The meat here is mouthwateringly tender and delectable, and the ambience strikes the sweet spot between simplicity and upscale elegance. Here is the truth. Eating at this place will make other eateries look disappointingly average.
Sail Selina II
After enjoying a hearty meal at Bistro St. Michaels, Sail Selina II will provide a fitting finale to what will be a trip of a lifetime. This is essentially a boating adventure — but that provides a top-notch experience. In an escapade tinged with a romantic haze, visitors go on a 2-hour excursion that takes them around the Chesapeake Bay Harbor and into the Miles River, one of the Eastern Shore's busiest waterways, especially when warm weather rolls around. You will inhale the sights that dot this spectacular shoreline, and take in the quaint, heart-ravishing vistas. A trip takes two hours. You can work with the 3.00 pm -5.00 pm slot if you arrive after lunch.
The Takeaway
Home to such figures as Harriet Tubman and Fredrick Douglass, the history of Maryland is as much the history of the United States— as it is the history of the 23 counties that make up the Old Line State. One of the original 13 colonies, Maryland boasts a history that is as rich as its pictorial charm. And because of its convenient location, Maryland can make for a quick getaway from such major cities as Washington D.C., New York City, and Philadelphia. From nature’s charm at Deep Creek Lake — to history’s allure at Annapolis, a weekend in Maryland can travel the whole gamut.
