Often known as “miniature America,” Maryland offers the complete package if you are looking for a variety-filled vacation. From cosy cottages in the mountains to charming beachside bungalows; from enjoying luxurious seafood fare that has been freshly caught to letting your hair down with the vibrant and beautiful nightlife and shopping options; this state truly has a ton to offer travellers. There are houseboat rentals, amusement parks, arcade games, national parks, lake cabin rentals and several trails for hiking as well. Your itinerary is sure to be filled to the brim with a wide range of indoor and outdoor activities, and it can get truly confusing to figure out what to fit into an already busy schedule.
However, worry not, and read on to find a list of things to do in Maryland, USA, so you can start booking your next vacation to this magical place as soon as possible.
1. A Walking Tour of Frederick, Maryland - The Crossroads of Maryland (from USD 15.0)
Embark on an enlightening walking tour accompanied by a knowledgeable guide to delve into the rich history and vibrant culture of Frederick, Maryland. This immersive experience offers valuable insights into the city’s founding, its significant involvement in the Civil War, and the notable personalities and landmarks that have shaped its identity.
As you stroll through downtown Frederick, marvel at the captivating architecture and appreciate the artistic expressions adorning the streets. Lasting approximately two hours, this engaging tour covers around 1.5 miles (2.41 kilometres), providing a comprehensive exploration of Frederick’s charm and heritage.
A Walking Tour of Frederick, Maryland - The Crossroads of Maryland
Duration: 2 hours
2. Babe Ruth Birthplace & Museum
The Babe Ruth Birthplace & Museum stands as an iconic tribute to one of baseball’s most legendary figures. Located in Baltimore, Maryland, this historic landmark is a meticulously preserved homage to the life and career of George Herman “Babe” Ruth, known as the Sultan of Swat. Visitors are transported back in time as they explore the very house where Ruth was born and raised.
Immerse yourself in the fascinating exhibits, showcasing rare artefacts, memorabilia, and interactive displays that narrate the captivating story of this baseball icon. The Babe Ruth Birthplace & Museum is a must-visit destination for sports enthusiasts and history buffs alike, preserving the legacy of an American sports legend.
Babe Ruth Birthplace & Museum
Address: 216 Emory St, Baltimore, MD 21230, United States
Website: Babe Ruth Birthplace & Museum
Opening hours: 10am - 4pm (daily)
Price: 7 USD
3. Indulge in a three-hour luxury dinner cruise (from USD 100.0)
What better way could there be to kick off an ideal first evening in Baltimore than on this luxurious and opulent cruise, inclusive of a delicious dinner? Enjoy a special chef-prepared gourmet meal as you sail, with the city lights in the distance, and the glittering stars above you. You will be kept company by the ship’s specially trained crew singing a live cabaret, and a DJ that will play electrifying music to make your evening truly magical. This is a perfect venue if you are planning a proposal or wish to treat your partner to a romantic evening.
Baltimore Signature Dinner Cruise
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
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4. Go on a helicopter tour of Baltimore (from USD 181.0)
One of the most exciting activities in Maryland, this highly customizable tour takes you over the entire city so you can get a truly unique view of Baltimore. The departure time can be adjusted according to your preference, between 10am and 8pm. You can also choose how long you’d like to do this tour, between 12 to 30 minutes.
This tour will take you over historic landmarks and culturally important buildings such as the Chesapeake Bay, Historic Fells Point, Patterson Park, the USS Constellation, and more.
Baltimore Helicopter Sightseeing Tour
Duration: 30 minutes
5. Enjoy a meal at Hard Rock Café (from USD 38.0)
Hard Rock Café is practically an American staple when it comes to bars and nightlife, which makes it one of the unmissable things to do with the family in Maryland.
Indulge in some classic American fare that comes with either tea, coffee or soda. On this tour, you can enjoy salmon, steak or hickory-smoked ribs, as well as vegetarian options. This tour will grant you a voucher that will give you priority seating, as well as a choice of two types of meals, ‘acoustic’ and ‘electric’. However, alcohol is not included and will have to be purchased.
Hard Rock Cafe Baltimore
Duration: 2 hours
6. Visit the Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
Get a glimpse into American history by paying a visit to this beautiful and majestic monument located in Baltimore. Once known as Fort Henry, this bastion fort played a part in the fight against the British in the War of 1812. Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine also holds such a special significance. I was here that the American flag, when hoisted after the war was over, inspired Francis Scott Key to create the ‘Star-Spangled Banner,’ America’s national anthem.
Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
Address: 2400 E Fort Ave, Baltimore, MD 21230, USA
Website: Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (daily)
7. Browse through the exhibits at The Walters Art Museum
Looking for a fun and interesting way to spend an afternoon? The Walters Art Museum isn’t just for art enthusiasts, it can be enjoyed by people of all ages. So bring your loved ones along to check out the breathtaking exhibits in one of the most popular art museums in America. Admission is completely free, and the museum has over 36,000 exhibits and artifacts from all over the world and across multiple millennia!
The Walters Art Museum
Address: 600 N Charles St, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
Website: The Walters Art Museum
Opening hours: Wed - Sun: 10am - 5pm (closed on Mon & Tue)
8. Go on a horseback ride in Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park
Looking for thrilling outdoor activities? Head on down to Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park, nearly 20,000 acres (80 square kilometers) featuring rich flora and fauna and miles of trails. Whether you are into running, biking, or rock climbing, or you just wish to take a walk in the midst of nature and watch little woodland birds and creatures flitting between the trees, this is the ideal place to visit on your travel to Maryland. You can even have a cozy family picnic, go horseback riding or boating with your partner along the canal.
Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park
Address: 205 W Potomac St, Williamsport, MD 21795, USA
Website: Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park
Opening hours: Wed - Sun: 9am - 4:30pm (closed on Mon & Tue)
9. Enjoy a walk along the boardwalk in Ocean City
Posted by Ocean City Maryland Boardwalk on Sunday, 7 August 2016
If you have the chance to visit Ocean City on your visit to Maryland, you simply cannot miss the fun and excitement of the Boardwalk. Home to tons of interesting stores and ice cream shops, street food vendors and souvenir shops, Ocean City Boardwalk is like a beach festival that never ends! You can visit this popular attraction and its sandy shores anytime you wish to, but you may find that the best establishments are usually open in the evenings.
Ocean City Boardwalk
Address: Boardwalk, Ocean City, MD 21842, USA
Website: Ocean City Boardwalk
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
10. Plan a picnic with family in Assateague State Park
Wouldn’t you love to spend a day at a nature park, but your kids are insisting on frolicking on the beach? You can have the best of both worlds at Assateague State Park, a beautiful oceanfront park on the eastern shore.
Uniquely located on Assateague Island, it is the perfect destination if you wish to go birdwatching, spot wild horses, or explore nature while also being able to swim, surf or sunbathe. In fact, the best way to spot wildlife is on their special kayaking tour. Clearly, this is one of the best things to do with kids while in Maryland!
Assateague State Park
Address: 6915 Stephen Decatur Hwy, Berlin, MD 21811, USA
Website: Assateague State Park
Opening hours: 7:30am - 6:30pm (daily)
11. Pay a visit to the Antietam National Battlefield
Posted by Antietam National Battlefield on Sunday, 28 July 2019
The Antietam National Battlefield is another national historic landmark that you must visit if you’re a history buff, as it was built to honor the American Civil War Battle that took place here in 1862. You can visit the national cemetery honoring soldiers fallen in battle, a medical museum that focuses on medical exhibits, and a visitor center that has unique and interesting exhibits from that era.
Antietam National Battlefield
Address: 302 E Main St, Sharpsburg, MD 21782, USA
Website: Antietam National Battlefield
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
12. Spot migratory birds at Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge
ATTENTION VISITORS: A majority of the Wildlife Drive will be closed on five additional dates this season, including...
Posted by Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge on Wednesday, 21 November 2018
Spend some time away from the city and immerse yourself in nature at this wildlife sanctuary. Comprising over 20,000 acres (8093 hectares) of area spread out for your enjoyment, this beautiful refuge is a great way to spend a day in the great outdoors. You can explore miles of hiking trails and other outdoor activities, such as cycling or boating in the lakes.
Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge
Address: Dorchester County, Maryland, USA
Website: Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
13. Have a close encounter with sharks and dolphins at the National Aquarium
When was the last time you visited an aquarium? Responsible for the conservation of many incredible water creatures and increasing public awareness and curiosity about wildlife, the National Aquarium isn’t just for kids. It boasts hosting more than 20,000 different kinds of animals, from fish, reptiles, frogs, and birds. So even if you don’t have little ones, pay this wonderful organization a visit and give them your support!
National Aquarium
Address: 501 E Pratt St, Baltimore, MD 21202, USA
Website: National Aquarium
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
14. Explore the American Visionary Art Museum
Are you ready to stretch your mind and work your imaginative muscles? Pay a visit to Baltimore’s most popular art museum that hosts amazing exhibitions throughout the year, meant to impress, dumbfound, fascinate or even confuse you. Some of these include a 10-foot (3-meter) matchstick figure, a three-story long mobile, and folksy installations meant to make you laugh. These exhibits are very unique and unusual, yet there is something immediately charming and accessible about them that will fascinate you.
American Visionary Art Museum
Address: 800 Key Hwy, Baltimore, MD 21230, USA
Website: American Visionary Art Museum
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 6pm (closed on Mon)
15. Learn about locomotives and coaches at B&O Railroad Museum
Museums are no longer a boring avoidable activity on a vacation. Filled with interesting and fascinating exhibits and fun-filled events, the B&O Railroad Museum is one of the most fun places in Maryland offering a great experience. It features 19th-century American locomotives - the largest collection in the world! Explore the history of how railways were invented and how rail technology has grown over the years to become one of the most popular means of transport, throughout the 20th century. In addition, if you are bringing your little ones along, they can enjoy a life-sized model of Thomas the Tank Engine, from the famous television show.
B&O Railroad Museum
Address: 901 W Pratt St, Baltimore, MD 21223, USA
Website: B&O Railroad Museum
Opening hours: 10am - 4pm (daily)
16. Take a guided tour of the U.S. Naval Academy
Located on a beautiful and picturesque campus, the U.S. Naval Academy is one place you must visit if you find yourself in Annapolis. It is considered a historic site, and you can opt to experience it through a 1.5-hour tour where a professional and knowledgeable guide will show you the fascinating architecture around the premises, and educate you about the Navy’s importance and significance in shaping American history. If you want to learn all about naval history, make sure to carry valid identification, such as a passport, with you, and the premises do not allow children.
U.S. Naval Academy
Address: 121 Blake Rd, Annapolis, MD 21402, USA
Website: U.S. Naval Academy
Opening hours: 6am - 5pm (daily)
17. Bring your children to KID Museum
Are you looking for truly fun activities for your little ones, that also engage them mentally? The KID Museum is perfect for inspiring your curious and talented little ones’ brains in a myriad of ways. This is a not-for-profit organization that provides an open space for your kids to create anything they want, from printing to sewing and textile art to chemical experiments! Give your kids the gift of sating their natural curiosity in a controlled and safe environment, and they will be talking about this visit for years to come.
KID Museum
Address: 6400 Democracy Blvd, Bethesda, MD 20817, USA
Website: KID Museum
Opening hours: Sun: 10am - 5pm (closed from Mon - Sat)
18. Learn Native American history at Saint Mary's City
If you are a history buff, this has to be the best place you can visit in Maryland. Saint Mary’s City has a beautiful historic replica set that will make you feel as if you’ve stepped in another time. With beautiful old buildings and actors walking around in period-appropriate costumes, you will feel like a part of the exhibits and sets. Take a long walk exploring everything this tourist attraction has to offer, then stop by the visitors’ center and souvenir shop to pick up something to take back home.
Saint Mary's City
Address: 18751 Hogaboom Lane, Saint Mary’s City, MD 20686
Website: Saint Mary’s City
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 10am - 4pm (closed on Sun & Mon)
19. Catch a live baseball match in Oriole Park at Camden Yards
Posted by Oriole Park at Camden Yards on Thursday, 12 April 2012
For sports enthusiasts, there is nothing more exciting than being able to catch a live game at the stadium. Located in Baltimore, Oriole Park is perfect if you want to spend a day just watching a live baseball game, sipping on a beer and cheering for your team. With seating available for more than 45,000 people for one game, you won’t miss the game if you book in time!
Oriole Park at Camden Yards
Address: 333 W Camden St, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
Website: Oriole Park at Camden Yards
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
20. Relish American cuisine at VOLT
Rediscover the meaning of fine-dining with this elegant mansion converted into a restaurant: VOLT. Situated in the heart of Saint Frederick, Maryland, this beautiful restaurant promises elegant and upscale dining, perfect if you are celebrating a special occasion, or just wish to treat yourself to an incredible dining experience. Indulge in a special 15-course tasting menu that is the epitome of gastronomical luxury, or have your pick from the a la carte menu.
VOLT Restaurant
Address: 228 North Market St, Frederick, MD 21701, USA
Website: VOLT Restaurant
Opening hours: Tue - Thu: 5:30pm - 9:30pm; Fri - Sun: 11:30am - 9:30pm (closed on Mon)
21. Get a wonderful view from Top of the World Observation Level
One of the most unforgettable scenic spots in Baltimore is the bird’s eye view you get of the city from this observation deck on the 27th floor. This incredible panoramic view includes a view of the horizon in the distance, the matchbox-like buildings and vehicles you can see from the top, and the harbor with the glittering water. It is therefore named aptly as Top Of The World Observatory. There are binoculars available if you need them, as well as special accessibility for physically challenged individuals.
Top of the World Observation Level
Address: 401 E Pratt St 27th floor, Baltimore, MD 21202, USA
Website: Top of the World Observation Level
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 10am - 6pm; Fri - Sat: 10am - 9pm; Sun: 11am - 6pm
22. Enjoy tropical cocktails at Seacrets Jamaica USA
What’s a vacation without a relaxing meal accompanied by delicious cocktails at your favorite bar? Seacrets Jamaica USA in Ocean City offers a lush, waterside bar experience as you can kick back and relax with your drink and just watch the world go by. Whether you are visiting during the day for some festival vibes or hitting the dance floor at night, you are sure to have the time of your life here. Don’t miss their special frozen drinks!
Seacrets Jamaica USA
Address: 117 49th St, Ocean City, MD 21842, USA
Website: Seacrets Jamaica USA
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 11am - 2am; Sat - Sun: 10am - 2am
23. Walk along the trails in Ladew Topiary Gardens
If you are looking for more unique and interesting places to sightsee, check out this beautiful topiary garden. This is a not-for-profit organization that has built a truly magnificent place, where you can relax with a cozy picnic or simply take a walk. There are interesting events at times, such as art shows or educational programs for kids. There is a cafe as well as a gift shop where you can buy cool souvenirs, and this garden offers group tours of the premises as well. Everything about this tourist attraction is simply enchanting.
Ladew Topiary Gardens
Address: 3535 Jarrettsville Pike, Monkton, MD 21111, USA
Website: Ladew Topiary Gardens
Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)
24. Dance the night away at Mosaic nightclub
Thank you everyone for an awesome weekend! ❤️? #mosaic #mosaicnightclub #mosaicbaltimore #ilovemosaic #nightlife #entertainment #vip
Posted by Mosaic Nightclub and Lounge on Sunday, 21 July 2019
Spending an electrifying and energetic night at a swanky and fancy nightclub, meeting lots of interesting people and sipping on some delicious cocktails sounds like the perfect vacation bucket list. Make it come true by hitting Mosaic, the most happening nightclub in Baltimore, where the most popular music meets a stylish venue with incredible lighting. You will surely go home with a ton of amazing memories, and who knows, you might even meet a special someone!
Mosaic Nightclub
Address: 4 Market Pl, Baltimore, MD 21202, USA
Website: Mosaic Nightclub
Opening hours: Thu - Sat: 9pm - 2am (closed from Sun - Wed)
25. Find out about space at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center
Most of us wanted to be an astronaut as a child. Outer space is a fascinating concept to all of us and makes us realize how small our petty worries on this planet really are. NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center helps fuel that fascination even more. Pay a visit to the interesting exhibits and models here, marvel at the technological progress that has allowed us to study the universe in such great detail, and collect some unique commemorative artifacts from the gift shop, such as asteroid chips!
NASA Goddard Space Flight Center
Address: 8800 Greenbelt Rd, Greenbelt, MD 20771, USA
Website: NASA Goddard Space Flight Center
Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 10am - 3pm; Sat - Sun: 12pm - 4pm (closed on Mon)
26. Pamper yourself at Seoul Spa USA
Posted by Seoul Spa USA on Monday, 3 October 2011
There is honestly no better way to end a perfect vacation than by rejuvenating yourself at a spa. From a special body scrub therapy to Himalayan salt rooms to pedicures that wring all the stress from your exhausted feet, explore a multi-cultural spa experience that leaves you completely energized and relaxed at the same time. Give yourself or your loved one a treat and visit this lovely spa; this would be a perfect respite from all the fun activities you will do on your vacation here.
Update: This spa has since been permanently closed.
Seoul Spa USA
Address: 6901 Security Blvd 3058, Windsor Mill, MD 21244, USA
Website: Seoul Spa USA
Opening hours: 10am - 10pm (daily)
27. Try the walking ghost tour of Georgetown (from USD 51.0)
Do not go on this spooky tour unless you have a strong will! Get in touch with the spirit plane of Georgetown on this creepy hair-raising haunted tour that takes you through some of the scariest haunted buildings and cemeteries. Your guide will tell you eerie and chilling stories of the former residents of the Georgetown and Washington neighborhoods. This tour is not recommended for younger children, and it will require you to have a moderate fitness level since it is a walking tour.
Georgetown: Ghost Story Walking Tour
Duration: 1.5 hour
28. Enjoy a walking food tour in Frederick (from USD 65.0)
Food tasting tours are a great way to sample a wide variety of foods that are native to a destination, so you don’t miss out on anything. This one, in particular, allows you to sample six lip-smacking foods, from novelty chocolates, calzones, old-school sodas to craft beer and everything in between! You will be accompanied by a tour guide who will show you historical buildings and cultural monuments in the town, and offer a personalized tour. The food bill will be included in the cost of the tour itself, and you are sure to enjoy yourself thoroughly and make a few friends along the way!
Frederick Walking Food Tour
Duration: 3 hours
29. Enjoy a seafood crawl of Annapolis (from USD 69.0)
The Chesapeake Bay is an extremely popular spot in Maryland, known for the delicious freshly caught seafood that is served in the restaurants lining the coastline. A professional and friendly local guide will accompany you along this two-hour-long tour, as you enjoy a cruise ride and learn about the rich cultural significance and history behind the Chesapeake Bay and its surroundings. After your cruise, stop by four restaurants to sample delicious seafood fares such as oysters, crabs and mussels. A seafood crawl in the Chesapeake Bay is the perfect way to spend an evening if you are a foodie!
Original Annapolis Seafood Crawl
Duration: 2 hours
30. Explore the hidden gems of Annapolis (from USD 29.0)
This unique tour takes you on an electric vehicle ride through the old-school town of Annapolis with a professional and friendly tour guide. Explore the beautiful vintage streets and learn about the rich cultural history of this lovely port town. Your guide will show you the important landmarks of this place, and you can stop at picturesque spots that offer Instagram-worthy panoramic views. In addition, you will also discover some of the secrets of this town. This is a wonderful tour if you are traveling with family and want to go sightseeing in a unique spot.
Explore the Heart of Annapolis
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
31. Experience a thrilling tournament and royal banquet (from USD 62.0)
Have you ever been to a classic Rennaissance fair? If not, this is your chance! Enjoy a magical medieval evening at Medieval Times in Baltimore, where you will be treated to a complete old-timey experience. If you are traveling with little ones, this is one place you definitely should not miss.
The show is held in a beautiful and opulent castle filled with intricate medieval decor and exhibits. You will feel like the nobility as the honorable knights participate in a medieval jousting tournament and sword fights for your entertainment, and the queen crowns the winner at the end. As you enjoy the show, the queen’s serfs and wenches bring you a delicious medieval fare consisting of everything luxurious that the kings and queens would eat in Ye Olden Dayes, along with ale and mead from the full-service bar.
Viator: Medieval Tours Dinner & Tournament Admission Ticket in Maryland
Duration: 2 hours
32. Visit a vineyard in the Patapsco Valley region (from USD 171.0)
For wine and cider enthusiasts, this tour is an absolute treat. This five-hour personalized tour takes you through multiple cider mills and wineries, and you will learn how to best pair your wine with different types of foods. Taste how different chocolates and cheeses taste with specific wines and learn about the traditional wine brewing methods in cellars. Maryland’s wines and ciders are a cut above the rest, and so this is a must-visit tour with your partner or any adult friends.
Patapsco Valley Wine Tour with Tastings, Glass from Baltimore
Duration: 5 hours
The complete vacation package
Maryland is indeed a land of diversity, geographically, culturally and historically speaking. Whether you are a history buff and wish to explore the beautiful history behind this great state, or a shopaholic looking to add new statement pieces to your wardrobe, hit the beaches and nightclubs, or simply indulge in the amazing gastronomical treasures sprinkled along the streets, Maryland has something to offer every kind of traveler. So no matter whether you are traveling on business or for pleasure, alone or with your loved ones, take advantage of our awesome list and pre-plan the perfect itinerary that is sure to make an unforgettable vacation.
Frequently asked questions about things to do in Maryland
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