Ellicott City Travel Guide

Plan your visit to Ellicott City with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best attractions, activities, food, and lodging options in this charming Maryland town.


Introduction to Ellicott City

Located in Central Maryland, Ellicott City is a charming town steeped in history and natural beauty. Founded in 1772, the town is home to many historical sites, museums, and quaint shops and restaurants. It is a popular tourist destination and is perfect for a weekend getaway or a day trip from nearby towns like Baltimore and Washington DC.

List of Places to Visit in Ellicott City

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Ellicott City Station
  • B&O Railroad Museum
  • Thomas Isaac Log Cabin
  • Patapsco Female Institute Historic Park
  • Howard County Historical Society Museum

Natural Attractions of Ellicott City: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Patapsco Valley State Park
  • The Avalon Area of Patapsco Valley State Park
  • Patapsco Heritage Greenway
  • Cascade Falls and Cascade Lake

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ellicott City

  • Old Main Street (Historic District)
  • Trolley Trail
  • Patapsco Valley State Park Trails
  • Grist Mill Trail

Best Things to Do in Ellicott City: Activities and Tours

  • Ghost Tours
  • Historical Walking Tours
  • Kayaking Tours
  • Wine Tasting at the Ellicott City Wine & Spirits Shop

Week-Long Itinerary for Ellicott City

Here’s a suggested itinerary for spending a week in Ellicott City:

Day Activity
1 Explore Historic Main Street
2 Go hiking in Patapsco Valley State Park
3 Visit the Ellicott City Station museum and take a train ride
4 Take a ghost tour of the town
5 Try some local wines at the Ellicott City Wine & Spirits Shop
6 Visit the B&O Railroad Museum
7 Enjoy the outdoors at Cascade Lake

Food and Drink Scene of Ellicott City

Must-Try Dishes

  • Crab cakes
  • Old Bay wings
  • Fried chicken and biscuits
  • Pit beef sandwiches

Local Beverages

  • Local craft beers from Manor Hill Brewing and Ellicott Mills Brewing
  • Wines from the Ellicott City Wine & Spirits Shop

Where to Stay in Ellicott City: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Wayside Inn
  • The Historic Savage Mill Manor
  • The Turf Valley Resort

What to Buy in Ellicott City: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Antique furniture and home decor
  • Handmade jewelry
  • Local wines and spirits
  • Handcrafted candles and soaps

Local Culture and Customs of Ellicott City

Ellicott City has a rich history and culture, reflected in its beautiful historic district, museums, and landmarks. The town is also known for its vibrant arts and theater scene, with many opportunities to attend concerts, plays, and art exhibitions.

Best Time to Visit Ellicott City

The best time to visit Ellicott City is during the spring and fall months, when the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters can be cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ellicott City

Do:

  • Explore the historic district on foot
  • Try the local cuisine
  • Enjoy the outdoors at Patapsco Valley State Park

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage any of the historic landmarks
  • Disturb any of the wildlife in the parks

Safety and Health

Safety in Ellicott City

Ellicott City is generally a safe town, but visitors should take normal precautions when walking around at night or in unfamiliar areas.

Health in Ellicott City

Ellicott City has several medical clinics and hospitals should you need medical attention.

Getting to Ellicott City: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ellicott City

The closest major airport to Ellicott City is Baltimore-Washington International Airport, which is approximately a 25-minute drive away.

Bus Stations Near Ellicott City

Ellicott City is serviced by several regional transit services, including the Howard County Transit and the Maryland Transit Administration.

Other Options

Visitors can also get to Ellicott City by car or train.

How to Get Around in Ellicott City

The best way to get around Ellicott City is by car or bike. Visitors can also walk to most of the attractions in the historic district. Public transportation options include local buses or taxis.

Where to Go Next from Ellicott City: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Baltimore, Maryland (18 miles)
  • Annapolis, Maryland (28 miles)
  • Washington DC (35 miles)

Conclusion

Ellicott City is a hidden gem in Central Maryland, with its rich history, natural beauty, and charming downtown district. It is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway or day trip, with its many attractions, activities, and dining options. Plan your visit today and discover all that Ellicott City has to offer!