Eastern Shore Travel Guide
Discover the best things to do, places to visit, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more in Maryland's Eastern Shore.
- Introduction to Eastern Shore
- List of Places to Visit in Eastern Shore
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Eastern Shore
- Best Things to Do in Eastern Shore: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Eastern Shore
- Food and Drink Scene of Eastern Shore
- Where to Stay in Eastern Shore: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Eastern Shore: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Eastern Shore
- Best Time to Visit Eastern Shore
- Do’s and Don’ts of Eastern Shore
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Eastern Shore: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Eastern Shore
- Where to Go Next from Eastern Shore: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Eastern Shore
The Eastern Shore is a stunning region of Maryland that boasts miles of coastline, nature reserves, and charming small towns. Located on the eastern side of the Chesapeake Bay, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the East Coast. From hiking and biking to exploring history and culture, the Eastern Shore has everything to offer. In this travel guide, we will explore the top things to do, see and eat in the Eastern Shore, and provide all the information you need for a fun-filled trip.
List of Places to Visit in Eastern Shore
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
The Eastern Shore is steeped in history, and visiting the museums and historical places here is a great way to get an idea about the region’s evolution. Some of the top museums and historic sites to check out are:
-
Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum: This museum features exhibits on the Chesapeake Bay’s culture, environment, and history.
-
Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Visitor Center: Learn about the life of this iconic American hero, who escaped slavery and went on to help others do the same.
-
St. Michaels: This pretty village is home to the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, charming boutiques, and historic homes.
-
Oxford: This charming waterfront town has a rich history and boasts beautiful buildings that date back to the 1700s.
-
Assateague Island: An untamed barrier island noted for its white sand beaches, natural habitat of the Assateague wild horses, and hiking trails.
Natural Attractions of Eastern Shore: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
From bird-watching to biking, to exploring the sandy shores of the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, Eastern Shore offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor sports enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Some of the top natural attractions in the area include:
-
Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge: Home to hundreds of species of birds and animals, this nature reserve is a bird watcher’s paradise.
-
Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge: This park is famous for its wild ponies, and visitors can explore the beach, hike the trails or take a nature tour.
-
The Chesapeake Bay: The largest estuary in the United States offers fantastic fishing, sailing, and kayaking opportunities.
-
The Atlantic Ocean Beaches: The Eastern Shore is home to some of the most pristine beaches on the East Coast.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Eastern Shore
Eastern Shore boasts numerous scenic trails and bike routes that you can explore, whether you’re an experienced hiker or a novice biker. Some of the top hiking and biking routes in the region include:
-
The Schuylkill River Trail: This trail offers stunning views of the river and is perfect for walking and biking.
-
The NCR Trail: This is a 20-mile trail that runs from the Pennsylvania/Maryland line to Ashland, Maryland.
-
Assateague Island: A 37-mile stretch of beach with a variety of trails and routes that range from the easy to the strenuous.
Best Things to Do in Eastern Shore: Activities and Tours
Along with outdoor activities, Eastern Shore also has a lot of things to offer if you’re interested in history and culture. Here are some of the top activities and tours to consider:
-
Chesapeake Bay Lighthouse Tours: Take a cruise on one of the iconic lighthouses in the Chesapeake Bay.
-
Wine and Beer Tastings: The Eastern Shore is famous for its wineries and breweries, and a tasting tour must be on your list.
-
Sunset Cruises: Take a sunset boat tour around one of the beautiful harbors and get a stunning view of the setting sun.
Week-Long Itinerary for Eastern Shore
The Eastern Shore is ideal for taking a week-long vacation. Here is a sample itinerary to help you plan your trip:
Day 1: Arrive in St. Michaels and spend the day exploring the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum and St Michaels’s many boutique stores and restaurants.
Day 2: Explore Oxford’s historic homes, grab lunch, and drive down to Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge for a sunset tour.
Day 3: Take a morning hike and picnic on Assateague Island. Spend the afternoon exploring the pony trails on bike or foot.
Day 4: Head to Cambridge and visit the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Visitor Center Museum, and soak up the history of the area.
Day 5: Take a Chesapeake Bay lighthouse tour before driving to Chincoteague Island for dinner and drinks.
Day 6: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the Chesapeake Bay’s many inlets and coves.
Day 7: Take a leisurely breakfast in one of the many charming breakfast spots and head to the Atlantic Ocean for a day of swimming and surfing.
Food and Drink Scene of Eastern Shore
Must-Try Dishes
The Eastern Shore is famous for its seafood, but there are many other dishes to try, as well. Here are some of the top dishes to savor in the region:
-
Maryland Crab Cakes: A local favorite, this dish is made with blue crab meat, seasoned with Old Bay seasoning, and served with tartar or cocktail sauce.
-
Oyster Fritters: Made with local oysters, these crispy snacks are a must-try.
-
Steamed Clams: Another seafood delicacy, steamed clams are served with melted butter and lemon.
Local Beverages
Along with its great food, the Eastern Shore produces some excellent beverages. Here are some of the most popular local drinks:
-
National Bohemian Beer: Or fondly called as Natty Boh, is a classic Baltimore beer that you need to try.
-
Gin and Tonic: The region’s extensive selection of gin and tonic is perfect for sipping on a summer evening.
-
Local Wines: Eastern Shore is home to many wineries that produce world-class wines from locally-grown grapes.
Where to Stay in Eastern Shore: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Eastern Shore boasts a range of accommodation options to suit every budget.
-
Anchor Inn: Located in the charming town of Cambridge, the Anchor Inn is a historic bed and breakfast that provides an authentic Eastern Shore experience.
-
Robert Morris Inn: A historic inn set on the picturesque Oxford Creek, the Robert Morris Inn is perfect for a romantic getaway.
-
Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay: Located near the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, this resort hotel is perfect for families with kids.
What to Buy in Eastern Shore: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
The Eastern Shore offers an array of souvenirs and local products to bring home.
-
Smith Island Cake: A delicious 8-10 layer cake made with yellow cake and layered with rich chocolate icing, the Smith Island Cake with its unique history is the perfect edible souvenir from the Eastern Shore.
-
Chesapeake Bay Merchandise: From T-shirts to hats, to magnets, Chesapeake Bay merchandise makes a great souvenir that pays homage to the beauty of Maryland.
Local Culture and Customs of Eastern Shore
The Eastern Shore is known for its friendly locals who are always ready to help and entertain. It’s recommended to learn about the region’s customs and way of life before you visit to make the most of your Eastern Shore experience.
Best Time to Visit Eastern Shore
The best time to visit the Eastern Shore is during the summer from June to August when the weather is perfect for outdoor activities, and many events are planned. Spring and fall are also great times to visit when the weather is mild and crowd-thinned.
Do’s and Don’ts of Eastern Shore
Do:
-
Respect the environment: The Eastern Shore is known for its beautiful surroundings, and it is important to help preserve it by not littering and disposing of waste properly.
-
Appreciate the region’s history and culture: The Eastern Shore has a rich history and culture, and visitors should take time to learn and appreciate it.
Don’t:
- Overfish or harm local wildlife: The Chesapeake Bay and the Eastern Shore’s wildlife are an essential part of its ecosystem and culture. Visitors are requested not to harm or disturb them.
Safety and Health
Safety in Eastern Shore
The Eastern Shore is known for its hospitality and safety. Visitors can travel around the region with confidence, but it’s essential to take the usual safety precautions like staying on marked trails while hiking and always locking your car.
Health in Eastern Shore
It’s recommended to carry precautions against mosquito bites during the summer, as cases of West Nile Virus have been reported. Visitors should also take necessary precautions applicable for COVID-19 as it continues to exist around the world.
Getting to Eastern Shore: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Eastern Shore
The closest major airports are Baltimore-Washington International Airport (BWI) and Philadelphia International Airport (PHL). From there, you can rent a car or take a bus/train to the Eastern Shore, or catch a connecting flight to the regional airports in Salisbury and Easton.
Bus Stations Near Eastern Shore
Greyhound Bus Lines offer services from Baltimore and Washington, D.C., to the Eastern Shore.
Other Options
You can drive via the Chesapeake Bay Bridge or take a ferry from Annapolis.
How to Get Around in Eastern Shore
The best way to explore the Eastern Shore is by car, but rental bikes and boats are also available if you want to get around that way.
Where to Go Next from Eastern Shore: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
The Eastern Shore is a great starting point for exploring some magnificent cities nearby, including:
-
Washington DC: Visit the Smithsonian museums and explore the capital’s landmarks.
-
Baltimore: Famous for its charm and Monumental City’s Inner Harbor, it offers visitors plenty of things to do.
Conclusion
With its history, natural beauty, friendly locals, and delicious cuisine, it’s no surprise that the Eastern Shore is a popular destination for tourists. Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities, a chance to unwind, or an opportunity to explore history and culture, Eastern Shore offers something for everyone. We hope this travel guide helps you plan an unforgettable trip to the Eastern Shore of Maryland.
