Southern Maryland Travel Guide

Explore the beauty of Southern Maryland, from its world-class museums and historical places to natural attractions and outdoor adventures. Find out where to stay, what to eat and drink, and transportation options to help you plan your trip to Southern Maryland.


Introduction to Southern Maryland

Located in the heart of Mid-Atlantic lies Southern Maryland, a region shaped by the Chesapeake Bay and steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty. This stunning region is made up of Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary’s counties, and offers visitors a diverse range of activities, making it an excellent destination for nature lovers, history buffs, and adventure seekers.

List of Places to Visit in Southern Maryland

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • St. Clements Island Museum: Discover the history of St. Clements Island, the site where the first settlers landed in Maryland in 1634.
  • Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum: This 560-acre park showcases Maryland’s cultural and natural resources with exhibits, archeological digs, and trails.
  • Calvert Marine Museum: Explore the maritime heritage of the Chesapeake Bay with the museum’s impressive collection of boats, artifacts, and aquariums.
  • Dr. Samuel A. Mudd House Museum: Visit the historic home of Dr. Mudd, who treated John Wilkes Booth after he assassinated President Abraham Lincoln.

Natural Attractions of Southern Maryland: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Solomons Island: Enjoy a picturesque stroll on the boardwalk or a boat cruise while observing the stunning views of the Patuxent River.
  • Calvert Cliffs State Park: Hike the popular Blue Trail to the cliffs overlooking the Chesapeake Bay or search for fossils on the beach.
  • Elms Beach Park: A perfect spot for a picnic with beach access, playground, and walking trails.
  • Piney Point Lighthouse, Museum & Historic Park: Stroll along the beach and watch the sunset over the Potomac River with a stunning view of the original lighthouse as a backdrop.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Southern Maryland

Southern Maryland is a paradise for hikers and bikers with its network of scenic trails. Here are the top three trails:

  • Three Notch Trail: This 25-mile trail is suitable for walking or biking and offers beautiful views of the countryside.
  • Battle Creek Cypress Swamp Trail: This 0.7-mile easy hike leads visitors through a rare stand of bald cypress trees, one of Maryland’s oldest living species.
  • Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary Trail: This 1.5-mile trail winds through tidal streams, freshwater wetlands, and forests.

Best Things to Do in Southern Maryland: Activities and Tours

  • Kayaking or Canoeing: Rent a kayak or canoe and explore the tranquil waters of the Patuxent River or the Potomac River.
  • Fishing Charters: Experience the thrill of fishing the Chesapeake Bay, home to a variety of fish species like striped bass, bluefish, and croaker.
  • Farmers Markets: Visit one of the many farmers markets in Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary’s counties, where you can buy fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal crafts.

Week-Long Itinerary for Southern Maryland

Day 1: Visit St. Clements Island Museum & Lighthouse Day 2: Hike at Calvert Cliffs State Park and enjoy a sunset dinner at Pax River Naval Air Museum Day 3: Explore the history of Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum Day 4: Go fishing or kayaking on the Potomac River or Patuxent River Day 5: Visit Calvert Marine Museum and Drum Point Lighthouse Day 6: St. Mary’s City, a historic village with a living history museum Day 7: Enjoy a picnic at Elms Beach Park and go shopping for souvenirs at local markets in Leonardtown.

Food and Drink Scene of Southern Maryland

Must-Try Dishes

  • Stuffed Ham: This controversial seafood dish is made with pickled cabbage, molasses, and mustard, and is stuffed with seasoned sausage or ham.
  • Oysters: Southern Maryland is famous for its oysters, which come in two varieties, the salty Wild Oyster and the mild Beiboys Oyster.
  • Crab Cakes: Made with fresh blue crabs, crab cakes are a Maryland specialty, and Southern Maryland has some of the best.

Local Beverages

  • Calvert Brewing Company: Try the brewery’s famous beers, including the Wye Rye or the Lip-Smackin’ Lemon Shandy.
  • Port of Leonardtown Winery: Enjoy a wine tasting with locally grown grapes, including chardonnay, viognier, and red blends.

Where to Stay in Southern Maryland: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Chesapeake Beach Resort & Spa: A waterfront hotel with stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay and a full spa.
  • Laurel Grove Inn Bed & Breakfast: A romantic and cozy bed and breakfast, surrounded by serene gardens and woodlands.
  • Hampton Inn by Hilton: Conveniently located hotel chain within commuting distance to Washington, DC.

What to Buy in Southern Maryland: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Two Beautiful Beagles Soap Company: Handmade soaps made with natural ingredients and scented with Southern Maryland-inspired fragrances.
  • Southern MD Candy & Kettle Corn Co: Satisfy your sweet tooth with an assortment of candies and artisanal kettle corn.
  • Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center: Browse the local boutique with a range of handmade crafts, jewelry, and pottery.

Local Culture and Customs of Southern Maryland

Southern Maryland’s people are proud of their roots and traditions. The area has a unique dialect called “Tidewater,” characterized by a distinctive accent and local vocabulary. Visitors are encouraged to experience the region’s many festivals, such as the Maryland Seafood Festival, the Renaissance Festival, and the Southern Maryland Celtic Festival.

Best Time to Visit Southern Maryland

The best time to visit Southern Maryland is from March to June, when the weather is pleasant, and the spring flowers are in bloom. The fall months of September to November are also a great time to visit, with mild temperatures and colorful foliage.

Do’s and Don’ts of Southern Maryland

Do:

  • Be respectful of the local culture, including the unique Tidewater dialect.
  • Visit local farmers markets and shops to support local businesses.
  • Try the local cuisine, including oysters, stuffed ham, and crab cakes.

Don’t:

  • Litter on the beaches or while exploring the outdoors.
  • Be disrespectful towards historical landmarks or cultural sites.
  • Leave valuables visible in your car when parked.

Safety and Health

Safety in Southern Maryland

Southern Maryland is generally safe, but visitors should always take precautions to ensure their safety, such as locking their car doors and not leaving valuables in view.

Health in Southern Maryland

Southern Maryland has excellent health care facilities, including MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital, UM Charles Regional Medical Center, and CalvertHealth Medical Center.

Getting to Southern Maryland: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Southern Maryland

  • Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport
  • Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
  • Washington Dulles International Airport

Bus Stations Near Southern Maryland

  • GreyhoundBus Lines
  • Maryland Transit Administration

Other Options

  • Car Rental
  • Amtrak

How to Get Around in Southern Maryland

The best way to explore Southern Maryland is by car or bike. Several car rental companies operate in the area, including Budget, Avis, and Hertz. Biking enthusiasts can explore the region’s many scenic trails enjoy beautiful vistas.

Where to Go Next from Southern Maryland: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Annapolis: Explore Maryland’s capital city with its historic district, the US Naval Academy, museums, and attractions, located just 45 minutes from Southern Maryland.
  • Southern Pennsylvania: Visit Gettysburg National Military Park and other historic sites located just a few hours away from Southern Maryland.
  • Washington, D.C.: The nation’s capital is a short drive, offering world-class museums, attractions and experiences for every type of traveler.

Conclusion

With its rich culture, history, and natural beauty, Southern Maryland is a must-visit destination for travelers looking for a unique and authentic experience. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure or want to learn more about the Chesapeake Bay’s maritime heritage, Southern Maryland has something for everyone.



    Chesapeake Beach
    La Plata
    Solomons
    St. Mary's City