Solomons Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Solomons, Maryland with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the top attractions, best places to stay, and how to get around in Solomons.


Introduction to Solomons

Solomons is a charming waterfront town in Southern Maryland, situated on the Patuxent River and the Chesapeake Bay. It is home to a vibrant maritime community with a rich history, cultural attractions, and natural beauty. If you are looking for a tranquil escape or an outdoor adventure, Solomons has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Solomons

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Solomons is steeped in history, and the town has several culturally important attractions that visitors can explore. The Calvert Marine Museum is a must-visit attraction in Solomons, with exhibits on the ecology and maritime history of the Chesapeake Bay. Visitors can also see the Drum Point Lighthouse, which was built in 1883 and is open for tours. The Solomons Island Winery is another cultural attraction worth visiting, where visitors can learn about the winemaking process and taste some of the best wines in Southern Maryland.

Natural Attractions of Solomons: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Solomons is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, with several natural attractions that visitors can explore. The Annmarie Sculpture Garden and Arts Center is a beautiful 30-acre park with over 100 exhibits, including sculptures, pottery, and painting. Visitors can also explore the wildlife of the Chesapeake Bay by going on a charter boat tour or kayaking around Solomons Island. The Calvert Cliffs State Park is another natural attraction worth visiting, with hiking trails, a sandy beach, and stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Solomons

Solomons has several hiking trails and bike paths for visitors to enjoy. The Island Trail is a scenic walk that takes visitors through the heart of the town, passing by the picturesque harbor and the Solomons Island Boardwalk. The Chesapeake Bay Critical Area Trail is another popular walking trail that offers stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay. Bikers can enjoy the Solomons Island Loop Trail, which stretches for 10 miles and takes visitors through the beautiful countryside of Solomons.

Best Things to Do in Solomons: Activities and Tours

Solomons offers several activities and tours that visitors can enjoy during their stay. Visitors can go on a sunset sailing tour of the Chesapeake Bay, rent a kayak or paddleboard, or take a scenic bike ride. The Solomons Island Winery also offers wine tasting tours, where visitors can sample some of the best wines in Southern Maryland. Visitors can also explore the charming shops, art galleries, and restaurants in the town center.

Week-Long Itinerary for Solomons

Day 1: Explore the Calvert Marine Museum and see the Drum Point Lighthouse. Day 2: Visit the Annmarie Sculpture Garden and Arts Center and take a charter boat tour of the Chesapeake Bay. Day 3: Hike the trail at Calvert Cliffs State Park and enjoy the sandy beach. Day 4: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the wildlife of the Chesapeake Bay. Day 5: Bike the Solomons Island Loop Trail and explore the countryside. Day 6: Take a sunset sailing tour of the Chesapeake Bay and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Day 7: Visit the Solomons Island Winery and go shopping in the town center.

Food and Drink Scene of Solomons

Must-Try Dishes

Solomons has a diverse food scene, with several restaurants serving cuisine from different parts of the world. Visitors must try the Maryland-style crab cakes, which are a local delicacy and served in most restaurants. The seafood at Stoney’s Seafood House is also worth trying, with dishes like crab imperial, oysters Rockefeller, and shrimp scampi. Visitors can also try the famous cream of crab soup at the CD Cafe, which is made with lump crab meat and cream.

Local Beverages

Solomons Island Winery is a must-visit location for wine lovers, offering a wide variety of wines made with locally grown grapes. Visitors can also try the craft beer at the Ruddy Duck Brewery & Grill, which has a variety of beers including pale ales, stouts, and wheat beers.

Where to Stay in Solomons: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Solomons has several accommodation options for visitors, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. The Hilton Garden Inn Solomons is a popular hotel choice for visitors, offering a waterfront view of the harbor and easy access to the town center. The Solomons Victorian Inn is a charming bed and breakfast located in the heart of town and offers a homey atmosphere. Visitors can also stay at the Solomons Island Yacht Club, which has comfortable rooms and access to the yacht club amenities.

What to Buy in Solomons: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors can find several unique and locally made products to bring back home as souvenirs. The Calvert Marine Museum Store has a variety of gifts, including nautical-themed clothing and jewelry, children’s books, and toys. Visitors can also find locally made pottery and art at the Annmarie Sculpture Garden and Arts Center or shop for handmade items at the Solomons Island Farmers Market.

Local Culture and Customs of Solomons

Solomons has a deep maritime culture with a rich history and traditions. Visitors can learn about the life of watermen and see exhibits related to the Chesapeake Bay’s ecology and the bay’s history at the Calvert Marine Museum. Visitors can also explore the town’s art scene and attend events at the Annmarie Sculpture Garden and Arts Center or the Solomons Island Center for the Arts.

Best Time to Visit Solomons

The best time to visit Solomons is during the spring and fall seasons when the weather is mild and pleasant. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and biking without the summer heat and humidity. The fall season is also a popular time to visit Solomons when the foliage colors are at their peak, making it a perfect time for nature enthusiasts.

Do’s and Don’ts of Solomons

Do:

  • Do sample the Maryland-style crab cakes and cream of crab soup.
  • Do explore the town center and the shops, art galleries, and restaurants.
  • Do take a sunset sailing tour of the Chesapeake Bay.
  • Do visit the Calvert Marine Museum and the Annmarie Sculpture Garden and Arts Center.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or harm the natural environment in Solomons.
  • Don’t skip the opportunity to explore the great outdoors.
  • Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay.

Safety and Health

Safety in Solomons

Solomons is a relatively safe town with a low crime rate. Visitors should take standard precautions such as keeping valuables out of sight and being aware of their surroundings when exploring the town center or going on outdoor adventures.

Health in Solomons

Visitors to Solomons should take precautions to avoid tick bites, which can cause Lyme disease. Visitors should wear long pants and sleeves and use insect repellent when hiking or biking in wooded areas.

Getting to Solomons: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Solomons

Visitors can fly into the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) or the Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI). Solomons is approximately 60-90 minutes driving time from either airport.

Bus Stations Near Solomons

Greyhound has a station in nearby Lexington Park, Maryland, which is just 15 minutes away from Solomons.

Other Options

Visitors can also drive to Solomons, which is easily accessible from major highways like Route 2/4. Visitors can also take the Amtrak train to Washington, D.C., and rent a car to drive to Solomons.

How to Get Around in Solomons

Visitors can easily explore the town center on foot or bike. For visitors who need transportation, there are several taxi services available in Solomons, including the Calvert County Taxi Service. Visitors can also rent a car at the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport or the Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport.

Where to Go Next from Solomons: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors to Solomons can explore nearby attractions, including the historic town of St. Mary’s City, which was founded in 1634 and is located just 30 minutes away. The Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum is also worth a visit, located in St. Michael’s, Maryland, just an hour and a half away. Visitors can also explore the national monuments and museums in Washington, D.C., which is just an hour and a half away.

Conclusion

Solomons, Maryland, is a hidden gem on the Chesapeake Bay, offering a perfect escape for those seeking outdoor adventure, cultural attractions, and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the town center’s charming shops and restaurants, hike the trails at Calvert Cliffs State Park, and kayak around Solomons Island. With its maritime culture, diverse food scene, and proximity to nearby attractions, Solomons is a perfect destination for a memorable trip.

Solomons Waterfront Solomons Waterfront Drum Point Lighthouse Drum Point Lighthouse Calvert Cliffs State Park Calvert Cliffs State Park