Did you know Maryland hosts over 41 million visitors annually, drawn to its incredible blend of natural wonders and cultural treasures? If you’re searching for great places to visit in Maryland, you’re about to uncover a diverse treasure trove that goes far beyond your expectations. From the wild horses of Assateague Island and vibrant urban harbors to picture-worthy state parks and storybook small towns, Maryland delivers bucket-list adventures for every traveler. In this guide, you’ll find expert-ranked destinations, insider tips, and everything you need to craft an unforgettable Maryland getaway—no matter your interests or travel style.

Unveiling Great Places to Visit in Maryland: An Overview

Did you know Maryland hosts over 41 million visitors annually, drawn to its incredible blend of natural wonders and cultural treasures?

Top-ranked great places to visit in Maryland for all interests
Insight into Maryland's iconic attractions, historic towns, parks, and hidden gems
Why these places stand out among places to visit in Maryland
Tips for planning your own Maryland adventure

Serene sunrise over Deep Creek Lake, tranquil atmosphere, forested mountains and rustic cabins reflected in still water

Maryland is renowned for its great places to visit, offering something enticing for every kind of traveler. Whether you crave coastal escapes, crave the thrill of Civil War history, or simply want to relax by a beautiful state park, Maryland’s landscape is packed with diverse destinations. From bustling cities like Baltimore and Annapolis, to untouched valleys and scenic shoreline retreats, each corner offers a unique flavor, distinct culture, and natural beauty. This article is your comprehensive list of the top places to visit in Maryland, expertly ranked and packed with practical insights for making the most of your journey. Let’s dive in!

Methodology: How We Ranked the Great Places to Visit in Maryland

Before sharing our list of the best places to visit in Maryland, it’s important to understand how these destinations made the cut. We considered a blend of criteria, including popularity among visitors, historical significance, natural beauty, family-friendliness, cultural value, and overall accessibility. Our ranking process factored in annual tourist numbers, the uniqueness of each state park or historical site, and local feedback about those can’t-miss locations. Whether you want a kid-approved day trip, a window into Maryland’s vibrant Civil War and maritime history, or simply spectacular scenery, this list will guide you to the state’s most memorable experiences.

Criteria for Listing Maryland's Top Destinations	Description
Visitor Popularity	Annual tourists
Historical Significance	Sites of Civil War, colonial, or maritime history
Natural Beauty	State park, falls state park, and unique landscapes
Family-Friendly	Kid- and pet-friendly places to visit
Cultural Value	Museums, Maryland Science Center, music, and local food
Accessibility	Ease of access and amenities

Selecting great places to visit in Maryland wasn’t just about tourist numbers nor only the beauty of a state park. We matched visitor reviews with travel expert insights to highlight hidden treasures and major must-see sites alike. This blend ensures you discover a dynamic mix of Maryland’s past, present, and natural charm all in one trip.

The Top 15 Great Places to Visit in Maryland

Deep Creek Lake and State Park
Assateague Island National Seashore (wild horses)
Ocean City Boardwalk
Fort McHenry National Monument
Swallow Falls State Park
Calvert Cliffs State Park
Maryland Science Center
Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park
Smith Island
St. Michaels Maritime Museum
Annapolis Historic District
Antietam National Battlefield (Civil War history)
Baltimore Inner Harbor
Brookside Gardens
Patapsco Valley State Park

This list covers Maryland’s best blend of adventure, history, and iconic landscapes. From Deep Creek Lake’s forested serenity to seaside wonders, every spot ensures a memorable Maryland adventure for families, couples, and solo explorers alike.

1. Deep Creek Lake and Deep Creek Lake State Park

Why Deep Creek is a Must-See Place to Visit in Maryland

Activities: boating, hiking, winter sports
Deep Creek Lake scenery
Deep Creek Lake State Park amenities

"No Maryland getaway is complete without a sunrise at Deep Creek Lake."

Nestled in Western Maryland, Deep Creek Lake is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful escape. This region is famed for its year-round activities—boating and fishing during warm months, hiking scenic trails through autumn forests, and winter sports when snowfall transforms the landscape. The lake itself is Maryland’s largest, and Deep Creek Lake State Park offers easy access to boat launches, sandy beaches, and well-maintained campsites. Whether you’re searching for family-friendly fun, an active romantic getaway, or serene mornings by the water, Deep Creek is an essential addition to your list of great places to visit in Maryland.

For nature lovers, Deep Creek’s forested slopes, calm mornings, and vibrant wildlife put this region alongside the best state parks in the area. The surrounding cabins and lodges make it ideal for year-round visitors—from misty sunrises in spring to autumn leaf-peeping or cozy fireside snow days. With diverse amenities, accessible trails, and a welcoming small-town atmosphere, Deep Creek Lake is the perfect place to unplug, unwind, and connect with Maryland’s wilder side.

2. Assateague Island: Wild Horses and Natural Wonder

Unique Features of Assateague Island—A Top Place to Visit in Maryland

Wild horses on the beach
Pristine coastline
Camping and kayaking

Assateague Island National Seashore is one of Maryland’s great places to visit, famous for its wild horses, windswept dunes, and quiet, unspoiled beaches. The sight of wild horses roaming the shoreline is iconic—there’s nothing quite like it on the East Coast. Beyond its legendary horses, Assateague offers expansive stretches of undisturbed beach perfect for swimming, shell hunting, and relaxing under clear blue skies.

Adventure seekers can enjoy kayaking through salt marshes or camping beneath the stars. Bird enthusiasts will appreciate the rich diversity along the coast, while families are drawn to the accessible picnic areas and well-maintained nature trails. With its pristine natural beauty and sense of wild freedom, Assateague Island is a standout on any Maryland itinerary—a place where nature truly takes center stage. Don’t miss it if you’re seeking the ultimate coastal retreat!

3. Ocean City: The Classic Maryland Beach Escape

Shoreline Fun in One of the Most Popular Places to Visit in Maryland

Ocean City Boardwalk
Water sports, mini-golf, and nightlife
Family activities and beach festivals

Few places to visit in Maryland are as iconic as Ocean City. The three-mile boardwalk is packed with nostalgic amusements, local eateries, and live entertainment. Ocean City shines as a summer destination, with lively beaches, carnival rides, and rip-roaring festivals that draw crowds year after year. It’s not just the boardwalk that brings people back—jet skiing, fishing, paddle boarding, and thrilling waterparks offer every kind of seaside thrill.

Families love Ocean City for its beachside arcades, mini-golf courses, and perfectly sandy shores, while nightlife seekers make the most of vibrant bars, music, and a legendary crab cake scene. Whether you visit during spring break, summer festivals, or quieter fall weekends, Ocean City remains a must-see among great places to visit in Maryland for endless shoreline fun.

4. Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine

Civil War to Star-Spangled Banner: Fort McHenry as a Place to Visit in Maryland

Star-Spangled Banner birthplace
Fort tours and reenactments
Educational programs

In Baltimore’s harbor stands Fort McHenry National Monument, a landmark deeply tied to American history. The fort played a pivotal role in the War of 1812 and is famously where the “Star-Spangled Banner” was inspired. Today, it is one of Maryland’s most visited historical sites, with immersive ranger tours, engaging re-enactments, and exhibits that bring Civil War and early American history to life.

Visitors can explore barracks, walk the ramparts, and see daily flag-raising ceremonies. With panoramic views of Baltimore’s waterfront and family-friendly educational events, Fort McHenry stands tall among the top places to visit in Maryland—connecting past and present in unforgettable ways.

5. Swallow Falls State Park: Maryland’s Waterfall Wonderland

What Makes Swallow Falls State Park a Must-See Place to Visit

Scenic hiking trails
Maryland's tallest waterfall
Picnic and camping areas

Swallow Falls State Park invites visitors to explore some of Maryland’s most breathtaking forest and waterfall scenery. The park is home to Muddy Creek Falls—the state’s tallest at 53 feet—as well as a series of picturesque cascades, hemlock groves, and shaded hiking trails. It’s a true adventure for anyone who loves the outdoors, offering tranquil spots for picnics and campsites nestled in natural beauty.

Photographers, hikers, and families flock here for the stunning views, accessible trails, and the comforting sound of rushing water. If you value state parks for their pristine landscapes, unique ecosystems, and opportunities for both quiet reflection and active exploration, Swallow Falls deserves a top spot on your Maryland travel itinerary.

6. Calvert Cliffs State Park: Fossil Hunting and More

Unique Adventure at Calvert Cliffs—A Top State Park

Fossil hunting
Sandy beaches
Nature trails and wildlife

If you dream of adventure, Calvert Cliffs State Park offers an experience like no other in Maryland. Here, ancient cliffs tower above the shoreline, creating prime territory for fossil hunters seeking prehistoric treasures. The park’s sandy beaches are a favorite spot for families, while its scenic trails loop through forests rich in native wildlife.

Bringing together geology, paleontology, and natural beauty, Calvert Cliffs stands out among state parks for its fun, educational, and one-of-a-kind activities. Whether you’re searching for million-year-old shark teeth or simply want to relax by the bay, Calvert Cliffs is a great place to add to your Maryland adventure checklist.

7. Maryland Science Center: Baltimore’s Interactive Icon

Why the Maryland Science Center Is a Must-Visit in Maryland

Hands-on exhibits
Planetarium and IMAX
Family fun for all ages

Located on Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, the Maryland Science Center is not just for kids—it’s a top-tier destination for hands-on discovery, learning, and family fun. Interactive exhibits cover everything from physics and biology to astronomy, while the planetarium and IMAX theater provide memorable immersive experiences. For families seeking great places to visit in Maryland (rain or shine), this science center is a clear favorite.

With rotating special exhibits, workshops, and activities for visitors of all ages, it’s easy to spend an entire afternoon exploring. Convenient harbor views, accessible amenities, and a renowned cafe round out a science-filled day—no wonder it’s one of Maryland’s most-loved cultural attractions.

8. Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park

Exploring History Along the C&O Canal

Biking and hiking trails
Civil War history sites
Canal boat tours

The Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park stretches for 184 miles alongside the Potomac River, linking history and recreation in equal measure. Once a vital transport route, the canal corridor is now a haven for bikers, hikers, and anyone eager to experience old locks, historic towns, and remnants of Maryland’s Civil War past.

Canal boat tours allow you to travel back in time, exploring life on the water as it was centuries ago. The canal’s path also takes you through beautiful forests, scenic river overlooks, and sites where major Civil War events unfolded. It’s an essential destination for active travelers, history buffs, and anyone eager to see a different side of Maryland’s countryside.

9. Smith Island: Maryland’s Remote Getaway

Smith Island’s Unique Charm as a Place to Visit in Maryland

Smith Island cake
Crab shacks and small-town life
Kayaking and bird-watching

For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path escape, Smith Island is a true Maryland treasure. Accessible only by ferry, Smith Island is beloved for its slow pace, local hospitality, and picturesque Chesapeake Bay vistas. The island’s namesake cake—a decadent, many-layered dessert—is a Maryland delicacy you simply must try, while fresh blue crab and crab cakes from local shacks deliver classic flavors of the Eastern Shore.

Beyond the must-taste cuisine, Smith Island offers tranquil kayaking through its marshes, outstanding bird-watching, and a friendly sense of community that feels worlds away from Maryland’s busy cities. It’s both a step back in time and a reminder of what makes small-town coastal life so special.

10. St. Michaels & the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum

Maritime Heritage in St. Michaels—a Premier Place to Visit

Historic ships
Boatbuilding demonstrations
Seafood restaurants

St. Michaels is the quintessential Chesapeake Bay town. Its Maritime Museum preserves centuries of seafaring history—complete with historic ships, working boatyards, and hands-on boatbuilding demonstrations. Visitors can discover traditional crab cake recipes at waterfront seafood restaurants, stroll bustling marinas, or simply watch the boats glide by in the harbor.

The town’s historic architecture, boutique shops, and lively community events make it the prettiest town in Maryland for many travelers. For history lovers, foodies, and those drawn to the water, St. Michaels is a Maryland must-see.

11. Annapolis Historic District: Maryland’s Colonial Gem

Experience Maryland’s Capital—the Heart of History

Naval Academy tours
Colonial architecture
Waterfront dining

As Maryland’s capital, Annapolis boasts timeless colonial charm—picture cobbled streets, colorful row houses, and breathtaking waterfront views at every turn. The U.S. Naval Academy campus offers enlightening tours, while the city’s historic heart brims with art museums, boutique shopping, and diverse cuisine. Outdoor cafes overlook sailboats in Spa Creek, and every street tells a story from Maryland’s rich past.

Great places to visit in Maryland often blend history with modern flair, and Annapolis does this perfectly. It’s also an excellent spot for foodies, with legendary crab cakes, contemporary fusion cuisine, and farm-to-table dining all available on the waterfront. A trip to Maryland isn’t complete without a stroll through the heart of its historic capital.

12. Antietam National Battlefield: Civil War Landmark

Civil War Remembrance at Antietam—a Historical Place to Visit

Battlefield tours and reenactments
Civil War exhibits
Memorial events

Antietam National Battlefield memorializes one of the most significant battles in American history. Located near Sharpsburg, the site’s meticulously preserved fields, monuments, and interpretive trails immerse visitors in the dramatic events of the Civil War. Guided tours and living history reenactments create powerful connections between the past and present.

The park’s exhibits detail personal stories, military strategies, and the battle’s impact on both Maryland and the nation. Whether you’re a history buff or simply eager to reflect on America’s legacy, Antietam’s hallowed grounds are a moving and educational experience among Maryland’s great places to visit.

13. Baltimore Inner Harbor: Culture and Entertainment

Iconic Urban Experience at a Great Place to Visit in Maryland

National Aquarium
Harbor cruises
Shops and dining

Baltimore’s Inner Harbor is the epicenter of urban entertainment in Maryland. The area pulses with energy—featuring top museums like the National Aquarium, music venues, art galleries, casual waterfront restaurants, and luxury shops. Visitors can join harbor cruises for city skyline views, or wander the lively promenade connecting Fells Point to Federal Hill.

Whatever your interests—marine life, history, or the best in Maryland’s food scene—the Inner Harbor offers it all within a walkable, family-friendly setting. The area’s cultural institutions, spectacular scenery, and vibrant events calendar make it one of the most dynamic places to visit in Maryland any time of year.

14. Brookside Gardens: A Botanical Place to Visit in Maryland

Strolling Through Brookside Gardens

Themed gardens and walking paths
Butterfly house
Seasonal events

Brookside Gardens is a sanctuary for plant lovers and anyone searching for peaceful green space. Set within Wheaton Regional Park, these beautifully designed gardens showcase seasonal displays, from cherry blossoms to vibrant autumn foliage. Highlights include a fragrant rose garden, a whimsical butterfly house, and tranquil walking paths perfect for slow strolls and reflection.

Brookside is family-friendly, accessible, and frequently hosts educational workshops, art shows, and community events. For a different kind of great place to visit in Maryland—one that both soothes and inspires—Brookside Gardens is not to be missed.

15. Patapsco Valley State Park: Outdoor Adventure Awaits

Patapsco Valley: A Diverse and Dynamic Place to Visit

Over 200 miles of trails
River recreation spots
Picnic areas and playgrounds

The sprawling Patapsco Valley State Park is one of Maryland’s most beloved destinations for hiking, cycling, and river activities. Its six recreation areas cover more than 16,000 acres, featuring scenic waterfalls, covered bridges, fishing spots, and over 200 miles of trails crisscrossing dense forest and rolling hills.

Families love the playgrounds, picnic shelters, and easy river access; seasoned adventurers seek out quiet coves, biking loops, and challenging hikes. With its range of landscapes and year-round accessibility, Patapsco Valley invites you to tailor your Maryland experience—from lazy riverside afternoons to epic wilderness expeditions.

Beyond the List: More Hidden Great Places to Visit in Maryland

Sugarloaf Mountain
Cunningham Falls State Park
Savage River State Forest
National Shrine Grotto of Lourdes

While the main list features Maryland’s biggest names, there are plenty more gems to discover. Sites like Sugarloaf Mountain (famed hiking views), Cunningham Falls State Park (waterfalls and picnic spots), and Savage River State Forest (remote wilderness adventures) round out any explorer’s dream itinerary. Don’t overlook peaceful, inspiring sites like the National Shrine Grotto of Lourdes for a contemplative escape.

Expert Travel Quotes: Why Travelers Love Places to Visit in Maryland

"Maryland is truly a microcosm of America—mountains in the west, beaches on the east, and history everywhere you look." – State Travel Expert

FAQs: Answers to Common Questions About Great Places to Visit in Maryland

When is the best time to visit Maryland’s state parks?
The best time to visit Maryland’s state parks is during spring and fall for mild weather and beautiful foliage, but summer offers great swimming and picnicking, while winter is ideal for snowscapes at Deep Creek Lake.
Are there family-friendly attractions among the great places to visit in Maryland?
Absolutely! Ocean City, Deep Creek Lake, Brookside Gardens, and the Maryland Science Center are all family-friendly destinations with amenities for kids of all ages.
How accessible are Maryland’s wild horse beaches?
Assateague Island’s wild horse beaches offer paved parking, boardwalk beach access, and accessible restrooms, making them easy to enjoy for most visitors. Some areas may require a short walk.
Which city in Maryland is best for foodies?
Baltimore is top for foodies, with its renowned crab cakes, seafood markets, and a booming scene of classic Maryland dishes and innovative new eateries.

Key Takeaways: Planning a Trip to Great Places to Visit in Maryland

Maryland offers a diverse selection of places to visit—historic, natural, and urban
Deep Creek Lake, Assateague Island, and Ocean City stand out for first-timers
Don’t overlook hidden gems beyond the most visited cities in Maryland

Conclusion: Your Journey to Discover Great Places to Visit in Maryland Starts Here

With so many great places to visit in Maryland, every traveler can build their dream itinerary. Start planning your Maryland adventure today to explore its renowned cities, charming towns, and wild, scenic escapes.

Discover Amazing Places to Visit in Maryland