12 Stunning Hidden Gems in Maryland You Need to See

310

Are you thinking about visiting Maryland this year? Here are some of the most beautiful places to visit in Maryland. These pretty sights and destinations will blow your mind.

I never expected Maryland to steal my heart, but this state seriously surprised me. When I first saw the wild horses galloping freely along Assateague’s pristine beaches at sunset, I knew I had stumbled onto something incredible. Those moments watching these majestic creatures splash through the surf are forever burned into my memory.

From the charming streets of Annapolis where sailboats bob in the harbor to the most beautiful places in Maryland, like the towering Cunningham Falls cascading through pristine forest, this state packs so much variety into one compact package. Ready to discover my 12 favorite spots that showcase Maryland’s stunning natural beauty? Trust me, these places will make you see the Old Line State in a whole new light.

Hidden Gems to Visit in Maryland

Ready to jump into all the prettiest locations in Maryland? As noted above, there’s something for everyone in this corner of the East Coast, from the historic streets of Annapolis to the stunning views at Assateague Island. So keep reading to discover the incredible scenery in Maryland.

Are you looking for scenic city and cultural attractions? Head to Baltimore, where you can explore the vibrant Inner Harbor, visit the renowned National Aquarium, and enjoy delicious crab cakes at local eateries. If you prefer a relaxing getaway in nature, the serene beauty of the Chesapeake Bay is perfect for kayaking, fishing, or simply soaking in the views. For a taste of history, don’t miss the picturesque town of St. Michaels, known for its quaint shops and waterfront charm. Whatever you’re planning, Maryland can accommodate your needs. Here are all the best spots in MD you should know about:

1. Annapolis

• 📍 Location: Central Maryland, about 30 minutes east of Washington D.C. and 45 minutes south of Baltimore
• 🏆 Best For: Maritime enthusiasts ⛵, history buffs 🏛️, foodies 🍽️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Touring the U.S. Naval Academy, strolling the historic downtown, sailing on the Chesapeake Bay
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for mild temperatures and fewer crowds, December for the Lights Parade 🌟
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Historic Inns of Annapolis – Charming accommodations in the heart of downtown

Craving cobblestone streets and sailboats? Annapolis delivers the perfect weekend escape with more 18th-century buildings than anywhere else in America. The United States Naval Academy offers fascinating tours where you can witness midshipmen in their daily routines. I never tire of wandering Main Street with its colorful shops and seafood restaurants serving fresh Chesapeake catches.

Experience the city from the water via scenic cruise or chartered sailboat from the city dock. For maximum charm, visit during the spring sailing races or the December Lights Parade when the harbor transforms into a floating light show. Two days here barely scratches the surface of this compact yet rich destination.

2. Deep Creek Lake

• 📍 Location: Western Maryland, about 3 hours west of Baltimore in Garrett County
• 🏆 Best For: Outdoor adventurers 🚵‍♀️, water sports enthusiasts 🚤, ski lovers ⛷️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Boating on Maryland’s largest lake, hiking in surrounding state parks, skiing at Wisp Resort
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Summer for water activities, winter for skiing, October for fall foliage 🍁
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Lake Pointe Inn – Luxurious B&B with stunning waterfront views

Need a true escape from city life? Deep Creek Lake, Maryland’s largest freshwater lake, offers seasonal thrills across 3,900 acres and 65 miles of shoreline. Summer transforms the lake into an aquatic playground for pontoon boats, jet skis, and kayaks. Anglers find paradise with abundant bass, walleye, and trout.

When winter arrives, Wisp Resort roars to life with 34 ski slopes and snow tubing runs. My favorite hike leads through Swallow Falls State Park to Maryland’s highest waterfall. For peak beauty, visit during the Autumn Glory Festival when the mountainsides explode with color. Plan 3-4 days to fully experience this four-season mountain retreat.

• Read Next: Cozy Cabin Rentals in Deep Creek

3. Assateague Island

• 📍 Location: Eastern Shore of Maryland, about 8 miles south of Ocean City
• 🏆 Best For: Wildlife watchers 🐎, beach lovers 🏖️, campers ⛺
• 📸 Top Experiences: Observing wild horses, beach camping, kayaking the salt marshes
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May-June or September-October for fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Assateague Island National Seashore Campgrounds – Rustic beachside camping with direct access to nature trails and ocean views

Wild horses roaming free on untouched beaches? Welcome to Assateague Island, the 37-mile barrier island that delivers the beach vacation of your dreams. The famous wild ponies steal the show as they graze among dunes and marshes. Legend claims they swam ashore from a shipwrecked Spanish galleon centuries ago.

The pristine beaches offer excellent swimming and shell-collecting without the crowds. I’ve spent hours kayaking through the island’s peaceful marshlands spotting herons and egrets in total solitude. For the ultimate experience, secure an oceanside camping permit. Nothing beats breakfast with potential pony visitors. Spend at least two days exploring both the Maryland and Virginia sections.

4. Baltimore’s Inner Harbor

• 📍 Location: Downtown Baltimore, about 1 hour northeast of Washington D.C.
• 🏆 Best For: Museum enthusiasts 🔭, seafood lovers 🦀, family fun seekers 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring the National Aquarium, visiting historic ships, enjoying Maryland blue crabs
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Late spring and early fall for pleasant temperatures and harbor events 🎭
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Pier 5 Hotel – Waterfront boutique hotel within walking distance of major attractions

Work hard, play hard in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, where urban renewal meets world-class attractions in a compact, walkable neighborhood. The National Aquarium houses over 20,000 aquatic creatures in spectacular habitats including a multi-story Atlantic coral reef. History buffs can explore the USS Constellation and other historic vessels docked along the promenade.

The Maryland Science Center offers hands-on exhibits perfect for curious minds. I always make time for authentic Maryland blue crabs at a harbor restaurant. Take the water taxi to connect with Fells Point and Federal Hill nearby. Two full days provides just enough time to hit the highlights of this attraction-packed district.

5. Catoctin Mountain Park

• 📍 Location: Northern Maryland, about 1 hour northwest of Baltimore in Frederick County
• 🏆 Best For: Hikers 🥾, nature photographers 📸, history enthusiasts 🏛️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking to scenic vistas, exploring waterfalls, visiting nearby Camp David
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Spring for wildflowers, October for spectacular fall colors 🍂
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Ole Mink Farm Recreation Resort – Cozy mountain cabins nestled in the woods with modern amenities and quick access to park trails

Need forest bathing without the crowds? Catoctin Mountain Park offers a peaceful 5,800-acre woodland retreat where even presidents seek solitude at nearby Camp David. Well-maintained trails lead to rewards like the panoramic Chimney Rock overlook and Cunningham Falls, Maryland’s largest cascading waterfall.

Wildlife abounds with white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and over 100 bird species. History threads throughout the park from indigenous settlements to iron forge ruins. I could spend hours photographing the forest in October when the leaves reach peak color. The nearby Catoctin Furnace Historical Society provides insights into the area’s industrial past. Book a rustic cabin for a true immersion in this mountain wilderness.

6. Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park

• 📍 Location: Western Maryland, stretching 184.5 miles from Georgetown to Cumberland
• 🏆 Best For: Cyclists 🚲, history buffs 🏛️, bird watchers 🦅
• 📸 Top Experiences: Biking the towpath, exploring historic locks and aqueducts, boat rides on replica canal boats
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for comfortable temperatures and beautiful foliage 🍁
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Georgetown Inn – A charming hotel in nearby Georgetown offering modern amenities, a cozy atmosphere, and easy access to the canal’s scenic views

Cyclists and history lovers rejoice! The Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park offers 184.5 miles of car-free adventure along a historic waterway tracing the Potomac River. The flat, crushed-stone towpath passes 74 historic locks, stone aqueducts, and charming canal towns. Great Falls provides the most dramatic scenery with thundering waterfalls and rocky gorges.

I always recommend the replica canal boat rides at Georgetown, where rangers in period costume demonstrate lock operations. Wildlife thrives along the canal, with great blue herons and beavers frequently spotted. Book a stay in a restored lockhouse for the ultimate immersive experience. Plan for day trips to specific sections or tackle the entire length over multiple days.

7. Harpers Ferry National Historical Park

• 📍 Location: Eastern panhandle of West Virginia and Maryland, about 1.5 hours northwest of Washington D.C.
• 🏆 Best For: History enthusiasts 🏛️, outdoor adventurers 🥾, photographers 📸
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring Civil War sites, hiking the Appalachian Trail, white water rafting on the Potomac
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Spring for wildflowers 🌸, fall for spectacular foliage 🍂 (September-October)
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Towns Inn – Historic lodging in the heart of Lower Town Harpers Ferry

Craving that perfect mix of adventure and history without a transatlantic flight? Harpers Ferry delivers at the stunning confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers. This historic town witnessed John Brown’s infamous 1859 raid that helped ignite the Civil War. The Lower Town historic district feels frozen in time with restored 19th-century buildings housing fascinating museums.

Hike up to Jefferson Rock for a view so impressive that Thomas Jefferson himself declared it worth crossing an ocean to see. You’ll love discovering that this marks the psychological halfway point of the 2,190-mile Appalachian Trail. The surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains offer over 20 miles of trails ranging from casual riverside walks to challenging mountain ascents. I’ve never experienced a better blend of natural beauty and pivotal American history in one compact destination.

8. Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge

• 📍 Location: Eastern Shore of Maryland, about 2 hours from Baltimore and Washington D.C.
• 🏆 Best For: Bird watchers 🦅, wildlife photographers 📸, kayakers 🛶
• 📸 Top Experiences: Wildlife Drive auto tour, paddling the water trails, spotting bald eagles and migratory birds
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November-February for massive waterfowl migrations, March-April to see osprey return 🦅
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay – Upscale resort about 30 minutes away in Cambridge

Need a wildlife escape that doesn’t require a passport? Blackwater Refuge offers an East Coast Everglades experience across 28,000 acres of pristine wetlands. The refuge hosts the largest breeding population of bald eagles on the East Coast north of Florida. The 4-mile Wildlife Drive provides an easy introduction with multiple spots to scan for great blue herons and massive gatherings of snow geese in winter.

For a truly immersive experience, paddle one of the marked water trails winding through cypress trees where you might glimpse river otters or endangered Delmarva fox squirrels. The flat landscape creates dream conditions for photography, especially at golden hour. My favorite time to visit is dawn, when the mist rises from the marshes and the wildlife activity peaks. This vanishing landscape loses up to 300 acres annually to sea level rise.

9. Great Falls of the Potomac

• 📍 Location: Northern Maryland/Virginia border, about 30 minutes from Washington D.C.
• 🏆 Best For: Waterfall chasers 💦, hikers 🥾, rock climbers 🧗‍♀️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Viewing the falls from three overlooks, hiking the Billy Goat Trail, watching kayakers brave the rapids
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Spring for raging waters after snowmelt, fall for colorful foliage 🍂, weekdays to avoid crowds
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Lansdowne Resort – Luxurious accommodations about 25 minutes away in Leesburg

Want to witness nature’s raw power within minutes of the capital? Great Falls showcases the mighty Potomac River dropping 76 feet over jagged rocks through the narrow Mather Gorge. This geological marvel represents millions of years of erosion carving through ancient bedrock. The Maryland side offers three overlooks, each providing a unique perspective of the thundering falls.

For an adrenaline rush, tackle the Billy Goat Trail Section A, a challenging 1.7-mile route that includes scrambling over boulders with stunning river views as your reward. Beyond the falls, explore remnants of the historic Chesapeake and Ohio Canal including a restored lock house. I often grab a morning coffee and arrive early to watch the mist rise off the water before the crowds appear. Weekend visitors might catch expert kayakers tackling Class V+ rapids.

10. Smith Island

• 📍 Location: Middle Chesapeake Bay, Maryland, accessed by ferry from Crisfield (1.5 hours from Ocean City)
• 🏆 Best For: Cultural explorers 🏠, kayakers 🛶, seafood lovers 🦀
• 📸 Top Experiences: Eating authentic Smith Island cake, taking a guided boat tour, exploring marshes by kayak
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May through September for warm weather and full services 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Smith Island Inn – Charming waterfront B&B with authentic island hospitality

Searching for an authentic cultural experience without international travel? Smith Island offers Maryland’s only inhabited offshore island, accessible only by boat. The island’s roughly 200 residents speak with a unique dialect, preserving elements of 17th-century English. Exploring this car-free island means traveling by foot, bicycle, or boat. The main village of Ewell provides a glimpse into the watermen’s way of life, largely unchanged for generations.

Sample the famous Smith Island cake with its 8-15 impossibly thin layers before burning calories with a guided kayak tour through surrounding marshlands. The best sunset view I’ve found anywhere on the Chesapeake is from the western shore of Smith Island as the golden light bathes the distant mainland. Overnight stays reveal the island’s unhurried rhythm and star-filled skies undimmed by city lights.

11. Savage River State Forest

• 📍 Location: Western Maryland, about 3 hours from Baltimore and Washington D.C.
• 🏆 Best For: Wilderness hikers 🥾, fly fishermen 🎣, fall foliage seekers 🍂
• 📸 Top Experiences: Fly fishing for trout, hiking the Big Savage Trail, spotting wildlife in Maryland’s largest state forest
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Mid-October for peak fall colors, May-June for wildflowers and comfortable hiking temperatures
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Haley Farm Inn and Retreat Center – The Beautiful Farm Suite provides a cozy retreat with a queen-size bed, private bathroom, and a two-person Jacuzzi

Yearning for a wilderness escape without booking a flight to the Rockies? Savage River State Forest covers nearly 55,000 acres of rugged mountain terrain in western Maryland. Home to the state’s only designated wild river, this forest feels worlds away from urban life. The 17-mile Big Savage Trail traverses the spine of Big Savage Mountain with panoramic views spanning three states.

For a gentler experience, Poplar Lick Trail follows its namesake stream through towering hemlock trees over 300 years old. Fly fishing enthusiasts revere the catch-and-release section for its wild brown and brook trout. Wildlife watchers might glimpse black bears, bobcats, or even elk that wandered from Pennsylvania. The forest transforms in autumn when countless sugar maples burst into fiery colors that glow against the deep green hemlocks. Nothing recharges my batteries like a weekend in this pristine wilderness.

12. Brookside Gardens

• 📍 Location: Montgomery County, Maryland, about 30 minutes north of Washington D.C.
• 🏆 Best For: Plant lovers 🌸, photographers 📸, peaceful retreats 🧘
• 📸 Top Experiences: Strolling through themed gardens, visiting the butterfly exhibit, attending seasonal light displays
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April-May for spring blooms 🌷, July for water lilies, September-October for fall colors 🍂
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Cambria Hotel Rockville – Modern accommodations about 15 minutes away

Need a mental health day without using vacation time? Brookside Gardens offers 50 acres of horticultural therapy just minutes from the Beltway. This botanical showcase features carefully curated spaces that flow seamlessly into one another. The stunning Rose Garden displays both heirloom and modern varieties while the Japanese Garden offers tranquility with meticulously pruned bonsai and a gently arching bridge over a koi pond.

The Conservatory keeps tropical plants thriving year-round regardless of Maryland weather. Summer visitors should experience the enchanting “Wings of Fancy” exhibit where hundreds of tropical butterflies flutter freely around you. Winter transforms the gardens with the magical “Garden of Lights” display featuring over one million colorful lights. Sometimes I bring my laptop to one of the quiet benches and find my productivity soars in this peaceful setting.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visiting the Beautiful Places in Maryland

Looking to expand your knowledge about the most scenic spots in Maryland? Here are some common questions I get a lot about the best Maryland attractions and activities.

What is the number 1 tourist attraction in Maryland?

While it’s challenging to pinpoint just one, Annapolis is often regarded as one of the most beautiful places in Maryland. Its historic charm and waterfront views make it a top attraction.

What is beautiful about Maryland?

Maryland boasts a diverse landscape, from sandy shores to mountainous regions, making it a state filled with beautiful places to visit in Maryland.

Which destinations are recommended for nature enthusiasts?

For those who love nature, the most scenic places in Maryland include Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge and Deep Creek Lake, offering serene landscapes and abundant wildlife.

Where should I go for a unique travel experience in Maryland?

For a distinctive experience, St. Michaels is a unique place to visit. Known for its maritime history, it’s a hidden gem in the state.

Which part of Maryland is beautiful?

Maryland is a state with diverse landscapes and a wide range of beautiful areas to explore. From the mountains to the coast, here are some particularly scenic parts of Maryland:

Western Maryland

• Deep Creek Lake: A popular destination for boating, fishing, hiking, and skiing, offering stunning mountain views.
• Cumberland: Known for its historic charm, the Great Allegheny Passage, and the scenic Western Maryland Scenic Railroad.
• Garrett County: Home to beautiful forests, waterfalls, and state parks like Swallow Falls State Park.

Central Maryland

• Annapolis: Maryland’s capital city, known for its historic architecture, waterfront, and the U.S. Naval Academy.
• Baltimore’s Inner Harbor: Offers a blend of urban and waterfront beauty with attractions like the National Aquarium.
• Patapsco Valley State Park: Offers hiking, biking, and beautiful views of the Patapsco River.

Eastern Shore

• St. Michaels: A picturesque waterfront town with charming streets, boutiques, and seafood restaurants.
• Assateague Island: Famous for its wild horses, sandy beaches, and salt marshes.
• Chesapeake Bay: The largest estuary in the U.S., offering boating, fishing, and stunning sunsets.

Southern Maryland

• Solomons Island: Known for its marinas, seafood, and the Calvert Marine Museum.
• Point Lookout State Park: Offers a mix of history and natural beauty with views of the Chesapeake Bay and Potomac River.

Near Washington, D.C.

• Great Falls: Part of the C&O Canal National Historical Park, Great Falls offers dramatic views of the Potomac River’s rapids and waterfalls.

Scenic Byways

• Chesapeake Country Scenic Byway: Takes you through charming towns, farmland, and waterfront areas.
• Mountain Maryland Scenic Byway: Offers breathtaking mountain views and opportunities to explore Appalachian history.

Why is Maryland a top destination for tourists?

With its rich history, diverse landscapes, and cultural festivities, Maryland is one of the must-see in Maryland destinations that captivates travelers.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Beautiful Places in Maryland

Maryland, with its diverse landscapes and rich history, truly offers some of the most beautiful places of Maryland for travelers to explore. Going to Maryland is like opening a book filled with captivating stories, each location narrating its unique tale. From the bustling cities to the serene coastlines, every pretty destination beckons with its own charm.

The best part of Maryland is its ability to surprise and enchant its visitors at every turn. It does not matter if you’re a history enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or someone simply looking for a place to relax in Maryland, this state has something for everyone. The Maryland beauty is not just in its scenic spots but also in its vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and the warmth of its people.

For those wondering where to go in Maryland, this guide has hopefully illuminated some of the top destinations. Yet, the true essence of Maryland lies in its hidden gems, waiting to be discovered. So, whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, Maryland promises a journey filled with unforgettable memories.

Remember, the beautiful places of Maryland are not just destinations; they’re experiences, waiting to be lived. So pack your bags, set your itinerary, and embark on a journey through one of America’s most enchanting states. Happy travels!