Memorial Weekend is the unofficial launch of summer. No time for a trip across the bridge to the beach? We have some great ideas for local trips that will quench your thirst for a day by the water.
Just about an hour north of Baltimore, this historic town lies on the banks of the Susquehanna River. Here you will find antique shops, art galleries, marinas and sweeping river views. Along with its tasty food offerings, the Vinyard Wine Bar was awarded “one of the most outstanding restaurant wine lists in the world” by The Wine Spectator. Located in the historic district, it is well worth the trip. Nearby you will find the Stepping Stone Farm Museum – a great place to take the kids.
You can enjoy fishing, boating, camping, and fifteen miles of trails for hiking and equestrian use. The park also contains a family-friendly campground with traditional campsites and cabins. History buffs will be drawn to the restored Rock Run Historic Area with its working gristmill, Carter-Archer Mansion, Jersey Toll House and the remains of the Susquehanna and Tidewater Canal.
3. Kilgore Falls (at Rocks State Park)
The Falling Branch area of Rocks State Park is located about five miles north of the main park. It is home to Maryland's second-highest vertical drop waterfall. This non-developed, environmentally sensitive area has a serene ½-mile hiking trail leading from the parking lot back to the waterfall. Notice: Reservations are required to visit Kilgore Falls on weekends and holidays May 1st through Labor Day. See website below for more information.
4. Loch Raven Reservoir
Want to spend the day on the water just a short drive from Towson? At the Loch Raven Fishing Center, you can rent a jon boat with an electric motor, or one of their kayaks. If you’re lucky, the Canada geese that call the reservoir home will introduce you to their offspring! Not a boat person? There are plenty of hiking trails around Loch Raven, where you can enjoy sweeping views of the water. Swimming is not allowed.
Relaxing with family along the Gunpowder River is a great way to spend an afternoon, or even the entire day! For the hot summer months, your family will enjoy the Hammerman Beach. This is a 1500-foot sandy beach on the Gunpowder River. Bring your kayak or paddleboard to explore the nearby wetlands. Feeling daring? Windsurfers are available for rent.
6. Annapolis
With so many watersports & boating options to choose from, it’s easy to pick the adventure that’s right for you and your group. Whether you choose to relax aboard a public sail or cruise or prefer to charter or captain a boat, the 'Bay' is your oyster! If paddle boarding, kayaking, or canoeing are more your style, you’re also in the right place. While you are there, visit the picturesque waterfront Naval Academy. After a full day have a delicious seafood dinner at one of the town’s many harbor front restaurants.
Do you get bored just sitting on the beach? How about hunting fossils and sharks’ teeth? A little over 2 hours from Baltimore, Calvert Cliffs State Park is a day-use park featuring a sandy beach, unique fossils, an accessible recycled tire playground, fishing, a freshwater and tidal marshland and 13 miles of hiking trails.