Things to do & places to visit in Maryland, United States

Maryland is known as “America in Miniature” because of its great variations in topography and culture. This makes it a perfect east coat travel destination for those who would like to experience a little bit of everything. From amusement parks, to beaches, to mountains and historical sites, there is plenty to see and do. Each region of Maryland provides its own unique and fun activities to do. If you're headed for some fun in the sun in Ocean City on its eastern coast, be sure not to miss the Ocean City Beach, the Boardwalk, or Trimper's Rides and Amusement Park for an all-ages fun experience. Central Maryland is home to a Six Flags theme park, the Annapolis Golf Club, and countless hubs of art and culture such as the African Art Museum and Annapolis Opera, Inc. Heading to western Maryland? It is perfect for lovers of nature and the outdoors, with the Washington Monument State Park, Wisp Resort ski slopes, and the spectacular Muddy Creek Falls.

Maryland #29 destination in United States 2023. The average rating score is 4.37 based on 151.5k traveler reviews, of 1.991 attractions. Timezone: America/New_York, current date and time: Saturday, April 27, 2024, 19:38.

Top things to do (44)

Top destinations in Maryland 100

See more 88 destinations »

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Oriole Park at Camden Yards (5.087 reviews)
- Going strong at 30 years
Arenas & Stadiums

One of major league baseball's newest stadiums, the Orioles' home field has the intimate feel and charm of an old-fashioned park. See more..
5.0 U.S. Naval Academy (2.992 reviews)
- Tour the Yard - it's amazing!
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Military Museums • Military Bases & Facilities

Established in 1845, this undergraduate college for the Navy prepares men and women to become professional officers in the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. See more..
5.0 The Walters Art Museum (1.474 reviews)
- Don't overlook it.
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Art Museums

The Walters Art Museum is a cultural hub in the heart of Baltimore. Located in the city’s Mount Vernon neighborhood, the Walters is free for all. The museum’s collection spans more than seven millennia, from 5,000 BCE to the 21st century, and encompasses 36,000 objects from around the world. Walking through the museum’s historic buildings, visitors encounter a stunning panorama of thousands of years of art, from romantic 19th-century images of French gardens to mesmerizing Ethiopian icons, richly illuminated Qur’ans and Gospel books, ancient Roman sarcophagi, and serene images of the Buddha. The Walters' mission has been to bring art and people together and to create a place where people of every background can be touched by art. Admission to the museum and special exhibitions is always free. See more..
5.0 Antietam National Battlefield (1.423 reviews)
- A must visit for anyone interested in the Civil War
Saturday: 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM Spent More than 3 hours Historic Walking Areas • National Parks • Battlefields

The Bloodiest One Day Battle in American History: 23,000 soldiers were killed, wounded or missing after twelve hours of savage combat on September 17, 1862. The Battle of Antietam ended the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia's first invasion into the North and led to Abraham Lincoln's issuance of the preliminary Emancipation Proclamation. Antietam National Battlefield is located in western Maryland, 10 miles south of Hagerstown in Washington County. The best place to start your visit is at the park visitor center. The GPS address for the visitor center is 5831 Dunker Church Road, Sharpsburg, Maryland, 21782. We have brochures, museum exhibits, a film, a museum store, and park rangers and volunteers on duty to help you get oriented. The battlefield is approximately 3,000 acres that you can explore in your car or by walking. Operating Hours & Seasons: Open All Year, The Visitor Center is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Park Grounds are open daylight hours. Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years Day The park has an entrance fee of $5.00 Per Person (age 16 or older; 15 and under FREE) or $10.00 Per Vehicle. See more..
5.0 Sagamore Spirit Distillery (1.032 reviews)
- Fun and enlightening Tour
Saturday: 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Distilleries

The Sagamore Spirit Distillery is open Wednesday through Sunday for guided distillery tours and rye whiskey tastings. Located in the heart of Baltimore's Port Covington neighborhood with stunning waterfront views, Sagamore Spirit also offers a full calendar of indoor and outdoor events, including cocktail classes, glass blowing, and waterfront yoga. Sagamore Spirit is recognized internationally for their American Straight Rye Whiskies and is the recipient of over 100 awards for excellence in taste and packaging. See more..
5.0 Northside Park (770 reviews)
- Relaxing vacation no matter when you spend time there.
Parks

Northside Park is located on 125th Street and the Bay. It is Ocean City's largest and most popular park and home to the Recreation and Parks Department administrative offices. This 58-acre complex boasts three lighted softball/baseball fields, a lighted soccer field, multipurpose field, a foot bridge, mini-borrowing library, concession stands, accessible playground, picnic shelter, two piers, over 1 mile of walking/jogging paths and a state of the art outdoor exercise area. Indoor facilities include a Community Center with 14,200 square foot gymnasium, kitchen, community room, conference room, patio, sitting areas and a Sports Center annex with a 21,000 square foot multi-use arena. Northside Park hosts more than 100 special events and recreational programs and activities each year for both residents and visitors to Ocean City. See more..
5.0 The Adventure Park at Sandy Spring (759 reviews)
- Great for Schools/Camps
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Amusement & Theme Parks

The largest Adventure Park in North America. Challenge Yourself! Over 200 Platforms high in The Trees, covering 5 acres, interconnected by zip lines, ropes, obstacles, challenges and fun! 15 Separate courses, 7 difficulty levels, from beginner to insane. Unlimited climbing for 3 hours. Ages 5 - 94 (so far!) Reservations are required and limited. See more..
5.0 Blue Crab Chesapeake Charters (501 reviews)
- Two wonderful days of sailing on the Bay
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM Boat Tours • Sightseeing Tours • Private Tours • Day Trips

We've known Mark and Suzanne of Blue Crab Charters for many years and have always enjoyed our sails with them. We went just before Memorial Day weekend as we noted the bad weather coming in. We did an evening sail with 2 other couples of Thursday evening and enjoyed a lovely sunset on the bay. Our day sail on Friday was quite kick-ass and Mark turned the helm over to early on and chatted with Ellen and me the whole time. The sailboat is first class and in excellent condition. See more..
4.5 National Aquarium (7.194 reviews)
- An Enjoyable Visit
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Aquariums

Considered one of the world's best aquariums, the National Aquarium's mission is to inspire conservation of the world's aquatic treasures. It champions environmental initiatives by engaging with visitors, volunteers, education groups and schools to actively participate in the preservation of the world's natural resources and living systems. The National Aquarium delivers meaningful experiences through its living collection of more than 20,000 animals from more than 800 species of fish, birds, amphibians, reptiles, marine mammals and sharks, as well as through exclusive behind-the-scenes experiences like sleepovers and tours, science-based education programs and hands-on experiences in the field. See more..
4.5 Ocean City Boardwalk (4.907 reviews)
- Good boards!
Piers & Boardwalks

A great boardwalk but a very busy one in the summer months. Stores and concession stands line the boardwalk, offering lots of options. Be sure to check out Fisher's popcorn in Thrasher's french fries, both Ocean City traditions. The Kite Loft is also a popular place. there is also sand sculptures in the summertime display in Jesus and other religious figures that are worth checking out. Street performers perform in the summer months. There's a pier beoynd the rides that provides a place to fish and view the ocean. The only thing I wouldn't recommend is the amusement parks, they're to expensive and the rides aren't that great. See more..
4.5 Ocean City Beach (4.298 reviews)
- Good beach
Beaches

A great boardwalk but a very busy one in the summer months. Stores and concession stands line the boardwalk, offering lots of options. Be sure to check out Fisher's popcorn in Thrasher's french fries, both Ocean City traditions. The Kite Loft is also a popular place. there is also sand sculptures in the summertime display in Jesus and other religious figures that are worth checking out. Street performers perform in the summer months. There's a pier beoynd the rides that provides a place to fish and view the ocean. The only thing I wouldn't recommend is the amusement parks, they're to expensive and the rides aren't that great. See more..
4.5 Inner Harbor (3.593 reviews)
- Wonderful Hospitality
Spent More than 3 hours Marinas • Aquariums

As one of America's oldest seaports, Inner Harbor is now an important landmark and popular tourist destination. Follow the brick promenade through this bustling complex of eateries, stores, museums and entertainment venues. Rent a paddle boat to have some fun in the water with the kids, or take them to the National Aquarium which is one of the nation’s largest. History buffs will enjoy touring the heritage ships anchored in the harbor, while travelers of all ages can soak up the marvelous views from the Top of the World Observation Level. Sightseeing tours and scavenger hunts are two other great activities at the Inner Harbor. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine (3.419 reviews)
- Must see home of the Star Spangled Banner
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites • National Parks • Monuments & Statues

A unit of the National Park Service. Site of the Battle of Baltimore during the War of 1812, where Francis Scott Key was inspired to pen "The Star-Spangled Banner" in September of 1814. See more..
4.5 Fell's Point (2.798 reviews)
- Charming area of the city and a great place to stay!
Neighborhoods • Historic Walking Areas

Dating back to the 18th century, this charming Baltimore district has cobblestone streets and a thriving culture by the waterfront. Wander through its quaint streets as you discover craft and antique shops, coffee houses and art galleries, then treat yourself to fresh seafood or a yummy burger at the Broadway Market. After dark, more than 100 pubs await you. Fell’s Point is a short drive from downtown Baltimore, but you can take a water taxi from the Inner Harbor for a more unique experience. You can also join a food, historic, or haunted pub tour to discover the district's hidden gems. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 American Visionary Art Museum (1.639 reviews)
- Art unlike most
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Speciality Museums

The American Visionary Art Museum is the nation's museum for self-taught, intuitive artistry. Three historic buildings house wonders created by farmers, housewives, mechanics, the disabled, the homeless, as well as the occasional neurosurgeon—all inspired by the fire within. From carved roots to embroidered rags, tattoos to toothpicks, ‘the visionary’ transforms dreams, loss, hopes, and ideals into powerful works of art. "one of the most fantastic museums anywhere in America" - CNN "Best Museum in Maryland" - USA Today "a temple of outsider art" - New York Times. Tickets: $9.95-15.95. Children 6 and under and museum members are free. See more..
4.5 Annapolis Historic District (1.272 reviews)
- Worth a special trip!
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Neighborhoods

Annapolis bills itself as a museum without walls, and after spending an afternoon here, I can see why. This was the first peacetime capital of the new U.S and has the highest concentration of 18th century Georgian-style buildings in the country. Some of the shops are in buildings that are over 200 years old. The waterfront, the museum, the Maryland State House, the Cathedral... Plan to spend a day here. See more..
4.5 Assateague Island National Seashore (1.168 reviews)
- What an incredible place
National Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas

One of America's last fully functioning barrier island ecosystems. See more..
4.5 Baltimore Water Taxi (1.131 reviews)
- Beautiful cocktail cruises on the Inner Harbor
Saturday: 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Ferries

Somewhere between a water-based bus line and open-air adventure, the Baltimore Water Taxi is the fun, fast, and affordable way to navigate the city. Operating with a crew of licensed Captains and a fleet of USCG inspected commercial passenger vessels along dedicated routes servicing fixed stops in/around the Baltimore harbor. Visit our website to see the latest routes, stops, and ticket offerings. See more..
4.5 Chesapeake Ghost Walks (1.063 reviews)
- Ghostly Experience
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM Ghost & Vampire Tours

I absolutely loved this ghost tour. Mary was very informative and gave us intriguing details about Ocean City history that I didn’t know. I would definitely recommend this experience to people looking for a historical story with a ghostly twist. See more..
4.5 Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum (1.061 reviews)
- Unique, educational and fun for adults and children!
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums

Established in 1965, the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum is a non-profit educational organization dedicated to preserving and exploring the history, environment, and culture of the entire Chesapeake Bay region, and making this resource available to all. Every aspect of fulfilling this mission is driven by CBMM’s values of relevancy, authenticity, and stewardship, along with a commitment to providing engaging guest experiences and transformative educational programming, all while serving as a vital community partner. Serving more than 75,000 guests each year, CBMM’s 18-acre campus includes a floating fleet of historic boats, 12 exhibition buildings, and changing special exhibitions, all set in a park-like waterfront setting along the beautiful Miles River and St. Michaels’ harbor. See more..
4.5 B&O Railroad Museum (852 reviews)
- Great place for kids and adults
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums • Historic Sites • History Museums

The B&O Railroad Museum, a full affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution and the birthplace of American Railroading, is home to the oldest, most comprehensive collection of railroad artifacts in the Western Hemisphere including an unparalleled roster of 19th and 20th century railroad equipment. You’ll enjoy exploring our expansive Museum campus, known as the Mount Clare Shops and Station and was the original railroading complex of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad (B&O). Founded in 1827, the B&O had a dramatic economic, social, and cultural impact on our society. Its nearly 200-year history is deeply intertwined with the story of America and helped shaped our nation through invention, innovation, and ingenuity. Experience two centuries of American railroading history throughout our campus of historic buildings, exhibitions, interactive displays, and our world-class collection of rolling stock —locomotives, passenger cars, freight cars, and maintenance vehicles. All Aboard! See more..
4.5 Baltimore Museum of Art (825 reviews)
- A fabulous Art Museum- and Free!
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Art Museums

Over 100 years ago, The Baltimore Museum of Art (BMA) was founded on the belief that access to art and ideas is integral to a vibrant and healthy civic life. This belief is at the heart of the BMA and remains our core value. The BMA has long focused on acquiring the art of the present moment, while maintaining and deepening a historic collection made relevant through vigorous development and reinterpretation in all collecting areas. Through the courageous and risk-taking vision of previous Museum leaders, the BMA assembled and presented one of the most important collections of 18th-, 19th-, and 20th-century art in the United States. These visionary actions established the fundamental character of this Museum. Building on this legacy of excellence, the BMA will form an equally compelling collection for the 21st century. Socially relevant, cutting-edge acquisitions, exhibitions, and programs will lead the way both locally and globally—and historical accuracy, merit, and equity will be See more..
4.5 Swallow Falls State Park (767 reviews)
- Hiking the falls area
State Parks

State park that has three waterfalls and many hiking trails. See more..
4.5 Assateague State Park (766 reviews)
- Highlight of my trip
Saturday: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM State Parks

State park that is managed by Maryland's Department of Natural Resources. See more..
4.5 Maryland Science Center (745 reviews)
- Awesome Visit... The People Who Work Here Make It Even Better
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Science Museums

This popular museum is located in Harborplace. See more..
4.5 Maryland State House (699 reviews)
- Worthy of Your Time
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites • Government Buildings

The seat of government for the state of Maryland. See more..
4.5 Historic Downtown Frederick (675 reviews)
- Great Place to Visit (or live)
Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites • Historic Walking Areas • Scenic Walking Areas

Fredrick is a delightful place to visit full of character, history, shops and restaurants to mention just a few of it's charms. The Carroll Creek is another reason to visit and enjoy. The creek has beautiful water lilies, ducks and sculptures. Often called 'Little Philadelphia', the architecture is colonial and civil war with beautiful brick buildings and newer buildings as well. An active arts community and foodie destination, a city full of history, a minor league baseball stadium, a community airport, festivals...you need to visit! See more..
4.5 River & Trail Outfitters (591 reviews)
- Engaging & Informative River Fun#
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM River Rafting & Tubing

We came to whitewater raft as a group and I must say that this trip was AMAZING! Company did an excellent job with their guides; they were very friendly, clear, direct and helpful with instructions making the trip very safe and comfortable. Our guide Suki was so energetic, engaging and knowledgeable about the river. Not only was our river escaped enjoyable it was also filled with juicy tidbits of the areas history and importance. This trip was more than I expected and feel that a major part of that is due to the staff and guides. Suki, Scooter, Animal, Brandon and Crash were just absolutely wonderful! They even gave is snacks and took us to a natural waterslide. We had so much fun!!! Will definitely be back and am definitely inviting others to take part in such an adventurous experience! See more..
4.5 The Awakening Sculpture (590 reviews)
- An interesting art piece that also serves as a play space for kids
Points of Interest & Landmarks

This is the perfect place to showcase such a large, expressive piece of artwork. It is in an open area that people can see from several angles and appreciate. it is also set in sand so young children can play in this area and climb on the pieces safely. See more..
4.5 Top of the World Observation Level (581 reviews)
- Baltimore bird's eye view
Saturday: 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM Observation Decks & Towers

Observation tower at the top of the World Trade Center offering audio-visual presentations about the history of Baltimore. See more..