This year we took a fun and relaxing long weekend to Maryland and loved it! Check out our fun and relaxing 4-day itinerary in Maryland.
One of the most unexpectedly memorable places we visited this year was the state of Maryland. Normally, the first thing that comes to mind when you think of this state is Washington DC but I’m here to tell you that it has a lot more to offer! That’s why today I’m excited to share our incredible 4-day trip to Maryland (not including Washington DC).
The reason behind our trip to Maryland was my best friend’s wedding (YAY). And in addition to the incredible wedding festivities, the hubs and I were able to enjoy a romantic 4 day baby-moon vacation. Washington DC did not make our list of cities on this trip mainly because we would have needed more time. DC is the type of place you visit on it’s own. With so much to do there, it deserves it’s own itinerary.
So back to our Maryland (non-DC trip), first thing I should note is that we did not bring our little one. This was a solo kid-free trip. However, based on how welcoming and family friendly this state was, I would totally return with kiddos and would recommend it for anyone who is considering it!
One of the best things about this state, is that it’s relatively small, so you can do and see a lot in 4 days while still fitting in time to relax. Additionally if you do a bit of pre-trip research, you can easily find great deals on hotels and a rental car. Once there, food options are plentiful, top-notch quality and fairly priced, making this an affordable and desirable vacation location! Win win!
Our basic itinerary was: Annapolis 1 night, Herrington Harbor 2 nights, Baltimore last full day.
Whether you are taking a short family vacation, going with friends or your sweetie, Maryland has plenty to offer. From the charming and quaint Annapolis to history-laden Baltimore to the relaxing picturesque Herrington Harbour.
So next time you are looking for a new state to explore, make Maryland a top pick! Personally we hope to go back in the next few years, this time with the kiddos 😀
Annapolis – In one word, Annapolis is charming! A super quaint small city lined with picturesque colonial buildings, a history-laden downtown and laid-back maritime vibe. A stay in Annapolis is ideal in the spring, summer or fall months when the weather is pleasant and you can enjoy the city’s outdoor and maritime charm.
It offers countless restaurants, activities, and both affordable hotels and romantic B&Bs. One thing to keep in mind, Annapolis is completely walkable so you will not need your car once you arrive.
- Annapolis Ice Cream Company – Local and freshly in-house made ice cream that you can’t skip! Truly the best ice cream place in town as recommended by locals where you can get flavors including Peanut Butter Oreo, Apple Pie, and Chocolate Brownie Batter.
- The Naval Academy – Today, 4,000 midshipmen prepare for their naval career on this impressive campus. Open daily from 9 am to 5 pm in the summer months, this is a great stop to take a tour or walk on your own. While you stroll the gorgeous campus, stop by the Bancroft Hall (the largest dormitory in the U.S.), the Chapel and the U.S. Naval Academy Museum at Preble Hall.
- Bakers & Co. – Head to this cute little cafe for the best pastries in town (you know I love my pastries). Order a cup of Annapolis-roasted Ceremony Coffee, an incredible market bun, croissant, or perfectly baked breads, and enjoy a lovely breakfast.
- Chick and Ruth’s Delicatessen– The best crab-cakes in town, hands down! And I’m not talking a hockey puck looking crab cake. This is a real Maryland style jumbo lump crab-cake served up in a giant mound. A true spectacle and well worth the wait. In addition, Chick and Ruth’s offers an extensive menu of sandwiches made with homemade breads, incredible pies, donuts, and milkshakes. A must try lunch spot!
- Iron Rooster – A fun casual eatery serving up scrumptious breakfast favorites all day as well as comfort food classics for dinner. Known for their homey comfort food classics like cornmeal pancakes, chicken and waffles and their legendary meatloaf. Also fun to try are their house made pop tarts!
- The Annapolis Pottery – A local pottery establishment that has been around since 1969. Located across from the Maryland State House, this is a dream for anyone who loves unique handmade pottery (aka ME, or maybe your mom). Gorgeous ceramic bowls, mugs, serving platters and so much more! Surprisingly affordable and a great place to pick up souvenirs.
- Wander – Explore the heart of Annapolis, shops, restaurants, historic Annapolis and of course the harbor at the City Dock. When visiting the City Dock, get your camera ready. This is truly a picture perfect embodiment of Annapolis, lined with sail boats and the blue Annapolis Harbor.
Herrington Harbour – With 2 marinas (north and south), this is an ideal getaway location. In the summer months, visitors have the options to do water sports, hang in the small isolated beaches and enjoy the laid back Chesapeake Bay charm.
- Inn at Herrington Harbour – A beachfront resort offering cozy and comfortable guest rooms with private patios right in front of the water. Perfect for couples or families, the resort has a pool, complimentary kayak and paddle board, volleyball, a playground, and tennis courts. We loved this resort, not only for the wedding but for vacationing. If you are planning to go in spring or summer, book early because it’s a small place!
- Chesapeake Market and Deli – The one and only nearby deli within walking distance to the resort. Serving up yummy homemade breakfast, lunch and casual dinner all day. We would recommend their burger and breakfast burritos
- North Beach – This small town sits on the Western Shore of the Chesapeake Bay and offer seven blocks of waterfront, a public fishing pier, and a half mile long boardwalk with a bike path. Stroll through the small shops, eat at one of the many restaurants or hang out on the beach. North Beach is a fun day trip to take from Herrington Harbour for a change of scenery and a walk along the boardwalk.
Baltimore – We did not spend a ton of time in the city on this trip due to our flight time but it definitely offers lots of activities. Personally I think it’s a great place to visit for 2 days. For us that seems like a perfect amount of time to see the sites and get a taste of the city’s food offerings.
- Federal Hill Park – a neighborhood known for a fantastic view of Inner Harbor and the Baltimore skyline. Brick-front houses, cobblestone sidewalks and cool locally owned shops, restaurants and Cross Street Market. We also loved relaxing at Federal Hill Park taking in the view of the city.
- Inner Harbor – In the heart of Baltimore right on the waterfront, Inner Harbor is a great place to walk, listen to street music, eat, and check out the National Aquarium and the Maryland Science Center. Warning – the harbor is quite touristy but it’s still fun to check out once and experience for a couple of hours.
- Free Sites – Museums including the The Walters Art Museum and the Baltimore Museum of Art as well as the Baltimore Basilica are all great sites to visit plus are free!
- Best eats – While in Baltimore, don’t forget to check out their food scene with everything from fine dining to cheap eats.
So for your next vacation, don’t forget about the fun and family friendly state of Maryland ✈️
Originally posted 2017-07-13 06:00:25.
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