Maryland is an incredibly diverse state and offers everything from rugged peaks and sandy beaches to dynamic cities and world-class cultural attractions. Relax in charming port towns like Annapolis or satisfy your appetite for adventure in the Allegheny Mountains.

Things to do

Known as the Old Line State, Maryland is brimming with history. There are plenty of military sites to discover, including Fort McHenry, the coastal stronghold where “The Star-Spangled Banner” was written during the War of 1812. At Fort Frederick State Park, you can walk around a centuries-old bastion built in the 1700s.

Baltimore lives up to its “Charm City” nickname, winning visitors over with its cobblestone streets, picturesque harbour and lively neighbourhoods. Dine at farm-to-table restaurants, shop at independent boutiques and admire masterpieces at the Walters Art Museum.

Handsome colonial architecture, excellent restaurants and a rich maritime heritage make it easy to fall in love with Annapolis. The Maryland state capital is home to the US Naval Academy, one of the top maritime colleges in the United States. Guided tours take you behind the scenes and feature a fantastic military marching display. Discover centuries of seafaring history at the Annapolis Maritime Museum, then walk down to the docks to admire boats of all shapes and sizes.

Set on Chesapeake Bay, the Eastern Shore is dotted with colourful towns and villages. Stroll around the charm-soaked 19th-century seaport of St Michaels and watch wild horses gallop along the beach on Assateague Island.

Like most U.S. states, Maryland is incredibly proud of its local cuisine, which includes a bounty of seafood, including blue crabs, rockfish and oysters. Featuring thin layers of vanilla sponge slathered in rich chocolate fudge icing, Smith Island Cake is a signature Maryland dessert.

Getting around

Renting a car is an easy and flexible way to explore Maryland. The state is also serviced by long-distance buses. Baltimore is well-serviced by a local public transport network featuring buses, trains and a subway. Major airports in Maryland include Baltimore/Washington International (BWI) and Martin State Airport, also in Baltimore.