Summer is the time to finally explore all of those spots we’ve been meaning to see. For those of us who don’t have the time for a long vacation, day trips are the perfect solution. If you’re looking for inspiration for your next day trip, consider heading out on one or more of the 13 best day trips in Maryland.

  1. Go fossil hunting at Calvert Cliffs State Park.

Flickr / David Heise This state park offers beautiful trails, but what it’s most known for is the fossil beach. Spend the day searching for prehistoric finds, even Megalodon teeth! Read more about Calvert Cliffs State Park. Don’t forget too check out the official website for the Maryland park.

  1. Float along the scenic Gunpowder Falls State Park.

monktonbike.com Lazy rivers are perfect for those of us who want to explore nature, without putting in too much effort. Tube at this quiet spot for a day to remember. Read more about the natural lazy river, or go here for the official website of Gunpowder Falls State Park.

  1. Take a road trip on Maryland’s loneliest road.

Flickr / Chesapeake Bay Program Hooper’s Island Road takes you through approximately nine miles of scenic wetland views, historic churches, and more. Stop by Old Salty’s Restaurant along the way for exceptional seafood. Read more about the scenic Maryland drive. You might also want to check out the official website for Hooper’s Island.

  1. Hit the rapids at Adventure Sports Center International.

TripAdvisor / dsbru This man-made water course offers rafting or kayaking among lively rapids. Bring a group and make a day of it! Read more about the man-made water course. Or, make a reservation for your adventure at Adventure Sports Center International.

  1. Visit the perfectly pristine Assateague Island.

Flickr / Mrs. Gemstone Assateague Island is known for wild horses, but not many know that this spot also has the most pristine sand in Maryland. The fine white sand stretches as far as the eye can see! Can you think of a better way to spend the day than on the sandy beach where you can catch a glimpse of the wild horses? Plan your day on the island. Or, visit the official website for Assateague Island.

  1. Stroll the Ocean City boardwalk.

Flickr / Austin Kirk Most of us have walked up and down the Ocean City boardwalk numerous times, but somehow, it never gets old. Find Thrasher’s Fries, Fisher’s Popcorn, arcades, and more at this fun summertime spot. Read more about this fun waterfront destination. You might also want to check out the official website for Ocean City.

  1. Have the time of your life at Frontier Town.

Yelp / Frontier Town This spot is popular for camping overnight, but you can also visit during the day and partake in the pool, aerial course, and more. This place is perfect for families. Read more about this family-friendly campground, or make reservations at the official website of Frontier Town Campground.

  1. Go on a crabby cruise.

Facebook / CrabPlace.com The Crab Place offers an all-you-can-eat crab feast followed by a sunset cruise leaving from Crisfield. Good food and live music pair well on this very Maryland excursion. You can check out the menu and hours for The Crab Place.

  1. Taste Maryland’s best homemade ice cream.

Yelp / Clint I. We could go on and on about the abundance of Maryland ice cream shops. However, Hoffman’s is known for having the best homemade ice cream in the state. Folks travel from all over for a taste of the goodness. Read more about the popular homemade ice cream, or check out the menu for Hoffman’s Home Made Ice Cream.

  1. Explore the magical boardwalk trail at Battle Creek Cypress Swamp Sanctuary.

BCCS Website The sun is brutal during summer months, so head to this shady spot for a bit of exploration. Explore the scenic swamp while safely walking along the rustic boardwalk. Read more about this hidden destination. You can find a trail map and more information at the official website of Calvert Nature Society.

  1. Splash around in Maryland’s largest lake.

Flickr / Jon Dawson If you’re heading to Deep Creek Lake for the day, be sure to check out the man-made beach for a bit of swimming. There are also several state parks nearby for a summer hike. Read more about this must visit lake. Find the official website of Deep Creek Lake Area & Garrett County.

  1. Catch a flick at Bengies Drive-in Theatre.

Facebook / The Bengies Drive-in Theatre Step back in time when visiting Bengies Drive-in Theatre, where you can catch a double feature. Movie titles are up-to-date and snacks are available for purchase. Read more about the classic drive-in, and find movie schedule and admission prices at the official website of Bengies Drive-In Theatre.

  1. Hike part of the Great Allegheny Passage.

Flickr / Marc Bochy You’ve heard of the C&O Canal, but did you know that there’s a trail that extends from the end of the Cumberland portion all the way to Pittsburgh? This 150-mile stretch is stunning, no matter which part you decide to explore. Start planning your hike along this 150-mile trail. Don’t forget to check out the official website for the Great Allegheny Passage.

Do you agree that these are the best day trips in Maryland? What are your favorite summer day trips in Maryland? Let us know in the comments! If you’re looking for somewhere to stay overnight, check into this tiny house on a Maryland pier. Happy exploring! 🙂

Flickr / David Heise

This state park offers beautiful trails, but what it’s most known for is the fossil beach. Spend the day searching for prehistoric finds, even Megalodon teeth! Read more about Calvert Cliffs State Park. Don’t forget too check out the official website for the Maryland park.

monktonbike.com

Lazy rivers are perfect for those of us who want to explore nature, without putting in too much effort. Tube at this quiet spot for a day to remember. Read more about the natural lazy river, or go here for the official website of Gunpowder Falls State Park.

Flickr / Chesapeake Bay Program

Hooper’s Island Road takes you through approximately nine miles of scenic wetland views, historic churches, and more. Stop by Old Salty’s Restaurant along the way for exceptional seafood. Read more about the scenic Maryland drive. You might also want to check out the official website for Hooper’s Island.

TripAdvisor / dsbru

This man-made water course offers rafting or kayaking among lively rapids. Bring a group and make a day of it! Read more about the man-made water course. Or, make a reservation for your adventure at Adventure Sports Center International.

Flickr / Mrs. Gemstone

Assateague Island is known for wild horses, but not many know that this spot also has the most pristine sand in Maryland. The fine white sand stretches as far as the eye can see! Can you think of a better way to spend the day than on the sandy beach where you can catch a glimpse of the wild horses? Plan your day on the island. Or, visit the official website for Assateague Island.

Flickr / Austin Kirk

Most of us have walked up and down the Ocean City boardwalk numerous times, but somehow, it never gets old. Find Thrasher’s Fries, Fisher’s Popcorn, arcades, and more at this fun summertime spot. Read more about this fun waterfront destination. You might also want to check out the official website for Ocean City.

Yelp / Frontier Town

This spot is popular for camping overnight, but you can also visit during the day and partake in the pool, aerial course, and more. This place is perfect for families. Read more about this family-friendly campground, or make reservations at the official website of Frontier Town Campground.

Facebook / CrabPlace.com

The Crab Place offers an all-you-can-eat crab feast followed by a sunset cruise leaving from Crisfield. Good food and live music pair well on this very Maryland excursion. You can check out the menu and hours for The Crab Place.

Yelp / Clint I.

We could go on and on about the abundance of Maryland ice cream shops. However, Hoffman’s is known for having the best homemade ice cream in the state. Folks travel from all over for a taste of the goodness. Read more about the popular homemade ice cream, or check out the menu for Hoffman’s Home Made Ice Cream.

BCCS Website

The sun is brutal during summer months, so head to this shady spot for a bit of exploration. Explore the scenic swamp while safely walking along the rustic boardwalk. Read more about this hidden destination. You can find a trail map and more information at the official website of Calvert Nature Society.

Flickr / Jon Dawson

If you’re heading to Deep Creek Lake for the day, be sure to check out the man-made beach for a bit of swimming. There are also several state parks nearby for a summer hike. Read more about this must visit lake. Find the official website of Deep Creek Lake Area & Garrett County.

Facebook / The Bengies Drive-in Theatre

Step back in time when visiting Bengies Drive-in Theatre, where you can catch a double feature. Movie titles are up-to-date and snacks are available for purchase. Read more about the classic drive-in, and find movie schedule and admission prices at the official website of Bengies Drive-In Theatre.

Flickr / Marc Bochy

You’ve heard of the C&O Canal, but did you know that there’s a trail that extends from the end of the Cumberland portion all the way to Pittsburgh? This 150-mile stretch is stunning, no matter which part you decide to explore. Start planning your hike along this 150-mile trail. Don’t forget to check out the official website for the Great Allegheny Passage.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

Address: 10540 H G Trueman Rd, Lusby, MD 20657, USAAddress: 7200 Graces Quarters Rd, Middle River, MD 21220, USAAddress: 2560 Hoopers Island Rd, Fishing Creek, MD 21634, USAAddress: 250 Adventure Sports Way, McHenry, MD 21541, USAAddress: National Seashore Ln, Berlin, MD 21811, USAAddress: Boardwalk, Ocean City, MD 21842, USAAddress: 8428 Stephen Decatur Hwy, Berlin, MD 21811, USAAddress: 504 Maryland Ave, Crisfield, MD 21817, USAAddress: 2880 Grays Rd, Prince Frederick, MD 20678, USAAddress: 898 State Park Rd, Swanton, MD 21561, USAAddress: 3417 Eastern Blvd, Middle River, MD 21220, USA

The OIYS Visitor Center

best day trips in maryland July 25, 2020 Beth Price-Williams What are the best outdoor activities in Maryland? Summer in Maryland is so much fun! We have so much to do that it’s difficult to decide where to start. Gather the whole family for a day at The Adventure Park at Sandy Springs. The aerial park is, in fact, the largest aerial park in North America, so you know it’s a good summer destination. It boasts 13 trails that feature all of the best in aerial fun – ziplines, rope courses, and bridges. Robinson Nature Center, one of the best places to visit in Maryland, is also an ideal summer destination. You’ll have a ton to do both indoors and outdoors – from a planetarium to an outdoor playground. What are the best day trips in Maryland? If you’re looking for short trips in Maryland, how about a day trip that will take you to some of Maryland’s best wine and waterfalls? The 189-mile day trip will take you just over 4.5 hours and kicks off at Cunningham Falls. You’ll also visit such spots as Linganore Winecellars, Cascade Falls, and Boordy Vineyards.  For a fun day among animals, plan a day at Poplar Spring Animal Sanctuary in Poolesville. The animal sanctuary is home to cows, pigs, goats, and even a peacock. Goods news, too, as many of the animals love being pet. Where can I go on one tank of gas in Maryland? Fill up the gas tank then hit the road for Villa de Alpacas Farm in Aquasco. The alpaca farm is a fun way to spend a few hours or an entire day and you’ll get to meet a whole bunch of friendly, frizzy alpacas. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a way to cool down on a hot summer day, you can’t go wrong with a trip to Gunpowder Falls, where you can meander down the river all day.

The OIYS Visitor Center

best day trips in maryland

July 25, 2020

Beth Price-Williams

What are the best outdoor activities in Maryland? Summer in Maryland is so much fun! We have so much to do that it’s difficult to decide where to start. Gather the whole family for a day at The Adventure Park at Sandy Springs. The aerial park is, in fact, the largest aerial park in North America, so you know it’s a good summer destination. It boasts 13 trails that feature all of the best in aerial fun – ziplines, rope courses, and bridges. Robinson Nature Center, one of the best places to visit in Maryland, is also an ideal summer destination. You’ll have a ton to do both indoors and outdoors – from a planetarium to an outdoor playground. What are the best day trips in Maryland? If you’re looking for short trips in Maryland, how about a day trip that will take you to some of Maryland’s best wine and waterfalls? The 189-mile day trip will take you just over 4.5 hours and kicks off at Cunningham Falls. You’ll also visit such spots as Linganore Winecellars, Cascade Falls, and Boordy Vineyards.  For a fun day among animals, plan a day at Poplar Spring Animal Sanctuary in Poolesville. The animal sanctuary is home to cows, pigs, goats, and even a peacock. Goods news, too, as many of the animals love being pet. Where can I go on one tank of gas in Maryland? Fill up the gas tank then hit the road for Villa de Alpacas Farm in Aquasco. The alpaca farm is a fun way to spend a few hours or an entire day and you’ll get to meet a whole bunch of friendly, frizzy alpacas. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a way to cool down on a hot summer day, you can’t go wrong with a trip to Gunpowder Falls, where you can meander down the river all day.

The OIYS Visitor Center

The OIYS Visitor Center

Summer in Maryland is so much fun! We have so much to do that it’s difficult to decide where to start. Gather the whole family for a day at The Adventure Park at Sandy Springs. The aerial park is, in fact, the largest aerial park in North America, so you know it’s a good summer destination. It boasts 13 trails that feature all of the best in aerial fun – ziplines, rope courses, and bridges. Robinson Nature Center, one of the best places to visit in Maryland, is also an ideal summer destination. You’ll have a ton to do both indoors and outdoors – from a planetarium to an outdoor playground.

What are the best day trips in Maryland?

If you’re looking for short trips in Maryland, how about a day trip that will take you to some of Maryland’s best wine and waterfalls? The 189-mile day trip will take you just over 4.5 hours and kicks off at Cunningham Falls. You’ll also visit such spots as Linganore Winecellars, Cascade Falls, and Boordy Vineyards.  For a fun day among animals, plan a day at Poplar Spring Animal Sanctuary in Poolesville. The animal sanctuary is home to cows, pigs, goats, and even a peacock. Goods news, too, as many of the animals love being pet.

Where can I go on one tank of gas in Maryland?

Fill up the gas tank then hit the road for Villa de Alpacas Farm in Aquasco. The alpaca farm is a fun way to spend a few hours or an entire day and you’ll get to meet a whole bunch of friendly, frizzy alpacas. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a way to cool down on a hot summer day, you can’t go wrong with a trip to Gunpowder Falls, where you can meander down the river all day.