Sometimes it’s nice to get away from it all, and much needed. These 10 spots in Maryland are off the beaten path and are worth seeking out. Whether you love serene places in nature or dining next to a peaceful waterside spot, you’re sure to love at least one attraction on this list.
- Paw Paw Tunnel
Flickr / Jeremy Bradford This historic tunnel can be found along the C & O Canal in the Oakland area. If you plan on passing through, bring a flashlight - you’re going to need it.
- Old Salty’s Restaurant
TripAdvisor / 57RRoberts Old Salty’s is a seafood restaurant located in Fishing Creek, Maryland. To get there, you must drive along Hooper’s Island Road, which is a long stretch of road full of serene wetland views. Choose to dine outside and you’ll be treated with amazing sunset sights.
- Hart-Miller Island
Flickr / WorldIslandInfo.com While this island technically has an Essex address, it’s found floating in the bay, not far from Baltimore. It’s only accessible by boat or if you’re feeling extra motivated, by kayak. Spend a day at the beach here and enjoy being completely surrounded by water.
- Smith Island
Flickr / Lee Cannon This inhabited Island is also reachable only by boat. There’s a ferry that will take you here from Crisfield and be sure to bring a bicycle to explore the island for a few hours.
- Great Allegheny Passage
Flickr / Trains & Trails This diverse trail starts in Cumberland and ends all the way in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania! Of course, you can choose to do smaller sections. Along the way you may spot trains, wildlife, and rustic bridges.
- Maryland Heights Trail
Flickr / Cowtools While technically on the Maryland side, this trail is located directly across from Harpers Ferry, West Virginia. Climb to the top and enjoy the amazing view down below. The trail is moderate and bumpy so make sure you’re prepared.
- Deal Island
Flickr / Chesapeake Bay Program One of Maryland’s most peaceful and quiet spots is most certainly Deal Island. This spot is perfect for fishermen or those who simply enjoy getting away from it all. There are also nearby cabins if you’d like to spend an entire weekend.
- St. Clement’s Island
Flickr / Lawrence OP Maryland’s very first colonists landed here centuries ago and you can still visit this island today. To get here, take the ferry from Colton’s Point. Read all of the signs that explain the history of the spot and bring a camera to capture the enchanting memorials.
- Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge
Flickr / Chesapeake Bay Program Migratory birds are often found here, sometimes in the thousands. Whether you’re a bird watcher or simply enjoy a scenic hike, this beautifully surreal spot won’t disappoint. It’s a must-see.
- Assateague Island
Flickr / Ben Beard This barrier island is more well-known but that doesn’t make it any less majestic. See wild horses run free and spend a day splashing around in the Atlantic Ocean.
Have you been to any of these off-the-grid spots? Let us know your favorite down below!
Flickr / Jeremy Bradford
This historic tunnel can be found along the C & O Canal in the Oakland area. If you plan on passing through, bring a flashlight - you’re going to need it.
TripAdvisor / 57RRoberts
Old Salty’s is a seafood restaurant located in Fishing Creek, Maryland. To get there, you must drive along Hooper’s Island Road, which is a long stretch of road full of serene wetland views. Choose to dine outside and you’ll be treated with amazing sunset sights.
Flickr / WorldIslandInfo.com
While this island technically has an Essex address, it’s found floating in the bay, not far from Baltimore. It’s only accessible by boat or if you’re feeling extra motivated, by kayak. Spend a day at the beach here and enjoy being completely surrounded by water.
Flickr / Lee Cannon
This inhabited Island is also reachable only by boat. There’s a ferry that will take you here from Crisfield and be sure to bring a bicycle to explore the island for a few hours.
Flickr / Trains & Trails
This diverse trail starts in Cumberland and ends all the way in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania! Of course, you can choose to do smaller sections. Along the way you may spot trains, wildlife, and rustic bridges.
Flickr / Cowtools
While technically on the Maryland side, this trail is located directly across from Harpers Ferry, West Virginia. Climb to the top and enjoy the amazing view down below. The trail is moderate and bumpy so make sure you’re prepared.
Flickr / Chesapeake Bay Program
One of Maryland’s most peaceful and quiet spots is most certainly Deal Island. This spot is perfect for fishermen or those who simply enjoy getting away from it all. There are also nearby cabins if you’d like to spend an entire weekend.
Flickr / Lawrence OP
Maryland’s very first colonists landed here centuries ago and you can still visit this island today. To get here, take the ferry from Colton’s Point. Read all of the signs that explain the history of the spot and bring a camera to capture the enchanting memorials.
Migratory birds are often found here, sometimes in the thousands. Whether you’re a bird watcher or simply enjoy a scenic hike, this beautifully surreal spot won’t disappoint. It’s a must-see.
Flickr / Ben Beard
This barrier island is more well-known but that doesn’t make it any less majestic. See wild horses run free and spend a day splashing around in the Atlantic Ocean.
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