Today we’re looking back on some of our best articles from 2017, and combining them into one epic list of things to do. This year, resolve to take more outdoor adventures. You won’t regret it.

To learn more about each place, click on the blue link in the description.

  1. Flag Ponds Nature Park

TripAdvisor / Alexsa B This Calvert County gem is overflowing with fossils and the sprawling water views are spectacular. Head here during a beautiful day for a day trip to remember.

Click here for more information

  1. Explore Maryland’s Barn Quilt Trail

Flickr / Heart of the Civil War Did you know that Maryland’s Carroll County has over two dozen barns that are adorned with intricate “quilts” like this one? Spend a day or weekend seeing them all!

Click here for more information

  1. National Shrine Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes

Flickr / A.Currell This hidden shrine in Emmitsburg is picture perfect for exploring. Stroll the grounds, which include a spring, woodland views, shrines, and more. You don’t have to be religious to take in the beauty of this enchanting place.

Click here for more information

  1. C & O Canal

Flickr / KnowledgeCommonsDC If it’s been a while since you’ve visited the canal, then wait no more. This year, resolve to stroll, jog, or bike along this historic towpath. This place is so rewarding.

Click here for more information

  1. The Fairy Garden at Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center

TripAdvisor / walyfipe This southern Maryland exhibit is outdoors, and oh-so magical. The fairy garden usually runs from April through September, so mark your calendar and keep your eyes peeled for a whole lot of magic.

Click here for more information

  1. McKee-Beshers Wildlife Management Area

Flickr / Forsaken Fotos This is one summer attraction that you don’t want to miss. This Poolesville field of yellow is at peak bloom in July and the sights are splendid. Be sure to bring a camera.

Click here for more information

  1. The Butterfly House at Brookside Gardens

TripAdvisor / bala2803 This Wheaton attraction is filled with gorgeous gardens and during warmer months, you can experience the butterfly house. Be in awe as hundreds of butterflies flutter around you, similar to a fairy tale.

Click here for more information

  1. Riverboat Cruise

Facebook / Suicide Bridge Restaurant Head to Suicide Bridge Restaurant in Hurlock, which is so much more than just an eatery. This spot also offers riverboat cruises, some of which include crab feasts! Check it out for a charming step back in time.

Click here for more information

  1. Crystal Grottoes Caverns

Flickr / A.Currell Maryland isn’t necessarily known for caves, so Crystal Grottoes Caverns is sure to surprise you. This natural cave has more formations per square foot than any other cave in the world. Quite impressive, indeed.

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  1. Go river tubing at Gunpowder River

monktonbike.com There are several tubing spots in the Old Line State, but Gunpowder River is the perfect lazy river to float your cares away. The scenery is quite epic.

Click here for more information

What would you add to the list? For a list of Maryland’s best state parks, click here!

TripAdvisor / Alexsa B

This Calvert County gem is overflowing with fossils and the sprawling water views are spectacular. Head here during a beautiful day for a day trip to remember.

Click here for more information

Flickr / Heart of the Civil War

Did you know that Maryland’s Carroll County has over two dozen barns that are adorned with intricate “quilts” like this one? Spend a day or weekend seeing them all!

Click here for more information

Flickr / A.Currell

This hidden shrine in Emmitsburg is picture perfect for exploring. Stroll the grounds, which include a spring, woodland views, shrines, and more. You don’t have to be religious to take in the beauty of this enchanting place.

Click here for more information

Flickr / KnowledgeCommonsDC

If it’s been a while since you’ve visited the canal, then wait no more. This year, resolve to stroll, jog, or bike along this historic towpath. This place is so rewarding.

Click here for more information

TripAdvisor / walyfipe

This southern Maryland exhibit is outdoors, and oh-so magical. The fairy garden usually runs from April through September, so mark your calendar and keep your eyes peeled for a whole lot of magic.

Click here for more information

Flickr / Forsaken Fotos

This is one summer attraction that you don’t want to miss. This Poolesville field of yellow is at peak bloom in July and the sights are splendid. Be sure to bring a camera.

Click here for more information

TripAdvisor / bala2803

This Wheaton attraction is filled with gorgeous gardens and during warmer months, you can experience the butterfly house. Be in awe as hundreds of butterflies flutter around you, similar to a fairy tale.

Click here for more information

Facebook / Suicide Bridge Restaurant

Head to Suicide Bridge Restaurant in Hurlock, which is so much more than just an eatery. This spot also offers riverboat cruises, some of which include crab feasts! Check it out for a charming step back in time.

Click here for more information

Maryland isn’t necessarily known for caves, so Crystal Grottoes Caverns is sure to surprise you. This natural cave has more formations per square foot than any other cave in the world. Quite impressive, indeed.

Click here for more information

monktonbike.com

There are several tubing spots in the Old Line State, but Gunpowder River is the perfect lazy river to float your cares away. The scenery is quite epic.

Click here for more information

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