Chesapeake Bay Maryland, USA Travel Guide
Focus on Baltimore: Arrive at BWI. Take Light Rail or taxi/ride-share to Inner Harbor.
Afternoon: Visit National Aquarium, explore historic ships (USS Constellation, USS Torsk). Walk the Inner Harbor promenade.
Whether you have a short layover or an extended stay, these plans help maximize your time in the Chesapeake Bay region.
Get to Annapolis. Explore the U.S. Naval Academy grounds, visit the Maryland State House. Walk the historic city center streets, browse boutiques. Dinner at a waterfront restaurant.
Reach Baltimore. Explore the Inner Harbor, National Aquarium, and Maryland Science Center.
Dive into both urban and natural aspects of the Bay.
Continue your deep dive into the Bay.
Combine the comprehensive one-a 7-day plan with more specific interests. Long-term stays offer immersive local life.
Add more hiking/cycling, check out local art galleries, antique shops, or small community museums. Consider multi-day fishing or crabbing charters. Add side trips to Washington D.C., Gettysburg, or Assateague Island.
Rent a vacation your home or apartment for a month or more in a smaller Bay town like St. Michaels, Chestertown, or Solomons Island.
This allows allows you to experience local life, immerse in the community, and explore without rushing, taking advantage of local markets and events.
Tailor your Chesapeake Bay adventure around specific passions. This creates a trip in accordance with your interests.
Begin in Baltimore (Fort McHenry, B&O Railroad Museum, Historic Ships). Move to Annapolis (Naval Academy, State House, historic downtown).
Start in Baltimore (Lexington Market, Cross Street Market, dining in Fells Point/Harbor East). Journey to Annapolis (waterfront restaurants, crab houses, oyster bars).
Focus on paddling a kayak or on a paddleboard in protected coves (Quiet Waters Park, state parks). Cycle on rail trails (B&A, Cross Island Trail).
Baltimore (National Aquarium, Maryland Science Center, Port Discovery Children's Museum, Fort McHenry). Include a beach day at Sandy Point State Park.
Focus on going water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding in protected coves (Quiet Waters Park, state parks). Cycle on rail trails (B&A, Cross Island Trail).
Baltimore (National Aquarium, Maryland Science Center, Port Discovery Children's Museum, Fort McHenry). Include a beach day at Sandy Point State Park.
Baltimore (Walters Art Museum, Baltimore Art museum, American Visionary Art Museum, Mount Vernon, Fells Point architecture). Annapolis (colonial architecture, William Paca House & Garden).
Seek quiet reflection in state parks (Elk Neck, Point Lookout). Engage in nature walks. Consider yoga in Annapolis or Baltimore. Visit old churches, like America's First Cathedral.
World-class art, unique outsider art, preserved architecture, tranquil nature, historic spiritual sites.
Travelers experience the Chesapeake Bay across a range of budgets, from economical to luxurious.
Prioritize free attractions, public transportation, and self-catering to keep costs down.
Combine comfort with value. Enjoy a mix of dining and a few paid experiences.
Indulge in premium accommodations, fine dining, and exclusive services for an opulent trip.
From historic inns to up-to-date accommodations, the Chesapeake Bay region has options for every style and budget.
Explore the Chesapeake Bay by road or rail or water, with various transport options.
The Chesapeake Bay transforms with each season, offering distinct experiences throughout the year.
The hottest season is ideal for water activities like swimming, boating, kayaking, and crabbing. Al fresco festivals and beach trips (both Bay-side and the sea-side) are popular.
Offers opportunities for winter waterfowl birdwatching, as many species migrate to the Bay. It is a good time for cozy B&Bs, enjoying comfort food, and exploring indoor attractions with fewer crowds.
regional events showcase local culture and the Bay'its offerings.
Take advantage of lower prices on accommodation and tours.
Discover the Bay's quieter charm, with various activities to enjoy.
Summer weekends, especially the Bay Bridge (US-50), can have significant traffic delays. Plan your travel accordingly.
Maryland weather varies. Summers are balmy and muggy, winters can be cold. Pack layers and review the weather forecast.
