Maryland, USA
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.
Arrive in Annapolis. Explore the U.S. Naval Academy grounds, visit the Maryland State House. Walk historic downtown streets, browse boutiques. Dinner at a waterfront restaurant.
Arrive in 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-week itinerary with more specific interests. Long-term stays offer immersive local life.
Add more hiking/cycling, explore 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 home or apartment for a month or more in a smaller Bay town like St. Michaels, Chestertown, or Solomons Island.
This allows you to experience local life, immerse in the community, and explore at a leisurely pace, taking advantage of local markets and events.
Tailor your Chesapeake Bay adventure around specific passions. This creates a trip aligning 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 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.
Focus on 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 Museum of Art, 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 historic 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 manage costs.
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 modern hotels, the Chesapeake Bay region has options for every style and budget.
Explore the Chesapeake Bay by land or water, with various transport options.
The Chesapeake Bay transforms with each season, offering distinct experiences throughout the year.
The warmest season is ideal for water activities like swimming, boating, kayaking, and crabbing. Outdoor festivals and beach trips (both Bay-side and ocean-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's 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 hot and humid, winters can be cold. Pack layers and check forecasts.
