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Historic Treasures, Simple Pleasures Discover the Chesapeake Bay, sparkling rivers and 500 miles of shoreline in Southern Maryland. Enjoy oyster and arts festivals. Tour remarkable museums and historic landmarks. Slumber at cozy inns, dine at waterfront restaurants and relax while viewing stellar sunsets. Eat & Drink 1 Tour and Pour at a Local Winery Move over Napa—Maryland vintners have arrived. The Port of Leonardtown Winery, a renovated state garage, is now a perfect space for enjoying fantastic wines, among them the Petit Verdot Reserve, which brought home a gold medal from Napa, and their 100 percent apple wine, McIntosh Run NV, which has been recognized as best in its class for five years. The winery has also won international competitions and houses one of the few winery co-ops in the United States, the Southern Maryland Winegrowers Cooperative. Sample varietals elsewhere in St. Mary’s and Calvert counties on the Patuxent Wine Trail. 2 Dine Al Fresco on the Waterfront At the Ruddy Duck Seafood and Alehouse, diners arrive by land or sea for housemade fare and views of St. George Creek and the Potomac River. The menu offers everything from artisan pizzas to crab cakes, with ingredients largely sourced from local farms and seafood producers. Pair dishes with a selection of award-winning signature craft beers on tap. 3 Relish Maryland Cooking at Chaptico Market A one-stop shop for groceries and sundries, plus fried chicken and stuffed ham regarded among the best in the county—high praise indeed in Southern Maryland, where standards are high and competition is fierce. See & Do 4 See Maryland’s Original Colonial Settlement Historic St. Mary’s City—Maryland’s original colonial settlement and capital—dates back to the 17th century. Today, the museum is a National Historic Landmark where archeologists, researchers and historians are preserving early American history. From the Godiah Spray Tobacco Plantation, a working colonial farm, to the replica Maryland Dove, visitors will find educational and unique experiences, including a lab on the campus of St. Mary’s College helping to preserve more than five million artifacts. 5 Let Your Imagination Take Flight The Patuxent River Naval Air Station Museum takes you up close and personal with the jets that made naval history. Take flight in an actual F-14 Tomcat simulator and watch the skies as real-life Top Guns put the Navy’s newest aircraft through their paces. 6 Watch a Drag Race Looking for speed and high octane thrills? Check out Budds Creek Motocross Park in Mechanicsville. Its legendary track, tucked into a scenic valley, has welcomed U.S. Grand Prix motorcycle racing and other world-class events. The region is also home to Maryland International Raceway (MDIR), which hosts drag races, car shows and special events for the entire family. 7 Explore Nine Millennia of Life Situated on 560 acres along the Patuxent River, the Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum boasts approximately 65 archeological sites (some have been excavated) and 9,000 years of human history. It’s home to the Maryland Archeological Conservation Laboratory, with more than eight million artifacts. Besides an Indian Village, hiking trails, kayaks and canoes to launch, there are audio walking tours and interactive exhibits at the Visitor Center. 8 Hunt for Fossils Formed Millions of Years Ago Towering along the Chesapeake Bay’s Western Shore, Calvert Cliffs State Park in Lusby offers park-goers a sandy beach, fishing, a recycled tire playground, extensive hiking trails and picnic areas. But the main reason most visitors flock here? Fossils. More than 600 species of fossils (formed 10-20 million years ago) have been identified in the massive cliffs. Marvel at imprints of prehistoric whales, 50-foot megalodon sharks and seabirds the size of small airplanes. 9 Explore Plantation History and Life Sotterley Plantation’s roots run deep: the 95-acre National Historic Landmark was built around the turn of the 18th century. Today, the former tobacco plantation is a museum dedicated to research, interpreting and preserving history. Situated along the Patuxent River, Sotterley has nature trails, Colonial Revival gardens and historic buildings. A rare restored 1830s cabin pays homage to the enslaved African Americans who once labored on the land. 10 Go Ghost Kayaking Kayaking at Mallows Bay Park is no ordinary paddling experience. You’ll pass through the “Ghost Fleet,” a graveyard of WWI-era ships and sunken sea vessels, reportedly among the largest in the Northern Hemisphere. There’s abundant wildlife: bald eagles, deer, otters, turtles and aquatic species. Experienced guides lead the expeditions. 11 Catch Blue Crabs Playing Baseball The Southern Maryland Blue Crabs offer fans top-caliber baseball and family fun. The team belongs to the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball Clubs, a gateway to Major League Baseball. Catch one of their regular games at Regency Furniture Stadium in Waldorf. 12 Pay Tribute to the U.S. Colored Troops Did you know some 600 men from St. Mary’s County were members of the U.S. Colored Troops and served during the Civil War? Enslaved and free men fought and laid down their lives for the Union. Among the soldiers, two local men were awarded medals of honor. The United States Colored Troops Memorial Monument at John G. Lancaster Park in Lexington consists of a bronze statue and a marker that commemorates these American heroes. 13 Enjoy a Chesapeake Concert For more than two decades, the Chesapeake Orchestra has performed a repertoire of classical, jazz, bluegrass and the blues for captivated audiences. Led by maestro Jeffrey Silberschlag, the professional orchestra (in residency at St. Mary’s College of Maryland) stages world premieres and works that celebrate the Chesapeake. 14 Explore History, Enjoy Recreation Point Lookout State Park melds history and recreation. Located along the Chesapeake Bay and Potomac River, the state park is home to a Civil War Confederate prisoner of war camp (described as America’s most haunted place), and Point Lookout Light, a lighthouse built in 1830. Besides Ft. Lincoln and the Point Lookout Civil War Museum, the popular park also has campsites, cabins, a beach, fishing pier, picnic areas and boat rentals. 15 Visit a Park that Honors an American Patriot William Smallwood, a Revolutionary War patriot who became a Maryland governor, hailed from Charles County. Today, the 628-acre Smallwood State Park bears his name. The historic mansion where Smallwood resided is open for tours, and the park, which overlooks Mattawoman Creek, has a marina, nature trails, campgrounds and picnic sites. 16 Book Passage for Fun Plan a trip on a head boat or board a local charter out of Scotland, Ridge or Dameron for a day of rockfishing. Or stroll the Leonardtown Wharf and rent a kayak from the Patuxent Adventure Center to explore Breton Bay, just a few easy paddle strokes from downtown. 17 Follow the Trail of John Wilkes Booth Trace the fugitive flight of John Wilkes Booth, and pull back the curtains on his sinister plot at the Dr. Mudd House and Surratt House museums. Stay 18 Live It Up at a Beach Resort The Chesapeake Beach Resort & Spa offers waterfront accommodations and ample ways to enjoy luxury. Your options include a 120-slip marina, complete with charter boats. Feeling lucky? There’s onsite gaming and bingo. The beach and pool may beckon, or pamper yourself with spa treatments like an enzyme detox wrap or couple’s massage. The Rod `N’ Reel serves Maryland seafood prepared with classic recipes, while the Boardwalk Café delivers casual eats, live music and stunning views. 19 Relax at a Waterfront Inn The Island Inn & Suites on Solomons Island offers cozy accommodations inside a restored Queen Anne Victorian-style house that dates to 1906. Several rooms are named for yachts the home’s one-time owners built on this isle, including a presidential vessel that John F. Kennedy sailed. Bonus: the innkeepers make homemade cookies. 20 Luxuriate at Rosewood Manor With a stunning grand staircase and garden level, four-star Grecian Tea Room, and stately Queen Anne Dining Room with its signature blueberry muffins, you’ll escape to luxury at Rosewood Manor in Port Tobacco. 21 Be Charmed by The Inn at Brome Howard Stroll the formal gardens of this elegantly restored 1840s plantation house on the high banks of the St. Mary’s River, then explore the nearby forest, fields and colonial village of Historic St. Mary’s City. Events 22 Get Artsy at an Open-Air Fest The Artsfest Fine Arts Festival, recognized as one of the top outdoor arts festivals in the Mid-Atlantic, unfolds annually in September at the Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center. Works from nearly 175 artists are exhibited and available for purchase. The lively fest also features music, food, performances and family fun. Cities & Towns 23 Visit the Bay’s “Twin” Beaches The neighboring towns of North Beach and Chesapeake Beach are known as the “twins” of the Chesapeake Bay. North Beach’s waterfront has a fishing pier, bike path and boardwalk. There are blocks of boutiques, art galleries, antique shops and confectionaries, plus the Bayside History Museum. On Chesapeake Beach, stop into the town’s railway museum and grab a bite at a waterfront café where Maryland seafood reigns, then, charter a boat and leisurely sail the Bay. 24 Escape to an Island that Feels a World Away At the nexus of the Patuxent River and Chesapeake Bay lies charming Solomons Island. Founded in 1680, the shipbuilding village played important roles in the War of 1812 and World War II. Today, its deep harbor makes this waterfront hub a haven for yachters, anglers, and those seeking the vibe of an island getaway. To view the compact community’s picturesque beauty, traverse the wooden “Riverwalk” boardwalk. Take a shuttle to Cove Point, Maryland’s oldest continuously working lighthouse. Meander through the Calvert Marine Museum. Waterside restaurants serve fresh seafood, while Thai, barbeque and French fare are options, too. Stop by Lotus Kitchen for gourmet breakfast and Kim’s popular Key Lime pie. Enjoy a tropical vibe at the famed Tiki Bar, where from April to October, exuberant crowds mingle outdoors, sip signature cocktails and spill out into the streets, well past sunset. YELP’S TOP DINING DESTINATIONS IN SOUTHERN MARYLAND CD Café, Solomons Local favorite with creative dishes like Gumbalaya, Bangkok Scallops and a signature Crab Cake Sandwich. Bollywood Masala Indian Restaurant, La Plata Indian restaurant beloved by locals for the attentive service as much as the tasty menu. Jessie’s Kitchen, Leonardtown Asian fusion and American dishes including Ramen varieties and a tender Reuben sandwich. #MDinFocus Share your Southern Maryland photos to #MDinFocus to be considered for next year’s visitors guide. SPOTLIGHT Step Back in Time to a 17th-Century Village Port Tobacco Village may be tiny—with just 13 residents— but it looms large in American history. Settled in 1634, the community once bustled with maritime activity and trade. Port Tobacco was formerly the second largest seaport in Maryland. Listed on early world maps, the village was home to indigenous Native Americans, missionaries, colonists and enslaved populations. Tourists will also hear tales of spies, assassins and even ghosts, including The Legend of the Blue Dog. We won’t reveal the story’s ending, but it involves gold, a fatal robbery and a faithful canine companion determined to protect his master in life and death. At certain times, it’s rumored that one can still hear the howls of the long-departed hound. ATTRACTIONS & RECREATION Bryantown HISTORY & HERITAGE St. Mary’s Church and Cemetery 13715 Notre Dame Pl, Bryantown, 301-870-2220 www.stmarysbryantown.com The church was established in 1793. The cemetery is the final resting place for Dr. Samuel Mudd, the man who treated John Wilkes Booth’s broken leg the morning after Booth assassinated President Lincoln. California ATTRACTIONS Cecil’s Old Mill 20854 Indian Bridge Rd, California, 301-994-1510 One of Maryland’s first industrial districts offering local artisans and craftsmen products as well as a large assortment of antiques and collectibles. Houses the only double overshoot water wheel in Maryland. Come visit us for a unique shopping experience. Jan-June: Thur-Sun, 10am-5pm; July-Oct: Thur-Mon, 10am-5pm; Nov-Dec: Daily, 10am-5pm. Callaway OUTDOOR RECREATION St. Mary’s River State Park Camp Cosoma Rd, Off MD Rt 5, Callaway, 301-872-5688 http://dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/pages/southern/ stmarysriver.aspx Range of habitats including wooded acres, fields, swamps, small streams. Abundant plant/animal species. 250-acre lake, largemouth bass fishing. Area dedicated to small game/deer hunting. Year-round: Sunrise-sunset. Chesapeake Beach ATTRACTIONS Chesapeake Beach Water Park 4079 Gordon Stinnett Ave, Chesapeake Beach, 410-257-1404 www.chesapeakebeachwaterpark.com Great family place with two big water slides plus six more, lagoon, kid’s pool and great food. Group and corporate outings; birthday parties are also available— call to reserve. Weekends: May 23- Sept 13; Daily, 11am-7pm. HISTORY & HERITAGE The Chesapeake Beach Railway Museum 4155 Mears Ave, Chesapeake Beach, 410-257-3892 www.cbrm.org An 1898 railway station with exhibits on railway history, boardwalk, steamboats and amusement park that once existed here. May-Sept: 1-4pm; Oct & Apr: Sat-Sun, 1-4pm; or by appointment. Additional hours Apr & Oct. OUTDOOR RECREATION Beachcomber II c/o Rod N’ Reel Marina, 4135 Mears Ave, Chesapeake Beach, 301-812-1505 www.beachcombercharters.com Charter fishing on the Chesapeake Bay. Max charter size is 34 people. Call for schedule. Daydreamer Sportfishing 4165 Mears Ave, Chesapeake Beach, 703-477-5272 www.daydreamersportfishing.com Equipped for rough water taking a large head sea with ease. Max charter size is six people. Call for information. Dolly Diesel Sportfishing c/o Rod “N’ Reel, 4160 Meers Ave, Chesapeake Beach, 301-855-8940 Charter services for sportfishing excursions. Guaranteed “no fish, no pay.” Max charter size is 27 people. Apr-Dec; call for schedule. King Fish Charters 4165 Mears Ave, Chesapeake Beach, 410-257-6042, 443-924-0339 www.kingfishcharters.com A 46-foot bay built fishing boat that’s clean, safe, reliable and diesel powered. Max charter size is six people. Call for schedule. Mary Lou Too Charters 3866 Harbor Rd, Chesapeake Beach, 443-865-7937 www.maryloutoocharters.com Charter fishing the mid-Chesapeake Bay since 1977. Maximum charter size is 23 people. Apr-Dec. Miss Linda Rod “N” Reel Marina, 4165 Mears Ave, Chesapeake Beach, 301-855-5381 www.misslindacharters.com Offers Maryland’s best in Chesapeake Bay charter fishing, fishing tournaments, striper and trophy rockfish charters. Apr-Dec. Reel Attitude Charter Fishing 4165 Mears Ave, Chesapeake Beach, 410-414-9662 www.reelattitude.com Max charter size is 24 people. Call for schedule. Tamshell II Charters 3748 Harbor Rd, Chesapeake Beach, 301-802-4027 Six passenger charter fishing vessel. All tackle and bait provide. Half- and all-day charters available. Call for schedule. Coltons Point ATTRACTIONS St. Clement’s Island Museum 38370 Point Breeze Rd, Coltons Point, 301-769-2222 www.stmarysmd.com/recreate/museums Nationally accredited museum interprets Maryland’s earliest colonial landing at St. Clement’s Island in 1634 and local Potomac River maritime history. Seasonal water taxi tours. Summer: 10am-5pm; Winter: Wed- Sun, 12N-4pm. OUTDOOR RECREATION St. Clement’s Island State Park 38370 Point Breeze Rd, Coltons Point, 301-872-5688 http://dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/pages/southern/ stclements.aspx In 1634, the first English settlers in Maryland landed here. The 40-acre park. Is dedicated to them. Weekend tours offered during season (May-Sept). Fishing and hiking. Newly reconstructed Blackistone Lighthouse. Accessible by boat only. Year-round: sunrise-sunset. Dowell ARTS & CULTURE Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center 13480 Dowell Rd, Dowell, 410-326-4640 www.annmariegarden.org A sculpture garden, tree pops and fairy houses in the woods. Gift shop, exhibits and classes on-site. 9am- 5pm. OUTDOOR RECREATION Shea-D-Lady Charters c/o Calvert Marina, 144755 Dowell Rd, Dowell, 301-672-3282 www.sheadlady.com Max charter size is 25 people. Call for schedule. Drayden HISTORY & HERITAGE Drayden African-American Schoolhouse 18287 Cherryfield Rd, Drayden, 301-994-1471 www.stmarysmd.com/recreate/Draydenschool.asp One of the best preserved schoolhouses in the country. Built c. 1890, it sits on its original site location and offers interpretive panels. By appointment. Hollywood HISTORY & HERITAGE Sotterley Plantation 44300 Sotterley Ln, Hollywood, 301-373-2280, 1-800-681-0850 www.sotterley.org This National Historic Landmark, overlooking the Patuxent River, features a 1703 mansion, authentic 1800s slave cabin, Colonial revival gardens, nature trails and numerous historic buildings. Year-round: Tues-Sat, 10am-4pm; Sun, 12N-4pm (self-guided grounds tour); May 1-Oct. 31: guided tours. OUTDOOR RECREATION Greenwell State Park 25450 Rosedale Manor Ln, Rt 245 to Steerhorn Neck Rd, Hollywood, 301-872-5688 http://dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/pages/southern/greenwell.aspx Home to the Greenwell Foundation, offering therapeutic riding programs designed for individuals with disabilities. Hiking on marked trails, canoeing and fishing opportunities abound. Year-round, sunrise-sunset. Huntingtown OUTDOOR RECREATION Kings Landing Park 3255 Kings Landing Rd, Huntingtown, 410-535-2661 www.co.cal.md.us/kingslandingpark A 260-acre park for environmental education, features picnic shelters, a wetland boardwalk, fishing pier, and launch for kayaks and canoes. Swimming pool and kayak rentals (fees apply). Hours vary seasonally. Indian Head ATTRACTIONS Black Box Theatre/Indian Head Center for the Arts 4185 Indian Head Hwy, Indian Head, 301-743-3040 www.indianheadblackbox.org A forum for the grassroots and development of artistic expression in and around Indian Head. OUTDOOR RECREATION Chapman State Park 3452 Ferry Pl, Indian Head, 301-743-7613, 1-888-432-2267 http://dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/pages/southern/ chapman.aspx Mature forests, rare plants and bald eagles abound in the dramatic woodlands that stretches from the Potomac River to Mattawoman Creek. Sunrise-sunset. Purse State Park Rt 224 on Riverside Rd, Indian Head, 301-743-7613 www.stateparks.com/purse.html On the Potomac River at Wades Bay, the area is perfect for hunting, bird watching and fishing. Fossilized shark teeth, bones and shells are often found along the water’s edge. Sunrise-sunset. La Plata HISTORY & HERITAGE African-American Heritage House 7485 Crain Hwy, La Plata, 301-609-9099 Depicts the life, history and contributions of famous African Americans from Charles County. Artifacts from the William D. Diggs collection on display. Tours by appointment. La Plata Train Station 101 Kent Ave, La Plata, 301-934-2564 Historic building recalls railroad’s impact on Charles County during 1800s growth boom. Site includes two-room “La Plata Station” and authentic red caboose on adjacent track. Apr-May & Sept-Oct: Sat, 12N-4pm; June-Aug: Sat, 12N-4pm; other times by appointment. Mt. Carmel Monastery 5678 Mount Carmel Rd, La Plata www.carmelofporttobacco.com/index.html The first Carmelite Monastery in the United States, Mount Carmel was established in 1790 by Mother Bernardina Matthews, her two nieces, Sister Mary Aloysia and Sister Mary Eleanora, and Sister Clare Joseph. OUTDOOR RECREATION Reel Bass Adventures Guide Service 406 Butternut Court, La Plata, 301-932-1509 www.reelbassadventuresguideservice.com Guiding the tidal Potomac River for bass and pan fish. Call for schedule. Leonardtown ATTRACTIONS Port of Leonardtown Winery 23190 Newtowne Neck Rd, Leonardtown, 301-690-2192 www.polwinery.com The agricultural cooperative consists of 15 members’ vineyards from a small half-acre to several acres to produce the best wine from the best Southern Maryland growers. Wed-Sun, 12N-6pm; 1st Fridays every month, 12N-9pm. HISTORY & HERITAGE Old Jail Museum and Tourist Information Center 41625 Courthouse Dr, Leonardtown, 301-475-2467 www.visitstmarysmd.com/activities-attractions/detail/ old-jail-museum 17th-century cannon and early Maryland artifacts. County jail 1850s-1940s. Wed-Fri, 10am-2pm. Closed Dec-Feb. St. Francis Xavier Church 21370 Newtowne Neck Rd, Leonardtown, 301-475-9885 www.stfrancisxavierchurch.org Built in 1731, the church and manor house, formerly situated on over 700 acres, was an example of a self-contained Jesuit Community. Tudor Hall/St. Mary’s County Historical Society 41680 Tudor Place, Leonardtown, 301-475-2467 www.stmaryshistory.org A 255-year old Colonial house overlooking Breton Bay is an extensive genealogical and historical research center. Wed-Fri, 9am-4pm; Research Center, Thur-Fri, 11am-4pm; Sat, 10am-4pm (2nd & 4th only). OUTDOOR RECREATION Combs Creek Marina 21670 Joe Hazel Rd, Leonardtown, 301-475-2017 www.combscreekmarina.com Nice, quiet protected marina with one-two transient slips. Lexington Park ATTRACTIONS Patuxent River Naval Air Museum and Visitor Center 22156 Three Notch Rd, Lexington Park, 301-863-1900 www.paxmuseum.com The aviation museum dedicated to the scientific and technological story of U.S. Naval Aviation research, development, testing and evaluation; museum store and more than 25 aircraft on display. Tues-Sat, 10am-5pm; Sun, 12N-5pm. Closed major holidays. Lusby ATTRACTIONS Cove Point Lighthouse 3500 Lighthouse Blvd, Lusby, 410-326-2042 www.calvertmarinemuseum.com Built in 1828, one of the oldest continuously working lighthouses in Maryland. On the National Register of Historic Places. Tours provided by Calvert Marine Museum. May-Sept and holidays, weekends only 1-4pm. Cove Point Winery/Cove Point Vineyard 755 Cove Point Rd, Lusby, 410-326-0949 www.covepointwinery.com A family-owned micro winery that produces a number of different wines sure to please the palates of any wine drinker. Wed-Sun, 11:30am-5:30pm. Solomons Island Winery 515 Garner Ln, Lusby, 410-394-1933 www.solomonsislandwinery.com Founded and began operation in July 2004 and has produced nine award-winning wines. OUTDOOR RECREATION Calvert Cliffs State Park 10540 H.G. Trueman Rd, Lusby, 301-743-7613 http://dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/Pages/southern/ calvertcliffs.aspx The park’s renowned cliffs, which dominate 30 miles of Chesapeake shoreline, is a treasure trove of 600 known species of fossils. Sunrise-sunset. Flag Ponds Nature Park 1525 Flag Ponds Prkwy, Lusby, 410-586-1477 www.co.cal.md.us/flagponds Explore forested uplands, wetlands and beach habitats of this 545-acre park on three miles of trails, including observation platforms, boardwalk, fishing pier and visitors center. Hours vary seasonally. Marbury ARTS & CULTURE Mattawoman Creek Art Center 5565 Upham Pl, c/o Smallwood State Park, Marbury, 301-743-5159 www.mattawomanart.org Monthly art exhibits featuring a wide variety of visual arts, illustrated talks, lectures, gift shop, studio rentals. Nonprofit volunteer organization. Beautiful waterfront scenic location. Mid-Jan-mid-Dec: Fri-Sun, 11am-4pm. OUTDOOR RECREATION Smallwood State Park 2750 Sweden Point Rd, Marbury, 301-743-7613 http://dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/pages/southern/ smallwood.aspx Site of Smallwood’s Retreat, estate of General William Smallwood, Revolutionary War officer and fourth governor of Maryland. Group tours, special events. Marina, fishing, camping and discovery center. Apr-Oct: 5am-sunset; Nov-Mar: 7am-sunset. Nanjemoy OUTDOOR RECREATION Mallows Bay Park 1440 Wilson Landing Rd, Nanjemoy, 301-932-3470 www.charlescountyparks.com/parks/mallows-bay-park Excellent outdoor recreation opportunities. Tremendous wildlife viewing areas, small boating access to the Potomac River. Year-round: 5:30am-sunset. Newburg HISTORY & HERITAGE Maryland Veterans Memorial Museum at Patriot Park 11000 Crain Highway, Newburg, 301-932-1900 www.mdvets.cc Being a place of history and honor the museum displays the lives of those individuals who contributed to American’s freedom. Sat-Sun, 12N-5pm or by appointment. North Beach HISTORY & HERITAGE Bayside History Museum 4025 4th St, North Beach, 410-495-8386 www.baysidehistorymuseum.org Join us in celebrating Camp Theodore Roosevelt, more than 100 years of the Boy Scouts. Special exhibits dedicated to 100 years of North Beach being a municipality. Glad to open for special tours. Wed-Sun, 1-4pm. Owings ATTRACTIONS Fridays Creek Winery 3485 Chaneyville Rd, Owings, 410-286-9463 www.fridayscreek.com The stately old barn where tobacco once hung is home to winery. Located 25 minutes from D.C. Thur-Mon, 11am-5pm. Piney Point HISTORY & HERITAGE Piney Point Lighthouse, Museum and Historic Park 44720 Lighthouse Rd, Piney Point, 301-994-1471 www.stmarysmd.com/recreate/museums Lighthouse and keeper’s quarters built in 1836, exhibits include lighthouse history and historic wooden boat collection and kayak launch. Group tours available. Museum: May-Oct, 10am-5pm. Grounds open daily. U-1105 Black Panther Historic Shipwreck Preserve 44720 Lighthouse Rd, Piney Point, 301-994-1471 http://www.stmarysmd.com/recreate/museums Shipwreck in Potomac River with diving privileges by pre-arrangement. U-boat was covered with rubber coating and used as stealth weapon. Detailed interpretation at Piney Point Lighthouse Museum. Apr- Sept: 10am-5pm; Oct-Jan: Thur-Mon, 12N-4pm. Port Tobacco HISTORY & HERITAGE Port Tobacco Courthouse (1819) Off Rt 6 on Chapel Point Rd, Port Tobacco, 301-934-4313 www.charlescountymd.gov The reconstructed 1819 courthouse is a museum containing tobacco and Civil War exhibits and archaeological finds on site. Available for rentals. Apr- Oct: Sat-Sun, 12N-4pm. Closed Nov 1-Apr 1. Port Tobacco One-Room School (1872) 7215 Chapel Point Rd, Port Tobacco, 301-934-2870, 301-934-9483 Original 1872 town schoolhouse with period furnishings. By appoinment only. June-Aug: Sat, 12N-4pm. St. Ignatius Catholic Church 8855 Chapel Point Rd, Port Tobacco, 301-934-8245 www.chapelpoint.org One of the oldest continuously active Catholic Parishes in America. Francis Neal, a former pastor at St. Ignatius, is responsible for bringing the Carmelite Nuns to America in 1790. Thomas Stone National Historic Site 6655 Rose Hill between Rts 225 & 6, Port Tobacco, 301-392-1776 www.nps.gov/thst Haberdeventure, a 1770s Georgian mansion, sits on 328 acres near Port Tobacco and was the home of Thomas Stone, a Maryland signer of the Declaration of Independence. Mar-Dec: Thur-Sun, 10am-4pm. OUTDOOR RECREATION Chapel Point State Park 8950 Chapel Point Rd, Port Tobacco, 301-743-7613 http://dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/Pages/southern/ chapelpoint.aspx An undeveloped multi-use park that boasts a waterfront that offers excellent fishing. Prince Frederick ATTRACTIONS Calvert Brewery Company Beer Garden 150 Adelina Rd, Prince Frederick, 240-245-4609 www.calvertbrewingcompany.com Maryland’s first designated farm brewery with a dedication to pride, loyalty and quality. Running Hare Vineyard 150 Adelina Rd, Prince Frederick, 410-414-8486 www.runningharevineyard.com Reminiscent of the gentle hills of France, the beauty of Tuscany and feel of Napa. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy with our award-winning wines. Apr-Nov: Wed-Sun, 12N-6pm. OUTDOOR RECREATION American Chestnut Land Trust 676 Double Oak Rd, Prince Frederick, 410-414-3400 www.acltweb.org Pristine 3,000-acre natural area with 22 miles of hiking trails, including interpretive trails and historic structures, community farm and guided canoe trips. Sunrise-sunset. Battle Creek Cypress Swamp Sanctuary 2880 Grays Rd, Prince Frederick, 410-535-5327 www.co.cal.md.us/battlecreek One-hundred-acre nature sanctuary is a protected home to this wildlife; quarter-mile elevated boardwalk provides access to nature; seasonal wildflowers and 100-ft canopy of cypress trees. Mon-Fri, 9am-4:30pm; Sat-Sun, varies by season. Closed major holidays. Ridge ATTRACTIONS Slack Winery 16040 Woodlawn Ln, Ridge, 301-872-5175 www.slackwine.com Fine white, rosé and sparkling wines made from 30 acres of grapes at Woodlawn and Jubilee farms. Red wines from Italian and French vinifera. OUTDOOR RECREATION Buzz’s Marina 49675 Buzz’s Marina Way, Ridge, 301-872-5887 www.buzzsmarina.com Marina and small campground, dry storage/slips with boat ramps and fishing boats, bait, ice, gas and supplies. Fishing charters available. Year-round; call for schedule. Point Lookout Marina 16244 Millers Wharf Rd, Ridge, 301-872-5000 www.pointlookoutmarina.com Full-service marina, easy access to bay. 160 slips, yachts to 200-ft., fuel/repair service, pool, picnic area, playground and restaurant. 8am-sunset. Scotland OUTDOOR RECREATION Newtowne Neck State Park c/o Point Lookout State Park, 11175 Point Lookout Rd, Scotland, 301-872-5688 http://dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/pages/southern/ newtowne.aspx A 776-acre peninsula surrounded by Breton Bay, St. Clements Bay and the Potomac River. It has seven miles of ecologically and recreational waterfront. Sunrise-sunset. Point Lookout State Park 11175 Point Lookout Rd, Scotland, 301-872-5688 http://dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/pages/southern/ pointlookout.aspx Picturesque peninsula formed by the Chesapeake Bay and Potomac River was once the site of a Confederate prison camp. A museum, monuments and mysterious hauntings recall its notorious past. Year-round, sunrise-sunset. Solomons ATTRACTIONS Calvert Marine Museum 14200 Solomons Island Rd, Solomons, 410-326-2042 www.calvertmarinemuseum.com Explore and learn how the prehistoric past, natural environments and maritime heritage come together to tell the Chesapeake Bay’s unique story. 10am-5pm. Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years. Chesapeake Biological Lab Visitor Center 200 Farren Ave, Solomons, 410-326-7443 www.umces.edu/cbl/outreach Learn about the ecology and natural resources of the Chesapeake Bay and the important contributions made by CBL scientists to our environmental heritage. May-June: Fri-Sun, 9:30am-4:30pm; July-Labor Day: Wed-Thur, 9:30am-4:30pm; Labor Day-Nov: Fri-Sun, 9:30am-4:30pm; December: special Christmas walk hours. Drum Point Lighthouse 14200 Solomons Island Rd, Solomons, 410-326-2042 www.calvertmarinemuseum.com Visit the 1883 screwpile cottage-type lighthouse, one of three remaining on the Chesapeake Bay. 10am-5pm. Closed major holidays. Joseph C. Lore & Sons Oyster House 14430 Solomons Island Rd, Solomons, 410-326-2878 www.calvertmarinemuseum.com Learn about the region’s commercial seafood industries at the restored 1934 oyster-packing house. See tools and gear used by local watermen with new exhibits and displays. May and Sept: weekends and holidays, 1-4pm; June-Aug: daily, 1-4pm; Oct-Apr: closed. HISTORY & HERITAGE Wm. B. Tennison 14150 Solomons Island Rd, Solomons, 410-326-2042 www.calvertmarinemuseum.com Cruise aboard the 1899 log-built bugeye Wm. B. Tennison the oldest Coast Guard-licensed, log-hulled vessel in the United States. One-hour cruises around Solomons Inner Harbor. OUTDOOR RECREATION Kathy C 14448 Solomons Island Rd, Solomons, 410-326-3241 www.bunkyscharterboats.com Charter boat trips with private fishing excursions and dinner cruise. Paddleboard, kayak and boat rentals. Max charter size is 49 people. Mar-Dec: Mon-Sun, 9am-6pm. Kelly D Sportfishing 14448 Solomons Island Rd South, Solomons, 202-409-8685 www.kellydsportfishing.com Max charter size is 18 people. Call for schedule. Loch Jaw Charter Fishing 255 Lore Rd, Solomons, 410-474-0606 www.islandcreekllc.com Charter fishing, tours and hunting. Call for schedule. Lucky Strike Fishing 14556 S Solomons Island Rd, Solomons, 410-474-9180 www.luckystrikefishingcharters.com Max charter size is 15 people. Call for schedule. Marchelle 14448 Solomons Island Rd, Solomons, 410-326-3241 www.bunkyscharterboats.com Max charter size is 49. Mar-Dec: Mon-Sun, 9am-6pm. Renegade c/o Beacon Marina, 255 Lore Rd, Solomons, 301-839-9270 www.renegade-captainwally.com Lifetime of charter fishing and boating experience. Mid-Apr-mid Dec. RG Sportfishing c/o Calvert Marina, 14485 Dowell Rd, Solomons, 301-904-1294 www.rgcharters.com Chesapeake Bay sportfishing. Max charter size is 6 people. Call for information. Spring Cove Marina-Solomons 455 Lore Rd, Solomons, 410-326-2161, 1-866-539-6039 www.springcovemarina.com Resort marina with full-service boatyard, ship’s store, pool, fuel dock, free shuttle to area restaurants and shops. 8am-5pm; summer, 8am-6pm. Strike Zone Charters c/o Calvert Marina, 14485 Dowell Rd, Solomons, 443-624-0247 www.fishstrikezone.com Max charter size is 6 people. Apr-Dec. St. Leonard ATTRACTIONS Patuxent Environmental & Aquatic Research Laboratory (PEARL) 10545 Mackall Rd, St. Leonard, 410-586-9700 www.morgan.edu/pearl Private non-profit institution expands knowledge of nature through discovery and inspires stewardship of the environment. Tours and hands-on activities available by appointment. Closed major holidays. Perigeaux Vineyards & Winery 8650 Mackall Rd, St. Leonard, 410-586-2710 www.perigeaux.com Eight acres of vines on a 27-acre farm provide a beautiful setting to enjoy traditionally crafted wines unique to the soils and climate of Southern Maryland. Wed-Fri, 2-6pm; Sat, 12N-8pm; Sun, 12N-6pm. HISTORY & HERITAGE Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum 10515 Mackall Rd, St. Leonard, 410-586-8501 www.jefpat.org State museum of archaeology overlooking the Patuxent River. Visitors can spend the day picnicking, biking, touring our Visitor & Exhibit Center, Discovery Room, hiking trails and Indian Village. Canoe & kayak launch. Mon-Fri, 7:30am-sunset. OUTDOOR RECREATION Flag Harbor Yacht Haven 1565 Flag Harbor Blvd, St. Leonard, 410-586-1915 www.flagharbor.com Full service marina and boatyard. Mon-Sat, 8am-5pm. St. Mary’s City HISTORY & HERITAGE Historic St. Mary’s City Rt 5 & Rosecroft Rd, Visitor Ctr, 18751 Hogaboom Ln, St. Mary’s City, 240-895-4990, 1-800-762-1634 www.hsmcdigshistory.org Colorful living history and amazing archaeology reveal the past at Maryland’s first capital. Explore a colonial plantation, tall ship, a brick chapel and an Indian hamlet. Visitors can see archaeological excavations and get their hands on history with a great experience for all ages. Seasonal: 10am-5pm. Closed Thanksgiving. Valley Lee HISTORY & HERITAGE St. George’s Episcopal Church 19167 Poplar Hill Ln, Valley Lee, 301-994-0585 www.stgeorgesvalleylee.org The current church built in 1799 is home to the oldest Episcopal Parish in Maryland and has held continuous services on site since 1638. Waldorf HISTORY & HERITAGE The Dr. Mudd House Museum 3725 Dr. Samuel Mudd Rd, off Poplar Hill Rd, Waldorf, 301-274-9358 www.drmudd.org Home of Dr. Samuel A. Mudd who treated John Wilkes Booth, President Abraham Lincoln’s assassin. Victorian Christmas the 1st full weekend in December. Apr-Nov: Wed & Sat, 11am-4pm; Sun, 12N-4pm; last tour: 3:30pm. SPORTS Regency Furniture Stadium 11765 St. Linus Dr, Waldorf, 301-638-9788 www.somdbluecrabs.com Home of Southern Maryland’s baseball team, the Blue Crabs. Theme nights, fireworks, kids’ play area, bumper boats and grassy lawn with concessions. Additional concert events. Office: Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm. VISITOR SERVICES La Plata COUNTY & CITY TOURISM OFFICE Charles County Office of Tourism 200 Baltimore St, La Plata, 301-396-5819, 1-800-766-3386 www.charlescountymd.gov/tourism Will assist you in exploring hundreds of miles of shoreline, abundant park lands and historic locales Mon-Fri, 8am-4:30pm. Leonardtown COUNTY & CITY TOURISM OFFICE St. Mary’s County Division of Tourism 23115 Leonard Hall Dr, Leonardtown, 301-475-4200 www.visitstmarysmd.com Chesapeake Bay destination is brimming with history, outdoor fun, vibrant culture and passionate people eager to share it all with you. The mid-Atlantic’s best-kept travel secret. See ad on page 1. Newburg WELCOME CENTERS Crain Memorial Welcome Center 12480 Crain Highway, Newburg, 1-800-766-3386 www.charlescountymd.gov/tourism Go Free…free attractions and activities. Visit the Crain Memorial Welcome Center and pick up your free maps and brochures to plan your next adventure. 8:30am-4:30pm See ad on page 3. Prince Frederick COUNTY & CITY TOURISM OFFICE Calvert County Department of Economic Development 175 Main St, Prince Frederick, 410-535-4583 www.choosecalvert.com Discover the Chesapeake Bay’s pristine waterways, charming beach towns, natural parks, unique attractions and interesting events year-round. Helps visitors take advantage of the county’s many resources.
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