2016-12-14 01:30:47
Southern Charm Enjoy hushed woodlands, tidewater vistas and colonial-era towns. In Southern Maryland, the history is rich and the wine superb. SOUTHERN FUN Runing Hare Vineyard Take a Trip Back in Time Journey back nearly four centuries to the founding of Historic St. Mary’s City. This colonial town built on the soaring bluffs above the St. Mary’s River opens windows into more than just history. Meandering trails crisscross lush forests. And of course, living historians welcome you into a world when America was young. Sandy beaches are perfect for a secluded swim. In spring, search for the hidden Valley of the Daffodils, a secluded glen where a carpet of golden petals leads you from the forest to the river. St. Clement’s Island Museum Make Waves You are never too far from the water here, where the shoreline is dotted with beautifully restored lighthouses. Take to the waves yourself with watercraft ranging from kayak to speedboat. Solomons Boat Rental in Solomons can set you up, or for boat charters, try Chesapeake Beach. The bay also provides culinary delights, which can be enjoyed at roadside eateries, white-linen restaurants or lively seafood festivals. For something scenic and haunting, check out the ghost fleet at Mallows Bay, where dozens of World War I vessels make up the largest fleet of shipwrecks in the Western Hemisphere. For indoor fun, the Patuxent River Naval Air Museum brings visitors face to face with icons of the jet age; with dozens of fighter planes, this museum has the right stuff. Eat & Drink 1 Savor the Seafood at Jerry’s Place A family affair, Jerry’s Place in Prince Frederick is known for its inviting atmosphere, warm service and mouthwatering menu of Maryland-style seafood—crab cakes, of course, but also soft-shell crabs and fresh-caught local fish during the summer months. 2 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 3 Hear the Roar of Mechanicsville Motorsports Mechanicsville is the epicenter of Maryland motor sports, and is home to three venues. Drag racers burn rubber at the Maryland International Raceway, stock cars hit the turn (and demolition derby cars hit each other) at the Potomac Speedway, and Budds Creek Motocross Park hosts high-flying, dirt-flinging motocross. 4 Explore One of the Civil War’s Most Haunted Sites Point Lookout State Park, on the southern tip of St. Mary’s County, is well known for its amazing fishing and crystal-clear skies. But it’s also home to a Civil War prison that has been called America’s most haunted place. Ghost tours in October fill up fast, so reserve ahead for a spooky good time. 5 Hunt for Fossils at Calvert Cliffs Fifty-foot-long sharks in the bay? Yes, but fortunately that was millions of years ago and all that’s left is their fossilized teeth (and a reconstructed skeleton at the Calvert Marine Museum). Beachcombers often find fossilized remains of aquatic creatures that dwelled here long before we did. Annmarie Sculpture Garden, Dowell 6 Marvel at the Annmarie Sculpture Garden Plantings enhance the sculptures in this stunning 30-acre Smithsonian-affiliated celebration of beauty from man and nature. The dramatic, bi-level art building houses additional works and classes. A children’s garden entertains and informs the youngsters. 7 Trace History at the Jefferson Patterson Park and Museum At this 560-acre park, archaeological sites document 9,000 years of human occupation. Explore the reconstructed Indian Village or learn about the War of 1812 on an interpretive trail. 8 Join the Party at Vera’s Beach Club It’s always a party at this award-winning restaurant and al fresco bar overlooking a bustling marina. Bands fill an outdoor stage on weekends, lodging is available in an eclectic onsite villa, and there’s a shuttle service for patrons within 15 miles. 9 See Shipbuilding in Action at the Calvert Marine Museum Interested in seeing how wooden boats are made? The Calvert Marine Museum houses a wood carving shop and a small craft building that highlights 20 small crafts including a dugout canoe. 10 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. Piney Point Lighthouse, Museum and Historic Park, Piney Point 11 Explore Historic Lighthouses Cove Point, Drum Point, Piney Point and Point Lookout lighthouses are postcard-pretty icons of maritime history that fascinate and delight. 12 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 Museum. 13 Travel the Patuxent Wine Trail The wineries along the Patuxent Trail offer beautiful water vistas and—thanks to a climate and soil composition often compared to the Tuscany region—truly spectacular wines. Stay 14 Relax 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. 15 Unwind at Back Creek Inn This handsome, seven-room waterside inn in Solomons has been helping travelers unwind for nearly 30 years. Boating guests can tie up on the private pier. Don’t miss the home-cooked and much-lauded Eggs Benedict. Kids’ Discovery Room at Calvert Marine Museum, Solomons 16 Luxuriate at the Chesapeake Beach Resort and Spa Pick your pleasures at this 72-room, marina-side hotel in Chesapeake Beach with spa services, swimming pool, three restaurants and video pull-tab gaming room. Want more? Rent bikes, boats and jet skis right out back. 17 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. 18 Take in Water Views at Solomons Victorian Inn Bed & Breakfast Located on the southern tip of Solomons Island, this charming inn offers commanding views of the surrounding Potomac River. Rooms strike an ideal balance between luxury and comfort, and the airy porch is the perfect place to enjoy one of the legendary breakfasts as sailboats breeze by. 19 Escape at Island Inn & Suites Located on the water in Piney Point, this 28-room boutique hotel features beautifully appointed suites with private balconies that all offer lovely views of the bay. There’s even a fishing pier right out back for guests to indulge their angling habits. Historic St. Mary’s City Travel back in time to when the first European settlers came to Maryland. BY CHRIS LANDERS St. Mary’s City is where the state began, with the landing of the Ark and Dove, the ships that brought the first settlers to the colony that became Maryland. See a full-sized replica of the Maryland Dove docked at St. Mary’s, which is now home to a large historic area providing insight into what life was like for those first Maryland colonists and Native Americans. ATTRACTIONS & RECREATION Avenue ATTRACTIONS Still Creek Vineyards 23204 Colton Point Rd, Avenue, 301-997-0484 www.stillcreekvineyards.com One of the most exceptional vineyards in the Southern Plain region of Maryland. Call to schedule tours; by appointment only. Bryantown HISTORY & HERITAGE St. Mary’s Church and Cemetery 13715 Notre Dame Place, 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. Callaway OUTDOOR RECREATION St. Mary’s River State Park Camp Cosoma Rd, Off MD Rt 5, Callaway 301-872-5688 http://dnr2.maryland.gov/publiclands/pages/southern/stmarysriver.aspx Range of habitats including wooded acres, fields, swamps and small streams. Abundant plant/animal species. 250-acre lake, largemouth bass fishing. Area dedicated to small game/deer hunting. Dawn-dusk. 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, 11am-7pm. HISTORY & HERITAGE 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. 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 information. 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 information. King Fish Charters 4165 Mears Ave, Chesapeake Beach, 410-257-6042 www.kingfishcharters.com A 46-ft. Bay-built fishing boat that’s clean, safe, reliable and diesel powered. Max charter size is six people. Call for information. 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. 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 information. 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 information. 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://dnr2.maryland.gov/publiclands/pages/southern/stclements.aspx In 1634, the first English settlers to arrive in Maryland landed here. The 40-acre park, accessible by boat only, is dedicated to them. Weekend tours offered during season (May-Sept). Fishing and hiking. Newly reconstructed Blackistone lighthouse. 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 information. Drayden HISTORY & HERITAGE Drayden African-American Schoolhouse 18287 Cherryfield Rd, Drayden, 301-994-1471 www.co.saint-marys.md.us/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. Great Mills ATTRACTIONS Cecil’s Old Mill 20853 Indian Bridge Rd, Great Mills, 301-994-1510 One of Maryland’s first industrial districts now houses more than 25 local artisans and craftsmen. Only overshot waterwheel in the state of Maryland. Jan-mid- March: closed Tues-Wed; mid-Mar-Dec 31: Thur-Sat, 10am-5pm; Sun, 11am-5pm. 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; 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://dnr2.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. Sunrise-sunset. Huntingtown OUTDOOR RECREATION Kings Landing Park 3255 Kings Landing Rd, Huntingtown, 410-535-2661 www.calvertparks.org A 260-acre park for environmental education, features picnic shelters, a wetland boardwalk, fishing pier, swimming pool and launch for kayaks and canoes. 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 Place, Indian Head, 301-743-7613, 1-888-432-2267 http://dnr2.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 Route 224 on Riverside Rd, Indian Head, 301-743-7613 http://dnr2.maryland.gov/publiclands/Pages/southern/purse.aspx On the Potomac River at Wades Bay, the area is perfect for hunting, bird watching and fishing. Fossilized sharks teeth, bones and shells are often found along the water’s edge. Sunrise-sunset. Issue ATTRACTIONS Swan Point Yacht & Country Club 11550 Swan Point Blvd, Issue, 301-259-0047 www.swanpointgolf.com Naturally set on the shore of the Potomac River. Water and wetlands come into play on twelve holes of this challenging layout. 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; or by appointment. Mount 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 information. 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; first Fri 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 Pl, Leonardtown, 301-475-2467 www.stmaryshistory.org This 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 (2nd & 4th only), 10am-4pm. 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 only aviation museum dedicated to telling the scientific and technological story of U.S. Naval Aviation research, development, testing and evaluation; museum store. 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 Lane, 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://dnr2.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 Pkwy, Lusby, 410-586-1477 www.calvertparks.org 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://dnr2.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. Mechanicsville SPORTS Maryland International Raceway 27861 Budds Creek Rd, Mechanicsville, 301-884-9833 www.racemdir.com Maryland’s premier drag racing facility, hosting more than 100 events annually. See the most exciting drag racing in the country. Mar-Nov. Newburg HISTORY & HERITAGE Maryland Veterans Memorial Museum 11000 Crain Hwy, Newburg, 301-932-1900 www.mdvets.cc Museum recognizes and honor all U.S. Military Veterans. Exhibits, research America’s war history and attend exciting events. 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 Boy Scouts. Special exhibits dedicated to 100 years of North Beach being a municipality. Glad to open for special tours. Wed-Sun, 1-4pm. OUTDOOR RECREATION Herrington Harbour South 7149 Lake Shore Dr, North Beach, 410-741-5100, 1-800-213-9438 www.herringtonharbour.com Our eco-lifestyle marina resort welcome and surround guests in a relaxing, ecologically sensitive marina environment. 9am-5pm. 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. Scorpion Brewing LLC 929 Skinners Turn Rd, Ste 100, Owings, 410-279-9700 www.scorpionbrewing.com Microbrewery focusing on locally sourced ingredients and experimental beers. Thur-Fri, 4-8pm; Sat, 12N-5pm; Sun, 1-5pm. 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, 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 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 Original 1872 town schoolhouse with period furnishings. Showing 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 322 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. Chapel Point State Park 8950 Chapel Point Rd, Port Tobacco, 301-743-7613 http://dnr2.maryland.gov/publiclands/Pages/southern/chapelpoint.aspx An undeveloped multi-use park that boasts a waterfront that offers excellent fishing. Prince Frederick ATTRACTIONS Mully’s Brewery 141 Schooner Lane #15, Prince Frederick 443-968-9426 www.mullysbrewery.com We brew and package all our beer here on site with our 15-barrel brew house where we’ve created our award-winning beers. Thur, 3-6pm; Fri, 3-8pm; Sat- Sun, 12N-6pm. 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. Year-round: Wed-Sun, 12N-6pm. OUTDOOR RECREATION Battle Creek Cypress Swamp Sanctuary 2880 Grays Rd, Prince Frederick, 410-535-5327 www.calvertparks.org 100-acre nature sanctuary is a protected home to 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. Parkers Creek Preserve, Managed by American Chestnut Land Trust 676 Double Oak Rd, Prince Frederick, 410-414-3400 www.acltweb.org Pristine 3,000-acre natural area with 19 miles of hiking trails, including interpretive trails and historic structures, community farm and guided canoe trips. Dawn-dusk. Ridge ATTRACTIONS Slack Winery 16040 Woodlawn Lane, 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 Gregory Madieski 48415 Wynne Rd, Ridge, 240-925-7594 Max charter size is 24 people. Call for information. Scotland OUTDOOR RECREATION Newtowne Neck State Park c/o Point Lookout State Park, 11175 Point Lookout Rd, Scotland, 301-872-5688 http://dnr2.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://dnr2.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. Dawn-dusk. 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 Year’s. Chesapeake Biological Lab Visitor Center 200 Farren Ave, Solomons, 410-326-7443 www.umces.edu/cbl/visitors-center-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- Memorial Day: Fri-Sun, 12N-4pm; Memorial-Labor Day: Wed-Thur, 12N-4pm; Fri-Sun, 9:30am-4:30pm; Labor Day-Sept: Fri-Sun, 9:30am-4:30pm; Sept-Nov: Fri-Sun, 12N-4pm; December: special Christmas 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. Closed Oct-Apr. 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. Paddle board, kayak and boat rentals. Max charter size is 49 people. Mar-Dec: Mon-Sun, 9am-6pm. Kelly D Sportfishing 14448 Solomons Island Rd S, Solomons, 202-409-8685 www.kellydsportfishing.com Max charter size is 18 people. Call for information. Loch Jaw Charter Fishing 255 Lore Rd, Solomons, 410-474-0606 www.islandcreekllc.com Charter fishing, tours and hunting. Call for information. 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 to 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 six 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 six 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 and kayak launch. Mon-Fri, 7:30am-dusk. 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. Seasonal: 10am-5pm. Closed Thanksgiving. Tall Timbers OUTDOOR RECREATION Bowes Charter Fishing 17785 Clarke Rd, Tall Timbers, 301-994-1797 A 40-ft. Charter available for fishing trips and cruises with a max charter size of six people. Apr-Dec. Valley Lee HISTORY & HERITAGE St. George’s Episcopal Church 19167 Poplar Hill Lane, 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 first 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. Mon-Fri: office, 9am-5pm VISITOR SERVICES La Plata COUNTY & CITY TOURISM OFFICE Charles County Government 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. See ad on page 3. 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. 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. ACCOMMODATIONS HOTELS AND MOTELS Bel Alton Motel 9295 Crain Hwy, US Hwy 301, Bel Alton, 20611 301-934-9505 www.belaltonmotel.com Best Western-La Plata Inn 6900 Crain Hwy, Rt 301, La Plata, 20646 301-934-4900, 1-877-528-1234 www.bestwestern.com/laplatainn Chesapeake Beach Resort & Spa 4165 Mears Ave, Chesapeake Beach, 20732 410-257-5596, 1-866-312-5596 www.cbresortspa.com Comfort Inn & Suites-Patuxent River NAS 21885 Three Notch Rd, Lexington Park, 20653 301-863-1051 www.choicehotels.com/hotel/md232 Comfort Suites-Waldorf 11765 Business Park Dr, Waldorf, 20601 301-932-4400, 1-800-517-4000 www.choicehotels.com/hotel/MD019 Country Inn & Suites-California 44941 Worth Lane, California, 20619 301-737-5227, 1-800-456-4000 www.countryinns.com/lexingtonparkmd Country Inn & Suites-Waldorf 2555 Business Park Court, Waldorf, 20601 301-645-6595, 1-888-201-1746 www.countryinns.com/waldorf-hotel-md-20601/mdwald Courtyard by Marriott-Waldorf 3145 Crain Hwy Rt 301, Waldorf, 20603 301-885-3333, 1-800-627-7468 www.marriott.com/WASWD Deluxe Inn-La Plata 6705 Crain Hwy, US Hwy 301 at MD Rt 6, La Plata, 20646 301-934-1400, 1-800-499-2299 Executive Inn & Suites Park Avenue Hotel-Leonardtown 41655 Park Ave, Leonardtown, 20650 301-475-3000 www.execinnparkave.net/executiveinnparkave/Default.aspx Fairfield Inn-Lexington Park 22119 Three Notch Rd, Lexington Park, 20653 301-863-0203, 1-800-228-2800 www.fairfieldinn.com/waslp Hampton Inn-Lexington Park 22211 Three Notch Rd, Lexington Park, 20653 301-863-3200, 1-800-HAMPTON www.lexingtonpark.hamptoninn.com Hampton Inn-Waldorf 3750 Crain Hwy, Waldorf, 20603 301-632-9600, 1-800-HAMPTON www.waldorf.hamptoninn.com Hilton Garden Inn-Solomons 13100 Dowell Rd, Dowell, 20629 410-326-0303, 1-877-782-9444 www.solomons.stayhgi.com Hilton Garden Inn-Waldorf 10385 O’Donnell Place, Waldorf, 20603 240-222-0000, 1-877-STAY-HGI www.waldorf.hgi.com Holiday Inn Express-La Plata 6860 Crain Hwy, La Plata, 20646 301-392-0065 www.ichotelsgroup.com/ihg/hotels/us/en/laplata/llpmd/hoteldetail Holiday Inn Express-Prince Frederick 355 Merrimac Ct, Prince Frederick, 20678 410-535-6800, 1-800-565-8815 www.hiexpress.com/princefredrck Holiday Inn Express-Waldorf 11370 Days Ct, Waldorf, 20603 301-932-9200, 1-800-315-2621 www.hiexpress.com/waldorfmd Holiday Inn Solomons Conference Center & Marina 155 Holiday Dr, Solomons, 20688 410-326-6311, 1-800-356-2009 www.hisolomons.com Home2 Suites by Hilton-Lexington Park Patuxent River NAS 46058 Valley Dr, Lexington Park, 20653 301-866-1416 www.lexingtonpark.home2suites.com Island Inn & Suites, An Ascend Hotel-Piney Point 16810 Piney Point Rd, Piney Point, 20674 301-994-1234 www.stgeorgeislandinnandsuites.com LaQuinta Inn & Suites-California 22769 Three Notch Rd, California, 20619 301-862-4100, 1-800-753-3735 www.lq.com LaQuinta Inn-Waldorf 11770 Business Park, Waldorf, 20601 301-645-0022, 1-866-725-1661 www.lq.com Master Suites Hotel-Waldorf 2228 Old Washington Rd, Waldorf, 20601 301-870-5500, 1-800-682-3206 www.mastersuiteshotel.com Patuxent Inn-La Plata 9400 Chesapeake St, La Plata, 20646 301-934-3465 www.patuxentinn.com Quality Inn-Solomons | Beacon Marina 255 Lore Rd, Solomons, 20688 410-326-6303 www.choicehotels.com Red Roof Inn-Californina 23428 Three Notch Rd, California, 20619 301-737-2444 www.redroof.com Residence Inn by Marriott-Waldorf 3020 Technology Pl, Waldorf, 20601 301-632-2111 www.residenceinn.com/waswr SpringHill Suites by Marriott-Prince Frederick 75 Sherry Ln, Prince Frederick, 20678 443-968-3000 www.marriott.com/bwipf Super 8 Motel-Indian Head 4694 Indian Head Hwy, Indian Head, 20640 301-753-8100, 1-800-800-8000 Super 8 Motel-Prince Frederick 40 Commerce Ln, Prince Frederick, 20678 410-535-8668, 1-800-800-8000 www.super8.com Town and Country Motel-Faulkner 10870 Crain Hwy, Faulkner, 20632 301-934-8252, 1-800-408-7650 www.charlescountymd.gov/locations/town-n-country-motel TownePlace Suites by Marriott-Lexington Park Patuxent River Naval Air Station 22520 Three Notch Rd, Lexington Park, 20653 301-863-1111, 1-800-257-3000 www.marriott.com/wastl BED & BREAKFASTS AND INNS Back Creek Inn B&B 210 Alexander Lane, Solomons, 20688 410-326-2022 www.backcreekinnbnb.com Closed Dec 20-Jan 2. Blue Heron Inn-a Bed & Breakfast 14614 Solomons Island Rd, Solomons, 20688 410-326-2707 www.blueheronbandb.com Brictoria Cottage 7535 Poplar St, Charlotte Hall, 20622 301-884-8699 www.brictoriacottage.com The cottage provides a quiet retreat for those seeking to escape the wild ride of everyday life. Maryland Bed & Breakfast inspected and approved. Nekedesh Farm Bed & Breakfast Retreat 20520 Wellington Ct, Coltons Point, 20626 301-769-4333 www.nekadeshfarm.com Part of Plenty B&B 8664 Port Tobacco Rd, La Plata, 20646 301-934-0707, 1-800-520-0708 www.partofplentybedandbreakfast.com Rosewood Manor 7825 Locust Pl, Port Tobacco, 20677 240-640-3556 www.rosewoodmanorbnb.com French-style grand mansion house is decorated with antique furnishings, exquisite wall and ceiling moulding and grand chandeliers. It is the perfect spot for a South Maryland getaway. Solomons Victorian Inn 125 Charles St, Solomons, 20688 410-326-4811 www.solomonsvictorianinn.com St. Michael’s Manor B&B 50200 St. Michaels Manor Way, Scotland, 20687 240-298-3339, 301-872-4025, 240-925-3984 www.st-michaels-manor.com Trent Hall Bed & Breakfast 29350 Trent Hall Rd, Mechanicsville, 20659 301-884-3700 www.visitstmarysmd.com/lodging/detail/trent-hall-bed-breakfast Woodlawn Bed & Breakfast 16040 Woodlawn Lane, Ridge, 20680 301-872-0555 www.woodlawn-farm.com CAMPGROUNDS Breezy Point Beach & Campground 5300 Breezy Point Rd, Chesapeake Beach, 20732 410-535-0259 www.co.cal.md.us/residents/parks/getinvolved Dennis Point Marina & Campground 46555 Dennis Point Way, Drayden, 20630 301-994-2288 www.dennispointcampground.com Tues-Sun, 8:30am-5pm. Goose Bay Marina & Campground 9365 Goose Bay Ln, Welcome, 20693 301-934-3812 www.goosebaymarina.com Sea Side View Campground 48593 Sea Side View Rd, Ridge, 20680 301-872-4141 www.seaside-view.com May-Nov. Take It Easy Campground 45285 Take It Easy Ranch Rd, Callaway, 20620 301-994-0494, 1-877-994-0494 www.takeiteasycampground.com We are a family-friendly campground with areas for eating, play and relaxing. Military personnel and contractors are welcome. Most sites have full hookups with 30/50 amp service and many are shaded. VACATION RENTAL PROPERTIES Camp Merryelande Vacation Cottages 15914 Camp Merrylande Rd, St. George Island, 20674 301-994-1722 www.campmd.com Chesapeake Bay Vacation Rentals 6040 Bayview Rd, St. Leonard, 20685 443-532-5975 www.lovethebay.com Chesapeake Charm 50176 Dove Cove Rd, Dameron, 20628 301-904-0935 www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p3537894 Sleeps 6-9. Colton’s Shipping Point Farm Cottage 39244 Burch Rd, Avenue, 20609 301-807-0988 www.coltonshippingpointfarm.com The Cottages of Governors Run 2847 Governors Run Rd, Port Republic, 20676 410-586-2346 www.baycottages.com Matoaka Beach Cabins 4510 Matoaka Ln, St. Leonard, 20685 410-586-0269 www.matoakabeachcabins.com Apr-Oct. Osprey’s Nest 6040 Bayview Rd, St. Leonard, 20865 443-532-5975 www.lovethebay.com Seahorse Guest Cottage 8811 Dayton Ave, North Beach, 20714 410-610-9322 www.seahorseguestcottage.com Sleeps 5.
©Maryland. View All Articles.