In the rolling countryside an hour outside of Washington DC is the coolest small town in America this year, according to Budget Travel. Sykesville Maryland is a charming unique town that is truly one of a kind. Sykesville is home to a vibrant downtown, charming shops, picturesque restaurants and a truly all American, hometown feeling that you will not find anywhere else.
Sykesville had its beginnings as an estate owned by the wealthy shipbuilder William Patterson. In 1831, the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad extended it’s line through Sykesville and a charming downtown area that included stores, churches and a post office began to thrive here.
Sykesville is known for their popular events, including their yearly Chili & Beer Festival featuring a chili cook off and beer samples from local breweries.
If you don’t want to wait for one of their events, the first Friday of every month is First Friday in Sykesville. Local shops and restaurants open refreshments, activities and live music.
Sykesville still honors its railroad roots. Inside of real locomotive cars, the Sykesville and Patapsco Railway builds and operates model train displays.
The little ones will love riding Little Sykes Railway, a 1949 small train that children can ride for free. Santa even enjoys the ride in during the holiday season!
There is a rich history in Sykesville and many of the buildings in the town are historic properties, including the Historic Sykesville Colored Schoolhouse, a restored one room schoolhouse that was originally built in 1904, which still holds classes today.
To Weekly farmer’s markets, to seasonal events, shopping, museums, history and delicious restaurants, Sykesville has something for everyone and truly deserves its title of “America’s Coolest Town.”
