13 Out Of This World Summer Day Trips To Take In Maryland
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Jamie Alvarenga
Author
Summer is the time to finally explore fun adventures in Maryland that we’ve been meaning to do. For those of us who don’t have the time for a long vacation, a day trip is the perfect solution. If you’re looking for inspiration for your next day trip, consider heading out on one or more of the best day trips in Maryland featured here. There are so many fun and awe-inspiring places on this list.
1. Go fossil hunting at Calvert Cliffs State Park
Calvert Cliffs State Park, 10540 H G Trueman Rd, Lusby, MD 20657, USA
This state park offers beautiful trails but what it's most known for is the fossil beach. Spend the day searching for prehistoric finds, even Megalodon teeth! Read more about Calvert Cliffs State Park. Don't forget to check out the official website for the Maryland park. This is one of the best day trips in Maryland you can take!
Check out this quick YouTube video by The Road Goes On Forever with some highlights of the park.
Check out this quick YouTube video by The Road Goes On Forever with some highlights of the park.
2. Float along the scenic Gunpowder Falls State Park
Gunpowder Falls State Park Hammerman Area, 7200 Graces Quarters Rd, Middle River, MD 21220, USA
Lazy rivers are perfect for those of us who want to explore nature without putting in too much effort. Tube at this quiet spot for a day to remember. Read more about the natural lazy river, or go to the official website of Gunpowder Falls State Park. This is one of the best summer day trips!
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3. Take a road trip on Maryland's loneliest road
Hoopers Island Road, Hoopers Island Rd, Maryland, USA
Hooper's Island Road takes you through approximately nine miles of scenic wetland views, historic churches, and more. Stop by Old Salty's Restaurant along the way for exceptional seafood. Read more about the scenic Maryland drive. You might also want to check out the official website for Hooper's Island.
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4. Hit the rapids at Adventure Sports Center International
Adventure Sports Center International, 250 Adventure Sports Way, McHenry, MD 21541, USA
This man-made water course offers rafting or kayaking among lively rapids. Bring a group and make a day of it! Read more about the man-made water course. Or, make a reservation for your adventure at Adventure Sports Center International.
Take a look at this video by DeepCreekLakeVideo:
Take a look at this video by DeepCreekLakeVideo:
5. Visit the perfectly pristine Assateague Island
Assateague Island, United States
Assateague Island is known for wild horses, but not many know that this spot also has the most pristine sand in Maryland. The fine white sand stretches as far as the eye can see! Can you think of a better way to spend the day than on the sandy beach where you can catch a glimpse of the wild horses? Plan your day on the island. Or, visit the official website for
Assateague Island. This has to be one of the most awe-inspiring summer day trips in Maryland.
Be sure to check out this video by Global City Guide:
Be sure to check out this video by Global City Guide:
6. Stroll the Ocean City boardwalk
Ocean City, MD, USA
Most of us have walked up and down the Ocean City boardwalk numerous times but, somehow, it never gets old. Find Thrasher's Fries, Fisher's Popcorn, arcades, and more at this fun summertime spot. Read more about this fun waterfront destination. You might also want to check out the official website for Ocean City.
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7. Have the time of your life at Frontier Town
8430 Stephen Decatur Hwy, Berlin, MD 21811, USA
This spot is popular for camping overnight, but you can also visit during the day and partake in the pool, aerial course, and more. This place is perfect for families and is filled with fun things for kids in Maryland. Read more about this family-friendly campground, or make reservations at the official website of Frontier Town Campground.
8. Go on a crabby cruise
The Crab Place, 504 Maryland Ave, Crisfield, MD 21817, USA
The Crab Place offers an all-you-can-eat crab feast followed by a sunset cruise leaving from Crisfield. Good food and live music pair well on this very Maryland excursion. You can check out the menu and hours for The Crab Place.
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9. Taste Maryland's best homemade ice cream
Hoffman's Ice Cream & Deli, 934 Washington Rd, Westminster, MD 21157, USA
We could go on and on about the abundance of Maryland ice cream shops. However, Hoffman's is known for having the best homemade ice cream in the state. Folks travel from all over for a taste of the goodness. Read more about the popular homemade ice cream, or check out the menu for
Hoffman's Home Made Ice Cream.
10. Explore the magical boardwalk trail at Battle Creek Cypress Swamp Sanctuary
Battle Creek Cypress Swamp, 2880 Grays Rd, Prince Frederick, MD 20678, USA
The sun is brutal during summer months, so head to this shady spot for unique day trips near Prince Frederick, MD. Explore the scenic swamp while safely walking along the rustic boardwalk. Read more about this hidden destination. You can find a trail map and more information at the official website of Calvert Nature Society.
Check out this video by @wayniac917:
Check out this video by @wayniac917:
11. Splash around in Maryland's largest lake
Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, USA
If you're heading to Deep Creek Lake for the day, be sure to check out the man-made beach for a bit of swimming. There are also several state parks nearby for a summer hike. Read more about this must-visit lake. Find the official website of Deep Creek Lake Area & Garrett County.
12. Catch a flick at Bengies Drive-in Theatre
Bengies Drive-In Theatre, 3417 Eastern Blvd, Middle River, MD 21220, USA
Step back in time when visiting Bengies Drive-in Theatre, where you can catch a double feature. Movie titles are up-to-date and snacks are available for purchase. Read more about the classic drive-in, and find movie schedules and admission prices at the official website of Bengies Drive-In Theatre.
13. Hike part of the Great Allegheny Passage
Great Allegheny Passage, La Vale, MD, USA
You've heard of the C&O Canal, but did you know that there's a trail that extends from the end of the Cumberland portion all the way to Pittsburgh? This 150-mile stretch is stunning, no matter which part you decide to explore. Start planning your hike along this 150-mile trail. Don't forget to check out the official website for the Great Allegheny Passage.
Do you agree that these are the best day trips in Maryland? What are your favorite summer destinations in Maryland? Let us know in the comments! If you’re looking for somewhere to stay overnight, check into this tiny house on a Maryland pier. Happy exploring!
If you are looking for something unique to do in Maryland indoors, try this glow-in-the-dark splatter paint experience.
Awake To Stunning Water Views When Staying At This Tiny House On A Maryland Pier
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More to Explore
Best Day Trips In Maryland
What are the best outdoor activities in Maryland?
Some of the best outdoor activities in Maryland include the following:
- Gather the whole family for a day at The Adventure Park in Sandy Springs. The aerial park is, in fact, the largest aerial park in North America, so you know it’s a good summer destination. It boasts 13 trails that feature all of the best in aerial fun – zip lines, rope courses, and bridges.
- Robinson Nature Center, one of the best places to visit in Maryland, is also an ideal summer destination. You’ll have a ton to do both indoors and outdoors – from a planetarium to an outdoor playground.
What are the best day trips in Maryland?
Some of the best day trips in Maryland include:
- A day trip that will take you to some of Maryland’s best wine and waterfalls? The 189-mile day trip will take you just over 4.5 hours and kicks off at Cunningham Falls. Visit such spots as Linganore Winecellars, Cascade Falls, and Boordy Vineyards.
- For a fun day among animals, plan a day at Poplar Spring Animal Sanctuary in Poolesville. The animal sanctuary is home to cows, pigs, goats, and even a peacock.
Where can I go on one tank of gas in Maryland?
There are many places to go on one tank of gas In Maryland including the following:
- Villa de Alpacas Farm in Aquasco is an alpaca farm that is a fun way to spend a few hours or an entire day and you’ll get to meet a whole bunch of friendly, frizzy alpacas.
- On the other hand, if you’re looking for a way to cool down on a hot summer day, you can’t go wrong with a trip to Gunpowder Falls, where you can meander down the river all day.
What are the best family-friendly activities in Maryland?
Aside from the best day trips listed above, here are some family-friendly activities in Maryland that we recommend:
- National Aquarium, Baltimore
- Six Flags America, Woodmore
- Port Discovery Children’s Museum.
- The Maryland Zoo, Baltimore
- Jolly Roger Splash Mountain, Ocean City
- Wheaton Regional Park, Silver Springs
- Pirate Adventures on the Chesapeake, Annapolis
- Oriole Park at Camden Yards, Baltimore
- Swallow Falls State Park, Oakland
- Susquehanna National Wildlife Refuge, Cambridge
- Chesapeake Beach Water Park, Chesapeake Beach
- Davis Planetarium, Baltimore
Be sure to check out our previous article with some more family-friendly activities in Maryland.