Maryland Guide
When you are thinking of a vacation Maryland probably isn't the first destination that comes to mind, it may not be as flashy as a sun holiday in Florida or as trendy as New York, but Maryland is a great place to visit and offers plenty to its visitors.

Maryland is a small state that sites quietly on the east coast of the United States. There is something here that will please just about every kind of visitor. Nature lovers will be able to enjoy hiking, kayaking, and America's largest estuary: Chesapeake Bay. If you like watching or participating in sports, there is plenty to choose from including skiing, golf, sailing, baseball and horseracing. History buffs will certainly want to explore the Civil War Trails and visit the birthplace of The Star-Spangle Banner in Baltimore. In fact Maryland is the 7th US state, established April 28, 1788 and it is known as Old Line State in honour of General Smallwood's “Maryland Line” that defended the area from the British during the 1776 War of Independence.

In Central Maryland along the Chesapeake Bay you will find the state's historical city and capital, Annapolis and its largest city, Baltimore. Both cities offer a plethora of culture, history, entertainment and activities to visitors. Annapolis was founded in 1649 when the first settlers arrived there from Virginia. The city's port quickly grew into a centre of commerce and visitors will discover the largest number of 18th century houses that still exist today in the United States. Also in Annapolis you can see the nation's first post War of Independence capital, the State House. It is here in the Old Senate Chamber that George Washington stepped down as the Commander-In-Chief of the Continental Army. Baltimore can be called Maryland's cultural city. Here you will discover historical buildings, bars, restaurants, sports teams, the National Aquarium, museums and much more. Baltimore is a wonderful city that suits those of all ages.

Outside of Maryland's cities you will find wonderful, lush rolling countryside. Much of central Maryland is horse country, in Baltimore County alone there are 149 horse farms. Maryland is home to the Preakness, one of the world's most famous horses races and also the Maryland Hunt Cup, the most difficult hunt race in the United States. The Gunpowder Falls State Park provides endless trails for walking and enjoying nature. The Allegheny Mountains offer ample opportunities for hiking or snow sports depending on the time of year.

This is just a brief introduction to what Maryland offers its visitors. To find out more please visit the individual sections of our Maryland travel guide.




All Maryland Hotels