3 Spring Road Trips Around Maryland

Maryland's mountains, forests, and fields are all terrific fodder for a scenic journey through the state, but coastal drives have a charm all their own, and these are the three best ones for anyone living in Maryland. Chesapeake Country National Scenic Byway The first ever nationally designated scenic byway in Maryland, this 85-mile path takes about two to three hours to drive, but for a full experience of the eastern side of the Chesapeake Bay, we recommend planning a weekend with a few hotel stops in the cities that interest you most. The basic path begins in Stevensville, makes a backwards C route to Rock Hall, and then back a ways and north all the way to Chesapeake City. First, you may want to check out the serene beaches of Terrapin Nature Park before you leave Kent Island. Stop by the visitor venter as you leave Stevenson, if you want more ideas of where to stop. The drive on MD 18 and MD 213 will take you to Kent Narrows, and then Church Hill, known for its beautiful vineyards. Moving along 213, you'll cross Chester River Bridge and reach Chestertown, eventually Georgetown, and finally Chesapeake City, home to historic districts, calm canals, and horse-drawn carriage tours. more Cape to Cape Cape to Cape is a 120-mile north to south three state drive, starting in Cape Henlopen in Delaware, cutting down along the Atlantic coast of Maryland, and ending in Chincoteague at the easternmost part of Virginia. Along the journey, you'll see Photo by jcantroot | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

Clear skies and open roads practically beg you to hop into your car and head out of town. Maryland offers no shortage of diverting parks that make a day trip or weekend getaway well worth the drive. Natural wonders, historic adventures, cultural fun, and day hikes await, all within the Maryland state lines. Natural Wonders Journey to Assateague Island, whose mystical and untouched beauty draws visitors here to admire the untouched shores of this barrier island. Daily the wind whips across its sandy dunes, marshes, and the waves which crash against its shores. Yet, visitors come here to catch a glimpse of Assateague Island's famed wild horses. As a National Seashore, the park's rangers offer guided tours of its natural wonders. Pitch a tent and stay overnight in one of several campgrounds on the island. more Historic Adventures The national anthem traces its origins to the bombs bursting over the ramparts of Fort McHenry during the War of 1812. Francis Scott Key penned this notable song as an ode to the American's heroic defense against the British and the enduring spirit of America. Come and tour this famous star-shaped battlement. This notable National Monument and Historic Shrine lies near the Inner Harbor of Baltimore. Cultural Fun If you're looking for culture, head straight to Glen Echo Park. This site was launched as a National Chautauqua Photo by swallowedtail | Licensed under cc0 1.0

The nation's capital is the epicenter of the U.S. is many ways. As the seat of government, Washington D.C. is home to many important government sites and inspiring monuments. Abundant fun can be found in Washington that doesn't cost a penny, from fascinating museums to the arts, culture, and wonders of the natural world. Myriads of Museums The city's pride and joy lies in its world-class museums, spanning every discipline and interest. Experience the sobering history of the Holocaust at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, or the rich culture of North America's native peoples at the National Museum of the American Indian. All of the 19 branches of the Smithsonian branches are free, containing fascinating wonders from Dorothy's ruby slippers to Kermit the Frog and the Hope Diamond. more Fun in the Great Outdoors Washington D.C.'s temperate climate makes it an ideal locale for outdoor exploration year-round, but particularly in spring. During this time the city beckons travelers from near and far to experience its blossoming cherry trees during the Cherry Blossom Festival. The famous cherry trees erupt in sprays of delicate pink, lining the Tidal Basin which empties into the nearby Potomac River. The Tidal Basin is a beautiful place to stretch your legs and enjoy the idyllic view of the Jefferson Memorial, reflecting in the waters below, which is also free to visit. If you are looking for more lush flora to enjoy, hop in the car and head to the U.S. Botanical Gardens to take advantage of its free admission and ever-evolving natural displays. Washington for Little Ones Washington sheds its serious side at the National Zoo, where visitors can observe over 400 species amidst the pleasant surroundings of the animal habitats. Be sure to visit the zoo's youngest resident, Bei Bei the baby panda, who was born in 2013. You can literally stay from sunup to sundown, as the zoo is open from 6AM to 6PM. You can also take your little ones to fly kites on the National Mall, watching them fly nearly as high as the obelisk of the Washington Memorial. Spend Time at the Mall You'll find an afternoon's worth of wonder at the Washington Mall, where a must-see array of free attractions awaits. The Vietnam War Memorial and the World War II Memorial will inspire you to contemplate the nation's legacy and future, or ascend the steps of the Lincoln Memorial and stand where Martin Luther King, Jr. once delivered his famous "I Have a Dream" speech. Catch a Free Show Fill up on free culture at the Kennedy Center Millennium Stage. Free performances take place here daily at 6PM. The venue's eclectic lineup spans everything from classical choral and instrumental works, to rock, world fusion, jazz, soul, and gospel. The National Gallery of Art also hosts Sunday evening concerts on a first-come basis. Seating begins at 6PM, and the series runs twice monthly from May to October. You'll be sure to find something in the nation's capital to amaze you, inspire you, or teach you something new at a variety of institutions and landmarks. Photo by Thad Zajdowicz | Licensed under cc0 1.0