Travel: 5 Must-see Historical Sites in Maryland

by Amanda Brown on April 1st, 2013 | No Comments »

When you are headed to Maryland for a vacation, make sure you check out some of the best historic attractions in the state. There is so much to see and do that it’s smart to plan ahead. Here are some great historical sites to add to your vacation plans.

C & O Canal National Historic Park

Whether you want to go for a hike, do some fishing, or just have a beautiful picnic lunch, the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historic Park is the place to go. This park encompasses over 184 square miles of land alongside the Potomac River between the nation's capital and Cumberland. This area was used in the 18^th and 19^th centuries as a trade route for a variety of goods. Many original structures of the canal are still standing.

Historic Ellicott City

If you want to immerse yourself in history while you are in Maryland, it’s not very hard to do. Make sure to check out Ellicott City, one of the great historic cities in the state. The Maryland National road goes through the town, and covers the trail that helped with America’s progression toward the west. On top of that, there are great historic sites in the town, like Thomas Isaac Log Cabin, Patapsco Female Institute Historic Park, and Ellicott City Colored School. The town itself is full of old buildings that are sure to please.

New Field at Memorial Stadium Site

Memorial Stadium in Baltimore has not only been closed, it has been demolished. However, in its place, there are a variety of other developments including housing and Maryland's largest YMCA facility. The most recent is a new baseball and football field. This was completed in 2010, and home plate is in the same spot that it was in the stadium. Memorial Stadium was the original home of the Baltimore Orioles. You can still get Baltimore Orioles tickets; you will just have to see them at Oriole Park at Camden Yards.

Boordy Vineyards

If you love wine, you need to check out Boordy Vineyards while you are in Maryland. This is the oldest winery in the state. It is still family run, and encompasses over 230 acres. First established in 1945, this winery is still going strong. You can learn the ins and outs of winemaking, the way the process has changed over the years, and get a tour of the winery. On top of that, you can have a tasting of the delicious wines made here.

B&O Railroad Museum

B & O Railroad Museum

Are you interested in the history of trains? At the Baltimore and Ohio Railway museum, you can check out 40 acres of history, trains, and more. You can even ride the trains, allowing you to experience a piece of history that many simply don’t get to see. At the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad Museum, you can literally touch a piece of the past.

There are a variety of historic places to visit when you are in Maryland. This beautiful state has a rich history. No matter where your interests lie, there is sure to be a site that piques your interest.

Where are your favorite places to visit in Maryland?

Amanda is a freelance writer whom enjoys playing and coaching volleyball. She loves her friends and family including her dog, Charlie; as well as traveling all around the world.

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