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Free Things To Do In Maryland: The Ultimate Maryland Trip Bucket List

Free Things To Do In Maryland: The Ultimate Maryland Trip Bucket List

Oct 12, 2021

Last Updated on: Jul 7, 2025

The Maryland Tourism & Travel Summit 2024, which took place from November 6th to 8th, saw the Maryland Tourism Coalition (MTC), like in the last 50 years, unite all segments of the state’s tourism and 300 delegates to develop Maryland tourism.

This event is likely to impact tourism and the state’s economy. We can expect many developments in amenities and infrastructure, with names like American Airlines, United Airlines, Quality Inn, and Holiday Inn Express Easton, an IHG Hotel, participating in the event.

Further, thanks to proximity to airports like the Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), Maryland remains accessible to tourists across the globe.

Moreover, the free things to do in Maryland, like Exploring the Battle Creek Cypress Swamp or visiting the Salisbury Zoo, make Maryland a tourist’s delight. So, despite being considered one of the more expensive states of the USA, you can plan a budget-friendly itinerary here.

If you are ready to travel like a local and pick budget-friendly activities, the pocket pinch (flight and hotel) will be around $270-350 per person. However, if you are not already aware of the free and cheap things to do in Maryland, this Tour and Travel guide will be of great help.

Free And Cheap Things To Do In Maryland | Traveling On A Shoestring

In this blog, I will tell you about what I have explored in Maryland and what all things can be done in Maryland. We will also discuss the food of Maryland attractions that you must try when you are visiting Maryland. We will cater to you about all the possible information about Mary’s land and tourist attractions in Maryland which you can follow up.

So let’s start to take a glimpse of the famous places in Maryland.

There are a lot of things to do in Maryland but before that, I will tell you tips for first-time New York visitors. Most people who visit New York, tend to confine themselves to Manhattan only. But the real beauty of New York lies when you leave Manhattan.

I think the best way to convey this to you is to first tell you about the things to do in Maryland. While telling you about that I will also give you some tricky insights about New York.

I would like to start by saying that New York is a secret city in the United States. New York has surprised me quite a little there are so many things to do in new york. All you have to know is when to visit New York to enjoy the most.

I think the best way to convey to you is to first tell you about the things to do in Maryland. While telling you about that I will also give you some tricky insights about New York.

April to June and late August to October are two ideal seasons to try the free things to do in Maryland. However, during these two seasons, the cost of accommodation shoots up due to a tourist influx.

So, you really need to pick the activities or visit the places that will cost you less when traveling on a shoestring.

Here, we will provide you with all the possible information about Maryland so you can visit these places without hassle.

1. Visiting The Calvert Cliffs State Park

Location: 0540 H G Trueman Rd, Lusby, MD
Contact Number: +1 443-975-4360
Vehicle Fee: $5 for State Residents, $7 for Residents of Other States, $10 for Small Bus, $20 for Large Bus
Hours Open: 7:30 AM to 5 PM

Exploring the fossil-bearing Calvert Cliffs is one of the best things to do in Maryland. I loved the atmosphere and the place.

Here, the large collection of fossiliferous is known as the Chesapeake Group. Further, the cliff contains Miocene fauna.

Fossil Hunting | Know The Things To Do In Maryland Park

At Calvert Cliffs State Park, you can go to the end of the red trail. There, you will find the open beach area for fossil hunting.

Here, you will find fossils from the Miocene era, covering more than 600 species. Some common variations here are Miocene-era oyster shells, shark teeth, and Chesapectens, which you can hunt using shovels and sieves.

The Calvert Cliff in Maryland is mostly forested, with some ponds and wetlands. Moreover, the things to do here are hunting turkey, deer, and bird watching. You can also stroll along the beautiful flora-fauna-rich beach in Calvert.

2. Exploring The Washington County Museum Of Fine Arts

Location: 401 Museum Drive, Hagerstown, MD
Contact Number: (301) 739-5727
Hours Open: 10 AM – 5 PM (Tuesday to Sunday), Monday – Free
Admission and Parking: Free

The Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, the hub of many exhibitions and events, houses more than 6,500 permanent collectibles. Mr. and Mrs. William Henry Singer, Jr founded the museum, and they donated the initial exhibits.

Currently, the museum has sculptures, decorative arts, drawings, and prints. Further, the collectibles here are cosmopolitan, with a focus on 19th-century European art and American art.

Some of the most prominent collections in the museum are the European Old Masters, The Singer Memorial Gallery, American Narratives: 1700-1920, and The Eight to Abstraction: Modernism & Innovation.

3. Spending A Day At Assateague Island National Seashore

Entry Fee: Standard Pass – $0.00–$25.00, Annual Pass – $45.00, America the Beautiful Pass (includes Senior Passes) – Free–$80.00
Hours Open: 24*7

The United States Park Service and Fish and Wildlife Service manage Assateague Island National Seashore. You will find feral ponies walking and galloping across the island and the surrounding waters.

Further, the Assateague Island National Seashore is for everyone. You can go fishing, catch crabs, take a bike ride, or hike through the barrier island.

Moreover, you can collect a permit and enjoy the most adventurous ride in Over Sand Vehicles or OSVs. Also, for a wonderful outdoor experience, you can camp at the Assateague Island National Seashore.

4. Sightseeing At Ego Alley

Location: 1 Dock St, Annapolis, MD
Hours Open: 24 Hours
Entry: Fee

Ego Alley is a narrow waterway that spills out into Spa Creek. This narrow waterway got its name from the expensive boats parading in the evenings and during the weekend.

A visit to Ego Alley is one of the free things to do in Maryland. Here, you can soak in the Sun while gorging on local delicacies.

Further, people gather in large numbers at Ego Alley for St. Patrick’s Day in March, the Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show in April, or the Independence Day Celebration in July.

5. Visiting The Beautiful Sculpture Gardens, Baltimore Museum Of Art

Location: 10 Art Museum Dr, Baltimore, MD

Hours Open: Monday and Wednesday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM, Tuesday: Closed

Entry: Free

As you take a walk along the Beautiful Sculpture Gardens, you will discover close to 33 sculptures.

The sculptures here are a good mix of old and new sculptures of the last 100 years.

6. William British Planetarium

Location: 820 Commonwealth Avenue, Hagerstown, MD

Hours Open: Monday-Friday (8 AM to 3:30 PM), Special Shows: Second And Fourth Saturdays (5:30-7 PM)

Entry Fee: $3.75 for Adults, $2.75 for Children and Students

If you love to see the stars, moon, Milky Way, and galaxy, then William British Planetarium is the place you must visit.

Enjoy an immersive planetarium show that looks back at rare classes of eruptions that have marshaled the energy that lurks.

You will also be able to witness the details of the space. I enjoyed this place thoroughly because it took me back to my childhood.

7. National Aquarium

Location: 501 E Pratt St, Baltimore, MD

Hours Open: Monday-Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday – 9 AM-6 PM, Friday: 9 AM to 9 PM

Entry Fee: Free for Children below 4 Years, $24.95 or Half Price on Fridays from 5-9 PM

When you visit Maryland, you cannot miss the National Aquarium, especially its wide variety of sea creatures, such as sharks, dolphins, living reefs, and jellyfish.

It is a non-profit public aquarium known as the Baltimore Aquarium, by the locals.

The aquarium’s water capacity is more than 2.2 million gallons, and it ranks as one of the top three aquariums in the country. It features amphibians, reptiles, fish, mammals, and birds.

8. Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Park

Location: 4068 Golden Hill Road, Church Creek, MD

Hours Open: Tuesday-Sunday (10 AM to 4 PM), Monday Closed

Entry Fee: Free

Another activity that must be included in your list of things to do in Maryland is visiting the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Park!

The Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Park commemorates the life of the activist Harriet Tubman, who was formerly enslaved during the American Civil War.

The national park encompasses 480 acres and is managed by the US National Park Service Unit.

The state of Maryland is responsible for the park’s upkeep. Throughout the park, exhibits are dedicated to Tubman, who operated the Underground Railroad after she was free from slavery.

9. Exploring The Battle Creek Cypress Swamp

Location: 2880 Grays Road, Port Republic, MD

Hours Open: Monday-Friday (9 AM to 4:30 PM), Saturday (10 AM to 4:30 PM), Sunday: 1-4:30 PM

Entry Fee: Free

Battle Creek Cypress Swamp is home to bald cypress trees and is the first preserve of The Nature Conservancy in Maryland.

You will also find pink lady’s slipper and May apple plants here.

Moreover, the Battle Creek Cypress Swamp has Warblers and Kentucky.

10. Visiting The Salisbury Zoo

Location: 755 S Park Dr, Salisbury, MD

Hours Open: 9 AM to 4:30 PM

Entry Fee: Free

Salisbury Zoo is home to a wide range of animals, including guinea pigs, great horned owls, gopher tortoises, painted turtles, box turtles, and burrowing owls.

Salisbury Zoo is accessible, and it has wheelchair facilities to offer more inclusivity to visitors.

Don’t Miss The Local Food | Best Things To Do In Maryland

My best experience in Maryland was trying local food like Steamed Crabs.

The place is popular in the United States for fishing and its blue crabs. The dish of steamed crabs combines spices, herbs, beer, and blue crabs.

Remember to add butter along with different blends of seasoning so you will get both a spicy and savory taste.

Another great thing I had was the Crab Cake. Also, don’t forget to try the Roasted Pit Beef.

Raising A Toast At Flying Dog Brewery | Best Things To Do In Maryland

The next on my ‘things to do in Maryland’ list is a visit to the Flying Dog Brewery. What can be a better place for a connoisseur than the Flying Dog Brewery as they believe “Beer is Art.”

Flying Dog Brewery has a good mix of year-round gems and some seasonal attractions. The Double Dog Juicy Double IPA is my favorite among the year-round attractions.

Again, the Deep Fake Non-Alcoholic is the best seasonal offering here.

The Flying Dog Brewery’s tasting room is open from Thursday to Sunday. I had a great time tasting different seasonal beers there.

However, don’t forget to carry your ID, as they only serve beer to 21+ visitors.

sagnika sinha

Sagnika Sinha is a content writer who is passionate about writing travel vlogs, entertainment and celebrity articles and literature-based pieces. With a 4 years experience in teaching, she loves reading books. A procrastinator by nature, she loves travelling, listening to music, planting and gardening.

What You Need to Know Before Travelling to Barcelona?

BY Ankita Apr 25, 2024

Is Barcelona your next dream destination? Plan your trip so that you can gain the most positive experience from it. Here’s a list of the most assorted destinations you need to visit in Barcelona and activities you can enjoy in this 'City of Counts.' Dive deep into this guide, as we have also provided you with the best time to travel to Barcelona. How To Reach Barcelona? You can get from the airport to the city center by metro. The train stops right at the terminal. The branch line connecting El Prat Airport to the center of Barcelona was opened in 2016. Only automatically operated trains run on it. Driverless trains follow a set route with a programmed speed, which depends on passenger traffic. You can buy a one-time ticket, but it is more profitable to take a card for ten trips. The Main Attraction One of the main attractions of the city is the statue of Jesus Christ, perched on top of the temple on Mount Tibidabo. It is Barcelona's highest point, located 512 meters above sea level. The slope can be approached by cable car, but many tourists prefer hiking routes. As legend says, the heart of a person who overcomes the path to the top of Tibidabo on foot will become open to boundless love. Another way to explore the Statue of Christ, the surroundings of Mount Tibidabo, and other sights of the capital of Catalonia is to take a helicopter trip of Barcelona. You will be able to enjoy stunning views with your loved one, take unique photos and videos, and have an unforgettable experience. When traveling to Barcelona, one of the best times to enjoy the majestic statue of Jesus Christ is during the spring and summer months. From April to June, you can visit the statue around 9 am to avoid crowds. You can visit the statue any other time, but you might find it crowded. After all, it's a main attraction. Along with the statue view, enjoy the exceptional view of the 'City of Counts.' A City Of Contrast: Best Places to Visit In Barcelona Barcelona is a city of contrasts. Ancient cathedrals and temples here peacefully coexist with noisy bars full of young people. Such diversity attracts a lot of tourists. So, which places can you visit after visiting the main attraction of Jesus Christ in the 'City of Counts?' The Montjuic Mountain Are you a fan of unusual excursions? Then definitely give the Montjuic Mountain a visit. Here, you will find a park and cemetery on Montjuic Mountain. Montjuic Cemetery is called the city of the dead. Here, you can rent a "dwelling" for a deceased relative for 15, 25, or 50 years. More than 150 thousand people are buried in the "city of the dead." Here, you can find the graves of great musicians and artists. On Montjuic Mountain, you can also visit the castle built in the 17th century. It has several thematic expositions, cafes, and observation decks. Admission is paid, but there is a 50% discount for young people. The best time to travel to Barcelona to get the best experience of The Montjuic Mountain is from April to July. You can also visit this place during the autumn months, from September to November. Parc del Laberint d’Horta The Labyrinth of Horta in Barcelona is the oldest park in Catalonia. In the center of the labyrinth, there is a small square where the statue of love is located. There are eight paths leading from it in different directions. Wandering through the labyrinth, you can meet travelers from different countries. This place is very much loved by tourists. By the way, this is where the 2006 film "The Labyrinth of Faun" was shot. The best time to travel to Barcelona to visit the Labyrinth of Horta is during the springtime or during the fall. The reason is the climate, which is much milder during these two seasons, so you can enjoy exploring the labyrinth. Basilica Of The Sagrada Familia Are you aware of the fact that the Basilica Of The Sagrada Familia has been listed on UNESCO's list of unconventional churches?It is among those places that will fill your heart with immense pleasure. The church has 18 colossal spindle towers encompassing it, thus crafting a gothic appeal. You are bound to leave awestruck not only by the exteriors of the church but the interiors as well. The decorative ceiling and the Crucifix all tell you the story of Jesus Christ and his life of birth, death, and resurrection. The best time to travel to Barcelona to visit the Basilica of The Sagrada Familia is in the mornings or during sunsets. It's less crowded during the mornings, usually at 9 am. You will get the best sunset view reflected in the interiors of the church at 5 pm. Click the magical pictures of the church during this time. Palau De La Musica Catalana Palau De La Musica Catalana is a popular opera hall from the 19th century created by Lluis Domenech i Montaner. The latter is an infamous architect and artist. This beautiful structure will mesmerize you with its intricate, detailed mosaic work. The opera hall boasts decorated columns and exteriors influenced by Catalan Modernism. The best time to travel to Barcelona to see the 19th century opera hall is from 10 am to 3 pm. Your entry fee will be around 16 Euros per head. Best Foods You Can Try In Barcelona Sweet lovers should definitely try the popular Catalan desserts: Crema Catalana, a delicate caramelized cream, and Turrón, a nut and honey nougat. The most popular drink in Barcelona is sangria. This is a low-alcohol fruit wine. It tastes very good, but it's better not to abuse it on a hot day. Jamon is a traditional snack in Barcelona. It consists of thin slices of dry-cured ham. Unexpectedly, Catalans prefer to serve jamon with slices of fresh melon. Conclusion Now that you are aware of all the things you can explore and visit in Barcelona, tell us which place you will start your tour from. Also, the best time to travel to Barcelona necessarily means you have to visit the city at that specific time. You can also visit the 'City Of Counts' whenever you wish based on your preference. However, the traveler should be very careful. Pickpocketing is not uncommon in the city, especially in crowded areas for holidaymakers. Read Also: First-Time In Spain? Try These 5 Insider Tips To Enjoy The Experience Nature Escapes Near Bilbao: Mountains, Beaches, And Coastal Beauty Day Trips From Cleveland: Discovering Cuyahoga Valley National Park

6 Things Boutique Hotels Do that Makes Them Unique

BY Abdul Aziz May 4, 2022

People have different ideas about what makes a boutique hotel unique. Some people might say that it's the attention to detail, others might say it's the personal service, and then of course there are guests that say it's a unique atmosphere. But whatever it is that makes them special, boutique hotels have a certain something that sets them apart from other hotels. In this article, we'll take a look at 6 things that boutique hotels do that makes them truly one of a kind. 6 Unique Things Boutique Hotels Do that Makes Them Unique 1. They Have a Strong Sense of Style One of the most immediately apparent things about boutique hotels is that they have a strong sense of style. They're often trendsetters in the design world, and they're not afraid to experiment with different looks. For example, why not take a look at some of the Best Boutique Hotels in Charleston, SC. For boutique hotels such as The Pinch, their style is usually a reflection of the location where they're situated. You'll find that many boutique hotels in big cities have a chic, cosmopolitan look, while those in more rural areas often have a more rustic vibe. But no matter what their atmosphere is like, you can be sure that it will be stylish and unique. 2. They're Usually Smaller in Size Another defining characteristic of boutique hotels is that they're usually smaller in size than traditional hotels. This allows them to be more creative with their design, without having to worry about conforming to traditional hotel layouts. Smaller hotels tend to have a more unique feel to them, thanks to their compact nature. This can be a great option for travelers who are looking for something different from the traditional hotel experience or for people who get lost easily. So, do your research and explore the Internet to find the most charming and intimate lodgings available for an amazing getaway Related Resource: Top 10 Hotels In India 3. They Have an Unforgettable Atmosphere Part of what makes boutique hotels so special is their unforgettable atmosphere. They're often located in historic buildings that have been renovated to perfection, and they're filled with interesting art and unique furnishings. Even the smallest details are carefully chosen to create a one-of-a-kind experience. This is because each boutique hotel has its unique style and personality. You'll find that no two are exactly alike, which makes for a one-of-a-kind travel experience. From the decor to the amenities, you'll be surrounded by things that you won't find anywhere else in the world. All of this combined guarantees that you'll never forget your stay at a boutique hotel. 4. They're Intimate and Personalized Boutique hotels are usually not as intimidating as traditional hotels, which gives them a more intimate and personalized feel. The staff gets to know their guests and are always available to offer recommendations or help with anything you need. Whether you stay for a night or a week, you'll feel like a VIP during your stay. Listed below are some of the most popular ways boutique hotels provide exemplary customer service: Freebies: toiletries, welcome drinks, candy, and hotel merchandise are all fantastic ways to show guests that they are appreciated. All-day breakfasts: for guests that prefer to sleep in, offering breakfast all day can be a deal-breaker. Complimentary or discounted passes for excursions: providing free or reduced rate tickets to a show or other popular attraction supports local businesses and will not go unnoticed by guests. 5. They Celebrate the Local Culture Boutique hotels often incorporate locally sourced materials to reflect the heritage of their location. This might include using traditional building materials, displaying local art, or hiring local chefs and staff to cook authentic cuisine. In addition to highlighting the local culture, boutique hotels often strive to evoke a sense of community among their guests. Many offer special events that bring locals and tourists together, such as wine tastings, live music performances, or guided cultural tours. 6. They Attract a Variety of Guests Boutique hotels often offer a unique experience that larger, more generic hotels cannot provide. This, in turn, attracts a variety of guests, including those who are looking for something special and different. Moreover, boutique hotels draw in guests that are just as unique as the buildings in which they are based. Whether you are happy to make friends on vacation or prefer solo retreats, a stay in a boutique hotel can be tailored to your needs and preferences. You can find plenty of hotels that focus on providing an intimate and secluded experience, as well as those based in bustling areas with plenty of nightlife and socializing opportunities. Related Resource: Top 6 Most Popular Wendover Hotels In West Wendover In 2022 Boutique hotels have something for everyone Ultimately, boutique hotels offer a unique and memorable experience for guests. They often have interesting designs, focus on customer service, and provide personalized experiences that larger chains cannot replicate. If you're looking for an unforgettable hotel stay, consider booking at a boutique property. Have you ever stayed in a boutique hotel? What was your favorite part? Let us know in the comments. Read Also: Top 10 Best Beaches In Florida Top 10 Best Beaches In Florida For Families Which Is The Best Time To Visit Kashmir? – Travel Guide 10 Best Places To Travel In September – Travel Guide 2022

How To Save Money By Using Cheap Parking Near O’Hare Airport?

BY Abdul Aziz Mar 13, 2023

No frequent traveler will argue that the airport parking cost is the biggest problem they face while planning a trip. The parking price, along with the airfares and other associated expenses, can add up considerably with cheap parking. Depending on the airport and the duration of the journey, travelers can end up paying hundreds of dollars just to park their car. This can be especially difficult for those who are on a budget or have to travel frequently. Actually, any US airport won't be an exception. Traveling from Chicago, Illinois, people are hungry for the answer to the following question: is it possible to find cheap parking near O'Hare Airport? Let's deal with it and take a closer look at the solution we've found for you. How Much Does It Cost To Leave Your Vehicle At The Chicago O'Hare International Airport? First of all, we'd like to confirm the fact – cheap parking at O'Hare Airport is really expensive. Here's the table with prices the airport offers travelers: Parking Type Daily Rate O'Hare Parking Garage Fees (For daily) 42$ Fees O'Hare Daily Parking (Lot B & C) 42$ 5 O'Hare Terminal Parking Fees 77$ Economy Parking O'Hare Ticket Fees Of Economy Lot F 22$ Economy Parking O'Hare Fees Economy Lot G & F 15$ *The rates are valid at the moment of publishing You can see that even the budget option will cost you at least $15.00. In other cases, you would be charged daily fees ranging from $42.00 to $77.00, depending on the lot you choose. Also, there is one more difficulty – since on-site airport parking has limited availability, it'll be complicated to find a free spot among a bunch of cars. So how can we solve such a problem? Here's your best solution – O'Hare off-site parking provided by ParkingNearAirports.io! We decided to do our own research and find the best solution for every traveler. And we're happy to say that we've done it – ParkingNearAirports.io is a smart booking platform that provides you with an off-site parking facility that is only a few miles away from the airport you're departing from. What Are The Best Alternative Ways To Save Money By Using Cheap Parking Near O'Hare Airport? The service offers several options for O'Hare long-term cheap parking, as well as multiple amenities, which will make your departure absolutely convenient, including high-quality service, convenient locations, a free speedy shuttle to and from airport terminals, valet service, and free luggage assistance. Use Online Parking Reservation Platforms Online platforms like SpotHero, ParkWhiz, and AirportParkingReservations.com allow you to compare prices and reserve cheap parking spots in advance at a discounted rate. Consider Off-Airport Parking Parking lots located outside the airport may offer cheaper rates than on-site airport parking. Look for options that offer shuttle services to the airport terminals. Look For Discount Codes And Coupons Check the parking lot's website or search cheap parking options online for discount codes and coupons that can help you save money on parking fees. Choose Economy Parking O'Hare airport offers an economy cheap parking lot option that is cheaper than other on-site parking options. The economy lot is located farther from the airport terminals, but a shuttle service is provided to transport passengers to and from the lot. Take Advantage Of Hotel Parking Packages Some hotels near O'Hare airport offer parking packages that include a night's stay and parking for a certain number of days. This can be a cost-effective option if you need to park for several days. Consider Car-Sharing Or Ride-Hailing Services If you live close to the airport, using car-sharing or ride-hailing services like Uber or Lyft can be a cost-effective alternative to parking your car at the airport. Conclusion Be clever and only spend part of your fortune on cheap airport parking! Better take a closer look at PNA's cheap parking rates by following this link and make sure that parking might cost you up to 70% less. So use the discount airport parking services from ParkingNearAirports.io and afford your following journey to go smoothly! Read Also: 25 Amazing Things to do in Ladakh

Free Things To Do In Maryland: The Ultimate Maryland Trip Bucket List

Free And Cheap Things To Do In Maryland | Traveling On A Shoestring

1. Visiting The Calvert Cliffs State Park

2. Exploring The Washington County Museum Of Fine Arts