5-Day Maryland Explorer
- Day 1Arrive in Maryland, explore city center
- Day 2Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5Final sightseeing, departure
On this page
About Maryland
Maryland occupies a narrow corridor between the Chesapeake Bay and the Appalachian Mountains. The Bay, North America's largest estuary, defines the state's culture and economy: blue crabs, oysters, and skipjack sailboats are woven into everyday life. Baltimore anchors the state with its revitalized Inner Harbor, world-class museums, and fierce identity. Annapolis, the colonial capital, draws sailors and history lovers to its brick-lined streets and the United States Naval Academy. Western Maryland rises into forested ridges where the Appalachian Trail passes through and Civil War battles shaped American history. The Eastern Shore across the Bay Bridges remains a quieter world of farm stands, wildlife refuges, and charming towns like St. Michaels and Cambridge.
- Capital
- Annapolis
- Largest city
- Baltimore
- Population
- 6.2 million
- Languages
- English
- Currency
- US Dollar
- Time zone
- Eastern Time (UTC-5 / UTC-4 DST)
Explore Maryland by topic
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
Best places to visit in Maryland
The 10 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
Recommended itineraries
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
7-Day Classic Maryland
- Days 1-2Maryland city highlights
- Days 3-4Regional exploration
- Days 5-6Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate Maryland
- Days 1-3Maryland comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12Southern attractions
- Days 13-14Return to Maryland, departure
Where to stay in Maryland
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Budget $120-195/day
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Mid-range $265-410/day
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Luxury $540-1050+/day
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
Four Seasons Hotel Baltimore
Check rates on Booking.comSagamore Pendry Baltimore
Check rates on Booking.comKimpton Hotel Monaco Baltimore
Check rates on Booking.comHyatt Regency Baltimore Inner Harbor
Check rates on Booking.comWhere to eat in Maryland
Cafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
LP Steamers
Woodberry Kitchen
The Choptank
Wit & Wisdom
Miss Shirley's Café
Pierpoint Restaurant
Getting around Maryland
Maryland is served by BWI Marshall Airport (Baltimore-Washington International) and Reagan National and Dulles in nearby Virginia. Within the state, car rental is the most practical option for exploring the Eastern Shore and western counties. Baltimore has an MTA light rail, metro subway, and extensive bus network. MARC commuter rail connects Baltimore to Washington DC and Pennsylvania.
Budget breakdown
Daily spend by tier in USD, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $70-100/night (hostel or budget motel) | $150-220/night (3-star hotel) | $280-600+/night (waterfront boutique or 4-star hotel) |
| Food (per day) | $30-50/day (diners, food markets, cheap eats) | $60-90/day (casual restaurants, one crab feast) | $120-200/day (fine dining, premium crab houses) |
| Transportation | $10-20/day (MTA bus, light rail, MARC train) | $25-40/day (car rental or Lyft/Uber) | $60-100/day (rental car, valet, private transfer) |
| Activities | $10-25/day (free museums, discounted admissions) | $30-60/day (major attractions, bay cruises) | $80-150/day (sailing charters, private tours) |
| Daily total | $120-195/day | $265-410/day | $540-1050+/day |
Best time to visit Maryland
Spring and fall offer ideal temperatures for Baltimore sightseeing, hiking, and sailing in the Chesapeake. Crab season peaks May-November. Ocean City is a summer destination but very crowded July-August.
Essential travel tips
- Get an E-ZPass Maryland (ezpassmd.com) if driving; saves on Bay Bridge and highway tolls — one crossing is $4 (E-ZPass) vs $8 (cash)
- The Preakness Stakes (third Saturday in May at Pimlico Race Course, Baltimore) sells out months in advance; book accommodations 6+ months ahead
- Old Bay seasoning is on every table at seafood restaurants — it's a local tradition
- Crab houses typically sell crabs by the dozen; specify male (jimmy) crabs for meatier results
- MARC trains connect Baltimore to DC in 45-70 minutes for $9 one-way; far cheaper than driving
Safety information
In Baltimore, stay in the Inner Harbor, Fells Point, Federal Hill, and Mount Vernon neighbourhoods; avoid walking west of Martin Luther King Jr Blvd after dark
Lock rental cars; do not leave valuables visible inside parked vehicles
Ocean City pedestrian traffic is heavy in summer; watch for cyclists on the Boardwalk
Bay Bridge (US-50) can have severe weekend delays in summer; leave before 9 AM or after 7 PM
Lyme disease tick risk is real in forested areas; wear long sleeves and use DEET in parks
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time to visit Maryland?
The best time to visit Maryland is April, May, September, October.
Do I need a visa to visit Maryland?
Entry requirements follow United States federal rules. Citizens from VWP countries may enter visa-free for up to 90 days under ESTA (apply at esta.cbp.dhs.gov, $21). All others require a valid US visa obtained in advance. Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
What currency is used in Maryland?
The currency in Maryland is the US Dollar (USD). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
What language is spoken in Maryland?
The main language(s) spoken in Maryland: English. In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
What are the top attractions in Maryland?
The top attractions in Maryland include Baltimore Inner Harbor & National Aquarium, Fort McHenry National Monument, United States Naval Academy (Annapolis), Antietam National Battlefield, and Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park. Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.