Road Trip Through Maryland History

Celebrate 250 years of American history with a road trip to follow John Wilkes Booth through Southern Maryland on the Chasing Lincoln’s Assassin Scenic Byway. Trace the assassin as he fled through Maryland and crossed the Potomac River into Virginia before being caught. Or, celebrate a Maryland tradition with a day at the races. Steeplechase season is in full swing with events like the Grand National Steeplechase and the Maryland Hunt Cup Follow the Horses & Hounds Scenic Byway for even more horsing around in Hunt Country. Every Maryland Scenic Byway comes with curated listings for places to dine, eat and play so plan your historically fun getaway today.

Photo Credit: Martin Radigan Photography

Follow the Journey to Freedom on Maryland’s Underground Railroad

Join Maryland historian Anthony Cohen as he embarks on a powerful 750-mile journey beginning May 4 at the Sandy Spring Slave Museum and African Art Gallery to retrace 19th-century Underground Railroad routes to freedom into Canada. Beginning in Maryland, the Most Powerful Underground Railroad Storytelling Destination in the World, this exciting pilgrimage honors the courage of self-liberators, abolitionists, and secret networks during America’s 250th anniversary year. Along the way, Cohen will stop daily at historic landmarks, with special weekend “Activation Days” featuring public displays of artist Wesley Wofford’s traveling sculpture of Harriet Tubman.

Photo Credit: Chef Tony

Savor Local Maryland Oysters

Be “shellfish” and choose the best– Maryland’s Best. Thanks to a growing aquaculture industry that supplements wild-caught oysters, Maryland oysters are harvested year-round from waters across the state. Each region delivers distinct local flavors ranging from creamy and buttery to crisp and briny. Enjoy them on the half shell, grilled, tucked into a Po’ Boy, or served in a hearty oyster stew. Choosing Maryland oysters means supporting local watermen and savoring the true taste of Maryland.

Photo credit: The National Aquarium

Give the Gift of Maryland

Spring is filled with graduations and celebrations– including Mother's Day – and there’s no better way to show ‘em you care than by "Giving the Gift of Maryland.” With everything from State Parks passes to National Aquarium memberships to kayaking adventures to guided lighthouse and farm tours (not to mention anything with our fabulous flag!), there’s something very “Maryland” for everyone on your list. And don’t forget that a road trip vacay in Maryland is the best gift of all–click here to plan the perfect getaway.

Vote for a Maryland Favorite

Hagertown’s Washington County Playhouse Dinner Theater has been nominated for a USA TODAY 10BEST Readers’ Choice Award in the Best Dinner Theater category. Help spread the word and cast your vote for this Maryland gem. Voting is allowed once per day for each award and ends April 13. The top 10 winners, as ranked by USA TODAY 10BEST readers, will be announced on April 22. Click here to cast your vote!

Photo Credit: Jim McCue

Experience the Thrill of Preakness Week

Saddle up for the excitement of the Preakness Stakes, the second jewel of the Triple Crown, on May 16.  The 2026 race will be run at Laurel Park before returning to Pimlico Race Course in 2027. Don’t miss the Black-Eyed Susan Stakes on May 15 or the legendary Preakness Stakes Alibi Breakfast on May 14. Plan ahead by booking a stay at a charming Maryland inn or historic hotel, reserve a table at a local restaurant, and get ready to celebrate one of horse racing’s most iconic events.

Photo credit: @jessduitt

"See Yourself Here"

Photo: "Slow moments, new places, little pockets of magic”…@visithocomd “feels like a world of its own”

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Destination Maryland Magazine is not only the official guide to Maryland travel, it’s a fun, informative, and beautiful look at destinations from Maryland’s coast to the mountains out west. Oh, and did we mention, it’s free, it’s awesome, and it’s just a click away.

Maryland Minute

Each week, the Maryland Minute provides highlights and insights on events around the state. Maryland Minute is featured on Audacy radio stations in Baltimore and Washington, D.C., WERQ-FM 92.3, and on Baltimore’s WBAL-AM 1090.