There are certain things that Marylanders understand, but those same things can be quite confusing to an out-of-towner. We’re here to set the record straight when it comes to stereotypes about Maryland. You might want to show this handly list to your out-of-town friends so they understand just what we’re all about here in the Old Line State.

From our near-obsession with seafood to our sports preferences, here are 12 Maryland traits that often require some explaining:

1. How to pick crabs.
Flickr / Alyson Hurt
Twist at the joints and please, don't smash it to pieces. Picking a crab can seem like a technical task at first, but trust us when we say your efforts will be well rewarded. There are few things as delicious as Chesapeake Bay crab.
2. There's more to Maryland than just Baltimore.
Flickr / Jamie A
We're mostly known for our biggest city but we also have small towns, farmland, beaches, wetlands, and more. While Baltimore is a must-visit, don't skip out on some of the lesser-known destinations either. Living in Maryland means taking advantage of all the wonderful things our state has to offer, and that includes our small towns.
3. And we don't all love the Ravens.
Flickr / David Clow
We have our fair share of Redskins fans and even some Steelers fans, too. When it comes to stereotypes about Maryland, it's best not to assume anything. Chances are, you'll find out who our favorite teams are without even having to ask!
4. We mean no disrespect when shouting "O!" during the National Anthem.
Flickr / Ethan Gruber
Quite the opposite, actually. Here in Maryland, there's no shortage of national pride.
5. Yes, Old Bay really is as good as everyone says it is.
Flickr / Mike Mozart
Sprinkle it on seafood, fries, corn, or more. You can't go wrong. Spend any amount of time in Maryland and you'll find that Old Bay is as common as salt and pepper.
6. Assateague Island is as dreamy as it appears.
Flickr / Phil Romans
Take an out of towner here and watch their jaw drop in amazement. The beautiful shoreline and presence of majestic, wild ponies is like something from a storybook.

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7. If you're going to be driving around these parts, you need to BE AGGRESSIVE, B-E-AGGRESSIVE.
Flickr / Vivian D Nguyen
Don't be afraid of switching lanes. It's a must. For better or for worse, aggressive driving tends to be a Maryland trait we can't deny.
8. And for Pete's sake, do not stop in the middle of a traffic circle.
Flickr / Richard Drdul
Traffic circles aren't too popular here in Maryland, but they're seemingly everywhere. Just be sure to obey traffic laws and continue on your way. Otherwise, you might get honked at by a local!
9. This spot has been claimed.
Flickr / meryddian
Practice proper snow etiquette and don't steal someone's spot after they spent hours shoveling it out.
10. Speaking of snow, when it comes to the day before a blizzard, all bets are off in the bread aisle.
Flickr / robert terrell
One stereotype about Maryland is that we tend to stock up on the essentials at even the slightest indication of snowfall.
11. Sorry. You have to go to a liquor store if you want booze.
Flickr / Amy the Nurse
You won't find alcohol at grocery stores here unless you're in one of the select few Maryland counties.
12. Yes, we think our flag is better than yours.
Flickr / karmablue
The beautiful colors of the Maryland flag will always inspire a deep sense of state pride. There's just nowhere like Maryland!

What are your thoughts on these common stereotypes about Maryland? We’d love to hear from you about your own experiences! Feel free to share below and be sure to also check out this fun list of 13 ways to spot a tourist in Maryland.

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More to Explore

Stereotypes About Maryland

Beth C. | April 10, 2020

What are some interesting things about Maryland?

With breathtaking natural scenery, endless attractions, an extensive history, and friendly people, there's much to love about living in Maryland. The state also happens to be an interesting place to learn about. One fascinating fact is that the United States Naval Academy was founded in 1845 in Annapolis. Maryland also lays claim to the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, which established its first railroad station in the city of Baltimore.

What are Marylands known for?

There are several stereotypes about Maryland, and at the top of that list is an undying love for seafood. Even if a Marylander may not enjoy the taste of seafood or perhaps has an allergy, chances are they're still a champion of the seafood industry. It should come as no surprise that the state of Maryland produces the most blue crab in the United States. In addition to seafood, the state is also known as a producer of clays, natural gas, and limestone.

What is the most popular Maryland stereotype?

As mentioned above, seafood is a way of life here in Maryland. Because of that, out-of-towners often assume that just about everyone is a fisherman. The 2016 Fiscal Report indicates that 302,781 unique angler licenses were issued in 2016. While this is certainly an impressive number, it's only a portion of the state's 6 million residents. That being said, you might argue that every Marylander has an undying appreciation for the fishing industry.

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