26 Exciting Things to Do in Maryland in 2026 (You’ll Want to Save This List)

Living in Maryland is like having the best of both worlds. It's close enough to Washington D.C. and Baltimore, but still within driving distance to sprawling farms, sandy beaches, and the quiet of nature. This coming year, I'm hoping to see and do even more in the Old Line State.

To keep exploration a top priority, I've compiled a list of 26 things to do in Maryland in 2026 (which I hope you'll use to inform your travel bucket list, too!). Let's see how many natural wonders, local events and celebrations, and delicious foods we can experience.

1. See Wild Horses - Assateague Island

As a lifelong animal lover, visiting Assateague Island to see wild horses earns the top spot for my 2026 to-do list. Sitting on the sandy shore, looking out over the water (maybe even catching a sunset?), and watching the horses all sounds like a tiny piece of heaven. The America the Beautiful Pass allows for unlimited visits, too, to see one of the most remarkable sites in Maryland.

2. Hike Cunningham Falls Trail – Thurmont

All that stands between me and the tallest waterfall in Maryland is the 5.1-mile moderately challenging Cunningham Falls Trail. The obstacles along this trail—steep climbs and rocky terrain—that await are worth it for the views of the 78-foot-tall cascade. It's one of the best hikes in Maryland to try in 2026.

3. Take Falling Branch Trail to Kilgore Falls – Jarrettsville

Hiking is my favorite way to explore, and I always put waterfall hikes in Maryland, like the Falling Branch Trail to Kilgore Falls, at the top of my must-hike list. At just .07 of a mile, this pretty path is short, sweet, and perfect when I don’t have much time. It's even more beautiful in winter when the water is lightly frozen.

4. Join a Spirit of Baltimore Cruise – Baltimore

Indulging in an all-you-can-eat buffet while on a two-hour cruise past the beautiful Baltimore skyline? I can’t think of a better way to spend a few hours than on the Spirit of Baltimore Cruise. Book a private group tour with some family and friends or host parties or even weddings on this yacht with a bar, deck, and delicious cuisine options. It's truly an epic waterside adventure.

5. Go Outdoor Ice Skating – Silver Spring

Even with the occasional stumbles, ice skating is one of my favorite ways to relax. There’s just something so calming about gliding on the ice as the cold winter sun glistens on the landscape, making the outdoor ice rink in Silver Spring a must-visit this winter. When you're done hitting the rink, explore the quaint shops and restaurants in the nearby town.

6. Ski at Wisp Resort – McHenry

Summer usually gets all the accolades when it comes to epic adventures, but winter promises some adrenaline rushes, too. Wisp Resort in McHenry offers skiing and snowboarding, but it's the snow tubing—some of the best in Maryland—that’s got a spot on my 2026 bucket list for a snowy winter day.

7. Hike Greenbrier Lake Loop Trail – Boonsboro

A brisk hike in the winter, even if there’s no snow on the ground, promises an easy way to unwind and curb any looming cabin fever. At just 1.3 miles, the Greenbrier Lake Loop, one of the best kid-friendly hikes in Maryland, is short and sweet, making it a perfect cold-weather adventure. It's one of the prettiest natural wonders in Maryland.

8. Stroll Through Sherwood Gardens – Baltimore

While I love winter in Maryland, I spend most of the season waiting for spring. Then it's time to head outside to witness the amazing blooming flowers. A go-to spot in mid-April is Sherwood Gardens—one of the most magnificent gardens in Maryland—where vibrant tulips abound. Strolling through the rows of flowers is so relaxing.

9. Visit Brighton Dam Azalea Garden – Brookeville

Spring brings color back to Maryland's landscape, meaning it's the perfect time to leisurely walk through the stunning pink azaleas at Brighton Dam Azalea Garden. This beautiful garden is a great place for amateur photographers to sharpen their skills. I'm definitely going to spend more time snapping shots at this lovely place.

10. Attend Springfest – Ocean City

Another way Marylanders ring in spring? Festivals, of course! One of the best is Springfest in Ocean City, Maryland, which promises four days of delicious food, live entertainment, craft vendors, and the classic OC boardwalk games and amusement park rides. It's a must-add to anyone's 2026 bucket list—it'll take place from April 23 to April 26, 2026.

11. Go to Six Flags America – Bowie

Summertime in Maryland means at least one visit to Six Flags America in Bowie. Spend a day riding rides, playing games, and soaking up the sun at the waterpark. My favorite part of going to Six Flags in the summer has to be all the good food, from pizza and fries to funnel cakes and ice cream. It's the ultimate place to be during the summer in the Old Line State.

12. Relax at Hammerman Beach – Chase

While I admittedly tend to hide in the A/C on the hottest days of summer, I love earmarking at least a few days for lounging on the beach. Hammerman Beach, a little-known inland beach at Gunpowder Falls State Park in Maryland, has everything I need—sand, swimming, and a concession stand—for a lazy summer day. It's a hidden gem in Maryland that everyone should visit at least once.

13. Explore National Harbor – Oxon Hill

The first thing I plan to do at National Harbor is ride the Capital Wheel, preferably once during the day and then again in the evening. It’s been a bucket list item of mine for a while now, and 2026 is the year to cross it off. It's a pretty popular tourist stop in Maryland, but well worth the visit in the spring or summertime.

14. Visit Gaver Farm – Mt. Airy

Once the end of August comes around, I long for the crisp days of fall and start to pack my schedule with seasonal activities. An all-time favorite is visiting Gaver Farm in Mt. Airy, Maryland, for their annual fall festival starting August 29, 2026. They always have plenty of pumpkins to choose from, an epic corn maze to conquer, and fun hayrides through the fields. There's a good reason why it's a top fall festival in Maryland.

15. Ride the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad – Cumberland

Scenic drives during autumn are fun, but as the driver, I don't often get to soak in the scenery. That's where a ride on the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad in Cumberland, Maryland, comes in. The iconic hour-long Pumpkin Patch Limited ride takes you through fall foliage to a local farm to enjoy apple cider. This is one of the best things to do in the fall in Maryland. 2026 dates are TBD.

16. Hike Black Locust Trail – Frederick

There's nothing better than hearing fall leaves crunch beneath your feet while on a hike. The Black Locust Trail, one of the best fall hikes in Maryland, meanders 5.4 miles through Gambrill State Park and is a great autumn or winter trail to try. Even though it’s moderately difficult, the challenge is worth it to drink in the views at the lookout points.

17. See Animals at WorkHorse Farm Rescue - Denton

Because I try to spend time with animals any chance I get, WorkHorse Farm Rescue & Exotic Animals in Denton, Maryland, is a must-visit for me in 2026. The family-friendly attraction in Maryland is home to numerous animals, from kangaroos to capybaras and Texas longhorns, and guests can pet and feed many of them. It's a super cute experience, and nice to see them so well-cared for.

18. Tour the National Aquarium – Baltimore

Continuing the animal theme, a tour through the National Aquarium in Baltimore is high on my 2026 bucket list—especially the dolphin tour and training sessions. Even without all of the extras, like 4-D films, I can’t wait to stroll through the aquarium to discover all the beautiful aquatic animals. Find out for yourself why this is one of the best attractions in Maryland.

19. Enjoy Silver Diner – Rockville

Silver Diner in Laurel was the place to go for my favorite egg salad sandwich way back when, so it naturally belongs on my bucket list for 2026. While the Laurel location and the egg salad sandwiches are gone, I love this old-school diner in Maryland and can’t wait to dig into a hearty meal at Silver Diner in Rockville.

20. Dine at Chart House Prime – Annapolis

My pre-vegetarian days took me to Chart House Prime on the water in Annapolis, one of the best restaurants in Maryland, for one of the most delicious meals I have ever had. That’s an experience I want to replicate—for both the food and the views—only this time I’ll order the grilled Beyond Burger with skinny fries for brunch.

21. Top City to Visit in Maryland in 2026 – Annapolis

Annapolis is one of the most enchanting towns I’ve ever traveled to, making it the top city to visit in Maryland in 2026. A full itinerary—a stroll downtown, a tour of the Naval Academy, and a picnic at Quiet Waters Park—means at least an overnight or two at one of the best hotels in Annapolis, Maryland.

22. Stay at Little Mountain Church House – Indian Springs

I love staying in unique places, and the Little Mountain Church House—a former church turned Airbnb—is just that. Loaded with charm, the former church building in Indian Springs makes it easy to explore outdoors and comfortably sleeps up to four guests in its two bedrooms. Stay in summer or winter: both seasons are equally beautiful in this rural town.

23. Relax at This Tiny House – Swanton

A tiny home seems like an idyllic way to live, but could I do it? I'll find out when I book a stay at this Tiny House in the Orchard—an Airbnb in Swanton that sits in front of a tiny pond and features a loft bedroom, an electric fireplace, and an outdoor hot tub overlooking apple trees. It's one of the most unique places to stay in Maryland.

24. Stay at Antrim 1844 – Taneytown

Perhaps the most historic hotel in Taneytown, Antrim 1844, is known for its historic charm and luxurious accommodations. While I can’t wait to fall asleep in a four-poster bed, I look forward to sipping a drink by the fireplace at the on-site Pickwick Pub. Even strolling through the hotel's parlor rooms and lobby takes you back to old Maryland.

25. Stay at Lighthouse Club Hotel – Ocean City

I love breathtaking views that allow me to sit back, relax, and daydream, and that’s just what the Lighthouse Club Hotel in Ocean City—one of the best hotels in Maryland—offers. Add luxurious rooms with a full menu of amenities, including free breakfast, and the Lighthouse Club Hotel is a must-stay in 2026.

26. Join the Maryland Seafood Festival - Annapolis

If you've been in Maryland (or visited) for any length of time, you know we love crabs. What better way to celebrate the state's delicacy than with an annual Seafood Festival? In 2026, the fest will take place September 12 and 13 at Sandy Point State Park in Annapolis. Stop by for loads of crab and seafood vendors, live music, drinks, contests, and much more. It's one of the most highly anticipated events of the year.

Which attractions are you adding to your Maryland 2026 bucket list? If you've already started planning your day trips, road trips, or even weekend getaways, consider using Only In Your State's itinerary planner to map out the top lodging, dining, and other sightseeing opportunities.