If you’re a fan of exploring unique places off the beaten path, this list is for you! These Maryland locations are lesser-known but that doesn’t mean they’re any less fun. Here are 10 hidden gems in Maryland you may not have known about, but should.

1. Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary, Lothian
Rob Bole / Flickr
shell game / Flickr
Jug Bay is a stunning sanctuary consisting of 1,700 acres of open water, marshes, wetlands, and more. Their mission is to create awareness and education of estuary conservation. With over 15 miles of trails and boardwalks, this is one of the most serene outdoor experiences in Maryland. Be sure to bring a camera and a pair of binoculars to help you get a good look at all the wildlife that calls this open space home.
2. Greenwell State Park, Hollywood
alliecat1881 / Flickr
Check out this 596 acre park in St. Mary's County, with 10 miles of marked trails appropriate for hiking, cycling, or horseback riding. NOTE: It's BYOH (bring your own horse). The park also offers swimming, canoeing, kayaking, hunting, picnicking, and fishing. Basically, it has EVERYTHING. Website here. If you've never visited, you're truly in for a treat! Bring the whole family to discover this gem in your own backyard.
3. Boonsborough Museum of History, Boonsboro
Jim Surkamp / Flickr
Boonsborough Museum of History / Facebook
Locals refer to this private museum as a mini Smithsonian. The owner, Doug Bast, displays his impressive collection of artifacts, antiques, and Civil War weaponry. This place is definitely a must-visit, especially for history buffs. Check out the website here. After browsing the collections here, you'll have a brand new understanding of Maryland history.
4. Betterton Beach, Betterton
Adam Moss / Flickr
Betterton Beach is perfect for beach-goers who prefer to avoid over-crowded destinations. With a year-round population of only 345 people, this town is quiet and scenic. You'll never have to deal with traffic - but do be aware, a west wind can bring in greenheads!
5. The Walters Art Museum, Baltimore
Lucas / Flickr
This free museum is full of art from all over the world. From paintings to ancient jewelry to Roman sarcophagi, there is something for everyone at The Walters Art Museum. Make it a point to stop by and you'll end up leaving with a new respect for the arts and those that create.

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6. Lilypons Water Gardens, Adamstown
Lilypons Water Gardens / Facebook
Lilypons Water Gardens sells an array of water gardening products. What's so special about this location is the extensive amount of water gardens on site, filled with fish and blooming plants. You can walk around and explore the grounds which is comparable to visiting professional gardens. It's almost like visiting an aquarium! Breathtaking.
7. South Mountain Creamery, Middletown
Jo / Flickr
MdAgDept / Flickr
For the freshest milk, cheeses, and ice cream, head to South Mountain Creamery. This farm also offers meat, eggs, guided tours, and a chance to feed the calves. It's a one-stop shop for anyone looking to pick up sweet treats and farm-fresh goodies.
8. Jane's Island State Park, Crisfield
Big Dog 91 / Flickr
Jane's Island State Park includes over 2,900 acres of salt marsh. You can also canoe or kayak their 30 miles of water trails for a true Chesapeake experience.
9. Herrington Manor State Park, Oakland
Jon Fisher / Flickr
In Garrett County you'll find Herrington Manor State Park. Here you can go swimming, kayaking, canoeing, as well as stay in one of their furnished log cabins. It's within easy driving distance to Deep Creek and Swallow Falls but much more secluded and peaceful.
10. Vintage Red Barn, Fulton
Vintage Red Barn / Facebook
Vintage Red Barn / Facebook
It really doesn't get any more hidden than this! Vintage Red Barn sells hand painted furniture and vintage decor out of this tiny barn! Open only during barn sales and by appointment.

If some of these were new to you, you may want to check them out! There’s no time like the present to explore Maryland’s most extraordinary gems.

What’s your favorite hidden gem in Maryland? Let us know by nominating it right here!

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More to Explore

Hidden gems in Maryland

Kim Magaraci | July 29, 2021

Which hidden gems in Maryland showcase our state's natural wonders?
Some of the best hidden natural wonders in Maryland include parks, natural areas, and preserves. In Calvert Cliffs State Park, you'll get to collect fossils along the ocean. If you choose to visit Adkins Arboretum, the beauty of a natural planned garden will overwhelm your senses! Maryland's highest point, on Backbone Mountain, is often overlooked too, because the summit trail actually begins in West Virginia. For more of Maryland's coolest natural wonders, head out on the road trip that's displayed right here.

Which little-known parks in Maryland are must-visit spots for families?
There are so many great parks and playgrounds for kids in Maryland! Some of our favorites include Port Discovery, in Baltimore, Annie's Playground in Fallston, and Walker Mill Regional Park. To learn more about these beautiful parks where the whole gang will have a blast, read our featured article on the best playgrounds in the Old Line State.

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Featured Addresses
Jug Bay, Maryland, USA
Greenwell State Park, 25420 Rosedale Manor Ln, Hollywood, MD 20636, USA
Douglas G. Bast Boonsborough Museum of History & Preservation, 113 N Main St, Boonsboro, MD 21713, USA
Betterton Beach, Betterton, MD 21610, USA
The Walters Art Museum, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
Lilypons, MD 21710, USA
South Mountain Creamery, 8305 Bolivar Rd, Middletown, MD 21769, USA
Janes Island, Maryland 21817, USA
Herrington Manor, MD 21550, USA