We love a rural drive, especially when it involves hidden gems along the way. The following road trip includes stops at delicious restaurants, hiking spots, and even a secluded winery. You can follow along with the map, and enjoy this countryside adventure that’s sure to be one of the greatest road trips in Maryland.

To help you fit all adventures into one day, we made driving time for this trip about an hour in length. Prepare for hidden gems in Maryland along the way, such as...
Google Maps

1. Bear Branch Nature Center

Bear Branch Nature Center, 300 John Owings Rd, Westminster, MD 21158, USA
Justin Laucks / AllTrails
Bear Branch Nature Center covers 320 acres, including 5 miles of trails, a scenic lake, and a historic homestead. The onsite nature center is a fascinating place to learn about local wildlife and more.

2. The Sunflower Garden

The Sunflower Gardens, 2390 Manchester Rd, Westminster, MD 21157, USA
The Sunflower Garden / Facebook
If you're taking this trip during warmer months, be sure to add The Sunflower Garden to your route. This place is bustling with sunflowers and other colorful flowers, and they're perfect for picking and creating your own bouquet.

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3. Galloping Goose Vineyards and Winery

Galloping Goose Vineyards and Winery, 4326 Maple Grove Rd, Hampstead, MD 21074, USA
Galloping Goose Vineyards and Winery/Google Reviews
You may be feeling parched at this point so why not whet your whistle at Gallping Goose Vineyards? Reviewers love how peaceful this place is, and the wines are a must-try. Keep in mind, however, that this winery is open seasonally so check the website before you visit. This stop alone will make this one of the best road trips in Maryland.

Take a look at this video by @WatchThisTv33:

4. Friendly Farm Restaurant

Friendly Farm Restaurant, 17434 Foreston Rd, Upperco, MD 21155, USA
Friendly Farm Restaurant / Facebook
Time for some comfort food! Friendly Farm Restaurant is known for its sprawling rural scenery, but most of all, its hearty cuisine. The fried chicken and sugar biscuits are practically famous.

Take a look at this video of Friendly Farm Restaurant by @WNST:

5. Prettyboy Reservoir Park

Prettyboy Reservoir, Maryland, USA
Michael McAdam / Google
Pretty Boy Reservoir is home to a variety of trails, from easy to difficult. Most of them include beautiful views of the water, so bring your camera!

Take a look at this drone video of Prettyboy Reservoir Park by @zorovision1:

6. Freeland Crab and Seafood

Freeland Crab and Seafood, 20235 Middletown Rd, Freeland, MD 21053, USA
Bill Lakenan / Google
It's dinner time along one of the best Maryland road trips! Hiking at the previous stop probably worked up an appetite, so consider ending your day at Freeland Crab & Seafood. Grab some carryout, including crab cakes, shrimp, oysters, and more. Yum!

What other stops would you add in the area? What are some of your favorite road trips in Maryland? Let us know in the comments!

For another unique adventure in Maryland, check out this rail biking experience!

Before your next road trip adventure, take a look at the Ultimate Road Trip Packing List, and don’t forget the snacks!

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More to Explore

Road Trips In Maryland

Melissa M. | December 05, 2023

What are some hidden gems in Maryland that are worth visiting?

Discover the following hidden gems in Maryland that are absolutely worth visiting:

  • The Castle at Maryville in Lutherville, MD is enchanting as can be.
  • Elks Neck State Park in North East, MD is home to a historic lighthouse.
  • The George Peabody Library in Baltimore is a wonderful place for book lovers.
  • Cylburn Arboretum in Baltimore boasts a mansion and gorgeous gardens.
  • Battle Creek Cypress Swamp in Prince Frederick, MD is filled with stunning wetlands.

Check out more hidden gems in Maryland.

What are some other road trips in Maryland I should take?

If you love hitting the road on a trip as much as I do, here are some more road trips in Maryland you may want to take:

  • The Maryland Waterfalls Road Trip
  • The Ultimate Terrifying Road Trip In Maryland
  • Maryland’s Scary Eastern Shore Road Trip
  • Western Maryland Road Trip On One Tank Of Gas
  • Maryland Covered Bridge Road Trip
  • Natural Wonders Road Trip In Maryland
  • Haunted Road Trip Through Maryland
  • Fall Foliage Road Trip Through Maryland
  • Iconic Maryland Foods Road Trip

Don’t you just love a good road trip? For more on these plus links to the itineraries, check out this article on 9 Unforgettable Road Trips In Maryland.

 

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