Delight in Coastal Views and Iconic Architecture on This One-Day Trip in Maryland

I am someone who loves seeking out lighthouses in my travels. Not only do I love their architecture, but I’m amazed by the fact that these beacons of light guide ships to safety along the coast and have often been around for over a century. One such lighthouse is the Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse, which was built in 1875.

To see this National Historic Landmark you’ll go to Thomas Point Park on the Chesapeake Bay. Take a walk to see the screw-pile lighthouse as it’s situated out on the water. Its construction is incredible and you’ll appreciate that it’s been around for 150 years—and is still in operation.

The capital city of Maryland is Annapolis, so one should certainly visit the Maryland State House when here. This is the oldest state house in the country; construction on it was completed in 1779. It also has the oldest wooden dome in the entire country—that alone is worth seeing it, in my opinion. Aside from Christmas and New Year’s days, the Maryland State House is open daily for self-guided tours from 8:30 a.m. until 5 p.m.

Our next stop is a secret garden in Edgewater, Maryland. Welcome to the Historic London Town & Gardens on the South River. This land was once home to a colonial town that dates back to the 1680s and lasted approximately 100 years until new trade routes were established and people moved on.

One historic structure, the William Brown House (c. 1760) remains standing and you can visit it, along with reconstructed buildings, when you’re here. Of course, you’ll also have to take a stroll through the gardens while taking in the river views.

Once home to Captain Salem Avery, a Chesapeake Bay waterman, this two-story house sits on the banks of the West River and boasts beautiful views of the Chesapeake Bay. Now a museum, you can stop and take a tour of this historic home and walk the waterfront gardens and grounds. 

North Beach is quite an underrated beach town in Maryland, and one that’s certainly worth visiting. A sleepy town of just under 2,200, you can revel in its unspoiled beauty as you take a walk along the sand or the half-mile-long waterfront boardwalk. There’s a public fishing dock as well as a nature center, history museum, shops, and various places to dine. For delicious Maryland crab cakes, you may want to stop by Hook & Vine Kitchen and Bar.

As North Beach is the last stop on this day trip, I figure you may want to spend a little more time exploring this lesser-known beach town with an overnight stay. This pet-friendly Cozy Waterfront Cottage has two bedrooms, one bath, and can accommodate five guests. From here, you’ll be able to keep your car parked and walk to the beach, shops, restaurants, and attractions. I think you’ll love the location of this charming vacation spot.