Discover Maryland: Explore Charming Vacation Rentals from City Lights to Lakeside Serenity
Maryland, a state of diverse landscapes and rich history, offers a wealth of vacation rentals that cater to every traveler’s taste, from serene waterfront cottages to luxurious downtown apartments. Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant energy of Baltimore, the historic charm of Annapolis, or the peaceful shores of Deep Creek Lake, Maryland’s destinations provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable getaway.
In Baltimore, known as Charm City, you can immerse yourself in cultural experiences and stay in beautifully restored row houses just steps from the Inner Harbor. Explore the National Aquarium, enjoy fresh seafood at the renowned restaurants in Fells Point, or catch an Orioles game at Camden Yards. Annapolis, the state capital and home to the U.S. Naval Academy is a paradise for history buffs and boating enthusiasts alike. Picture yourself in a charming colonial home just a short walk from the bustling City Dock, where you can sail the Chesapeake Bay or attend the lively Annapolis Boat Show.
For those seeking a more tranquil retreat, the western part of the state offers the pristine beauty of Deep Creek Lake. Rent a cozy cabin in the woods and enjoy year-round outdoor activities, from skiing and snowboarding in winter to kayaking and hiking in the warmer months. The area also hosts events like the Garrett County Fair and the Autumn Glory Festival, perfect for experiencing the local culture.
From the peaceful beaches of the Eastern Shore to the scenic vistas of the Appalachian Mountains, Maryland’s vacation rentals offer a gateway to exploring the state’s varied attractions and events. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a romantic escape, or a solo adventure, Maryland promises a rich and diverse experience that will leave you longing to return.
Interesting Facts about Maryland
01
Blue Crabs
Maryland is famous for its blue crabs, and the blue crab is the state crustacean. The Chesapeake Bay, which borders Maryland, is one of the world’s premier crabbing locations.
02
First Dental School
The world’s first dental school, the Baltimore College of Dental Surgery, was founded in Baltimore in 1840.
03
Horse Racing Tradition
Maryland has a rich tradition of horse racing. The Preakness Stakes, one of the three races in the Triple Crown, takes place annually at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore.
Must See Attractions
Assateague Island National Seashore
Nature & Parks
The park, renowned for its wild horses roaming freely along the sandy beaches, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and wildlife, stretching across Maryland and Virginia’s coastline.
Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum
Speciality Museums
The Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum provides a captivating journey through the region’s maritime heritage. It features historic boats, exhibits, and interactive displays that celebrate the bay’s rich maritime history.
Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad State Park
Historical Attraction
The center is a tribute to the life and legacy of Harriet Tubman, showcasing the profound impact and stories of courage from her time as a conductor on the Underground Railroad.
Lake to Explore
1. Lake Artemesia
Lake Artemesia in Prince George’s County features beautiful trails, bird-watching opportunities, and a peaceful environment for fishing and picnicking.
2. Liberty Reservoir
A haven for anglers and kayakers, Liberty Reservoir is located near the outskirts of Baltimore. It offers peaceful waters and picturesque woodland surroundings.
3. Loch Raven Reservoir
Just north of Baltimore, Loch Raven Reservoir is a popular spot for fishing, kayaking, and enjoying serene nature walks along its shores.
4. St. Mary’s Lake
Nestled in St. Mary’s River State Park, this serene lake is ideal for anglers and kayakers, offering a peaceful retreat surrounded by diverse wildlife and hiking trails.
5. Greenbrier Lake
Situated in Greenbrier State Park, this man-made lake is a summer favorite for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying its sandy beach and mountain views.
6. Hunting Creek Lake
Located in Cunningham Falls State Park, this reservoir offers a scenic spot for swimming, canoeing, and fishing, with the stunning Cunningham Falls nearby.
7. Lake Habeeb
Nestled in the Rocky Gap State Park, Lake Habeeb is known for its crystal-clear blue water and scenic mountain backdrop, ideal for camping, hiking, and fishing.
8. Deep Creek Lake
As Maryland’s largest inland body of water, Deep Creek Lake offers a plethora of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, and skiing at the nearby Wisp Resort.
Where to Sleep
Annual Events and Festivals
May 17, 2025
Preakness Stakes
The Preakness Stakes, one of the most iconic horse racing events in the United States, takes center stage annually at the historic Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland. As the second leg of the Triple Crown, following the Kentucky Derby and preceding the Belmont Stakes, the Preakness attracts top thoroughbred horses, jockeys, and avid spectators from around the country. Established in 1873, the race has become synonymous with Maryland’s rich horse racing tradition.
September 14 – 15, 2024
Maryland Seafood Festival
The Maryland Seafood Festival, held annually in Annapolis, is a delectable celebration of the state’s maritime bounty, showcasing the culinary excellence of Maryland’s seafood industry. The festival offers a vibrant and lively atmosphere where attendees can indulge in various seafood delights. From succulent blue crabs and freshly shucked oysters to mouthwatering crab cakes and steamed shrimp, the festival provides a feast for seafood enthusiasts. Thoughtout the fall, there are seven festival you should explore in Maryland.
November 2024 – January 2025
Lights on the Bay
Lights on the Bay, an enchanting annual event held at Sandy Point State Park in Annapolis, Maryland, transforms the shoreline into a winter wonderland with a spectacular drive-through holiday light show. Stretching over two miles along the Chesapeake Bay, the event typically runs from late November through January and features more than 60 vibrant and creative light displays. These displays range from traditional holiday themes to unique and whimsical designs, including sea creatures, animated scenes, and Maryland-specific motifs. Visitors experience the magic from the comfort of their vehicles, making it an ideal outing for families, couples, and individuals of all ages.
Top Hiking Trails
Great Falls Overlook via Billy Goat and Canal Trail
Fletcher’s Path, Potomac, Maryland
The Great Falls Overlook via Billy Goat and Canal Trail offers an invigorating hiking experience. This five-mile trail, known for its rugged terrain and scenic beauty, is a favorite among local hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. The Billy Goat Trail, particularly its Section A, is renowned for its challenging rocky paths and requires some scrambling, making it an adventurous route for more experienced hikers. As you navigate along the Potomac River, the trail reveals stunning views of the Mather Gorge and the powerful Great Falls, where the river cascades dramatically over steep, jagged rocks. The calmer C&O Canal towpath portion offers a contrast with its flat, serene trail alongside the historic canal.
Cascade Falls Loop Trail
Patapsco Valley State Park-Orange Grove Area Parking, Elkridge, Maryland
The Cascade Falls Loop Trail, nestled in Patapsco Valley State Park, Maryland, is a popular and scenic hiking route that offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and accessibility. This moderately easy loop, approximately 2.2 miles long, is well-loved for its main attraction: the enchanting Cascade Falls. As hikers traverse this well-marked trail, they are treated to a lush woodland setting, with the path meandering through a vibrant forest canopy, over gentle streams, and across wooden bridges. The hike’s highlight is reaching the Cascade Falls, a picturesque and gently cascading waterfall that invites visitors to relax and enjoy the soothing sounds of flowing water. Alternatively, consider the Assateague State Park, where wild horses roam free.
Annapolis Rock via Appalachian Trail
11174 Baltimore National Pike, Myersville, Maryland
The Annapolis Rock via Appalachian Trail hike is a scenic and rewarding adventure located in South Mountain State Park, Maryland. The five-mile trail, winding through the lush Appalachian forest, offers glimpses of diverse flora and fauna, creating a serene and immersive hiking experience. As hikers ascend the rocky path, they are rewarded with panoramic views of the Cumberland Valley and the rolling hills of Maryland. The Annapolis Rock itself, a prominent rock outcrop, provides a perfect vantage point to pause, take in the breathtaking scenery, and appreciate the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
Best Golf Courses
Lake Presidential Golf Club
3151 Presidential Golf Dr #8957, Upper Marlboro, Maryland
This 18-hole championship golf course is set around the scenic Lake Presidential, providing golfers with stunning water views and a serene backdrop throughout their game. Designed by renowned golf course architect Joe Hills, Lake Presidential offers a unique and enjoyable experience for players of all skill levels. The course features strategically placed bunkers, rolling fairways, and immaculately maintained greens, creating a challenging yet fair layout. The signature hole, the par-3 17th, is particularly notable for its island green, adding an extra element of excitement to the round.
Queenstown Harbor Golf
310 Links Ln, Queenstown, Maryland
Queenstown Harbor Golf is home to the acclaimed River Course, a premier golfing destination that offers both challenge and beauty. This 18-hole championship course is set along the banks of the Chester River, providing a stunning natural backdrop for golfers. The River Course is known for its unique blend of scenic riverfront views, mature woodlands, and carefully maintained fairways and greens. The layout presents an exciting mix of holes that require strategic thinking and precision, making it enjoyable for golfers of all skill levels. Signature holes along the river provide not only a visual feast but also a test of skill as water hazards come into play.
Links At Lighthouse Sound
12723 St Martins Neck Rd #1, Bishopville, Maryland
This premier golf course, designed by the renowned Arthur Hills, is a marvel of landscape engineering, skillfully integrating the natural beauty of the coastal terrain with the art of golf course design. Spanning across Assawoman Bay, the course provides stunning views of the Ocean City skyline, setting a breathtaking backdrop for each round. The course’s signature is its diversity, featuring a mix of salt marsh wetlands, hardwood forests, and a dramatic shoreline. The par-3, 5th hole, is particularly noteworthy, as it boasts the longest cart bridge in the U.S., providing a unique and memorable transition from the bayside to mainland holes.
Water Sports
Annapolis Electric Boat Rental
Boating
Boating enthusiasts in Maryland can embark on a maritime adventure through the state’s picturesque waterways, and one standout option for those seeking rentals is the Annapolis Boat Rentals. Nestled in the heart of the Chesapeake Bay, Annapolis Electric Boat Rental provides a gateway to a nautical paradise. Boaters can explore the historic city of Annapolis, cruise the scenic Severn River, or venture out into the vastness of the Chesapeake Bay aboard a well-maintained fleet of powerboats and sailboats.
Bay Hunters Charter Fishing
fishing
Maryland, with its rich aquatic resources, offers a diverse and abundant fishing experience, attracting anglers from all corners. The Chesapeake Bay, the largest estuary in the United States, is at the heart of Maryland’s fishing culture, home to famed striped bass (rockfish), bluefish, and flounder. Freshwater enthusiasts find delight in the state’s rivers and lakes, teeming with bass, trout, and catfish. For those looking to delve into these fishing opportunities, Bay Hunters Charter Fishing stands out as a premier choice.
Eastern Watersports Dundee Creek Rentals
Paddling
Exploring Maryland’s waterways through paddling provides a serene and immersive experience, allowing enthusiasts to navigate the state’s diverse landscapes at their own pace. One prominent player in making this experience accessible is Eastern Watersports Dundee Creek Rentals, which offers paddleboard and kayak rentals.
Resorts to Explore
Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Golf Resort, Spa And Marina
Recreational, Family-friendly
100 Heron Blvd, US-50, Cambridge, Maryland 21613
St. Michaels Harbour Inn, Marina & Spa
Waterfront, Recreational
101 N Harbor Rd, St Michaels, Maryland 21663
Princess Royale Oceanfront Resort
Waterfront, family-friendly
9110 Coastal Hwy, Ocean City, Maryland 218425
Tips on Vacationing in Maryland
Indulge in Seafood
Maryland is famous for its seafood, particularly blue crabs. Don’t miss the chance to try Maryland crab cakes and crab soup or enjoy a classic crab feast. Visit local seafood markets or waterfront restaurants for an authentic culinary experience.
Explore the Chesapeake Bay
The Chesapeake Bay offers not only beautiful scenery but also opportunities for boating, fishing, and relaxing by the water. Consider a boat tour or visit charming towns along the bay.
Diverse Regions
Maryland has diverse regions, each offering a unique experience. From the vibrant cities like Baltimore and Annapolis to the serene Eastern Shore and the mountainous landscapes of Western Maryland, take time to explore different parts of the state.
Frequently Asked Questions about Maryland
Booking a last-minute vacation rental in Maryland is possible. Many vacation rental platforms, such as Lake, Airbnb, and Vrbo, allow you to filter search results based on availability and check-in dates. Doing so lets you identify available properties that suit your last-minute travel plans. Remember that booking closer to your travel dates may result in fewer options and higher prices.
Book a Deep Creek Lake rental through popular vacation websites like Lake.com. By refining your search criteria, you can easily find and book the perfect Deep Creek Lake rental that matches your needs.
Deep Creek Lake, nestled in the mountains of Western Maryland, is often hailed as the state’s premier lake destination, offering a blend of serene beauty and a plethora of activities that make it a year-round favorite. As Maryland’s largest freshwater lake, it spans approximately 3,900 acres and boasts over 65 miles of shoreline, providing an idyllic setting for both relaxation and adventure. In the warmer months, the lake is a hub for water sports enthusiasts, with opportunities for boating, kayaking, water skiing, and fishing. The surrounding Deep Creek Lake State Park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and a sandy beach, perfect for families.
Absolutely! Luxury vacation homes with private pools throughout Maryland, especially in popular vacation spots like Ocean City, Annapolis, and Deep Creek Lake. Use the search filters on rental platforms like Lake.com, Airbnb, Rent By Owner, or Vrbo to narrow your options and uncover the ideal luxurious vacation home.
Websites like Lake.com offer many properties, including beachfront rentals that suit various budgets and preferences. Adjust your search filters on these platforms to find the perfect beachfront rental for your Ocean City vacation.
Maryland has great vacation rental options. Ocean City offers beachfront properties. Annapolis has historic charm and is close to the Chesapeake Bay, while Deep Creek Lake is perfect for a lake getaway. Consider your interests when choosing a vacation rental in Maryland.
Vacation Destinations Nearby
| Connecticut Vacation Rentals | › | Massachusetts Vacation Rentals | › | New York Vacation Rentals | › | Vermont Vacation Rentals | › |
| Delaware Vacation Rentals | › | New Hampshire Vacation Rentals | › | Pennsylvania Vacation Rentals | › | Virginia Vacation Rentals | › |
| Maine Vacation Rentals | › | New Jersey Vacation Rentals | › | Tennessee Vacation Rentals | › | West Virginia Vacation Rentals | › |