While Maryland may be on the smaller side, what it lacks in size it makes up for in its beauty and diversity. Whether you’re looking to explore the mountains to the west, the historic landmarks throughout, or the pristine coastlines to the east, Maryland won’t disappoint. Here are some of the top scenic drives for you to explore.

Blue Crab Scenic Byway

Start: Princess Anne, MD

Finish: Ocean City, MD

Distance: 122 miles

“Tidewater Maryland” comprises of wetlands, rivers, the Atlantic coastal plains, and the Chesapeake Bay. So, if you’re a lover of all things water, this scenic tour through Tidewater Maryland is a must. The Blue Crab Scenic Byway also offers plenty of places to access the bay and the ocean if you’re in the mood to take a dip. Stop off for lunch in Crisfield, also known as the “Crab Capital of the World,” and then take the ferry out to Smith Island. The last stop on the scenic tour is Ocean City with its historic boardwalk and iconic entertainment and food.

Mountain Maryland Byway

Start: Keyser’s Ridge, MD

Finish: Cumberland, MD

Distance: 193 miles

The Mountain Maryland Byway traverses through the western mountains of Maryland and includes views of the glades, valleys, marshlands, forests, as well as Maryland’s largest freshwater lake, Deep Creek Lake. Along the route, you can make a stop at Backbone Mountain for hiking or Wisp Ski Resort for a multitude of outdoor activities. You may want to stop in historic Oakland for a bite to eat, or in Lonaconing or Midland for a bit of history about the state’s coal mining industry.

Roots and Tides Scenic Byway

Start: Huntingtown, MD

Finish: Annapolis, MD

Distance: 47 miles

Explore Maryland’s deep maritime roots as you drive through the Four Rivers Heritage Area of the Roots and Tides Scenic Byway. Enjoy the waterfront views, Chesapeake communities, and local wildlife as you tour the outskirts of the Chesapeake Bay. Stop off in North Beach for lunch and a bit of antiquing, or check out the railway museum at the Chesapeake Railroad Station.  Be sure to allot yourself time in the final destination of Annapolis to explore the historical buildings of the state capital.

Historic National Road

Start: Keyser’s Ridge, MD

Finish: Baltimore, MD

Distance: 183 miles

Once known as the National Road, this historic byway once connected Baltimore to Vandalia, Illinois. Historians and nature lovers alike will enjoy this scenic drive and can enjoy the plethora of scenic overlooks in areas such as Rocky Gap State Park and Mount Airy. Stop off in Frederick and explore the National Museum of Civil War Medicine and the La Vale Tollgate House. Lastly, enjoy a delicious meal at any of Baltimore’s gourmet restaurants.

Old Main Streets

Start: Emmitsburg, MD

Finish: Mount Airy, MD

Distance: 84 miles

For a charming tour that takes you back in time, travel the winding scenic route through Old Main Streets. This rural tour passes through farmlands and quaint towns with old Victorian style homes that have preserved their charm and beauty. Tour the old covered bridges in Thurmont, the vineyards of Libertytown, or partake in all of the outdoor activities such as fishing, kayaking, and hiking in Mount Airy.

Antietam Campaign

Start: Whites Ferry, MD

Finish: Sharpsburg. MD

Distance: 92 miles

This panoramic drive is perfect for history buffs as it’s riddled with historic markers along the way. The start of the drive is in Whites Ferry, the location where General Lee entered Maryland from Virginia, and finishes in Sharpsburg where the Battle of Antietam took place. The byway follows a series of chronological events which began on September 4, 1862 and ended two weeks later with what has become known as the bloodiest day of the Civil War. It’s definitely worth a visit.

 

 

Whether you’re a history lover or just needing a nature break, the byways of Maryland are the perfect getaway. We hope you enjoy some of the top scenic drives Maryland has to offer.