Uniquely Maryland: Places to visit near Maryland’s vineyards
Uniquely Maryland
Vino 301 Tour Ambassadors have the pleasure every weekend viewing Maryland’s beautiful landscapes. Sometimes we take our front row seat for granted. Thank goodness for our tour guests to remind us how lucky we are. They remind us about the uniqueness of the state. A guest always remarks about how stunning the state is. Commenting about the sweeping farmlands and rural areas. The scenic views remind them that Maryland is more than urban centers.
Maryland is referred to “America in the miniature”. Similar to the United States, the old line state is composed of mountains, beaches, cities and country landscapes wrapped up in our tiny little state. There are places and things to do that are uniquely Maryland. We pulled together a list of a few things you can take in while you are out and about enjoying Maryland’s vineyards.
Crab and Oyster Trails
What goes better with wine? Crabs and Oysters. Some would argue beer, but for the purposes of this blog, I say WINE. Maryland vintners have perfected Albariño wine. The native Spanish grape has made a big impact and it is grown in almost every wine region in the state. Its citrus flavors, hints of minerality, and medium body characteristics are the perfect backdrop to Maryland’s iconic crustaceans. The crab and oyster trails are a collection of Maryland restaurants seafood markets, tours, and events. The trails are organized by five fun regions, Capital, Central, Eastern Shore, Southern and Western Maryland.
credit: Only In Your State
Tubing in Gunpowder Falls State Park
Driving from Basignani Winery to Boordy Vineyards, we see people walking along the road and carrying tubs, towels or kayaks. They are headed to Gunpowder Falls, the largest park in the state, to leisurely float along Big Gunpowder Falls River. The park spans from Baltimore to Frederick counties and reaches Pennsylvania. The Hereford Area, located in northern Baltimore County, is 3,620 acres of scenic wilderness. The Big Gunpowder Falls River is a part of this outdoor haven. Many travel to this area to canoe, kayak and tube throughout the year. Bring your own flotation device. Here is your guide to Gunpowder Falls Park.
Hiking in Sugarloaf Mountain
Sugarloaf Mountain Winery sits about a mile from the base of Sugarloaf Mountain in Dickerson, Maryland. The Winery is a popular endpoint for hikers who hike the Sugarloaf Mountain trail. Sugarloaf Mountain Winery is known for its annual Stomp event. Stomp ushers in the fall and harvest season and is a grape stomping competition. Five trails traverse the mountain. The trails range from a couple of miles to six miles. The mountain property is owned by Stronghold Incorporated, a non-profit organization, who manages and maintains the property. You can get trail information from Stronghold Incorporated website.
Discovering Maryland’s History
If you were ever curious about Maryland’s history head to historic St. Mary’s City. You step back in time to the 17th century when you visit historic St. Mary’s City. Historic St. Mary’s City is a living history encounter where you can participate in hands-on activities, learn about archaeology, and journey along nature trails. You will witness Maryland’s first years reenacted. Tours are available. On your way home stop by the Port of Leonardtown Winery. A trailblazing winery located in St. Mary’s county. Its Rosé and Chambourcin wines are charting Maryland on the world’s wine map.
I hope this is the start of your journey to visit uniquely Maryland attractions. For more information about Maryland, sites go to visitmaryland.org
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