(Nicole Martyn / Baltimore Sun Media Group)
50 most beautiful places in Maryland
From the beaches of the Eastern Shore to the mountains of Western Maryland, our state is teeming with picturesque spots to visit. It's hard to choose just 50, but we gave it a shot. Here's our list of Maryland's most beautiful places.
White Hall sunflower field
Clear Meadows Farm in White Hall planted 300 acres of sunflowers that make for quite a view when they bloom. Blooming starts in early summer and peaks in late August or early September. (Nicole Martyn / Baltimore Sun Media Group)
The Castle at Maryvale
This popular wedding venue sits on the campus of a preparatory school in Lutherville. It was built in 1916 and modeled after Warwick Castle in England. (Tasha Treadwell / Baltimore Sun)
Weverton Cliffs on the Appalachian Trail
The Appalachian Trail winds through 41 miles of Maryland state parks, but for just a taste, you can head to Weverton Cliffs. For an easier excursion, follow the trailhead from Weverton Road and climb up for a spectacular view. (Baltimore Sun)
Belmont Manor and Historic Park
The Howard County-owned mansion sits on picturesque grounds that feature lush gardens, historic outbuildings and a nature center in the carriage house. It's open for scheduled events only, so rent it out or keep an eye on the calendar for a chance to visit. (Jen Rynda / Baltimore Sun Media Group)
Fort McHenry
The five-pointed fort famous for its role as the inspiration for the national anthem offers some pretty inspiring views of the Inner Harbor. Plus, the fort's grassy hills topped with cannons provide a lovely backdrop for its historic brick buildings. (Kim Hairston / Baltimore Sun)
Ocean City
The city itself isn't always the prettiest, but with these views, it doesn't matter. Whether you're down on the beach or soaking in the sunset from a highrise, you'll start to understand what makes Ocean City such a popular destination. (Karl Merton Ferron / Baltimore Sun)
Hampton National Historic Site
The 18th-century Georgian mansion in Towson was home to the Ridgely family for several generations. It's now part of the National Park Service, and access is free for visitors. (Phil Grout / Patuxent Publishing)
Lilypons Water Garden
Since 1917, Lilypons has provided Frederick County with water gardening supplies and a beautiful, blooming day trip. Its 250 acres of greenery offer ample space for picnics, strolls and garden sightseeing. (LILYPONS)
Patterson Park Pagoda
Originally called "The Observatory," the Pagoda was designed in 1890 as an observation tower for city sights. Climb the winding staircase all the way to the top for views of Key Bridge, Fort McHenry and the Patapsco River. (Barbara Haddock Taylor / Baltimore Sun)
Whitehall Mansion
The 18th-century Palladian mansion opened to the public for tours this spring. Its carefully restored rooms are decorated to be accurate to the time period, and the home sits on 115 waterfront acres outside Annapolis. (Scott Serio / Baltimore Sun Media Group)
Wisp Resort
Nestled in the mountains of Garrett County, this resort offers winter sport opportunities, in addition to golf and fishing, with beautiful views. (Handout photo / Baltimore Sun)
Wenona on the Eastern Shore
The tip of Deal Island holds Wenona, a small town like many on the Eastern Shore, with plentiful harbors and, of course, crabbing. (Leah Kuritzky / Baltimore Sun)
U.S. Naval Academy
For a relatively small college campus, the U.S. Naval Academy packs a lot of beauty. Highlights include Bancroft Hall, the chapel and water views of downtown Annapolis and the City Dock. (Amy Davis / Baltimore Sun)
Turkey Point Lighthouse at Elk Neck State Park
Though the lighthouse was decomissioned by the U.S. Coast Guard in 2000, a nonprofit group raised the funds to relight Turkey Point in 2002. Throughout the changes, it's remained a beautiful vista at the mouth of the Elk River in North East. (Kim Hairston / The Baltimore Sun)
Thurmont and Catoctin Mountains
After a day of hiking in Catoctin and exploring nature, it's refreshing to stop in Thurmont for some food and rest. The town is overlooked by the mountain range and ambience abounds. (Karl Merton Ferron / Baltimore Sun)
Symphony Woods
Thirty-six acres of trees and greenery surround Merriweather Post Pavilion in the heart of downtown Columbia. Visit for a festival like Wine in the Woods, or just take a stroll during a Merriweather concert, when the tunes waft through the branches. (Kaitlin Newman / Baltimore Sun)
The Music Center at Strathmore
The state-of-the-art concert hall that opened in 2005 seats 2,000 and brings world-class performances to North Bethesda. (DAVID HOBBY / Baltimore Sun)
St. Michaels
This historic town rests on the shore of the Chesapeake Bay, rewarding visitors with plentiful seafood and boating activities. (André F. Chung / Baltimore Sun)
St. Mary's College of Maryland
It's a miracle that students at St. Mary's in Southern Maryland get any studying done in their beautiful surroundings: hills, water, docks and nature. (Bill O'Leary / WP-Bloomberg)
Smith Island
Accessible only by boat, Smith Island offers a unique getaway -- just not by car. While you're there, be sure to grab a slice of Smith Island cake, the official state dessert of Maryland. (ALGERINA PERNA / Baltimore Sun)
Savage Mill
Once home to a cotton mill, Savage Mill is now a shopping complex with specialty stores, gift shops and restaurants. At one time, the location was "Santa's Novelties," a destination store that manufactured Christmas ornaments and featured live reindeer and a miniature train. (Nate Pesce / Baltimore Sun Media Group)
Sherwood Gardens
An oasis in the city, Sherwood Gardens' six acres provide a picture-perfect picnic setting just off of St. Paul Street in Baltimore. (Kim Hairston / Baltimore Sun)
Rocky Gap State Park
With mountains, a lake and a river that feeds into it, Rocky Gap State Park in Allegany County offers the gamut of outdoor activities. Evitt's Mountain, which overlooks the lake, is named after an early European settler in the area. (Kim Hairston / Baltimore Sun)
George Peabody Library
Within the Peabody Institute of Music in Baltimore lies a research library that also serves as an event venue (weddings, for those lucky enough to snag a booking). The library contains more than 300,000 titles -- none of which are related to music, surprisingly. The collection is open to the public for perusal, but you probably won't be gawking at only the books. (Candida Hofer / George Peabody Library)
Patapsco Valley State Park
The state park's land follows 32 miles of the Patapsco River as it travels through Central Maryland. For a special view and a place to take a dip, try out Daniels Area and Daniels Dam. Or, for a taste of history, hike to Elkridge Landing or the Thomas Viaduct. (Inge K. Hooker / Baltimore Sun Media Group)
Oriole Park at Camden Yards
For a true Marylander, there's no place more beautiful than Camden Yards when the O's are in town. Grab a Natty Boh, don your best orange-and-black gear, munch on Boog's Barbecue and meander along Eutaw Street -- but watch out for Manny Machado's homeruns! (Rob Carr / Getty Images)
Loch Raven Reservoir
In addition to providing the drinking water for most of Baltimore County, this beautiful body of water gives its visitors ample opportunity for fishing, hiking or boating enjoyment. (Barbara Haddock Taylor / Baltimore Sun)
National Harbor
The waterfront property on the banks of the Potomac River in Prince George's County gives visitors their choice of dining, entertainment and fun -- even a ferris wheel! (By Montana Winters Geimer /)
Montpelier Mansion
Perched atop 70 acres of park land in Laurel, the 1780s mansion provides a fine example of Georgian architecture and a chance to be fancy for a day. (Nate Pesce / Baltimore Sun Media Group)
McKeldin Mall
Any University of Maryland student will tell you that when the weather gets warm, McKeldin Mall is the place to be in College Park. Whether you're lounging on a bench in the sun or tossing a frisbee, there's no better place in the state for a carefree (or procrastinating) college kid. (André F. Chung / Baltimore Sun)
Maryland Heights Overlook
For a steep, 4.5 mile roundtrip hike, head to the Maryland Heights Overlook in Harper's Ferry National Park. After your two hour climb, take in the scenery, views and Civil War history. Don't walk too far, though, or you'll end up in the river. (Courtesy of HARPERS FERRY NHP)
Roddy Road covered bridge
North of Thurmont, bridging the expanse of Owens Creek, lies Roddy Road covered bridge -- one of three such bridges in Frederick County. Make a day trip of it with a visit to Utica Mills and Loy's Station. (Amy Davis / The Baltimore Sun)
Ladew Topiary Gardens
With no training and little help, Harvey S. Ladew transformed his Monkton property into a series of 15 "garden rooms." Explore at your leisure, or attend an event in the expansive gardens. Maybe grab a blanket and settle in for a Summer Series music performance. (Kim Hairston / Baltimore Sun)
Johns Hopkins Homewood campus
Lacrosse and medicine: that's what Hopkins does! Oh, and pretty views. Grab a bite in what is regularly rated one of the best college dining halls in the country, then lounge on the grass or the shade of a tree. It's enough to make you think you're back in your glory days. (Barbara Haddock Taylor / Baltimore Sun)
Janes Island State Park
Near Crisfield, on Maryland's Eastern Shore, sits Janes Island: a state park filled with undisturbed beaches, water trails and a salt marsh for the ultimate camping or kayaking vacation. (BALTIMORE SUN)
Baltimore's Inner Harbor
At once a surviving sea port and tourist attraction, the Inner Harbor offers a multitude of activities. Ride a dragon paddle boat, hang out with fish in the National Aquarium or take in the city skyline from Federal Hill Park. For the true experience, hop on a water taxi and get the insider's view. (Lloyd Fox / Baltimore Sun)
Havre de Grace promenade
Easy, breezy, beautiful. The promenade offers a leisurely stroll on the banks of the Susquehanna River where it meets the Chesapeake Bay. Bundle up in winter or soak up summer sun; it's beautiful any time of year. (Nicole Munchel | Record Staff / Patuxent Homestead)
Historic Ellicott City
Ellicott City was founded in 1772, and much of its old-world charm has been preserved. Blow bubbles with the Bubbleman, grab a fresh-roasted coffee from Bean Hollow and peruse Main Street's charming shops. (Karl Merton Ferron / Baltimore Sun)
Gwynns Falls Trail
With 15 miles of continuous trail for hiking, biking or strolling, Gwynns Falls is a welcome escape from Baltimore -- and with numerous trailheads and connecting routes, it'll be hard to get bored. (Doug Kapustin / Baltimore Sun)
Druid Hill Park
If you're desperate for a break from the bustle of city life, slow down in Druid Hill Park, or make your way to the Rawlings Conservatory & Botanic Gardens for rejuvenation among the flowers. The Lakeside Loop Trail offers a place for Baltimore's runners and joggers to stretch their legs away from the cars and conjestion of the city. (Lloyd Fox / Baltimore Sun)
Gunpowder Falls State Park
The state park, named for the Gunpowder River and Big and Little Gunpowder valleys it protects, makes up 120 miles of historic sights, trails and water fun in Baltimore County. (Gene Sweeney Jr. /)
Green Mount Cemetery
Even if exploring cemeteries isn't your cup of tea, it's hard to ignore the beauty of Green Mount's sprawling expanse northeast of downtown Baltimore. It holds a variety of famous figures, impressive statues and even includes the resting place of the Baltimore man who mass-marketed the Ouija board. (Justin Kase / Baltimore Sun Media Group)
Federal Hill Park
Just south of downtown Baltimore, Federal Hill Park offers one of the most iconic Charm City views, complete with the Inner Harbor and the Domino Sugars sign. Lounge on a bench, walk around its perimeter -- or attend one of the American Visionary Art Museum's Flicks from the Hill movie showings. (Algerina Perna / Baltimore Sun)
Kilgore Falls
The falls are only the second highest in the state, but that doesn't make them any less picturesque. Hike the 1.2-mile Falling Branch Trail in Harford County and just wait until you hit the end. (Matt Button / Baltimore Sun Media Group)
Greenbrier State Park
The Washington County park features 10 maintained trails, all of which are open to hikers and most of which are open to mountain bikers. In the summer, take a dip in the lake or test your fishing skills. (Jerry jackson / Baltimore Sun)
Deep Creek Lake
The largest inland body of water in the state may also be one of the prettiest. Fish, boat or sunbathe on the shores of the Garrett County water. In the winter, ski or snowboard at nearby Wisp Resort. (Barbara Haddock Taylor / Baltimore Sun)
Cylburn Arboretum
Cylburn has a whirlwhind history that moves from a wealthy miner's home to a home for neglected children, then from park to educational center. Today, it offers a relaxing escape among the trees and gardens. (Justin Kase / Baltimore Sun Media Group)
Cunningham Falls State Park
Deep in the Catoctin Mountains of Frederick County, alongside the presidential retreat Camp David, rests Cunningham Falls State Park and its namesake waterfall. Pack a lunch and climb atop its rocks for the full experience. Fall foliage makes for a beautiful backdrop. (Doug Kapustin / Baltimore Sun)
Chestertown and Washington College
Once a colonial town, founded in 1776, historic Chestertown is still a sight to behold. Home to Washington College and a quirky Harry Potter festival, it proves it still has plenty to offer, even without the oversight of Mother England. (Courtesy of Washington College)
Cascade Lake
Better than your average swimming hole, Cascade Lake in Hampstead includes water slides, platforms to jump off and water volleyball courts. Lay out on the hill next to the lake, paddleboat in the outskirts or dive into the water entertainment head-first (after passing your swimming test, of course). (Justin Kase / Baltimore Sun Media Group)
Calvert Cliffs
For about 24 miles in Southern Maryland, the Chesapeake Bay meets a shoreline of massive cliffs, formed millions of years ago when the bay was a shallow sea. When the sea receded, it left behind steep cliffs and plentiful fossils, sandy beaches and touristic opportunity. (Candus Thomson / Baltimore Sun)
Chesapeake City
Along the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal, discover the historic Chesapeake City, home to a number of restaurants and bed-and-breakfasts that make for the ideal escape from city life. (Algerina Perna / Baltimore Sun)
C&O Canal National Historic Park
For nearly 100 years, the canal served as a lifeline for communities resting along its banks. Today, it's a chance for outdoor activities, historic exploration and recreation. (Doug Kapustin / Baltimore Sun)
Washington Monument State Park in Boonsboro
Climb to the top of the staircase in this 1827 monument for a stunning view of Frederick and Washington counties, or check it out from the outside and remark on its bizarre shape. Either works. (Ed Bunyan / Baltimore Sun Media Group)
Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge
A key stop on the Atlantic Flyway (that's for birds, not planes), the Cambridge-area wildlife refuge is a haven for waterfowl, the American bald eagle and the peregrine falcoln -- not to mention bird-watchers or nature-lovers. (Perry Thorsvik / Baltimore Sun)
Backbone Mountain
Maryland's highest point, Backbone Mountain, is quite a trek, but it offers sweeping views of the surrounding Garrett County countryside and the knowledge that you can climb no higher in Maryland. (HILLERY SMITH /)
Assateague Island
Assateague's 40,000 acres on the Eastern Shore are full of beaches, marshes, bays and coves. Its most famous attribute, though, are the wild horses. Cruise, kayak, camp or hike on the national seashore for a real taste of the wildlife. (Wendy Donahue / Chicago Tribune)
Antietam National Battlefield
In 1862, the fields near the Potomac River, in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains near Sharpsburg, were the site of a bloody Civil War battle. Today, they're a step back in history, with a visitor center, national cemetery and educational paths. (Karl Merton Ferron / Baltimore Sun)
Annapolis City Dock
In the heart of Annapolis, City Dock provides a refuge for boats and people alike. Explore the 18th century buildings surrounding the waterfront, or head out on the water for a day of sun. (Matthew Cole / Baltimore Sun Media Group)
Chesapeake Bay Bridge
While it may not seem pretty when you're stuck in beach-bound traffic on a Friday evening, the 4.3-mile bridge is striking. When it first opened in 1952, it was the world's longest continuous over-water steel structure. Plus, it takes you to the beach. What's more beautiful than that? (Kim Hairston / Baltimore Sun)