When you plan for a holiday trip or a summer vacation, you often think of California, Florida, Texas, or perhaps even Nevada. After all, these are some of the most popular and most visited states in the country. However, every once in a while, it is a great idea to try and steer away from the top choices. It adds to the excitement of the trip when you attempt to explore new places or think of choices outside the box. One of the hidden gems of the land of the free is the state of Maryland.
In this article, we are going to talk all about Maryland, starting with its history, some facts about the state, and all the fun activities you can do with your family on your next trip. If you are keen to book your reservations as early as now, check this link for some of our recommendations for Baltimore vacation rentals.
Brief History of Maryland
Maryland has a long history that dates all the way back to the start of European exploration in 1498. Following the arrival and subsequent settlement of Europeans in the region’s southern and northern areas, King Charles I granted Sir George Calvert the Province of Maryland in 1632. The state is most well-known for having strong Roman Catholic roots. This is perhaps because Sir Calvert himself publicly converted to the beliefs of the Christian church. Maryland’s economy was based on the production of tobacco, just like its neighboring colonies and settlements along the Chesapeake Bay. The name “Maryland” was in honor of Queen Henrietta Maria, the wife of King Charles I.
Fun Facts About Maryland
- Maryland is the proud birthplace of the US National Anthem. A Maryland lawyer named Francis Key Scott wrote the “Star-Spangled Banner” in 1814, which then became the national anthem of the country in 1931.
- It is home to the United States Naval Academy. It was founded back in 1845 and had been producing some of the best naval officers ever since. Tourists and visitors can take guided tours around the campus, which features stunning architecture, including Bancroft Hall’s Memorial Chapel.
- The world’s first umbrella factory was founded in Maryland. It was in 1828 when Francis Beehler, a German immigrant, started the Beehler Umbrella Factory.
- The state is often referred to as “America in Miniature.” This is precisely because it has a wide topography, including rolling hills, marshlands, pine groves, and sandy dunes. It is home to various lakes and rivers, and it is also where the country meets the Atlantic Ocean. Finally, it is home to hundreds of species of birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians, as well as freshwater and marine fishes. Truly, if the entirety of America could be condensed into one state, Maryland would be it.
Activities To Do In Maryland
- Visit state parks – Nature lovers can surely exhaust themselves in awe of the state’s wonderful wildlife and lush green scenery. You and your family can go hiking, picnicking, swimming, boating, and fishing in any of the top state parks in Maryland. The top choices include: Assateague State Park, Swallow Falls State Park, Rocky Gap State Park, Cunningham Falls State Park, and Catoctin Mountain Park, among many others.
- Go wine-tasting – One of the state’s main products is wine. You can book your wine-tasting sessions in any of the state’s top 5 wineries, which include: the Patapsco Valley Region Wine Tour, Westminster Region Wine Tour, Chesapeake Region Wine Tour, Heritage Region Wine Tour, as well as Chocolate and Wine Tour.
- Boat tours – As the state is known for its water features, this could perhaps be the highlight of your trip. Boat tours allow you to experience Maryland’s signature spirit with luxury cruises, nature cruises, and even kayaking. Cruises are offered in multiple intervals and are available for lunch, dinner, sunset, or for custom private bookings.