Chesapeake Bay | Places to visit in Maryland

Places to visit in Maryland

Maryland is full of diverse attractions. There are plenty of things to do here as well. On one side it is flanked by Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. On the other side it is bolded by the Appalachians Mountains. Maryland is scenic, beautiful and various. There are museums to visit. Cultural events keep happening here. Here are some places to visit when in Maryland.

Eastern Shore

Located on Chesapeake Bay’s east coast, the Eastern Shore is a very famous attraction of Maryland. Dotted with beautiful-looking towns, and a serene natural ambience, the Eastern Shore is a favored destination for local and international travelers during the summer.

Baltimore Inner Harbor

The inner harbor is big and expansive. You can spend the whole day walking along ships docked here. You will see lots of people here who have come to see the gigantic ships. Over here, there is a National Aquarium. There is also a section featuring the historic ships of Baltimore.

Deep Creek Lake

Deep Creek Lake is like nature’s backyard. Or you can call it the manifestation of beautiful nature in a splendid form. Over here, against the beautiful backdrops, you can go hiking, bicycling and picnicking; The Lake lets you go swimming, boating, and fishing. During summer this place is ideal for riding horses. In winter, you can use the mountain slopes to go snowboarding.

Brookside Gardens

Brookside Gardens is over fifty acres in area. It’s a pretty garden which includes separate sections for butterflies, roses, fragrant flowers, Japanese plants, and much more.

Attractions in Crisfield

Image by tangiersound via Flickr

Whether you’re traveling to Crisfield for business or pleasure, it’s best to make time for some of the most interesting and exciting attractions that Crisfield has to offer. Because of its unique position surrounded by inlets and other bodies of water, Crisfield, Maryland is the perfect place to enjoy the rhythmic huh of nature. Enjoy the great outdoors with a variety of seaside habitats.

The most popular and well known attraction in Crisfield, Maryland is Jane Islands State Park. You could spend a week exploring all the waterways, hiking trails and other fun things to do at this park – and many people do. The park is a more rural natural experience. There is no camp counselor making a list of things to do and places to see. Instead, the park is quiet and allows for great family vacations or even a trip with a significant other. Enjoy the isolated shoreline and marshland of with kayaking, canoeing and other water fun or take a hike on one of the several nature trails available. You can go into full camping mode in a campground (although there are restrooms nearby) or rent one of the full-service cabins on the property.

Overwhelmed by everything there is to do at Jane Island State Park or just have time for a day trip? Kayak along the Chesapeake Bay and enjoy the lack of cars on Tangier Island. While you can take a golf cart around the island, it’s even more fun if you bring your bicycle and create your own tour. Make your trip all-inclusive by enjoying freshly caught seafood at Fisherman’s Corner.

Filed Under: Crisfield, General Tagged With: Chesapeake Bay, Crisfield Maryland, Kayak

An Overview of Crisfield, MD

Crisfield is the most southern city in the state of Maryland. The settlement sits on Chesapeake Bay on the Tangier Sound and is nestled between the Annemessex and Pokomoke rivers.

Originally the site of a small fishing village named Annemessex Neck, this spot has long been used as a fishing point with native Americans in the area having discovered its delights long before the arrival of the settlers.

Chief among those settlers was an Englishman named Benjamin Summers who was instrumental in the founding of the marina area now known as Somers Cove, paving the way for an explosion in the local fishing industry that earned the area the title of “Crab Capital of the World” an accolade it proudly expounds too this day.

The modern city is a busy urban area, which also benefits from a strong tourist trade, with visitors flocking to the area to sample the delights of the local seafood as well as making Crisfield a base for trying out some more active endeavours such as water sports along the generous coastline.

Sailors from across America and further afield flock to the area, which provides a generous marina with easy access to the city centre for visitors carried in by the waves.

The downtown area offers a real insight into the history of the area, with architectural reference to its rich past in evidence everywhere you look.

The area also has lots to offer in terms of natural beauty, with the placement of the city of Crisfield making it a great place to explore the environment both on and off shore.

Filed Under: Crisfield Tagged With: Chesapeake Bay, Maryland, Tangier Sound

Things to Do in Crisfield, MD

If you are planning a trip to Crisfield Maryland, there are a wide range of entertainment options on offer with something to suit all tastes.

As this city is rich in culture and history, curious visitors may wish to take a tour through the old town area with the local heritage society learning out how the city as it stands today was built on the oyster shells of the substantial seafood trade. Culture vultures may also enjoy visiting one of the city’s three museums.

For those who wish to get their kicks on the water there are a range of exciting options available in the Crisfield area – from daily cruises to Tangier Island and Smith Island for those who like to explore at a leisurely pace to water sports instruction on the city shore for those seeking something a little more extreme.

Anglers will be spoiled for choice in this area, famous for its seafood and known colloquially as the “The Crab Capital of the World”. Charter fishing is available from range of providers based in the city of Crisfield.

For nature lovers the area, nestled between the Aneemessex and Pocomoke Rivers in the Tangier Sound of Chesapeake Bay has a lot to offer including the popular Jane’s Island State Park.

Sailors can take advantage of one of the biggest and best marina’s along the coast at Somer’s Cove, while foodies will find delight in the local seafood delicacies served up in the city’s eateries.

An exciting programme of open events also runs throughout the summer and early autumn with highlights including the National Hard Crab Derby, the Fourth of July Freedom Fest and the Wheels on the Waterfront Classic Car Cruise In. Details and dates for all events are available from the local chamber of commerce.

Filed Under: Crisfield, Events Tagged With: Chesapeake Bay, Crisfield Maryland, Maryland

National Hard Crab Derby – Crisfield, MD

The end of the summer is not allowed to pass unmarked in the city of Crisfield and the arrival of the month of September also heralds the arrival of the National Hard Crab Derby and Fair.

Known affectionately as the “Crab Capital of The World” it is no surprise that this city on the Chesapeake Bay should play host to such an event, which offers a great insight into the local community and culture.

Held at Somers Cove Marina this excellent community event is a real local tradition that is enjoyed by residents and visitors alike. Help over two days in September, the event features an exciting array of crab-based fun, from live crab racing to crab cooking competitions where visitors can sample some of the exquisite entries.

For those who find their appetites whetted by all this crustacean based fun, recipe books are available to take away which include versions of all of the entries on offer on the day under the tongue in cheek title of the “World’s Crabbiest Recipes”.

The event also plays host to the ubiquitous beauty pageant, where local girls compete for the title of Miss Crustacean (or Miss Crusty as it is affectionately known locally) as well as a 10 kilometer running event, a fitting swimming competition as well as boat based competitions including races and docking challenges. Other challenges include a crab picking contest.

A carnival runs in conjunction with the Hard Crab Derby and the event offers an excellent selection of live entertainment for visitors, before the whole weekend is rounded off with a stunning fireworks display above the waters of Tangier sound.

Filed Under: Crisfield Tagged With: Chesapeake Bay, Crab, Crisfield Maryland

Celebrate July 4th in Crisfield at the City’s Freedom Fest

Independence Day is a big deal in communities across America, and Crisfield, Maryland is no exception.

The city, known colloquially as “The Crab Capital of the World” sits on the southern tip of the state and enjoys a stunning location on the waters of Chesapeake Bay and Tangier Sound, making the perfect setting for the Fourth of July Freedom Fest Event.

Established in 2009, this new annual community get together is a high point of the local calendar offering a great get together fro locals and visitors alike.

Held at the Somer’s Cove Marina in Crisfield, the Freedom Fest event brings together the people of the city and those visiting the area for a day of fun and frolics with a serious message at its heart.

The Freedom fest is attended by local dignitaries including the mayor and other politicians as well as veterans from the area who are honoured every year for their service to their country.

Families bring picnics to enjoy, although refreshments are available, and visitors can take advantage of a wide range of entertainments that are laid on for the occasion – with something to suit fest-friends of all ages.

Carnival style stalls keep the kids enthralled, while entertainers offer excitement in the form of magic shows and craft displays.

And of course, no Fourth of July would be complete without a fantastic fireworks display with Crisfield’s offering going off above the waters of Tangier Sound with many spectators enjoying the stunning sight from the decks of their boats docked in the marina.

Filed Under: Crisfield Tagged With: Chesapeake Bay, Independence Day (United States), United States

Crisfield, Maryland Economy

The city of Crisfield, in the state of Maryland, has a population of about 2,723 (2000 census) and its main industries are healthcare, retail, automotive, and seafood. At its peak there were about 150 seafood packaging and processing plants, however, the numbers dropped drastically in 1990. It was about this time that the health of the Cheasapeake Bay dropped significantly, which reduced the amount of blue crabs being caught by fishermen. A 70% decrease in the fishing industry since the 1990’s has resulted in the closure of many of these seafood processing and packaging plants.

Currently, the largest employer within the city limits of Crisfield, Maryland is the McCready Memorial Hospital. The second largest employer is the Rubberset plant. This subdivision of Sherwin-Williams produces paint brushes. A good portion of the workforce is employed outside the city limits in nearby cities.

In 2000, the unemployment rate for Caucasian males was 0% and for Caucasian females was 7.1%. For those who are African-American, or of mixed races, the unemployment rate ranged between 19.4% and 35.8%. Of those who were employed, males were most often employed in the construction industry (14%). The second most popular industry for males to be employed in was the public administration industry (12%) and then the agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting (9%). For women the most popular employment industry in 2000 was the healthcare industry (24%). Public administration was also the second most popular industry for women (15%) and accommodation and food services came in third for women (9%).

In Crisfield, Maryland the median household income in 2008 was $23,860 in comparison to the median income in the state of Maryland, which was $70,545. As much as 34.2% of households in Crisfield were below the poverty level and 12.9% were 50% or more below the poverty level.

Filed Under: Crisfield Tagged With: Chesapeake Bay, Maryland, Sherwin-Williams

Crisfield Maryland Attractions

Crisfield, Maryland may be a smaller city, but it is not lacking attractions. There are many things for visitors to see and places where they can enjoy the day. Tourists will enjoy relaxing days with entertainment and educational attractions in Crisfield, whether you want to stay inside or prefer the great outdoors.

If education and knowledge is what you seek, the Crisfield Heritage Foundation has several attractions that will keep you interested for a long time. The main museum, the J. Millard Tawes Historical Museum, is right on the waterfront of the Somers Cove Marina. The history of the Lower Shore, exhibits of the early Chesapeake Bay, the seafood plants, and the background of decoy carving and painting in the area are just some of the topics that you can learn about. Recently, they have added an exhibit where tourists can visit a working waterman’s crab shanty. This is the beginning of The Port of Crisfield Walking Tour. Visitors who want to learn more about decoy carving and painting will not want to miss the Ward Brothers Workshop. This will give visitors and in depth view of the lives of Steve and Lem Ward and the duck decoys that have become so popular in the area.

If you are looking for an activity where you can spend more time outdoors, you will not want to miss the Tangier Island Cruises. On the Steven Thomas you will witness beautiful scenery, waterfowl, and islands. The quaintest island you’ve ever seen will make this tour a must. Streets on the island are meant for biking and walking, and the restaurants all serve the best fresh seafood. Enjoy your food indoors or find a spot at one of the many seaside picnic tables. This place has changed little since it was first founded in 1686!

Filed Under: Crisfield Tagged With: Chesapeake Bay, Crisfield Maryland, J. Millard Tawes Historical Museum

Tourism in Crisfield, Maryland

: Image via Wikipedia

Tourism in Crisfield, Maryland is one of the area’s greatest sources of pride. It is known as “the crab capital of the world” and is a great place to visit if you love the outdoors, wildlife, and a quaint community. It has been called “the last gem on the Chesapeake Bay.”

Located on the eastern shore of Chesapeake Bay, Crisfield, Maryland is famous for its seafood, especially for the Maryland blue crab. This area is ripe with wildlife, natural beauty, and its simple lifestyle. The climate is temperate but seasonal, and the surface area of the town is about 46% water. For nearly 3 centuries, the town of Crisfield has been a place with a home town feel. It is loved by travelers that enjoy water and ecological wonders.

Some of the highlights of Crisfield, Maryland include:

* 3 museums

* Charter and head boat fishing

* Annual and year round events that include: the National Hard Crab Derby (every Labor Day weekend for the past 60 years), The J. Millard Tawes Crab and Clam Bake (every 3rd Wednesday in July for the past 30 years), and Freedom Fest (every 4th of July, a new event since 2009)

There are many hotels, as well as bed and breakfasts to stay in while visiting Crisfield. Visitors can make themselves comfortable and will feel the welcome they get from the residents of the town. There are great restaurants that, of course, offer some of the best seafood to be found in the state of Maryland. When visiting Maryland, Crisfield is a must stop destination. Not only will you enjoy the many opportunities to visit museums, go fishing, and take boat trips, but the people are welcoming and love to show off their beautiful little town. It is like nothing you have ever seen before.

Filed Under: Crisfield, General Tagged With: Chesapeake Bay, Maryland

Things To do in Crisfield, Maryland

Crisfield, Maryland may be a small town, but tourists are never at a lack of things to do. This little town is filled with attractions for water loverS, and events that will thrill the whole family. Whether you want to eat good food, spend time indoors, or spend your days in the sun there are many choices for Crisfield visitors.

Janes Island State Park is surrounded by Chesapeake Bay and many inlets, and offers many opportunities to explore and learn. The park has several cabins as well as many camp sites to stay at. Some portions of the park are accessible by boat only. There are also picnic areas for those who are just there for the day.

The J. Millard Tawes Museum offers a great place to visit on a rainy day or when it just gets too hot out. It follows the history of the lower Maryland shore and features exhibits on early Chesapeake Bay. It serves as the starting point of the walking tour and the Ward Brothers Heritage tour. You will get a great picture of the area including the past and present seafood industry.

The Tangier Outfitters/Island Cruises are well loved by visitors. The highlight of their cruises is the trip to Tangier Sound Island. You can go by kayak or water taxi or on their cruise boat, the Steven Thomas. This quiet little island has narrow streets that are perfect for walking or biking. It has a population of only 850. A quaint little town like this will make you feel like you have walked into the past as very little has changed since it was settled in 1686.

There are many more activities and events to take part in while visiting Crisfield. Whether you love the outdoors or prefer to stay you will be sure to find something you love.

Filed Under: Crisfield, Events Tagged With: Chesapeake Bay, Janes Island State Park, Maryland