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2026-2027 Calvert County Visitors Guide

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WELCOME

MESSAGE FROM THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

A visit to rural Calvert County, Maryland provides the perfect opportunity to get out and explore our impressive natural formations, parks and beaches, and discover the history and culture of our waterfront communities. Escape everyday life and take in the Chesapeake Bay breezes! Calvert County truly is "Always in Season."

RECREATE RESPONSIBLY

We believe Calvert County is one of the most stunning locations in Maryland. We invite you to take an active role in visiting responsibly, whether it's your first trip or you're a regular here! By adopting Leave No Trace skills and ethics, we can help protect the places and wildlife we enjoy.

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Follow our social media channels for inspiration for your next Calvert County getaway.

VisitCalvertCounty | CalvertCountyGov

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER

Our monthly tourism newsletter, Tidings, features local events, attractions and more. Get the latest on what's happening in Calvert County at VisitCalvert.com/Tidings.

SHARE YOUR PHOTOS

Want to see your photos featured on Calvert's social channels or future publications? Tag your pictures using #CalvertCountyMaryland or submit photos online at VisitCalvert.com/PictureCalvert.

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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

GETTING HERE

AIRPORTS

BWI - Baltimore, Maryland (1 hour)

DCA - Arlington, Virginia (1 hour)

IAD - Northern Virginia (1 hour, 20 minutes)

MILEAGE TO CITIES

Washington, D.C. 36 Annapolis, MD 29 Baltimore, MD 53 Richmond, VA 111 Philadelphia, PA 150 Pittsburgh, PA 270 New York, NY 230

LOCAL PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

Enterprise Rent-A-Car: 410-414-2500

Public Bus Service: 410-535-4510

Smart Ride, Inc.: 410-535-6932

ARRIVING BY WATER

Calvert County is bordered by water on three sides, making it a scenic and easy destination for boaters. For a listing of marinas, go to VisitCalvert.com/Marinas.

PORT

VISITOR INFORMATION

COUNTY SERVICES

Economic Development

150 Main St., Suite 226, Prince Frederick 410-535-4583

Parks & Recreation

205 Main St., Prince Frederick 410-535-1600, ext. 2649

CALVERT LIBRARIES

Fairview Branch

8120 Southern Maryland Blvd., Owings 410-257-2101

Prince Frederick Branch

850 Costley Way, Prince Frederick 410-535-0291

Southern Branch

13920 H.G. Trueman Road, Solomons 410-326-5289

Twin Beaches Branch

4100 5th St., North Beach 410-257-2411

LAW ENFORCEMENT

Calvert County Sheriff’s Office

30 Church St.,Prince Frederick 410-535-2800

Maryland State Police Barrack U 210 Main St., Prince Frederick 410-535-1400

MEDICAL FACILITIES

CalvertHealth Medical Center 100 Hospital Road, Prince Frederick 410-535-4000

Patriot Urgent Care Dunkirk 10845 Town Center Blvd., Suite 108, Dunkirk 410-650-4346

Patriot Urgent Care Prince Frederick 821 N Prince Frederick Blvd., Prince Frederick 410-535-8911

Patriot Urgent Care Solomons 14090 H.G. Trueman Road, Suite 1300, Solomons 410-394-2800

TOWN HALLS

Chesapeake Beach Town Hall 8200 Bayside Road, Chesapeake Beach 410-257-2230 or 301-855-8398

North Beach Town Hall 8916 Chesapeake Ave., North Beach 410-257-9618 or 301-855-6681

VISITOR CENTERS

Sally Donaldson Welcome Center 9023 Bay Ave., North Beach 410-286-3799

Solomons Visitor Center

(Located inside the Calvert Marine Museum) 14200 Solomons Island Road, Solomons 410-326-2042

Twin Beaches Library

SOUTH COUNTY

South Calvert County includes St. Leonard, Lusby and Solomons. This scenic stretch is known for its waterfront views, historic charm and easygoing coastal feel. Everything in this part of the county is just a short trip away, with most destinations reachable within a quick 20 to 25 minute drive. Whether you’re exploring local shops, grabbing a bite by the water or heading to your next outdoor adventure, you can make the most of your visit.

SOUTH COUNTY

SOLOMONS ISLAND ITINERARY OPTIONS

DAY 1

Upon arrival, head straight to the Solomons Boardwalk for a scenic stroll. Be sure to stop in at The Blue Shell Gifts & Décor, Hooked Gifts & Boutique and carmen’s gallery to pick out the perfect souvenir, then grab a tasty treat from The Ice Cream Place, BRRRR Ice Cream, Shakes & Crepes or Cone Island in the warmer months.

A short walk brings you to the J.C. Lore & Sons Oyster House, where you can explore the heritage of the island’s oyster industry. Then, hop aboard Cruisin’ Tikis Solomons Island or Big Kahuna Cruises. Both boats offer a tiki vibe on the water, while the famous Tiki Bar & Grill Solomons Island provides island vibes at any time of day on land!

Dinner awaits at Island Hideaway, The Lighthouse Restaurant & Dock Bar or Trifecta. Finally, check in to your home away from home at one of three adorable B&Bs: Back Creek Inn, Blue Heron Bed & Breakfast or Solomons Victorian Inn.

DAY 2

Get out on the water early on one of many locally-owned charter fishing boats or enjoy a sailboat cruise with Sail Solomons, then keep the water vibes going strong by hopping on a rental jet ski, kayak or pontoon boat from SOMD Water Sports, Bunky’s Charter Boats or Patuxent Adventure Center. Afterward, slow things down with a bit of dock fishing or bird watching at the Solomons Boat Launch and Fishing Pier, soaking up the peaceful energy of the island.*

Enjoy a relaxed lunch at The Pier or Bugeye Grill or opt for something casual and quick at Cryptic Pizza or Bluefish Pub. Next, take a cooking or mixology class or just chill out on the deck at No Thyme to Cook. Dinner tonight is a treat at La Vela Italian Restaurant or The CD Café, and afterward, learn some local history while you stroll on a Spooky Solomons walking tour.

*Check with Maryland Department of Natural Resources for fishing and crabbing rules and regulations before heading out.

Solomons Island Heritage Tours
Tiki Bar & Grill Solomons
The Ice Cream Place
No Thyme To Cook
Hooked Gifts & Boutique

MUST-SEE SPOTS

South County is full of charm, creativity and adventure. Here are a few spots that make it truly unforgettable.

ANNMARIE SCULPTURE GARDEN & ARTS CENTER

Explore Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center, a Smithsonian Affiliate. Spread across over 30 acres of forest and meadows, Annmarie Garden offers a beautiful, serene setting where art and nature meet. Wander the trails to enjoy an inspiring collection of outdoor sculpture or step inside the Arts Building to explore two galleries with rotating exhibits, browse the gift shop, visit the Nature Nook and animal friends or create a masterpiece in the artLAB, a hands-on creative reuse studio. Throughout the year, Annmarie hosts a wide variety of festivals and markets including Artsfest , the Fairy & Gnome Home Festival and the Sea Glass & Beach Craft Market , along with art, clay and nature programs for all ages.

CALVERT MARINE MUSEUM

At the Calvert Marine Museum, prehistoric fossils, natural history and maritime heritage come together to tell the unique story of the Chesapeake Bay. Families can come face-to-face with the jaws of a giant megalodon shark and meet playful river otters. Step into the Discovery Room, an interactive space where kids dig for 8–20 millionyear-old fossils, climb a model lighthouse, or set sail in a skiff. Explore the Life in the Bay exhibit with terrapins, horseshoe crabs and other fascinating creatures. Outdoors, stroll the marsh walk and tour the historic Drum Point Lighthouse, a furnished cottage-style lighthouse open year-round. Take a cruise on the historic Wm. B. Tennison, and enjoy annual favorites like the Waterside Music Series, Solomons Maritime Festival or Sharkfest!

JEFFERSON PATTERSON PARK AND MUSEUM

Connect with the past at Jefferson Patterson Park and Museum, a place full of secrets waiting to be unearthed. Hike miles of trails, explore the visitor center full of interactive exhibits and tour the newly restored Patterson House and Gardens or attend a large-scale on-site event like Children’s Day on the Farm.

Calvert Marine Museum
Jefferson Patterson Park and Museum

SOUTH COUNTY ITINERARY OPTIONS

DAY 1

Check-in to a cozy room at Hilton Garden Inn Solomons, Solomons Inn Resort or Quality Inn Solomons, camp at the Navy Recreation Center Solomons (military & DoW) or enjoy a one-of-a-kind overnight at the Cove Point Lighthouse Keeper’s House . Drop your bags, take a breath and get ready to explore! Spend a morning shopping local. Find trendy pieces at AllyCatWalk Boutique , swing by Maertens Fine Jewelry & Gifts for something elegant and pop into The SPOT Thrift, SMILE Thrift and Grandmother’s Store for unexpected treasures.

Enjoy a hearty plate of ribs at Boomerangs Ribs & Seafood or enjoy a delicious entrée at local favorites like Buckets Bar and Grill , Ruddy Duck Brewery & Grill , Anglers Seafood Bar & Grill, Atomic Seafood and Bar or Sunset Creek at Vera’s. Feeling some international vibes? Check out Las Catrina’s Authentic Mexican Kitchen, Thai 99, Happy Buddha, Salsa’s Mexican Café, Island Sushi & Grille or Dynasty. Then take yourself on a tasting tour at Cove Point Winery, Barrel 9 and Perigeaux Vineyards & Winery.

DAY 2

Kickstart your day with breakfast at The Frying Pan, a coffee from The Beanery, or a fruity concoction from WhataBoba or Juice Buzz. Then, lace up your hiking shoes to check out Cove Point Lighthouse in the warmer months and go explore Calvert Cliffs State Park , famous for its fossil-rich cliffs and serene trails. You might even find a prehistoric shark tooth! Then take the kids to burn off some more energy at Flag Ponds Nature Park, Cove Point Park and Pool or Imaginarium and get everyone a treat at Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard.

Spend a few hours golfing at Chesapeake Hills Golf Course, then shop ‘til you drop at Chesapeake MarketPlace, Ye Old Cutlery & Gift Shop, Buehler’s Marketplace and Retroasis. Pick up a fresh seafood lunch to-go from Captain Smith’s Seafood or Chesapeake’s Bounty. If you're feeling lucky, Island Bingo is the place to be! Prefer something quieter? Head to Hidden Harbour or The Tavern for a peaceful and relaxed evening.

WhataBoba
Chesapeake Hills Golf Course
Calvert Cliffs
AllyCatWalk Boutique
Cove Point Pool

CENTRAL COUNTY

Central Calvert County includes Huntingtown, Prince Frederick and Port Republic. This area blends small town charm with the convenience of the county’s commercial hub, offering easy access to shopping, dining, parks and historic sites. Everything in Central County is just a short trip away, with most destinations reachable within about a 20 minute drive. Whether you are running errands, visiting local landmarks or exploring the outdoors, it is easy to make the most of your time here.

CENTRAL COUNTY
Hall Aquatic Center
Running Hare Vineyard

CENTRAL COUNTY ITINERARY OPTIONS

DAY 1

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Bulrushes Café or Dream Weaver Café, become one with nature at Battle Creek Cypress Swamp , Biscoe Gray Heritage Farm and Gatewood Preserve, then get your steps in at one of 26 beautiful trails at the American Chestnut Land Trust.

After all that exercise, you’re sure to have worked up an appetite, so stop in for an authentic meal at Calvert Crabs & Seafood, Stoney’s Seafood House, Old Town Café or Adam’s Taphouse and Grille. Pick up some locally made art at the CalvART Gallery, then wander over to the Calvert County Historical Society for a deep dive into the region’s rich past. Satisfy your shopping bug at Wood, Wire & Whimsy and Mandy Lee’s Vintage Shop, then head to Henson Vinyl for a customized t-shirt.

As the sun lowers, bowl a few rounds at Lord Calvert Bowling Center, enjoy a craft beer flight at Mully’s Brewery or the Southern Maryland Biergarten and indulge in a glass of wine at Running Hare Vineyard. Dinner tonight is just down the road at Heritage 485, Jerry’s Place, Gateway Restaurant & Lounge or Brick Wood Fired Bistro. Take in a late-night movie at Flagship Cinemas, grab a scoop at Always Ice Cream and flop onto a soft bed at Holiday Inn Express Prince Frederick, SureStay by Best Western or SpringHill Suites by Marriott Prince Frederick

DAY 2

Today starts with breakfast at The Lobby Coffee Bar & Cafe or Mrs. Moo’s Corner. Then it's time for some unique shopping at Mike’s Train Shop, Calvert Quilt Shop or Blue Crabs Sports Cards depending on your favorite hobby! From there, grab the kids and head to K&K Adventure Park or Adventure Zone, Hallowing Point Park playground or the Edward T. Hall Aquatic Center indoor kiddie pool, then indulge them with bubble tea from Kung Fu Tea or a smoothie from Power Plant Smoothie

For lunch, experience bold international flavors at EZ Thai, Pollo Delicioso, Salsarita’s Fresh Mexican Grill, Golden Chicken, Fortune Cookie, Nagoya Asian Bistro & Sushi Bar, Pho Town & Grill or Mexico Restaurant.

In the afternoon, get in a quick hike and some laps at Kings Landing Park and Pool, then check out some great deals at The Shops at Parkers Creek, Project ECHO Thrift & Gift Shop and The Shoppe for Hospice.

When dinner rolls around, make the difficult decision between La Tolteca, Sip and Stack, Taqueria Don Jose, Gordy’s, O’Gannigans Irish Pub, Three Brothers Italian Restaurant or any of the familiar favorite dining locations in the plazas in and around Prince Frederick.

Battle Creek Cypress Swamp
K&K Adventure Park
Dream Weaver Café
Mully's Brewery
Hallowing Point Park

NORTH COUNTY

North Calvert County encompasses Chesapeake Beach, North Beach, Dunkirk, Sunderland and Owings. These communities offer coastal views, small town character and an easygoing pace that makes the area feel welcoming. The region is compact and incredibly accessible, with most destinations only about a 20 minute drive apart. Whether you are visiting waterfront spots or exploring local shops and neighborhoods, discovering the north end of the county is simple and enjoyable.

FAMILY FUN

Start your day with a round of golf at Mellomar Golf Park, then enjoy a walk around Dunkirk District Park while kids explore the playground and skatepark. Get creative painting DIY ceramics at The Pottery Patch, then pick up something special for someone back home at Bunting Online Auctions & Market, Medart Gallery, Thrifty Ladies Thrift Store or the HELP Association, Inc. Thrift Shop. Finish the day on a sweet note with dessert at Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard.

EAT AND EXPLORE

Grab a bite to eat at Anthony’s Bar & Grill, Bubbalou’s BBQ or Chesapeake Grille & Deli before heading to Ward Farm Recreation and Nature Park to play a round of 10-hole disc golf or try the orienteering course. Stop at Breezy Point Beach, then launch your kayak onto the Patuxent River from the floating launch at Lower Marlboro Wharf.

For dinner, tuck into a delicious meal from East Café, Pinky’s Eatery, Thai Zapp, Fujiyama, Thursday’s Bar & Grill or

Lucia’s Southern Italian Cuisine.

Mamma
NORTH COUNTY Dunkirk District Park
Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard
Ward Farm Recreation and Nature Park

SMALL TOWN LIVIN'

TOWN OF NORTH BEACH

The Town of North Beach is the “Jewel of the Chesapeake Bay.” The sandy beach, 450’ fishing pier and half-mile boardwalk adorned with flower beds and park benches, are picturesque landmarks perfectly positioned on the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay. Sculpture enhanced gardens, a nature center and trail teaming with wildlife and a town spirit anchored around family-friendly events enrich this idyllic coastal town. North Beach celebrates residential home ownership, small business entrepreneurship and thoughtful tourism.

A dynamic restaurant and bar sector offers unique fine dining , casual and artisan delights. Retail experiences range from fine arts and antiques to handmade crafts and a culturally significant Bayside History Museum.

DO THIS

For great eats in North Beach, head to City Sliders Steakhouse, Hook & Vine – Kitchen and Bar, Neptune’s Seafood Pub, Plaza Mexico or Vaughan Cheese.

Need a sweet treat to follow up your meal? Grab something yummy at The Cold Penguin Ice Cream, Jango’s Frozen Treats or the bakist.

OR THIS

Get your shopping fix at Artworks @ 7th, Dusk & Willow Designs, Lighthouse Market & Signs, Nice & Fleazy Antiques and Sisters’ Corner.

End your evening with a wine tasting at Bay Wine & Spirits or a beer flight at Unauthorized Brewing , then head to the Wheel House Beer Garden at 7th Street for some great live music!

NORTH BEACH
Hook & Vine – Kitchen & Bar
Mark R. Frazer Sunrise Garden

TOWN OF CHESAPEAKE BEACH

Nestled along the scenic shores of the Chesapeake Bay, Chesapeake Beach offers the perfect blend of small-town charm and coastal adventure.

This town’s story began in the 1890s, when the Chesapeake Beach Railway Company purchased the land and developed it as a resort destination. More than 130 years later, that history continues along the Chesapeake Beach Railway Trail, where visitors can enjoy scenic views of Fishing Creek, home to abundant wildlife and peaceful marshlands. To dive even deeper into the past, the Chesapeake Beach Railway Museum brings the resort era to life with artifacts, photographs and engaging exhibits.

Those planning a memorable getaway will find everything in one place at Rod ‘N’ Reel Resort, from waterfront dining and live entertainment, to overnight accommodations and relaxing bay views. Be sure to grab a coffee at Otto’s Brew Bar and check out the cute gift shop on-site aptly named the “ Boat-ique.”

With vibrant parks, beloved local eateries, a rich heritage and welcoming waterfront experiences, Chesapeake Beach is a destination where history, nature and relaxation come together.

DO THIS

Savor fresh seafood at Trader's Seafood Steak & Ale , Tyler's Crab House or Abner's Crabhouse , or enjoy authentic Italian cuisine at Baia Coastal Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar. For something sweet, stop by local favorites like Calvert Kettle Corn or Butterflies & Wishes Tea & Sweets. Before heading out on the water, browse for treasures at A-1 Antiques & Collectibles then set sail on a local charter boat or enjoy a walking tour or cruise with Chesapeake Windsail Cruises.

OR THIS

Families and outdoor enthusiasts can discover inviting green spaces throughout town. Veterans Memorial Park offers a quiet place for reflection and remembrance. MillerLoveless Park features a playground and open space for kids and casual recreation, while the Kellam’s Field Complex serves as a lively hub for sports, festivals and community events year-round.

CHESAPEAKE BEACH
Butterflies & Wishes Tea & Sweets
Chesapeake Beach Railway Trail

CALVERT COUNTY IS ALWAYS IN SEASON

Spring arrives early in Calvert County, with cherry blossoms in March and rockfish returning for prime fishing. Visit a U-pick berry farm, then explore tidal wetlands, marshes and woodland trails.

LOCAL FAVORITES

^ Campfires on the Beach

^ Discover Archaeology Day

^ Fairy and Gnome Home Festival

^ Solomons Maritime Festival

^ Southern Maryland Celtic Festival

FALL

Fall fun abounds with pumpkin patches, corn mazes and playful agritourism stops. Follow the Calvert County Barn Quilt Trail and end the day with friends and a pile of steamed blue crabs sprinkled with Old Bay.

LOCAL FAVORITES

^ ArtsFest

^ Calvert County Fair

^ Shuck It! Solomons

^ Patuxent River Appreciation Day

^ Taste the Beaches

SPRING SUMMER

Cool off at a local pool or take to the bay in a rented kayak, paddleboard, pontoon or jet ski. Summer also brings peak locally grown produce, perfect for a stop at a roadside stand or farmers market.

LOCAL FAVORITES

^ Celebratory Fireworks

^ Children's Day on the Farm

^ Dragon Boat Festival

^ Jousting Tournament and Bazaar

^ SHARKFEST!

WINTER

Winter is ideal for off season beach trips to hunt for sharks teeth and fossils. Explore local museums, shop for gifts at locally-owned businesses and enjoy festive light displays and family friendly holiday events.

LOCAL FAVORITES

^ Annmarie Garden in Lights

^ A Main Street Christmas

^ Lighted Boat Parade

^ Polar Bear Plunge

^ Thanksgiving Turkey Trot 5K

ON THE WATER

From calm coves along the Patuxent River to the open waters of the Chesapeake Bay, time on the water is a must in Calvert County. Whether you’re kayaking along the shoreline, casting a line, boating with friends or simply soaking in the views, there are endless ways to relax and explore. Experience the county from a whole new perspective.

CHARTER FISHING

Set sail from one of the many marinas that dot the shoreline. Choose from a fleet of charter boats for trolling, bottom fishing or weekend cruises. After, clean your catch at their fish-cleaning stations.

CRUISES AND GUIDED TOURS

Explore the Bay in style with a variety of cruises and guided experiences. From scenic harbor sightseeing and sunset sails to themed pontoon cruises and fossil-hunting beach tours, there’s something for every pace and interest. Whether you’re soaking in history or spotting wildlife from the water, local tour operators make it easy to enjoy the Chesapeake.

RENTALS

Get out on the water your way with rentals for kayaks, canoes, paddleboards and more. Launch from popular spots like Flag Ponds Nature Park, Hallowing Point Boat Ramp or Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum, and paddle scenic creeks or the calm edges of the Patuxent River and Bay.

BOAT RAMPS AND KAYAK LAUNCHES

Bring your own vessel and take advantage of public ramps and hand launches around the county, including at Solomons, Chesapeake Beach, Hallowing Point and several parks. These access points make it easy to explore miles of shoreline and water trails on your own schedule.

SUN , SAND & SHARK TEETH

Calvert County’s beaches offer the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. Stroll along sandy shores, explore nearby trails and wetlands, or hunt for fossilized shark’s teeth along the shoreline. With opportunities for swimming, fishing, picnicking and waterfront fun, the county’s coastline is ideal for families, friends or anyone looking to enjoy the Chesapeake Bay.

TO ENJOY CALVERT COUNTY

Whether you're here for the day or a weekend getaway, Calvert County offers unique experiences you won't want to miss. From colorful public art and hands-on farm visits to guided tours and waterfront relaxation, these seven ideas showcase the charm, flavor and fun waiting to be discovered.

1 4 2

Calvert Fairgrounds Mural
Grill Sergeant BBQ

1 ADMIRE PUBLIC ART

Discover our vibrant public art scene, from handpainted wooden barn quilt squares to colorful murals across the community. These pieces celebrate local history, agriculture and artistic talent, creating a countywide outdoor gallery for visitors and residents.

2 DISCOVER LOCAL FARMS

Pick berries, meet farm animals and take part in seasonal agritourism at local farms. Family friendly, hands-on activities and beautiful rural settings make it an easy choice for a memorable day outdoors.

3 GRAB A QUICK BITE

The local food truck scene delivers a wide variety of flavors, from seafood to BBQ. With rotating locations and seasonal menus, there’s always something new to try. It’s an quick, casual way to enjoy bold flavors and support local food culture.

4 GO ANTIQUING

Spend an afternoon antiquing in Calvert County, where charming shops offer everything from vintage décor to unexpected treasures with a story to tell.

5 GO ON A GUIDED TOUR

From fossil hunting on the beach to crabbing on the bay, Calvert County offers a variety of guided tours. Choose your topic, choose your tour and get ready for a stress-free day filled with history, trivia and fun!

6 SAY "I DO"

Mark life’s biggest moments in Calvert County. With picturesque locations for engagement photos and a variety of wedding venues ranging from cozy and intimate to elegant and waterfront, the county’s rural charm creates memories that last a lifetime.

7 TREAT YOURSELF

Relax and recharge after a day of exploring. Slow down with a massage, facial or salon service at a local spa, or settle in for a soothing manicure and pedicure surrounded by scenic views.

Running Hare Vineyard
Solomons Island Heritage Tours

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