Welcome to Maryland – a state that’s often overlooked – and unjustly so. The ugly duckling syndrome? – Don’t let its unimpressive size fool you.
This state packs a punch with its unique blend of history, culture, and delicious seafood. As a Marylander, I may be biased, but hear me out.
While other states may flaunt their fancy beaches and towering mountains, Maryland has something that sets it apart: the Chesapeake Bay.
This estuary is one of the largest in the world and home to some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever taste. There’s more to it than meets the eye.
From quaint towns like Annapolis to the bustling city of Baltimore, there’s plenty to see and do. Civil War? Star-Spangled Banner? You know it.
So come on down to Maryland, the most underrated state in the US.
We promise we won’t bite – but our crabs might.
Did you know: Maryland Edition
- The state’s official sport is jousting. That’s right, the notorious, medieval pastime activity.
- Maryland is known as the “Free State” because it was one of the few states that didn’t prohibit alcohol during Prohibition.
- It is home to the oldest railroad station in the United States, the Ellicott City Station, built in 1830.
- The first umbrella factory in the US was established in Baltimore in 1828.
- What do Micheal Michael Phelps, Jada Pinkett Smith, Edgar Allan Poe, and Babe Ruth have in common? Maryland. Born and raised.
- The National Aquarium in Baltimore is the largest indoor aquarium in the United States, with more than 17,000 specimens representing over 750 species.
- The state song, “Maryland, My Maryland,” is sung to the tune of “O Tannenbaum” and is written in German. Unique enough?
- The Chesapeake Bay Bridge in Maryland is one of the world’s longest over-water structures, spanning over 4.3 miles across the Chesapeake Bay.
- And, of course – Maryland is home to some of the best seafood in the world, including blue crabs, oysters, and rockfish.
Maryland’s Best-Kept Secret: The Chesapeake Bay
What’s more Maryland than seafood? This big ol’ body of water is home to some of the freshest, most delicious meals one could afford in their lifetime. The Chesapeake Bay is the heart and soul of Maryland.
And so are blue crabs. We steam them, season them with Old Bay, and it’s dig in season. Messy, delicious – a true Maryland tradition. Stunning sunsets? Check. Fishing, boating, kayaking? Triple-check. This underrated oasis is pure Eden (P.S. Bring your dog along!).
Small Town Charm
Need a quaint place to recharge, urbanites? Look no further. Maryland is home to some of the most picturesque small towns in the whole country.
Take St. Michaels, a charming waterfront town with quaint shops and restaurants, perfect for a relaxing weekend getaway. Or Annapolis, perhaps, the state capital, full of colonial-era buildings, cobblestone streets, and sailboats.
Travel back in time? Yes, please. Chestertown? Underground Railroad in Cambridge? Bring it on!
The best part? The people. Whether grabbing a bite to eat or browsing the local shops, you’ll be greeted with a smile and a warm welcome.
History for days
That’s right; we were here first before the United States was even a thing. The bloodiest single-day battle in American history took place in Maryland (The Battle of Antietam).
It’s not all blood and tears, though! Maryland was also a key player in ending slavery. In fact, Harriet Tubman, one of the most famous conductors of the Underground Railroad, was born and raised in Maryland.
USS Constellation? Clara Barton National Historic Site? Party time, history aficionados! The most underrated state in the US? Please.
Food!
From upscale restaurants to casual crab shacks, Maryland’s got it all. Finger-licking, mouthwatering deliciousness, the foodie scene is STRONG. Top culinary tier.
Marylanders take their crab cakes seriously and for a good reason. A good crab cake is beautiful and made with jumbo lump crab meat, a touch of Old Bay seasoning, and just enough filler to hold it all together.
Pair it with a cold beer or a glass of white wine, and you’ll be in seafood heaven. Have you heard of Sith Island cake? What about Berger cookies? These fudgy, chocolate-covered cookies are a Baltimore staple and are dangerously addictive.
Be sure to visit:
- The Maryland Seafood Festival in Annapolis.
- Baltimore Farmers’ Market & Bazaar.
True story: Despite its underrated status, Maryland’s been welcoming an increasing number of transplants. Thinking about hiring long-distance movers and moving to Maryland? Find a reliable team ready to help, and come on down!
The culture scene
From world-renowned museums to street festivals, Maryland is a boiling cultural pot. The Baltimore Museum of Art, the Walters Art Museum, and the American Visionary Art Museum are just the tip of the iceberg.
Be sure to visit the Open Walls Baltimore festival if you’re a fine international street art fan. Murals for eons. The Maryland Film Festival in Baltimore is a must-visit for movie buffs.
At the same time, Artscape in Baltimore and the Maryland Renaissance Festival in Annapolis are great places to get a feel of Maryland’s cultural diversity.
Be sure to visit the Hippodrome Theatre, the Strathmore, and the Merriweather Post Pavilion!
The perfect geo sandwich
Listen, we know that when people think of Maryland, they often think of it as a “drive-through” state on their way to more exciting destinations. But here’s the thing – Maryland is actually in a pretty great location.
We’re sandwiched between two major cities, Washington, DC, and Philadelphia. And needless to say – we’re proud of being called the perfect little sandwich.
Want to see the Amish country in Lancaster, Pennsylvania? It’s just a short drive away. How about visiting the beaches in Delaware? They’re just a hop, skip, and jump away from Maryland’s eastern shore.
Final words
So come to Maryland and discover why we’re the most underrated state in the US. We promise we won’t disappoint – unless you’re on a diet, in which case, you may want to stay away from the crab cakes.
