In every season, there are plenty of things to do on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. Activities include outdoor events, tent shows, arts and crafts expos, and many more.
A trip to Ocean City is one of the most popular things to do on the Eastern Shore.
This family-oriented beach resort is located within a few hours of Philadelphia,
Baltimore, Washington D.C., and other cities of the Mid Atlantic region.
Ocean City is known for its beaches, amusements, fishing, food, and other attractions.Ocean City hosts a wide range of annual events including Springfest, Sunfest, Bike Week, Winterfest of Lights, and many others.
Each Winter, the East Coast Commercial Fishermen's and Aquaculture Trade Expo is held in Ocean City. The event is the largest commercial fishing - aquaculture trade show in the Mid Atlantic region.
Held annually in April, the World Championship Wildfowl Carving Competition and Art Festival attracts carvers and visitors from across the world. The event includes judging, seminars, demonstrations, family activities, auctions, and exhibits of artisans and supplies.
Just a few miles south is Assateague Island. The island is known for its natural beauty, including beaches, wild ponies, waterfowl, and other scenes.
A bridge from the mainland provides access to Assateague Island State Park and/or Assateague Island National Seashore. The state park has beach access, a boat launching facility, pier, and other assets. The larger national park also has beach access, camping, RV parking, hiking trails, and more.
Chestertown is a favorite stop for boaters and nautical history enthusiasts. Held each fall, the annual Chestertown Downrigging Weekend is the town's biggest attraction. Featuring tall ships and other classic boats of all sizes, the event draws mariners from across the region.
In Easton, a multi-day waterfowl festival attracts carvers, collectors, art lovers, and waterfowl enthusiasts. The festival is held each year in November.
Another popular destination for day trips or weekend getaways is
St. Michaels. Located on the Miles River, this historic waterfront town is home to the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, St. Micheals Museum, and scores of historic homes.
Nearby, the Oxford - Bellevue Ferry offers a scenic ride between two historic waterfront communities.
A few miles south, near Cambridge, Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge is known for its eagles, ospreys, waterfowl, and more. The refuge is home to three
paddling trails totaling over 20 miles.
During winter, the Cambridge waterfront becomes a prime location for viewing wild ducks, geese, and other birds.
On Deal Island, skipjack sailboat races are a local tradition. Held annually over Labor Day weekend, the race showcases wooden skipjack sailboats from around the Chesapeake Bay. Over the weekend, participants share information, network, and learn about these historic sailing vessels. In addition to the skipjack race there is a large craft show, yard sales, local foods, and other side events.
Another popular destination for boaters, fishermen, and seafood lovers is Crisfield, Maryland. This small waterfront town is home to the National Hard Crab Derby, Boat Docking Contest, and other events.
Also at Crisfield, visitors can explore the town dock and catch a boat to nearby Smith Island or Tangier Island.
In Snow Hill, the annual Blessing of the Combines is one of the state's most popular agri-tourism events.
Not be overlooked are the many opportunities that are available in state and county parks on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. Campers and day trip explorers can choose from dozens of interesting parks and other destinations.
Near Hillsboro, Tuckahoe State Park is a great location for camping, fishing, paddlesports, hiking, horseback riding, and other activities. Below the dam, hikers and horseback riders will find stunning views of
Tuckahoe Creek and surrounding hardwood forests.
Along the upper Choptank River, Martinek State Park provides camping and water access. Just down the road is Adkins Arboretum where miles of trails wind through trees, wildflowers, and other native plants.
Located on the lower Choptank River in Cambridge is Bill Burton Fishing Pier State Park. The property includes piers that extend from both banks of the river, running parallel to Rt. 50. Popular activities on the piers include walking, crabbing, fishing, and birdwatching.
Things To Do (listed by season)
Winter
waterfowl watching, hunting
Ocean City Winterfest of Lights
Christmas parades
East Coast Commercial Fishermen's and Aquaculture Trade Expo
Spring
Ward World Championship Wildfowl Carving Competition and Art Festival
Ocean City Springfest
fresh strawberries
Summer
Fourth of July Fireworks Displays
National Hard Crab Derby
Blessing of the Combines
boat docking contests
beach excursions
fishing
Deal Island Skipjack Race
Fall
Ocean City Sunfest, Bike Week
Chestertown Downrigging Weekend
Easton Waterfowl Festival
Related Information
Things To Do in Ocean City MD
St. Michaels
Deal Island Skipjack Races
Things To Do in Maryland
