7 Activities to Do in Maryland This Winter

There are two types of people in winter.

You have those who hibernate in the warmth of their homes until winter passes and those who embrace the season despite the chill and enjoy the best of what it offers.

The state of Maryland certainly has lots to offer during winter. It can get really cold and snowy, but that’s part of the charm, adding to a list of things that make Maryland stunning in winter.

If you’re looking for fun activities in Maryland this winter, here are some to get you started.

1. Check Out the Trails

Who said hiking is only reserved for the warmer months?

Winter hiking is a thing, and in Maryland, there are plenty of trails that look magnificent while draped in snow.

The Patapsco Valley State Park, a humongous state park spread through multiple counties, is a wonderful place for winter hiking. It has lots of scenic trails you’ll appreciate.

Calvert County’s Battle Creek Cypress Swamp is just as magical in winter. A stroll along the narrow boardwalks, checking out the frozen surroundings can be a great group activity.

2. Go Ice Skating

Maryland has lots of places for ice skating, from popular spots to unknown nooks you stumble across while tramping in the woods — we encourage ice skating in safe and well-known locations, though.

Quiet Waters in Annapolis is one of the best places to enjoy winter skating alone or with friends and family. It’s a perfect outdoor setting that’s generally packed, but that just adds to the merrymaking.

3. Check Out the Museums

Sometimes when it’s cold outside, staying indoors is all you need. You can add an exciting activity to the mix by haunting museums.

There are plenty of various kinds across the state. Visit a few and soak in the knowledge. Some museums you could try include:

• The Walters Art Museum, Baltimore
• Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, Hagerstown
• Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, St. Michaels
• B&O Railroad Museum, Baltimore

4. Take Photos on Overlooks

There’s nothing like beauty around you from an overlook, and Maryland has plenty of those. If you live anywhere near Harper’s Ferry, you have Maryland Heights Trail at your disposal.

The scenic view from the overlook at the end of Maryland Heights Trail is stunning year-round. But the frozen river and snow-caked town down below would be worth a photo or two in winter.

A trip to Allegany County in Western Maryland would be just as rewarding. At the highest point of elevation on Dans Mountain is the famous Dan’s Rock, a magical overlook with an otherworldly view of the Allegheny Front. In winter, the view might as well be that of an alien, ice planet.

5. Hangout with Friends

It can get really cold in Maryland, but that also presents a good opportunity to reconnect with loved ones. You could hang out with family or organize a get-together with friends and catch up over hot chocolate and Netflix.

Since weed has become the go-to substance for loosening up and having a good time, you may want to partake with friends. But legality doesn’t take effect until July.

It’s a different story if you are a medical marijuana patient ingesting your meds and enjoying company on a cold winter night.

6. Go Winter Camping

Most people prefer camping when it’s all green and warm, and everything seems alive. But there are fans of winter camping who appreciate the unique beauty of the season.

Campfires couldn’t be more precious when the world around you is frozen. If you’re up for that challenge, Maryland has lots of rustic cabins and campsites available for winter campers.

The Pocomoke River State Park in Worcester County and Wye Island in Queenstown have some of the best camping spots in winter.

7. Pass Christmas on the Potomac

One excellent place to be in winter, and especially around Christmas, is the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center. There are lots of activities, from witnessing the ICE to the incredible light show.

The views of the Potomac would make for a memorable winter experience that can’t be replicated.

And then there are shops and restaurants in the property for when you’re bored or looking for something nice. Basically, the place has plenty of activities to inspire the Christmas spirit.

Conclusion

The state of Maryland has a truckload of things to do at any time of the year. It may be winter, but the cold is certainly not an obstacle. If you’re visiting the state or just want to add to your winter bucket list, this list will come in handy.