Memorial Day Weekend Destinations Near Baltimore
Memorial Day Weekend Destinations Near Baltimore
Monday, May 31st is Memorial Day. There’s lots of ways to celebrate this holiday weekend, but first, let’s take a look at the history behind Memorial Day.
How Memorial Day Came to Be
Memorial Day is annually observed on the last Monday in May. Since its official recognition, Memorial Day has been a day of remembrance for those who have died during war.
Memorial Day, originally called “Decoration Day,” began in Charleston, South Carolina by a group of formerly enslaved African-Americans — it was a day to celebrate freedom. After the Civil War, veterans also grieved fallen soldiers and graves. Therefore, “Decoration Day” was recognized out of tradition in my American cities and towns.
The U.S., however, accredits the birthplace of “Memorial Day” to 1866 in Waterloo, New York. In 1971, America recognized Memorial Day as a national holiday. Today, we honor the day for all who have lost their lives in war.
Since it is a holiday, many people have a 3-day weekend, making it the perfect opportunity to take a quick trip and explore nearby destinations, while honoring fallen soldiers. If you’re looking for destinations not too far from your home at 1305 Dock Street, be sure to explore these nearby locales:
Celebrate MDW the Maryland Way
Our home state of Maryland is filled with some amazing destinations. Best of all, they’re all just a short drive away! If you don’t want to leave the state, be sure to check out these unique Maryland destinations:
Assateague, in Maryland and Virginia, is a 3-hour drive from 1305 Dock Street.
Assateague Island is known for its wild horses, Toms Cove Visitors Center, and campgrounds. It’s recommended that patrons take a trip to the Wallops Flight Facility and Marine Science Consortium. Or, take a ride on Captain Carlton’s Island Cruise to witness the local fauna, ponies, dolphins, and ospreys.
Discover dining and overnight options in Assateague.
Long time no sea! Ocean City is less than a 3 hr drive from your home at 1305, making it an easy weekend destination.
There’s so much to do and see in Ocean City, MD. Kick back on the beach, tan, and swim. Or, engage in water activities and sports. We definitely recommend visiting the boardwalk with amusement parks, games, attractions, and eateries.
Ocean City also offers golfing, horseback riding, fishing, sightseeing, and tours. Visit their museums and cultural arts centers, too.
And, it wouldn’t be a trip to OCMD without a trip to Seacrets — ordering a “Pain in de Ass” is a must!
Explore America’s Small Wonder
Celebrate Memorial Day Weekend in Delaware, aka “the small wonder” this year. They have it all: tax-free shopping, beaches, and the best local dining options.
Bethany Beach is a quaint, peaceful beach town. Since the city is so quiet, it’s perfect for a small, little get-away.
Bethany is renowned for its restaurants, including Bluecoast Seafood Grill, DiFebo’s, and Mango’s. Besides its delicious food and stunning beachstays, Bethany has an array of activities, including boating, kayaking, paddle-boarding, windsurfing, and golfing. They also have a boardwalk.
Shell yeah! Dewey Beach is, perhaps, the most popular coastal town for local Delawareans. Dewey’s bars seriously cannot be beaten.
If you’re stopping by, soak up some vitamin D — spend a day on the beach or bay parasailing, boating, kayaking, and/or paddle-boarding. You can also go on a banana boat ride. The beach is even open at night for bonfires and relaxation, too. Afterwards, head to the Rusty Rudder for waterfront dining and drinks.
When the sun goes down, visit the infamous Starboard, Bottle & Cork, and Northbeach, the origin of the Dewey Devil, for live music and nightlife.
Rehoboth is a cute beach town with an amazing coastline, boardwalk, and cozy town to stroll, bike, and/or drive through. We definitely recommend shopping here.
Go boating, whale-watching windsurfing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and surfing. You can also tan and relax on their extensive shortline. Afterwards, walk along the boardwalk and visit Thrashers, Dolle’s, and the Ice Cream Store with homemade ice cream. There’s also the Tanger Outlets for tax-free shopping and local breweries and meadries, such as Crooked Hammock and Dogfish Head.
Visit Mug & Spoon for coffee and cool shakes.
Also, Rehoboth is barely a 10-minute drive from Dewey Beach, so it’s easy to enjoy multiple Delaware beaches in a weekend.
Try Something New in New Jersey
Cape May, NJ, or “America’s first seaside resort,” is just a 3 hour drive from Baltimore.
Stay in a luxurious hotel or condo, quaint B&B, or one of the many historic Victorian homes in Cape May. You can also tent on their campgrounds and camping resorts.
Cape May is particularly known for its unique shopping options and boutiques. They, too, also have a beautiful beach. Feeling hungry? Cape May has outstanding dining options, such as Harry’s Ocean Bar & Grille and Iccara Italian Bistro.
You can also go golfing, visit the Pier 47 Marina, and book an appointment at the Day Spa. We recommend spotting the infamous shipwreck of the SS Atlantus, too.
Virginia is for Lovers
From the wine lover, to the nature enthusiast, to the beach-goer, you’ll find something for everyone in “the first state.”
Charlottesville, VA is approximately a 3 hour drive from Baltimore.
This hotspot is known for its greenery, landscape, and attractions. Visit historic sites, such as Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello and the Jefferson School African American Heritage Center. Or, stroll through extensive gardens, parks, and vineyards. Their wine tours are simply magnificent! Charlottesville, also has plenty of hiking/biking trails and kayaking/canoeing excursions.
We also recommend stopping by their Downtown Mall and Interactive Glass Studio.
The Shenandoah Valley borders Virginia and West Virginia. It’s approximately a 2 hour and 45 minute drive from Baltimore.
Shenandoah is particularly known for its rolling hills, sightseeing, and beautiful hiking trails. If you visit, engage in horseback riding and guided cave explorations. There are so many astounding and historic national parks, forests, and parkways.
Visit distilleries and vineyards, shop in local markets, and take a trip to the White Oak Lavender Farm.
Life’s a beach in Virginia, and it’s only a 4 hour drive from Baltimore.
Virginia Beach offers numerous beaches, perfect for swimming, water sports, and relaxation. The most infamous bank is Sandbridge, which is a private beach with seaside bungalows and wildlife. Virginia Beach is also known for the district Pungo and its beautiful farmlands and greenery.
Everyone must stroll along the mile-long boardwalk. Or, explore the 3-mile Atlantic Avenue with attractions, amusement rides, and dining options.
Happy as a Clam in West Virginia
Want to connect with nature? Look no further.
If you’re looking to relax, Berkeley Springs is only a 1 hour and 45 minute drive from 1305 Dock St.
Berkeley Springs has it all: dining, spas, shopping, nightlife, and arts and culture. It’s also known for its golf resorts, hiking/biking trails, and horseback riding. Or, go on a floating/tubing adventure down the Potomac River; you can also rent paddle-boards, kayaks, and canoes.
We definitely recommend visiting the Berkeley Springs State Park, or the Cacapon Resort State Park.
Happy Memorial Day
We hope everyone at 1305 Dock Street has a very happy Memorial Day weekend. If you decide to travel to one of these nearby destinations, be sure to mention us in your social media photos, @1305DockStreet.