Attractions and Places To See in St. Mary's County - Top 5

St. Mary's County is rich in history. You can explore Point Lookout Lighthouse, a preserved testament to maritime heritage and its role as a Civil War prison camp. Other significant historical sites include Historic St. Mary's City, Maryland's first capital, and Historic Sotterley Plantation, the sole surviving Tidewater plantation in Maryland. The Piney Point Lighthouse Museum & Historic Park also offers insights into the life of Chesapeake watermen.

Yes, many attractions in St. Mary's County are suitable for families. St. Mary's Lake offers picturesque views and a lakefront trail perfect for family strolls. Greenwell State Park provides a wide array of activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking. Additionally, places like Historic St. Mary's City and the Patuxent River Naval Air Museum offer engaging experiences for all ages.

St. Mary's County offers extensive opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. You can hike, bike, fish, and kayak at Greenwell State Park. Myrtle Point Park features beaches, trails, and picnic areas. Other natural parks include St. Mary's River State Park and Newtowne Neck State Park, both offering lush landscapes and waterways. For trails, consider the Three Notch Trail, built on an old railway line, or the scenic lakefront trail around St. Mary's Lake.

For unique cultural experiences, visit the Drayden African American Schoolhouse to learn about the local African American community in the 1900s. The Old Jail Museum & Leonardtown Visitor Center offers a glimpse into a 150-year-old jail. You can also explore Cecil's Mill Historic District, one of Maryland's first industrial districts, where you can see a working water wheel and shop for local arts and crafts.

Yes, Greenwell State Park and Myrtle Point Park are both dog-friendly, offering trails and open spaces for you and your pet to enjoy. Always remember to keep your dog on a leash and clean up after them.

St. Mary's County offers a variety of hiking trails. You can find easy hikes like the Point Lookout State Park Loop or the Salem State Forest Loop to Saint Mary's Lake. For more options, explore the Hiking in St. Mary's County guide, which includes routes like the St. Mary's Dam via Green Trail and St. Mary's Lake Loop Trail.

The Three Notch Trail is a popular cycling route built on an old railway line. For more cycling options, including routes like the Pond Number Three loop and the Mill Creek loop, refer to the Cycling in St. Mary's County guide.

For scenic viewpoints, St. Mary's Lake offers picturesque views along its lakefront trail. Point Lookout Lighthouse provides views of the Chesapeake Bay entrance. Greenwell State Park and Myrtle Point Park also feature beautiful coastal and natural vistas.

The best time to visit St. Mary's County is generally during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and pleasant for outdoor activities and exploring historical sites. Summer offers opportunities for water-based recreation, though it can be warmer and more humid. Many attractions, especially historical sites and museums, are open year-round, but it's always a good idea to check specific operating hours.

Yes, St. Mary's County is home to local wineries such as Port of Leonardtown Winery and Slack Winery, which are part of the Patuxent Wine Trail. These often offer tastings and live music. The town of Leonardtown itself is known for its vibrant atmosphere and restaurants, providing a good spot for local food experiences.

Beyond the main highlights, consider visiting the St. Clement's Island Museum, which highlights the birthplace of Maryland, accessible by water taxi. The Drayden African American Schoolhouse offers a unique historical perspective. For a quirky local point of interest, seek out the Moll Dyer Rock, associated with a historical legend.

If the weather turns rainy, you can explore indoor attractions such as the Patuxent River Naval Air Museum, which features exhibits on naval aviation. The Piney Point Lighthouse Museum also offers indoor displays. Historic St. Mary's City has several indoor exhibits and reconstructed buildings to explore, and the Old Jail Museum provides a unique historical indoor experience.