The Old Line State is full of lesser-known locations that don’t receive the publicity they merit, but major towns like Baltimore and Annapolis garner all the headlines when it comes to Maryland travel.
Dispersed between the serene Chesapeake Bay to the east and the rolling Allegheny Mountains to the west, these undiscovered treasures are still sadly underappreciated, possibly due to their remote locations or more well-known neighbors.
This doesn’t lessen their allure, though, since they offer the perfect getaway from the bustle and confusion of large cities.
These overlooked Maryland villages turn out to be the best places to go on vacation in 2025 as remote work becomes more common and tourists look for more unusual experiences.
Thurmont
Thurmont is merely a stopover for many visitors en route to Pennsylvania.
Passionate adventurers are welcome to immerse themselves in the rich wilderness of this charming mountain town, which offers a wealth of sights and activities.
Travelers are plunged into the heart of the Catoctin Mountain Park, which is known for its untamed landscapes and breathtaking vistas, by about 25 miles of trails.
The Blue Ridge mountains provide a picturesque background for the reserve’s camping, fishing, rock climbing, and trekking activities.
There are more options in nearby Cunningham Falls State Park, which is centered on a 43-acre reservoir.
Chestertown
Other popular Eastern Shore locations, including the historically significant Cambridge and the culturally vibrant Easton, frequently eclipse Chestertown.
Despite this, the community’s thriving art culture enchants tourists. Fans attend enthralling theater shows at the Garfield Center for the Arts, which features everything from musicals to dramas and concerts.
Thanks to the Chester River Packet Company, visitors may embark on an amazing boating adventure with easy access to the serene Chester River waters.
This laid-back ride aboard a tour boat built in the 1920s offers a distinctive viewpoint of Chestertown’s splendor from the water.
Crisfield
Many visitors are denied the opportunity to explore Crisfield because of its isolated location on Maryland’s southern point, close to the Virginia border.
For those who travel that far, the charming fishing community offers thrilling boat cruises that let visitors enjoy Experience Smith Island’s breathtaking views of the Chesapeake Bay.
With stops in quaint towns, this genuine boat tour explores the local way of life and is led by local islanders.
Another thrilling journey takes you to Janes Island State Park, where 30 miles of water paths, immaculate beaches, and remote marshes create the ideal environment for unusual experiences.
For a more immersive experience, you can also wait until May 24, 2025, for the Tangier Sound Music Festival.
Brunswick
Few tourists try to reach Brunswick because of its remote location next to Virginia, which is divided by the Potomac River.
However, it offers a variety of thrilling attractions, particularly for travelers who enjoy the great outdoors.
Numerous acres of verdant lawns and shaded trees can be found in Brunswick City Park, along with meandering trails ideal for leisurely walks to relax and release tension.
Every year, Brunswick celebrates its rich train history with the Brunswick train Days.
This family-friendly celebration of the town’s history, which is planned for the first week in October 2025, will bring together local artists, artisans, performers, and merchants to create an enjoyable day for people of all ages.
Grantsville
One of the most underappreciated places in Maryland, this small Garrett County settlement of less than 1,000 residents seems to have little to offer. But with its worthy attractions, beginning with Casselman River Bridge State Park, Grantsville silences skeptics.
This 4-acre location offers fly fishing and picnics, as well as a bridge constructed in the 1810s as part of the National Road. The larger New Germany State Park offers more space for adventurers to play.
Beyond the vast outdoors, Spruce Forest Artisan Village in Grantsville welcomes art enthusiasts for a charming cultural education.
