Table of Contents
Map Of Solomons Island Md
Introduction
Solomons Island is a charming town located in southern Maryland. It sits at the mouth of the Patuxent River, where it meets the Chesapeake Bay. The island has a rich history, stunning natural scenery, and a thriving arts and culture scene. It’s a popular destination for travelers who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy a relaxing vacation. This comprehensive travel guide will cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.
Top Attractions
Calvert Marine Museum
The Calvert Marine Museum is a must-visit attraction on Solomons Island. It’s home to a collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the region’s maritime history. Visitors can explore the museum’s many galleries, which include displays on the Chesapeake Bay, lighthouses, shipwrecks, and more. The museum also has an outdoor exhibit area that features a working boatyard and a variety of historic boats.
Annmarie Sculpture Garden and Arts Center
The Annmarie Sculpture Garden and Arts Center is a beautiful outdoor space that showcases a variety of sculptures and art installations. The garden is home to more than 30 works of art, including sculptures, fountains, and other outdoor installations. Visitors can also explore the arts center, which features galleries, classrooms, and studios that offer classes and workshops for all ages.
Solomons Island Boardwalk
The Solomons Island Boardwalk is a great place to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy beautiful views of the Chesapeake Bay. The boardwalk is lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Visitors can also rent kayaks or paddleboards from one of the many rental shops along the boardwalk.
Hidden Gems
Drum Point Lighthouse
The Drum Point Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located on the Chesapeake Bay. It was built in 1883 and operated until 1962. Today, visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse and enjoy stunning views of the bay and the surrounding area. The lighthouse is also home to a small museum that showcases the history of the area and the role that lighthouses played in maritime navigation.
Matapeake Beach
Matapeake Beach is a hidden gem located on Kent Island, just a short drive from Solomons Island. The beach features a long stretch of sand, calm waters, and beautiful views of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, or enjoy a picnic on the beach.
Jefferson Patterson Park and Museum
Jefferson Patterson Park and Museum is a 560-acre state park located on the Patuxent River. The park features hiking trails, picnic areas, and a variety of outdoor recreational activities. Visitors can also explore the museum, which showcases artifacts and exhibits related to the history of the region.
Food Scene
Solomons Island has a thriving food scene, with a variety of restaurants and cafes that serve up delicious cuisine. Some popular dining options include:
The Dry Dock Restaurant
The Dry Dock Restaurant is a waterfront eatery that serves up fresh seafood and other classic American dishes. The restaurant has a casual atmosphere and a large outdoor seating area that offers beautiful views of the bay.
CD Cafe
CD Cafe is a cozy cafe that specializes in gourmet sandwiches, salads, and soups. The cafe also has a bakery that serves up delicious pastries and desserts.
The Island Hideaway
The Island Hideaway is a popular spot for casual dining and drinks. The restaurant features a large outdoor seating area and a menu that includes burgers, sandwiches, and seafood.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling to Solomons Island can be affordable if you know where to look. Here are some budget-friendly tips:
Visit During the Off-Season
The summer months are the busiest time on Solomons Island, which means that prices for accommodations and activities can be higher. Consider visiting during the off-season, when prices are lower and crowds are smaller.
Take Advantage of Free Activities
There are plenty of free activities to enjoy on Solomons Island, such as hiking, swimming, and exploring the town’s many historic landmarks. Take advantage of these free activities to save money on your trip.
Eat at Local Markets and Food Trucks
Instead of dining at expensive restaurants, consider eating at local markets and food trucks. These options are often more affordable and offer a taste of the local cuisine.
Outdoor Adventures
Solomons Island is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some outdoor adventures to consider:
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
The Chesapeake Bay is a great place to go kayaking or paddleboarding. There are several rental shops along the Solomons Island Boardwalk that offer equipment rentals.
Biking
There are several biking routes on Solomons Island that offer beautiful views of the bay and the surrounding area. The Island Loop Route is a popular option that takes riders on a scenic tour of the island.
Hiking
There are several hiking trails on Solomons Island that offer beautiful views of the region’s natural scenery. The Chesapeake Bay Trail and the Battle Creek Cypress Swamp Trail are two popular options.
Historical Landmarks
Solomons Island has a rich history, and there are several landmarks and museums that showcase the area’s past. Here are some historical landmarks to visit:
St. Mary’s College of Maryland
St. Mary’s College of Maryland is a historic college that was founded in 1840. Visitors can explore the campus and learn about the college’s history and traditions.
The Patuxent River Naval Air Museum
The Patuxent River Naval Air Museum is a museum that showcases the history of naval aviation. The museum features exhibits on the development of aircraft and the role that the Patuxent River played in naval aviation.
The Sotterley Plantation
The Sotterley Plantation is a historic plantation that dates back to the 18th century. Visitors can explore the plantation’s grounds and learn about the lives of the people who lived and worked there.
Family-Friendly Activities
Solomons Island is a great destination for families. Here are some family-friendly activities to consider:
Calvert Marine Museum
The Calvert Marine Museum is a great destination for families. Kids will love exploring the museum’s many galleries and outdoor exhibits, which include a working boatyard and a variety of historic boats.
Flag Ponds Nature Park
Flag Ponds Nature Park is a 500-acre park that offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities. The park features hiking trails, a beach, and a nature center that offers educational programs for kids.
Solomons Island Tiki Bar
The Solomons Island Tiki Bar is a fun destination for families. The bar features a large outdoor seating area, live music, and a variety of non-alcoholic drinks for kids.
Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something unique to do on Solomons Island, consider these off-the-beaten-path experiences:
The Solomons Island Winery
The Solomons Island Winery is a small winery that produces a variety of award-winning wines. Visitors can take a tour of the winery and enjoy a tasting of the wines.
The Cove Point Lighthouse
The Cove Point Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse that dates back to 1828. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse and enjoy stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay.
The Solomons Island Market
The Solomons Island Market is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The market features a variety of vendors selling fresh produce, seafood, and other local products.
Natural Wonders
Solomons Island is home to a variety of natural wonders that are worth exploring. Here are some to consider:
The Chesapeake Bay
The Chesapeake Bay is a stunning natural wonder that surrounds Solomons Island. Visitors can enjoy swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding in the bay’s calm waters.
The Battle Creek Cypress Swamp
The Battle Creek Cypress Swamp is a nature preserve that features a boardwalk trail through a cypress swamp. Visitors can explore the preserve and see a variety