COLLEGE PARK, Maryland — As it’s finally starting to warm up, we’re all eager to ditch our winter coats and throw on those flip-flops. Although before you burst into the outdoors, some planning is in order. The CNS Social Team has rounded up some of the best, and most affordable springtime activities to take in around Maryland.
Take a hike: Trek the Billy Goat Trail and see the Great Falls waterfall
Where: Potomac, Maryland (Montgomery County)
Cost: Free, but you may have to pay for parking
For: Thrill-seeking, adventure-lovers
Take a drive to the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park near the Great Falls rapids and waterfalls in Potomac, Md. This trail consists of a 4.7 mile path between the C&O Canal and the Potomac River. The trail has three sections; Sections A, B and C. Section A is the longest and most challenging, but doesn’t allow dogs. For a view of the falls, look for Overlooks 1, 2 and 3; each view is as stunning as the next! Whether you are hiking for exercise or simply taking the trek to see the falls, pack a lunch or snack to enjoy along the way. Also be sure to wear comfortable clothing, pack sunscreen, and bring lots of water.
First timer! #hikkng #billygoattrail pic.twitter.com/qIqXKBm8rv
— Julie Donaldson (@JDonaldsonNBCS) October 29, 2016
Enjoy the city sites: Visit the National Aquarium, American Visionary Art Museum, and Baltimore Basilica
Where: Baltimore, Maryland
Cost: $15-30, depending on if you plan to grab lunch
For: City lovers, Maryland enthusiasts
If you love city life, but Washington isn’t your speed, take a trip to Charm City and plan a day around some of the amazing (and free) activities that Baltimore has to offer. You can start the day at the National Aquarium, which will usually cost adults $39.95. But they offer specials on Dollar Days (where admission is only $1), Free Friday Nights, and Locals Visit for Less days, which means you can most DOLPHINately get a look at the sea creatures without breaking the bank. As for the American Visionary Art Museum, admission is only $16 for adults, and $10 for students with an ID. The Basilica, which the site states is America’s first cathedral, is visited by more than 100 thousand people annually, and is absolutely free! When planning your day in Baltimore, be sure to leave time to walk around the Inner Harbor for some nautical views and fantastic eats.
Dip your toes in the water: Enjoy the St. Patrick’s Day Parade and brunch at the beach!
Where: Ocean City, Maryland (Worcester County)
Cost: Free, or around $20-30 depending on your preferred brunch spot
For: Festive Marylanders who want to soak in some sun
We’re sure you’ve heard that Ocean City, Md. is tons of fun. What’s even more fun? The Ocean City St. Patrick’s Day Parade! On March 16, the parade begins at noon on 57th Street. Ocean City started the glistening green parade in 1980 and it has since become the second-largest St. Patrick’s Day parade in all of Maryland. The best part? Admission to the parade is free! So grab your friends, your favorite green get-up, and head to the beachside town for a fun-filled day. To make it even better, head to one of Ocean City’s most popular brunch spots for a yummy (and affordable) meal. Bayside Skillet, Barn 34, and the Longboard Cafe are a few fan favorites that are guaranteed to make your St. Paddy’s Day even luckier!
Bask in nature: Plan a picnic and take a dip in Deep Creek Lake!
Where: Swanton, Maryland (Garrett County)
Cost: Free, unless you plan to rent a kayak, canoe, etc.
For: Road-trip takers with a love for nature
Down for a road trip? Pack up the car and take a drive to western Maryland (we’re talking way west–only 30 min from West Virginia) and spend the day or weekend at Deep Creek Lake! Deep Creek Lake State Park offers hiking, biking, and boating, all surrounded by beautiful scenery for a perfect getaway. The best part about nature? You guessed it: free! There’s no cost associated, unless you plan on renting rafts, boats, or kayaks — which are 100% guaranteed fun. If you’re just spending the day, don’t forget to pack a lunch and blanket so you can enjoy a picnic overlooking the water. If you are feeling especially adventurous, check out zip-lining or other adventure courses near Deep Creek Lake. It may be hard to believe something like this exists so close to the hustle-and-bustle of the nation’s capital, but take the drive to see for yourself. You won’t regret it!
Have you visited the beach at Deep Creek Lake State Park? Great for swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding and more! https://t.co/ZcPYUmtbzq pic.twitter.com/KAuAf14dGk
— Deep Creek Lake Area (@garrettchamber) June 4, 2018
#MondayMorning #MondayMotivation #HappyMonday #DeepCreekLake pic.twitter.com/x0MXW8Gdr5
— Deep Creek Vacations (@DeepCreek) March 11, 2019
Chill out on the beach: Plan a mini-vacation to Assateague Island
Where: Assateague Island, Maryland (Worcester County)
Cost: Free
For: Beach bums, horse lovers and camping enthusiasts
Assateague Island is a 37-mile long barrier island with bridge access from both Maryland and Virginia. This beautiful spot has so much to offer, and you’ll feel like you’re on your own personal island. The island is full of wild horses, and you could literally spend the whole day watching the animals that urban legend says are shipwreck survivors from a boat off the coast of Virginia. While on the island you could also take a trip to the beautiful Assateague Lighthouse, or simply spend the day lounging at the beach. Almost everything you do here will be free, but of course you’ll have to pay for your transportation to get there. Aside from that, you can expect to enjoy island life at very low a cost. Make sure to pack sunscreen and bug spray!
What is your favorite springtime activity in Maryland? Tweet us @CNSMd and tell us!