Maryland’s state-designated scenic byways invite travelers to discover the surprising diversity packed into this mid-Atlantic gem. From the rolling horse country of the Piedmont to the dramatic shorelines of the Chesapeake Bay, these routes wind through landscapes that shift with every mile — dense hardwood forests giving way to tidal marshes, historic small towns opening onto sweeping farmland vistas.

Along the way, expect encounters with centuries of American history. Colonial-era churches, Civil War battlefields, and charming Main Street villages dot the corridors, while roadside farm stands and waterfront seafood shacks offer authentic local flavor. Birdwatchers will find prime habitat along coastal stretches, and photographers will want to stop frequently as the light plays across open water and golden fields.

Autumn delivers the most spectacular driving, when Maryland’s hardwoods blaze with color and harvest festivals animate the small towns. Spring brings wildflower displays and migrating waterfowl along the Eastern Shore. Summer offers long daylight hours, though coastal routes can see heavier traffic on weekends.

Allow a full day to explore any single byway at a leisurely pace, with time for short hikes, historic site visits, and an unhurried crab cake lunch at a bayside inn.

Explore Nearby

• Matthew Henson State Park — State Park in Maryland
• Washington Monument State Park — State Park in Maryland
• Jones Point Light — Lighthouse in Virginia
• Fort Washington Light — Lighthouse in Maryland
• Meadowood Special Recreation Management Area — Public Land in Virginia