What’s New in Maryland:
Spring/Summer 2009 Edition
Editor’s Note: The Maryland Office of Tourism has compiled a sampling of tourism venues that have either opened recently or are planning to open in the near future. Opening dates are always subject to change, so please check information prior to publication or broadcast dates.
We’ve provided the name and, if applicable, the direct phone number of the public relations representative at each site so you may conduct additional research. Information in parentheses at the end of the listing should not be shared with the public.
Should you have any questions about these listings, please contact the Maryland Office of Tourism.
ATTRACTIONS, MUSEUMS & PERMANENT EXHIBITS
Annapolis Maritime Museum, Anne Arundel County
Re-opened December 2008
Following a $1.2 million renovation, the Bay Experience Center on Back Creek has re-opened to the public with an additional permanent exhibit on the history and ecological properties of oysters planned for 2010. Today, visitors to the museum can learn about local maritime heritage, watermen and the seafood industry of yesteryear. www.annapolismaritimemuseum.org, 723 Second St., Eastport, Annapolis, MD 21403, 410-295-0104
Blob’s Park, Howard County
Re-opened January 2009
From its opening in 1933 until its closure in 2007, generations of polka lovers lifted their steins at this Bavarian Bier Garten in Jessup. Newly renovated inside and out by the great-nephew of founder Max Blob, the hall hosts live music Friday and Saturday evenings and Sunday afternoons. http://blobspark.net, 8024 Max Blobs Park Road, Jessup, MD 20794
Howard County Center of African American Culture, Howard County
Re-opened after extensive renovations
Following completion of a 14-month renovation of the Rose Price House, the Center once again welcomes visitors. Featuring exhibits set up like rooms in a house, the Center displays artifacts, artwork, household items and military uniforms that once belonged to Howard County’s African-American residents. 5434 Vantage Point Road, Columbia, MD 21044
National Museum of Civil War Medicine, Fredrick County
"Building on our Past: Military Medicine into the Future"
Opened March 25, 2009
Sponsored by U.S. Army Medical Research and Material Command and Fort Detrick, this exhibit represents an unbroken timeline of medical innovation starting from before the Civil War and running to the present day. www.civilwarmed.org, 48 East Patrick St., Frederick, 21701, 301-695-1864
Recreated Brick Chapel of 1667, Historic St. Mary’s City
Opened March 2009
In 2002, historic masons and carpenters began re-creating the Brick Chapel of 1667 on its original foundation in St. Mary’s City. The reconstructed chapel is an interpretive exhibit for all visitors, not a consecrated place of worship. It commemorate the founding place of the Roman Catholic Church in English America and early Maryland’s liberal policy concerning religious activities--taxes did not support an established church and all Trinitarian Christians were allowed to practice their faiths. www.stmaryscity.org, Route 5 & Rosecroft Road, Historic St. Mary's City, MD 20686, 1-800-762-1634
Serpent Ridge Vineyard, Carroll County
Opened April 2009
A boutique winery and vineyard located in rural Carroll County, Serpent Ridge specializes in artisan-quality wines grown and/or vinified in small lots that are gently aged in stainless steel, traditional and new-age oak. www.serpentridge.com, 2962 Nicodemus Road, Westminster, MD 21157, 410-848-6511, info@serpentridge.com
Seton Legacy Garden, Frederick County
Dedication August 2, 2009
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton is America’s first native-born saint. The memorial prayer garden is planned as beautiful pathways that lead to areas of reflection and is being planted in honor of the bicentennial of the founding of the Sisters of Charity of St. Joseph (1809). See events section below for additional bicentennial happenings. www.setonlegacy.org, Daughters of Charity Emmitsburg Province, 333 South Seton Ave., Emmitsburg, MD 21727-9297
Terrapin Station Winery, Cecil County
Opening summer 2009
Combining old-world standards with new and innovative technology, Terrapin Station Winery aims to make the best wine possible from grapes best suited to its location. Its focus on winemaking is fun and approachable, not stodgy and serious. And, by contributing a portion of sales to research and preservation of the Diamondback Terrapin (the official Maryland State Reptile and University of Maryland mascot), the winery hopes to extend the legacy of the Bay, the Terrapin and the small farm for future generations. www.terrapinstationwinery.com
TOURS, DRIVES, TRAILS, WALKS AND CRUISES
Bicycle Map, Talbot County
May 21-22, 2009
The Kelly Benefit Strategies (KBS) Pro Cycling Team launched Talbot County’s new bike routes in May. Up to half a dozen of the pro team members and a group of their elites (amateurs) rode the six-themed trails through the scenic Chesapeake Bay countryside. The trails range from 26.7- to 38.2-miles in length and explore historic cemeteries, waterfront views, local farmland, “school days,” jousting (Maryland’s official state sport), and the Oxford/St, Michaels loop. The waterproof bike maps are available free of charge through the Talbot County Office of Tourism.
Carnival Cruise Lines, Port of Baltimore
Debuted April 27, 2009
Baltimore welcomes the Carnival Pride, the city’s first year-round cruise service. The Carnival Pride will operate a mix of six-, seven- and eight-day cruises through September 6, 2009, after which it will begin a year-round seven-day cruise program departing every Sunday. www.carnival.com
Cycling Guide, Dorchester County
Released Spring 2009
Dorchester County’s flat terrain and well-paved roads offer leisurely excursions for family bike rides or more challenging outings fit for triathlon athletes. Containing nine itineraries ranging from 5-80 miles in length, the new guide provides suggested routes through historic downtown Cambridge, Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, and other scenic points within the county. www.tourdorchester.org, 410-228-1000, info@tourdorchester.org
Indian Head Rail Trail, Phase One – Charles County
Opened December 2008
This 10-foot wide, paved hiker-biker trail runs 13-miles from White Plains to Indian Head along the abandoned Indian Head Central railroad corridor. Future plans include connections to the 800-mile long Potomac Heritage Trail and links to the Three Notch Trail in St. Mary’s County. www.charlescounty.org/pf/pg/parks/ihrail
Overnight Lighthouse Cruises, Talbot County/Southern Chesapeake Bay
August 2009
On select dates beginning in August, Chesapeake Lights will sail out of Tilghman Island for a two-day/one-night excursion to see more than a dozen lighthouses in the lower Chesapeake Bay. Half of the lighthouses are historic and the other half are replacements, but the cruise offers close-up opportunities for photography at them all. The cruise crosses the Bay to Point Lookout and overnights in Onancock, VA. www.chesapeakelights.com, 5907 Tilghman Island Road, Tilghman, MD 21671, 410-886-2141
Patuxent Wine Trail, Calvert County
Opened May, 2009
Maryland’s newest wine trail also features these recently opened wineries: Fridays Creek Winery, Running Hare Vineyard, Perigeaux Vineyards & Winery, Cove Point Winery and Solomons Island Winery. Calvert County is known as the “pleasant peninsula.” Roam through the region and sample superb wines in a restored tobacco barn, in the folds of a gently sloping vineyard or along the banks of a pristine creek. www.patuxentwinetrail.com
Schifferstadt Architectural Museum - Spirit Tours, Frederick County
First Tours Offered April 3, 2009
Historic Frederick’s newest ghost tour is a child-friendly, evening tour of Schifferstadt, a Colonial-German stone building dating back to 1758. The spirit tours reveal unexplained phenomena and personal experiences of museum docents and visitors, alike. www.frederickcountylandmarksfoundation.org, 1110 Rosemont Ave, Frederick, 21701, 301-663-3885
SPORTS AND OUTDOORS
Maryland Sports Marketing web site, statewide
Debuted May 2009
Featuring more than 600 recreation and sporting venues – including major league stadiums, university arenas, state parks and both government and privately-operated facilities -- the online directory is accessible at www.marylandsports.us and is the first of many resources planned for events rights-holders and promoters interested in Maryland. An Events Calendar and other links will also provide information on assets and activities in Maryland to the thousands of enthusiasts who comprise the billion-dollar sports travel industry.
Cedar Lane Regional Park, Harford County
Opened April 2009
This state-of-the-art sports complex features 110-acres designed for use by multiple sports. When complete, the complex will contain 14 fields (ten regulation-sized and three jumbo fields plus a 90-foot baseball diamond) Scheduled events in 2009 include the Maryland State Cup Soccer Tournament April 18-29 and the US Lacrosse U-15 National Championship (girls July 6-8 and boys July 8-10). www.cedarlanesports.org, 1100 Cedar Lane, Bel Air, MD 21015
Inaugural Maryland Half Marathon, Baltimore County
May 31, 2009
Highlights include an exhilarating 13.1-mile race through the beautiful, rolling hills of rural Baltimore County, beginning and ending on the historic race track at the Maryland State Fairgrounds in Timonium, as well as a post-race concert and festival. Additionally, there will be a one-mile fun run for kids. 100 percent of net proceeds directly benefit the University of Maryland Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Cancer Center (UMGCC). www.mdhalfmarathom.com
Patapsco Motor Sports (PMSport), Howard County
Opened April 2, 2009
Tour the Historic National Road corridor in an environmentally-friendly way. Specializing in sales and service, PMSport rents motor scooters and electric bikes (by the hour or by the day). Guided tours explore sites in downtown Ellicott City, Oella and Catonsville, as well as nearby Patapsco Valley State Park. Note: valid driver’s license required to operate motor scooters; all rentals, minimum age 18 unless accompanied by a parent. www.patapscomotorsports.com, 3736 Old Columbia Pike (Tongue Row), Ellicott City, MD, 21043, 410-365-1228, pmsport@yahoo.com
Terrapin Adventures, Howard County
Opened April 17, 2009
The 43-foot-high Terrapin Tower, 25-station challenge course, a giant swing, and zip line (located on the grounds of Historic Savage Mill) are designed to get your adrenaline levels surging. Offsite at various locations in Maryland, Terrapin Adventures offers guided kayak tours and nature hikes, mountain-bike rentals and tours, sailing and windsurfing, fly and reel fishing, geo-caching, horseback trail riding, rock climbing, rappelling, and river tubing. www.TerrapinAdventures.com, 8600 Foundry St., Savage, MD 20763, 301-725-1313
Washington Bayhawks, Anne Arundel County
Seasonally, started May 15, 2009
The Washington Bayhawks of Major League Lacrosse (MLL) play their home games through the 2011 season at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium in Annapolis. The Bayhawks are one of the original six teams in the MLL, which began play in summer 2001. Franchise won league championships in 2002 and 2008. The 2009 season runs May 15 through Aug. 6. Championship games -- covered by ESPN – take place Aug. 22 and 23. 866-99-HAWKS (4297), www.WashingtonBayhawks.com
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICTS
Beach and Beyond Art Guide, Worcester County
Released March 2009
This summer bring back more than a sun burn from your Maryland seashore vacation. The new Beach and Beyond Art Guide showcases the work of local Eastern shore artists and lists galleries, art studios, area theater productions and dining experiences in and nearby the Berlin and Snow Hill Art and Entertainment Districts. For a free copy of the guide, call 410-632-3110 or visit www.visitworcester.org and click on “Arts & Times.” Copies are also available at area art galleries and Chambers of Commerce.
The Foundry, Caroline County
Offices Opened September 2008; Gallery Grand Opening April 4, 2009
A community art gallery and the new home of the Caroline County Council of Arts, this beautifully restored building is located in Denton’s Arts & Entertainment District. The gallery features fine-art pieces and hand-crafted works by local artists. www.carolinearts.org, 401 Market St, Denton MD 21629, 410-479-1009
Mountain City Traditional Arts, Allegany County
Opened Mid-May 2009
A joint project between Frostburg First, Allegany Arts Council and Frostburg State University, Mountain City Traditional Arts is a venue for traditional Appalachian arts. Features handmade products from the region for sale; artisan demonstrations (quilting, weaving, and rug hooking are among the first to be scheduled); and performances by bluegrass musicians and traditional dancers. 25 East Main St, Frostburg, MD
INNS & B&Bs
Riverrun Bed and Breakfast, Washington County
Opened May 2009
Property is owned and operated by a sculptor and art teacher. Includes five spacious bedrooms (all with private baths)a a common-area studio where guests are encouraged get involved with an art project of their choice. Studio space accommodates groups for workshops and lectures. Situated above the C&O Canal, the inn is expected to be big hit with cyclists traveling the 184.5-mile towpath. www.riverrunbnb.com, 7 Taney St. South, Hancock, MD 21750
River Creek Lodge, St. Mary’s County
Opened April 2009
This brand-new waterfront lodge on St. George Island has 28 rooms, each with a delightful water view. The lodge also boasts a 275-ft. pier, boat slips, spa-pool, charter fishing, boat rentals, and high-speed Internet. www.evansseafoodrestaurant.com or www.rivercreeklodge.com (under development at time list was compiled), 16800 Piney Point Road / Rte. 249, St. George Island, MD 20674, 301-994-1234, info@rivercreeklodge.com
HOTELS
Aloft Arundel Mills and Element Hotels Arundel Mills, Anne Arundel County
Opened April 2009
The world’s first combined aloft and element hotels have opened near Baltimore/Washington International (BWI) Thurgood Marshall Airport. The 142-room aloft and a 147-room element hotels are conjoined on the property. As a vision of W Hotels, aloft is shaking up the lodging industry with urban-influenced design, accessible technology, style, and a social atmosphere. aloft features guest lofts that have nine-foot ceilings and oversized windows designed to create a bright, airy environment. Inspired by Westin Hotels & Resorts, element offers a new outlook on the extended-stay experience through smart design and natural touches. The open, modular flow seamlessly blends together each part of the room to create a residential feel. 1741 W. Nursery Road, Linthicum, MD 21090, 410-691-6969, www.LTDMANAGEMENT.COM
Candlewood Suites Extended Stay Hotel/ Bel Air, Edgewood, Aberdeen, Harford County
Opened March 2009
Located off I-95, exit 80, this pet-friendly hotel (fee) features 95 studio and one-bedroom apartment-like suites with fully-equipped kitchens, spacious living and work areas, TV with DVD, free high-speed wired/wireless Internet access and two phones with voicemail. 4216 Philadelphia Road, Bel Air, MD, 410-914-3060 www.candlewoodsuites.com
Clarion Hotel and Hager Hall Conference and Event Center, Washington County
Grand re-opening, May 2009
Celebrating a $5 million renovation to the largest conference center in the quad-state area, the property also unveiled the new Hager Hall Conference and Event Center. With its central location, 144 guest rooms and more than 30,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, the Clarion is an ideal choice for conventions, conferences, meetings, retreats, banquets and receptions. www.calrionantietam.com, 901 Dual Highway, Hagerstown, MD 21740
Executive Inn & Suites Park Avenue Hotel, St. Mary’s County
Opened December 2008
A traditional upscale hotel located in historic Leonardtown, this property has 41 rooms, including jacuzzi and whirlpool tub suites with Italian marble bathrooms. The Executive Inn & Suites is within walking distance of restaurants, specialty shops, historical sites and Leonardtown Wharf. www.execinnparkave.com, 41655 Park Avenue, Leonardtown, MD 20650, 301-475-3000
Heated Outdoor Swimming Pool, Clarion Resort Fontainebleau Hotel, Ocean City
Opening Memorial Day Weekend 2009
No more chasing the sun! Situated so that the entire area receives sunshine all day long, the new outdoor heated pool has a rain mushroom feature in the shallow end and a Jacuzzi built into the deep end. Check the web site for packages - www.clarionoc.com. Clarion Resort Fontainebleau Hotel, 10100 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, MD 21842, 800-638-2100
Hilton Garden Inn in Aberdeen, Harford County
Scheduled to open August 2009
Conveniently located off I-95 at exit 85, this property will be the closest hotel to Aberdeen Proving Ground. It is also convenient to historic Havre de Grace, Susquehanna State Park and the home of Cal Ripken’s Aberdeen Ironbirds – Ripken Stadium. http://hiltongardeninn.hilton.com, 1050 Beards Hill Road, Aberdeen, MD, 21001, 410-272-1777
Hilton Garden Inn Baltimore/Arundel Mills and Homewood Suites by Hilton Baltimore/Arundel Mills, Anne Arundel County
Opened March 2009
The 151-room Hilton Garden Inn and the 99-suite Homewood Suites opened as a joint property in March 2009 in Hanover, near Baltimore/Washington International (BWI) Thurgood Marshall Airport. With 250 rooms and suites, this 11-story complex is the first of its kind: the two hotels are stacked on top of one another. Separate entrances are on each side of the building and on different floors allow the two brands to preserve their distinguishing design elements.. www.baltimorearundelmills.hgi.com, www.homewoodsuites.com, 7491 New Ridge Road, Hanover, MD 21076, 410-850-4550
Spa & Wellness Center, Baltimore City
Opened December 2008
The Doubletree Inn at the Colonnade recently opened the SPA at the Colonnade and True Balance Wellness Center. In addition to traditional spa services -- massage, facial, sauna, steam room and whirlpool -- the facility includes a fitness area for classes in yoga, aerial conditioning, trapeze, aqua fitness, dance fusion, ba gua zhang and tai chi. Most unique aspect of the wellness center is the aerial strengthening aspect with instruction offered on silks and static trapeze. www.SPAatTheColonnade.com 4 W. University Parkway, Baltimore, MD 21218, 410-235-5400
MEETING VENUES
Historic Derr House, Frederick County
Opened February 2009
For more than 200 years, this stately fieldstone manor housed five generations of the Derr family. Meticulously restored, the house is now open for special events, art exhibitions, reunions and intimate weddings. www.HistoricDerrHouse.com, 1822 Greenleese Drive, Frederick, MD 21701
Matapeake Clubhouse and Beach, Queen Anne’s County
Opened April 25, 2009
Queen Anne’s County opened its first public beach this spring. The Matapeake Clubhouse is an original station where the ferry would drop off and pick up passengers crossing the Chesapeake Bay. The renovated house will host meetings, special events and waterfront weddings. Outside is a sandy beach with fabulous views of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Also on the grounds: clubhouse café, outdoor amphitheater, trails through the surrounding woods and a family picnic area.
VISITOR CENTERS
State House Visitor Center, Anne Arundel County
Re-opened January 2009
Formerly a full-service state Welcome Center, the new State House Visitor Center re-opened following extensive structural renovations to the historic building as the headquarters for guided State House tours only. The Continental Congress met in the Old Senate Chamber from November 26, 1783 to August 13, 1784, making the Maryland State House the only statehouse in the country that has ever served as the nation’s capitol. 100 State Circle Annapolis, MD 21401 410-974-3400 www.mdsa.net
MAJOR EVENTS & ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS
State of Maryland’s 375th Anniversary, St. Mary’s County
Throughout 2009; Birthday Celebration Weekend June 19-20, 2009
In 1632 Cecil Calvert, the second Baron of Baltimore, was granted a charter from the King of England for extensive property on the Chesapeake Bay. His brother Leonard sailed with other adventurers aboard the Ark and the Dove; they landed in March 1634 on St. Clement’s Island. The colonists built St. Mary’s City, Maryland’s first capital, and forged a colony established on religious tolerance.
Historic St. Mary’s City is celebrating Maryland’s 375th anniversary with various events throughout 2009, including an all-day and evening celebration at Historic St. Mary’s City in June. The tall ship Kalmar Nickel, Delaware's seagoing goodwill ambassador, will be at the June event. The 200-tunne pinnace is modeled after the ship that sailed from Sweden to the New World in 1638. Entertainment includes 17th-century style food, make-and-take crafts, sutlers (vendors) and music.
The day will close with a special River Concert by the Chesapeake Orchestra, featuring premiere performance of "In Terra Maryland" and fireworks. www.maryland375.com
Annapolis Sailing School and Annapolis Powerboat School 50th Anniversary
Throughout 2009
Schools are highlighting two special “great deals” for sailors and power boaters. Both programs allow students to live aboard boats. In addition to top-notch instruction, participants receive a guided tour by water of the Chesapeake Bay. 800-638-9192, www.annapolissailing.com or www.annapolispowerboat.com
Baltimore County 350th Anniversary
Throughout 2009
Baltimore County celebrates its 350th anniversary with monthly events that highlight its rich history. From commemorating the manufacturing and aviation industries and celebrating African-American heritage to lively town festivals and historic reenactments, there will be something for everyone to enjoy. Please visit www.bc350.org for a calendar of events and for more information.
City of Cambridge 325th Anniversary, Dorchester County
Various Dates in 2009
Established in 1684, the City of Cambridge will celebrate 325 years of community traditions and rich cultural heritage. Key events planned for July 4 and December 5.
Delmarva Chicken Festival, 60th Annual, Queen Anne’s County
June 19-20, 2009 (preview night June 18)
Come to the Queen Anne’s County 4-H Park and enjoy a plethora of chicken-related activities and tasty chicken treats. Includes: arts & crafts, a carnival, agricultural & business expo, antique car and tractor show, children’s activities, educational poultry displays, Delmarva’s giant frying pan, musical entertainment and lots of food.
Essex 100th Anniversary, Baltimore County
June 21, 2009
Join community leaders at Cox’s Point Park to celebrate the 100-year anniversary of the founding of Essex, originally built by the Taylor Land Company to provide a place for city dwellers to “grow a garden or pursue other rural activities.” The museum dedicated to one of the area’s largest employers, the Glenn L. Martin Aviation Company, will also hold various events throughout the year, including Kid’s Kite Flying Days (April 8, July 8 and Aug. 12), Memorial Day Celebration (May 23), speaker series (beginning June 1), Flag Day (June 13) and National Aviation Day (Aug. 13).
John Brown Raid, 150th Anniversary, Quad States
Throughout 2009
Maryland joins its neighboring states of West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Virginia to commemorate the 150th anniversary of abolitionist John Brown’s raid on Harper’s Ferry. Events scheduled during 2009 include re-enactments, dramatic productions, art exhibits, academic lectures, special tours and more. www.johnbrownraid.org
ANNIVERSARIES IN 2009
50th - Goddard Space Flight Center opened May 1959
75th – Walters Art Gallery opened in Baltimore 1934; new wing opened 1974 (35yrs)
100th – Matthew Henson reaches North Pole April 6, 1909
100th – College Park Airport opened 1909
145th – Civil War Battle of Monocacy July 9, 1864
150th – Maryland Agricultural College opens College Park October 6, 1859
150th – John Brown Raid on Harper’s Ferry October 16, 1859
175th – B&O reaches Harper’s Ferry 1834
195th – War of 1812 Battle of North Point September 12, 1814
200th – St. Elizabeth Ann Seton establishes order in Emmitsburg 1809
200th – Edgar Allan Poe’s birthday January 19, 1809
225th – George Washington resigns as Commander in Chief December 23, 1783
255th – Fort Cumberland constructed by militia 1754
325th – Cambridge 1st laid out 1684
325th – Third Haven Quaker Meeting House in Easton completed 1684
375th – First settlers reach Maryland, land on St. Clements Island March 25, 1634
