Henderson MarylandATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Henderson, Maryland.
1. Harvest Ridge Winery
PREMIUM WINE TASTING EXPERIENCE
Harvest Ridge Winery offers visitors an exceptional wine tasting experience in Henderson, Maryland. Guests can sample a variety of locally produced wines while enjoying the picturesque vineyard setting. The winery has earned a stellar 4.4 rating from visitors who appreciate both the quality of wines and the welcoming atmosphere.
2. Mason-Dixon Crownstone
HISTORIC BOUNDARY MARKER
The Mason-Dixon Crownstone stands as a significant historical landmark in Henderson, marking the famous boundary line surveyed by Charles Mason and Jeremiah Dixon. This point of interest allows visitors to stand at the historic border between states that played a crucial role in American history. The landmark has received a 4.3 rating from visitors who appreciate its historical significance and educational value.
3. Skydive Chesapeake
THRILLING AERIAL ADVENTURES
Skydive Chesapeake provides adrenaline-seeking visitors with unforgettable skydiving experiences over the scenic landscapes of Henderson. The facility has earned a perfect 5.0 rating from visitors who praise the professional instruction and breathtaking views during their jumps. Both first-time skydivers and experienced jumpers can enjoy this thrilling adventure with safety as a top priority.
4. Henderson Boulevard Historical Marker
GATEWAY TO LOCAL HISTORY
The Henderson Boulevard Historical Marker offers visitors insight into the rich heritage of the Cumberland region. This well-preserved sign details the significant historical events and developments that have shaped the area throughout the years. Visitors can easily incorporate this educational stop into a leisurely stroll through the surrounding historic neighborhood.
5. National Aquarium
UNDERWATER WORLD EXPLORATION
The National Aquarium stands as one of Maryland's premier attractions, featuring thousands of aquatic animals from around the world. Visitors can explore diverse habitats including a tropical rainforest, coral reefs, and an Australian exhibit complete with crocodiles. The award-winning facility combines entertainment with education about marine conservation and environmental stewardship.
6. Assateague State Park
WILD HORSES AND BEACHES
Assateague State Park is located on a beautiful barrier island known for its population of wild horses roaming freely across windswept dunes and grasslands. The park offers a stunning Atlantic Ocean beach perfect for swimming and surfing, along with protected bayside areas ideal for fishing and kayaking. Visitors can enjoy camping facilities, picnic areas, and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the expansive natural setting.
7. American Visionary Art Museum
CREATIVE EXPRESSION SHOWCASE
The American Visionary Art Museum celebrates the works of self-taught artists in a unique and thought-provoking collection near Baltimore's Inner Harbor. The museum showcases eccentric, original artworks that challenge conventional perspectives and celebrate human creativity in its most raw forms. Visitors enjoy both permanent and rotating exhibitions housed in a distinctive building that is itself an artistic statement.
8. Ocean City Boardwalk
CLASSIC SEASIDE ENTERTAINMENT
The Ocean City Boardwalk stretches along the Atlantic shoreline offering visitors a quintessential beach town experience with shops, restaurants, and amusements. Families can enjoy traditional boardwalk treats like saltwater taffy and funnel cakes while exploring arcades and rides at Trimper's Amusements. The historic promenade provides stunning ocean views and serves as the social center of this popular beach destination.
9. Antietam National Battlefield
CIVIL WAR HISTORIC SITE
Antietam National Battlefield preserves the site of the bloodiest single-day battle in American history, fought on September 17, 1862. Visitors can tour the meticulously maintained battlefield grounds, which include landmarks such as Burnside Bridge, Dunker Church, and the Bloody Lane. The site offers a moving and educational experience through its visitor center museum, film presentations, and ranger-led programs that illuminate this pivotal Civil War battle.
10. U.S. Naval Academy Museum
NAVAL HISTORY AND TRADITIONS
The U.S. Naval Academy Museum showcases the rich heritage and traditions of the United States Navy and the Naval Academy itself. Visitors can explore extensive exhibits featuring ship models, weapons, uniforms, and artifacts chronicling American naval history from the Revolutionary War to modern times. The adjacent Chapel with its impressive dome and Tiffany stained glass windows provides an additional cultural highlight to any visit.
11. Waterfront Promenade
SCENIC HARBOR WALKWAY
The Waterfront Promenade offers a picturesque walkway along Baltimore's Inner Harbor with remarkable views of the city skyline and waterfront. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll past historic ships, restaurants, and numerous attractions that line this popular urban pathway. The well-maintained promenade serves as a connecting thread between major Baltimore destinations while providing a pleasant outdoor space for both tourists and locals.
12. Fort Cumberland
COLONIAL MILITARY FORTIFICATION
Fort Cumberland stands as a significant colonial-era military site with connections to George Washington's early military career. The historic fortification played a strategic role in the French and Indian War, serving as a frontier outpost and supply base. Visitors can explore the remaining structures and learn about this important chapter in early American military history through informative displays and preserved artifacts.
13. Catoctin Wildlife Preserve & Zoo
INTERACTIVE ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS
Catoctin Wildlife Preserve & Zoo houses over 600 animals representing species from six continents in naturalistic habitats. Visitors can experience up-close animal encounters, including the popular safari ride that allows guests to feed and interact with certain species. The facility combines entertainment with education about wildlife conservation and environmental stewardship through its exhibits and programs.
14. Goddard Space Flight Center
NASA RESEARCH FACILITY
The Goddard Space Flight Center serves as NASA's first space flight complex and remains one of the agency's major research laboratories. Visitors can tour the visitor center to learn about space exploration, satellite technology, and ongoing scientific missions through interactive exhibits and actual spacecraft. The center offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, present, and future of America's space program through educational displays and occasional special events.
15. Calvert Marine Museum
CHESAPEAKE MARITIME HERITAGE
The Calvert Marine Museum showcases the maritime history and natural environment of the Chesapeake Bay region through engaging exhibits and live displays. Visitors can explore the Drum Point Lighthouse, view ancient fossils from Calvert Cliffs, and observe native aquatic species in naturalistic habitats. The museum offers hands-on activities, boat rides on the historic Wm. B. Tennison, and special events celebrating the area's rich cultural and ecological heritage.