North East MarylandATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near North East, Maryland.
1. Elk Neck State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Elk Neck State Park is one of the top attractions in North East, offering visitors beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities. The park features hiking trails, camping areas, and access to the Chesapeake Bay. Visitors can enjoy activities such as swimming, fishing, and wildlife observation throughout the seasons.
2. Turkey Point Lighthouse
HISTORIC BAY BEACON
Turkey Point Lighthouse stands as a historic landmark offering spectacular views of the Chesapeake Bay. Built in 1833, this 35-foot lighthouse is accessible via an easy hiking trail through Elk Neck State Park. The lighthouse is maintained by volunteers and is open to visitors who want to learn about maritime history and enjoy panoramic bay views.
3. North East Community Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY RECREATION SPOT
North East Community Park provides families with a perfect recreational destination featuring playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports facilities. The park is situated along the water, offering beautiful views and access to North East Creek. Visitors appreciate the well-maintained grounds and the park's proximity to the charming downtown area.
4. Upper Bay Museum
WATERMAN HERITAGE COLLECTION
The Upper Bay Museum preserves the unique lifestyle and history of Chesapeake Bay watermen and hunters. This non-profit, volunteer-run museum houses an impressive collection of hunting decoys, fishing equipment, and boats that highlight the area's maritime heritage. Visitors can explore exhibits that showcase how locals have interacted with the Chesapeake Bay's ecosystem for generations.
5. Fairwinds Farm & Stables
EQUESTRIAN ADVENTURES AWAIT
Fairwinds Farm & Stables offers visitors memorable horseback riding experiences in the scenic countryside of Cecil County. The farm provides guided trail rides suitable for riders of all experience levels, from beginners to advanced equestrians. Beyond riding, guests can enjoy the peaceful farm atmosphere and interact with various farm animals.
6. Turkey Point Vineyard Tasting Room
LOCAL WINE EXPERIENCE
Turkey Point Vineyard Tasting Room invites visitors to sample locally produced wines in a charming setting. The vineyard offers a selection of wines crafted from grapes grown in the unique microclimate of the Chesapeake Bay region. Guests can enjoy wine tastings paired with stunning views and purchase bottles and wine-related gifts to take home.
7. Chesapeake Gold Farms
FRESH LOCAL PRODUCE
Chesapeake Gold Farms provides visitors with access to fresh, locally grown produce and farm products. The farm emphasizes sustainable growing practices and offers seasonal fruits, vegetables, and other farm-fresh items. Visitors can experience farm life firsthand and learn about the agricultural heritage of the Chesapeake Bay region.
8. Cecil College Milburn Stone Theatre
CULTURAL ARTS CENTER
The Milburn Stone Theatre at Cecil College serves as a cultural hub offering high-quality theatrical performances and arts education. The theater presents a diverse season of plays, musicals, and concerts featuring both local talent and visiting artists. Visitors can enjoy professional-caliber shows in an intimate setting that brings arts and entertainment to the North East community.
9. North East Library
KNOWLEDGE AND COMMUNITY HUB
The North East Library offers residents and visitors alike access to books, digital resources, and community programs. The modern facility features comfortable reading areas, computer stations, and spaces for community gatherings and events. Beyond typical library services, it serves as a cultural center hosting educational workshops, author talks, and children's activities throughout the year.
10. Woody's Crab House
RENOWNED SEAFOOD DESTINATION
Woody's Crab House stands as one of North East's most popular dining establishments, famous for its Maryland blue crabs and seafood specialties. The restaurant offers a casual, family-friendly atmosphere where visitors can enjoy authentic Chesapeake Bay cuisine including crab cakes, steamed crabs, and other regional favorites. Located in the heart of downtown North East, Woody's has become a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists seeking a taste of Maryland's seafood tradition.
11. Main Street Shops
CHARMING DOWNTOWN SHOPPING
North East's Main Street offers visitors a delightful shopping experience with its collection of charming boutiques, antique shops, and specialty stores. The historic downtown area features well-preserved buildings housing unique retailers selling everything from handcrafted items to vintage collectibles. Shoppers can spend hours browsing through the diverse offerings while enjoying the small-town atmosphere and friendly service from local merchants.
12. Elk Neck State Forest
PRISTINE WOODLAND ESCAPE
Elk Neck State Forest provides outdoor enthusiasts with over 3,500 acres of pristine woodland for exploration and recreation. The forest features an extensive network of hiking trails, hunting areas, and opportunities for wildlife observation throughout diverse ecosystems. Visitors can experience the natural beauty of Maryland's Eastern Shore while enjoying activities like birdwatching, photography, and seasonal hunting.
13. Schaefer's Canal House
WATERFRONT DINING EXPERIENCE
Schaefer's Canal House offers exceptional waterfront dining with stunning views of the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal. The restaurant serves a varied menu featuring fresh seafood, steaks, and other American favorites in a historic building with maritime charm. Visitors can enjoy their meals on the outdoor deck while watching boats navigate the busy canal, creating a truly memorable dining experience just a short drive from North East.
14. C&D Canal Museum
MARITIME ENGINEERING HERITAGE
The C&D Canal Museum showcases the fascinating history and engineering of the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal that connects the Delaware River to the Chesapeake Bay. Housed in the original 1837 pump house, the museum features exhibits with artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays explaining the canal's construction and importance. Visitors can learn about this vital waterway's impact on regional commerce while enjoying views of the modern canal from the museum's observation deck.
15. Bohemia River State Park
WATERFRONT NATURAL RETREAT
Bohemia River State Park is a newly developed recreational area offering access to the scenic Bohemia River, a tributary of the Chesapeake Bay. The park features hiking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing in pristine natural surroundings. Located just a short drive from North East, this emerging destination provides visitors with a peaceful retreat to connect with the Eastern Shore's natural beauty.