Port Tobacco Village MarylandATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Port Tobacco Village, Maryland.
1. Historic Port Tobacco Village
COLONIAL SEAPORT HISTORY
Historic Port Tobacco Village was once one of Maryland's largest international seaports before the American Revolution. Visitors can explore the reconstructed Port Tobacco Courthouse, Stagg Hall, and Burch House through self-guided or guided tours. The village offers a journey back in time to learn about the history of this once bustling port along the Potomac River.
2. Saint Ignatius Church
HISTORIC CATHOLIC CHURCH
Saint Ignatius Church is one of the most popular attractions in Port Tobacco with its serene architecture and colorful stained glass. The church is part of St. Thomas Manor, the oldest continuously operating Catholic parish among the Thirteen Colonies. Visitors appreciate the church's historical significance and beautiful design.
3. Thomas Stone National Historic Site
DECLARATION SIGNER'S HOME
Thomas Stone National Historic Site preserves the plantation home of one of the 56 signers of the Declaration of Independence. The site features a unique five-part colonial mansion on a Southern Maryland tobacco farm. Visitors can explore the grounds and learn about Thomas Stone's contribution to American independence.
4. Chapel Point State Park
RIVERSIDE NATURAL BEAUTY
Chapel Point State Park offers beautiful natural scenery along the Port Tobacco River. The park includes hiking trails, beaches, and a kayak launch point for water activities. Visitors can enjoy a couple miles of hiking trails with the option to walk to Port Tobacco village.
5. Port Tobacco Marina
WATERFRONT RECREATION HUB
Port Tobacco Marina provides boating access with a convenient boat ramp and fully stocked ship store. The marina offers various supplies including ice, bait, fishing tackle, snacks, and refreshments for a day on the water. Boating enthusiasts can enjoy the scenic Port Tobacco River from this well-maintained facility.
6. Port Tobacco One-Room School House
HISTORIC EDUCATIONAL BUILDING
The Port Tobacco One-Room School House was built in 1876 and served the community for 77 years. This restored historic building offers visitors a glimpse into early American education. Tours are available by appointment for those interested in this well-preserved piece of educational history.
7. Port Tobacco Village Agricultural Heritage Museum
FARMING HISTORY SHOWCASE
The Port Tobacco Village Agricultural Heritage Museum showcases the area's farming legacy through various historical structures. The site features a historic tobacco barn, corn crib, and numerous agricultural artifacts. Visitors can gain insight into the agricultural practices that shaped the region's economy and culture.
8. Rich Hill
HISTORIC 18TH CENTURY HOME
Rich Hill is an 18th century home that played a multifaceted role in shaping US history. The property is notable for its connection to the John Wilkes Booth escape route following President Lincoln's assassination. This historic site offers visitors a unique perspective on multiple periods of American history.
9. Dr. Samuel A. Mudd House
CIVIL WAR HISTORY
The Dr. Samuel A. Mudd House preserves the home of the physician who treated John Wilkes Booth after he assassinated President Abraham Lincoln. Located near Port Tobacco, this historic site is part of the 'John Wilkes Booth, Chasing an Assassin' trail. Visitors can tour the house and learn about Dr. Mudd's controversial role in American history.
10. Mallows Bay Park
GHOST FLEET SANCTUARY
Mallows Bay Park is home to the largest ship graveyard in the Western Hemisphere, known as the WWI Ghost Fleet. Visitors can paddle through the remains of over 100 wooden steamships built for the war effort but never used. This unique archaeological and ecological site offers both historical interest and natural beauty.
11. Mount Aventine at Chapman State Park
HISTORIC MANOR HOUSE
Mount Aventine at Chapman State Park offers visitors a journey through time to Southern Maryland's pastoral heritage. The historic manor house sits on a beautiful property overlooking the Potomac River. Visitors can explore both the architectural significance of the building and the natural beauty of the surrounding park.
12. Smallwood Retreat House
REVOLUTIONARY GENERAL'S HOME
Smallwood Retreat House was the home of American Revolutionary War General William Smallwood, who later became Maryland's governor. The historic property preserves the general's residence and provides insight into late 18th-century life. Visitors can tour the house and grounds to learn about this important military and political figure.
13. Friendship House
COLONIAL ERA ARCHITECTURE
Friendship House, built in the mid-1700s, is one of Charles County's oldest houses. The historic structure showcases colonial architecture and building techniques from early Maryland. Visitors can experience authentic 18th-century design and learn about daily life during America's formative years.
14. Historic Maxwell Hall
18TH CENTURY COLONIAL HOUSE
Historic Maxwell Hall is a colonial house from 1768 that's rich in local history. The property represents an important example of Southern Maryland's architectural heritage. Visitors can explore the house and grounds to discover the stories of those who lived there over the centuries.
15. Port Tobacco River Park
SCENIC OUTDOOR RECREATION
Port Tobacco River Park offers scenic outdoor recreational opportunities along the historic Port Tobacco River. The park provides access for kayaking, fishing, hiking, and wildlife observation in a beautiful natural setting. Visitors can enjoy the same waterways that once made Port Tobacco a bustling colonial port while appreciating the area's natural resources.