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Nestled in Crofton, Bell Branch Park is a delight destination, just a short 12-minute drive from The Beacon. The park boasts a wide range of amenities, including inviting picnic areas, trails for leisurely walks, and playgrounds for the little ones to enjoy. Whether you're looking for a tranquil spot to relax or an active outing with friends and family, Bell Branch Park has something for everyone.
Located just 13 minutes away from The Beacon, Piney Orchard Nature Reserve offers a peaceful oasis as you explore its well-maintained trails, ideal for leisurely strolls or invigorating hikes. Enjoy 3 public-access trails: Lone Wolf Trail (2.1mi), Piney Orchard Loop (3.2mi), & WB&A (6.1mi). All are great for birding and getting away from the hustle and bustle.
A mere 21 minutes away from The Beacon, Montpelier Farm beckons with family-friendly attractions that promise a memorable experience. Mark your calendars for Sundays from June 5 to July 31, followed by the annual Sunflower Festival on August 12, 13, 14, 19, 20, and 21. As autumn approaches, the farm transforms into the perfect Fall Festival destination, open from September 17 to November 6. Feel free to bring your four-legged friends, but remember to keep them on a leash while enjoying the farm.
Sandy Point State Park, just 25-minute drive from The Beacon, invites you to bask in the sun and embrace the cool waters of the Chesapeake Bay. This splendid destination offers a pristine beach setting, perfect for lazy beach days with family and friends. Hikers can explore scenic trails and abundant wildlife. The park is also a popular fishing destination and offers boat rentals.
Downs Park & Quiet Waters Park
Ready to soak up the sun? Embrace the summer vibes at two dog-friendly beaches along the Chesapeake Bay, a short 25-minute drive from The Beacon. Downs Park and Quiet Water Park provide idyllic settings for picnics, outdoor concerts, water activities, and events along calm waters. Both destinations offer a splendid escape to unwind and savor the sun-kissed season.
Immerse yourself in the charm of Kinder Farm, a delightful farm turned county park just a short 25-minute drive from The Beacon. This family-friendly destination offers an engaging array of farming activities and an opportunity to interact with adorable animals. From exploring the farm's natural beauty to learning about traditional farming methods, Kinder Farm provides an enriching and enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages.
Kayaking & SUP in Annapolis
Annapolis is surrounded by water, making it a perfect destination for kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) enthusiasts. Head to one of the local rental shops near the city's waterfront, such as Capital SUP, where you can rent kayaks or SUP boards and explore the scenic waterways of Annapolis. Paddle along the Severn River, Spa Creek, or even venture out into the Chesapeake Bay for a memorable outdoor experience. Both Capital SUP locations are only a 26min drive from The Beacon.
About 28min away, on the way into Washington, DC, the U.S. National Arboretum awaits you with its beautiful gardens and outdoor spaces. This 446-acre green oasis is a perfect place for a leisurely stroll, a family picnic, or a serene moment surrounded by nature. The Arboretum grounds are open every day of the year except for Christmas and feature gardens, wooded trails, a bonsai museum, and frequent special events.
Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens
Another gem in Washington, DC, is the Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens. This unique destination boasts beautiful water gardens filled with lotus flowers and water lilies, offering a picturesque setting for nature lovers and photographers alike. An oasis tucked into the city, the park offers wildlife viewing, scenic boardwalk trails, educational programming with park rangers, and seasonal cultural events. Summer is peak bloom and the best time to fully experience the garden’s beauty.
Historic London Towne & Gardens
Step back in time at Historic London Towne & Gardens, located just a 28min drive away from The Beacon. This living history museum and gardens provide an immersive experience into colonial life along the South River. Explore the restored 18th-century buildings, stroll through the gardens, and learn about the area's rich history. It's an educational and enjoyable outdoor destination for visitors of all ages.
With over 200 miles of scenic trails, explore lush forests, hidden treasures of the past, babbling brooks, and waterfalls, Patapsco Valley State Park offers a sense of wilderness only 30mins away from The Beacon. Our team member, Kaitlyn, recommends checking out the Avalon Area of the park for a first visit. There is a playground for young adventurers, pavilions, restrooms, and easy access to cool off in the river. The beautiful, beginner -friendly 2.3mi Cascade Falls Loop Trail wanders through the forest, across streams, and past small waterfalls. Also close by is the Swinging Bridge which crosses the Patapsco River and provides access to additional trails and ruins.
With The Beacon’s convenient location, there are so many ways to get away and re-connect with nature without going far from home!
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During its early history as a colonial capital city, Annapolis was considered the “Athens of America,” for its cultural and intellectual offerings, as well as its thriving social life. This small port town has gone by multiple names since it was founded, from the Puritan name “Providence” to “Anne Arundel’s Towne,” after the wife of land owner, Lord Baltimore. In 1649, Royal Governor, Sir Francis Nicholson, decided to move the colony’s capital city and, in doing so, give the new capital a name change. He settled on “Annapolis,” after the heir apparent to the British throne, Princess Anne. To this day, Anne’s royal badge, a crown on a Scottish thistle and Tudor rose, is depicted on the city flag.
Best known today as home to the US Naval Academy, Annapolis played an essential role in early American history. Only a 20-minute drive from The Beacon, Annapolis is the perfect place to step back into the past or enjoy modern offerings. Check out the list below for some of our favorite places to visit!
Historic Annapolis
Annapolis is a cozy, walkable city with plenty of attractions, shops, and restaurants to explore. One of the first cities to receive the National Historic Landmark District status, the vibrant Annapolis Historic District is bursting with ways to step into the past. This part of the city is centered on the spiritual and government hubs, with streets radiating out from there. Check out this unique city planning design as you explore.
The Maryland State House’s spectacular wooden dome is one of the most beautiful in America and also one of the oldest. This building played an important role in post-Revolutionary America. Explore the halls that saw George Washington resign from leading the Continental Army, housed the new nation’s government from 1783 to 1784, and hosted the Annapolis Convention, a precursor to the Constitutional Convention.
From the State House, take a short walk down to the harbor to visit the Naval Academy Museum and Annapolis Maritime Museum & Park. One of Annapolis’s most unique destinations, the Naval Academy Museum features two floors of exhibits focused on the history of wartime seafaring, the development of the U.S. Navy, and more. Experience the stories of men and women who served their country at sea through artifacts and multimedia displays. Focused on Annapolis’ rich maritime heritage and the ecology of the Chesapeake Bay, The Maritime Museum teaches visitors of all ages through engaging, hands-on exhibits, programs, and events.
As the State of Maryland’s official museum of African American heritage, the Banneker-Douglass Museum offers a variety of events, exhibits, and educational programs to build appreciation of African American history and cultural. Their permenant exhibition focuses on African American nation-builders, community leaders, activists, and other prominent figures who shaped Maryland and the nation as we know it today. Be sure to check their website to see upcoming temporary exhibitions and events.
Want to explore the city with a local guide? Consider booking a tour! If you'd like to rest your feet and still see as much as possible, the Towne Transport Historic Annapolis Trolley Tour, starting at the Annapolis Visitor’s Center, will take you past the most popular historic sites and along the waterfront. Another fun tour option is the Tours and Crawls Ghost Tour! During this leisurely stroll through historic downtown, you’ll be treated to a spooky journey through the darker side of the city’s history.
If you’re looking for a sweet treat while exploring the Historic District, check out Annapolis Ice Cream Company on Main Street, one of four Always Ice Cream Company locations. Voted Best Ice Cream in Annapolis and Central Maryland in Best of Annapolis 2022, this Maryland small business offers homemade ice cream with unique, seasonal flavors. You can't go wrong with any flavor, but a staff favoite is Cookie Moster!
A quick drive into the countryside will also reveal a number of great destinations to both relax and learn. One of our favorites is Historic London Town & Gardens! From living history demonstrations to thriving gardens, this beautiful destination is a treat for the senses, offering a variety of learning opportunities and events.
Looking for more to see, do, and taste? Check out visitannapolis.org or flip through the official Annapolis Visitor’s Guide.
We hope you enjoy your Annapolis staycation!
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