MD Cape To Cape Road Trips To Visit Before Summer Ends

MARYLAND — If you can't wait to pack the family into the SUV and hit the highway this summer, Maryland has plenty of road trip options.

With 18 scenic byways in the state there’s more than one way to travel. Head to VisitMaryland.org to find details on the perfect escape — from green mountains to the coast, discover charming small towns, tasty local cuisine and more. And the site has tips to help you find a cozy inn or hotel to extend your stay.

Here are some highlights of an Eastern Shore Cape to Cape trek, as described by the Office of Tourism:

From the Atlantic Ocean to the back bays of Chincoteague, Sinepuxent and Assawoman, take in some of Maryland’s most scenic and historic beaches and islands.

OCEAN CITY TO BERLIN

The resort town of OCEAN CITY invites travelers to relax on a 10-mile strip of beach and enjoy nearby waterslides, amusement park rides, a wooden Victorian boardwalk, steamed crabs, ice cream and miniature golf. Also known as the “White Marlin Capital of the World,” Ocean City is a year-round destination with recreational activities (including 15 area golf courses), the OCEAN DOWNS racetrack-casino and an outlet mall.

Nearby, BERLIN’S red brick buildings offer antiques, jewelry, restaurants and gift shops.

The CALVIN B. TAYLOR MUSEUM, in a restored, early-19th-century house, is among nearly 50 local structures on the National Register of Historic Places.

ASSATEAGUE ISLAND TO SNOW HILL

ASSATEAGUE ISLAND, an undeveloped, 37-mile-long barrier island, offers swimming, surfing, fishing, kayaking, biking, boating and camping in its state and national parks. Assateague is also known for its flora and fauna, including free-roaming wild horses.

"Misty of Chincoteague," Marguerite Henry’s acclaimed 1947 children’s book, brought national attention to the wild horses still found on Assateague Island.

The Maryland Historical Trust has proclaimed SNOW HILL, established as a trading post in the 17th century, as “one of the most historically intact towns in the state of Maryland.” Shops, galleries and museums grace downtown, while municipal parks provide boat landings, dockage and public facilities. Both the FURNACE TOWN LIVING HERITAGE MUSEUM and the JULIA A. PURNELL MUSEUM offer a look back in time.

TAKE A SIDE TRIP

Heading out of Snow Hill on MD 12, visit the Nassawango Creek Preserve on the Beach to Bay Indian Trail, a driving route and national recreational trail. Then continue onto Crisfield, Janes Island State Park and Smith Island.