Just Outside Baltimore Lies A Friendly Community With Historic Mansions, Parks, And Outdoor Adventures

Maryland is a gift that keeps on giving! You can bask on its stunning beaches and have a thrilling time doing water activities. You can also treat yourself to the state's famous and delicious blue crabs in the "Crab Capital of the World" or visit the restaurants and trails of the waterfront town of Chesapeake City. If that's not enough, head 23 miles west of Baltimore, and you'll arrive in Marriottsville. This must-visit destination is home to a warm and welcoming community, and is ideal for families to visit. It invites you to explore historic, age-stained mansions, spend time in its many parks, and fill your days with exciting outdoor adventures.

Marriottsville is so conveniently located that one of its biggest attractions is the easy accessibility. It's connected to two major highways — Interstate 70 and Route 26 — so getting in and out is seamless. A 30-minute drive via I-70 will take you to Baltimore, and the closest airport is Baltimore-Washington International Airport, which is located less than 25 miles away. While there aren't many options to stay in Marriottsville itself, you can easily book accommodations in Baltimore, including big hotel names like Hyatt, Holiday Inn, and Wyndham. You'll also find cozy inns, B&Bs, and budget-friendly holiday homes. 

Another major attraction is the abundance of outdoor spaces and public parks in Marriottsville. Fitness and sports enthusiasts will have a fantastic time at Alpha Ridge Park, a 72-acre park located south of Marriottsville. You can enjoy a game of tennis, challenge each other to a round of inline hockey, practice archery, and swing for the fences on the ball diamonds. Visitors can also kick back with leisurely picnics while the young ones run around the playgrounds. While you're here, don't miss Howard Astronomical League Observatory, where you can attend immersive astronomy programs, join stargazing parties, and learn about different types of telescopes. 

The experience doesn't end there. You can also spend an afternoon in Patapsco Valley State Park, a sprawling natural landscape spanning 16,000 acres. It's a local favorite, often teeming with hikers, canoers, picnickers, and more. There you can also take in views of the scenic South Branch Patapsco River and the Patapsco River, as well as hike or go camping along the Plantation Trail and the Spring Glen Trail. Kids can play in the playgrounds while adults tee off at an 18-disc golf course. There's also canoeing, fishing, horseback riding, and biking tours across the mountains. 

Wondering when to visit? Since Marriottsville offers so many outdoor recreational activities, chances are you'll be spending most of your time outside. It's recommended to visit when the weather is pleasant, which is typically summer or fall. However, these seasons also draw large crowds, and accommodation rates tend to be steep. So, the best time to visit is right before or after peak season. (Tip: If you visit in autumn, you can extend your trip by driving an hour to Catoctin Mountain Park for peaceful fall foliage views in a glorious mountain destination.) That said, most of these parks and community spaces are lively all year round. They frequently host events and gatherings that bring together both locals and visitors. So, you can mingle, make new friends, and savor the warm, community spirit of the town no matter when you visit. 

Plus, you can't leave Marriottsville without getting a glimpse of the area's rich past. The town takes its name from the estate of General William Hammond Marriott, and its historical heart lies at Waverly Mansion. Located on 2300 Waverly Mansion Drive, the mansion is a fascinating stone home constructed in the early 1800s. Today, it serves as a beloved wedding venue and is a reminder of Maryland's heritage. It's the only lasting mansion connected to Colonel John Eager Howard and his son, George Howard, who were once governors. Be sure to visit the mansion and admire its timeless Federal-style architecture.