Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Annapolis to Catonsville

If you're looking for a scenic drive through Maryland, look no further than the route from Annapolis to Catonsville. The drive takes about 40 minutes without traffic, but with stops at unexpected places, it can easily become an all-day trip.

The journey begins in Annapolis, the capital city of Maryland, and goes through several towns before reaching Catonsville, a small town known for its historical landmarks and charming Main Street. The drive is about 29 miles long, and depending on the time of day, can take anywhere from 35 minutes to over an hour.

Halfway Point: Severna Park, MD

Before continuing on the drive, make a stop at Severna Park, Maryland. Located right in the middle of the journey, this charming town is home to several parks and nature reserves, including the Severn Run Environmental Area, where you can hike and explore over 1,000 acres of forests, wetlands, and streams.

But Severna Park isn't just for nature enthusiasts – it also has several local shops and restaurants worth checking out. We recommend grabbing a slice of pizza from Bella Napoli, located right off of Route 2. Their Sicilian-style pizza is crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, and their toppings are always fresh and flavorful.

1. Mike's Crab House

No trip to Maryland is complete without trying some of the local seafood. Stop at Mike's Crab House, located on Riva Road in Riva, MD, for a seafood feast by the water. This family-owned restaurant has been serving up the freshest seafood in the area for over 60 years. Their crabs are caught daily and steamed to perfection, and their crab cakes are made with jumbo lump crabmeat and hardly any filler. Enjoy your meal on their outdoor patio overlooking the South River, and savor the taste of authentic Maryland seafood.

Recommended Dish: Steamed Maryland Blue Crabs

2. Greenstreet Gardens

Greenstreet Gardens in Lothian, MD, is a must-visit for any nature lover. This family-owned garden center has been around since 1948 and has grown to become one of the largest garden centers in the area, with over 5 acres of plants, trees, flowers, and more.

But Greenstreet Gardens isn't just for gardening enthusiasts – they also have a petting zoo where you can interact with goats, sheep, chickens, and other farm animals. Kids will love the playground and pony rides, and parents can grab a cup of coffee at their on-site café.

Recommended Dish: Grab a coffee and pastry at their on-site café

3. Patuxent Research Refuge

The Patuxent Research Refuge in Laurel, MD is worth the stop for any animal lover. This 12,841-acre wildlife refuge is home to over 270 species of birds, as well as mammals like deer, beavers, and foxes. Take a hike on one of the refuge's many trails, or sign up for a birdwatching tour to see some of the rare bird species that call the refuge home.

The refuge also has an on-site visitor center with interactive exhibits and displays about the wildlife that lives in the area.

Recommended Dish: Pack a picnic and enjoy it on one of the refuge's many picnic areas.

4. National Electronics Museum

Located in Linthicum, MD, the National Electronics Museum is a hidden gem worth checking out. This museum is home to over 10,000 artifacts related to the history and development of electronics, from telegraphs to smartphones.

Learn about the history of radio and television broadcasting, see early computing machines like ENIAC, and marvel at the advancements in satellite and space communication. The museum also has an extensive collection of military electronics, including radar systems and equipment used during wartime.

Recommended Dish: Bring your own snacks, as food is not allowed inside the museum.

5. Ellicott City

Last but certainly not least, make a stop in Ellicott City, MD. This historic town is known for its charming Main Street, lined with unique shops and restaurants. Walk along the street and browse antique shops, boutique clothing stores, and art galleries.

Stop for a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants in town – we recommend Ellicott Mills Brewing Company, located in a former flour mill on the Patapsco River. Enjoy a cold brew and some pub fare while taking in the picturesque views of the river.

Recommended Dish: Fish and Chips with a cold brew from Ellicott Mills Brewing Company.

Start Planning Your Trip Today

The drive from Annapolis to Catonsville is a journey worth taking, with unexpected stops and hidden gems along the way. Whether you're a nature lover, history buff, or just looking for a good meal, this trip has something for everyone.

So pack up the car, bring your sense of adventure, and hit the road – you'll be glad you did.