The Best Road Trip: Places to See When Driving from Annapolis, MD to Gaithersburg, MD

Are you looking for a fun road trip in Maryland? Look no further! The stretch of road from Annapolis to Gaithersburg is a scenic one with plenty of attractions along the way. Whether you are a history buff or a nature lover, there is something for everyone. In this blog post, we will take you on a journey through the top places to see when driving from Annapolis to Gaithersburg.

To make the most out of your road trip, plan ahead and set aside some time to explore these top destinations along the way. You won't regret it!

Historic London Town and Gardens

The first stop on our road trip is Historic London Town and Gardens, located just 15 minutes from downtown Annapolis. This 23-acre park features a colonial seaport, a reconstructed tobacco barn, and a historic 1760 William Brown House. The park is also home to the largest public collection of archaeologically recovered 18th-century materials in the state.

In addition to the history, the park boasts beautiful gardens that are perfect for a relaxing stroll. The gardens include a traditional herb garden, a wildflower meadow, and a woodland garden. There are also several hiking trails that wind through the park, offering stunning views of the South River.

Smithsonian Environmental Research Center

If you're looking for an escape into nature, look no further than the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center. Just a short drive from Annapolis, this research center is home to 2,650 acres of forests, wetlands, and shorelines.

Visitors can explore the grounds on several hiking trails that offer beautiful views of the Chesapeake Bay. The center also offers guided canoe tours, where visitors can see a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, ospreys, and beavers.

Laurel Museum

Located in the heart of downtown Laurel, MD, the Laurel Museum is a local treasure that tells the stories of the city's past. Housed in a 19th-century millworker's house, the museum features exhibits that focus on local history, including the town's agrarian roots, its role in the Civil War, and the history of the Laurel race track.

One of the museum's most popular exhibits is the Laurel Black History Project, which highlights the contributions and struggles of African Americans in the community. Visitors can also take a step back into the past by touring the museum's period rooms, which offer a glimpse into life in the 19th century.

Brookside Gardens

Located in Wheaton, MD, Brookside Gardens is a must-see for any nature lover. The garden features 50 acres of breathtaking landscapes that include rose gardens, azalea gardens, and a Japanese tea house.

Visitors can also take advantage of the garden's several walking trails, which wind through woodlands, meadows, and ponds. The garden is also home to a conservatory, which houses a variety of exotic plants from around the world.

Rock Creek Park

Our final stop on the road trip is Rock Creek Park, a 1,750 acre park located in the heart of Washington, DC. The park offers something for everyone, including hiking trails, picnic areas, and a planetarium.

One of the most popular attractions in the park is the Rock Creek Park Nature Center and Planetarium, which offers a variety of educational programs and exhibits about the park's flora, fauna, and history. Visitors can also take advantage of the park's many sports facilities, including tennis courts, golf courses, and horseback riding trails.

Conclusion

And there you have it, folks! Our top picks for places to see on the road trip from Annapolis to Gaithersburg. We hope you've enjoyed our list and have been inspired to hit the road and explore these amazing destinations. Remember to take your time and enjoy the ride!