Top Places to See When Driving From Baltimore, Maryland to Hanover, Maryland

Maryland is one of the smallest yet distinctive states in the US. It’s home to a wide array of historical landmarks, scenic routes, and wondrous nature reserves. One amazing experience is driving from Baltimore to Hanover. This journey takes you through an unforgettable tour of Maryland's rich heritage. Although both cities aren’t far apart, there are lots of interesting sites to visit along the way. Here are the top places to see when driving from Baltimore, Maryland to Hanover, Maryland.

Baltimore Museum of Art

Kickstart your adventure at the Baltimore Museum of Art. This is the home of eclectic and diverse exhibits of classic and modern art. Here you'll find a wide collection of antiquities, impressionist art, and famous sculptures such as Auguste Rodin's The Thinker. The museum is open six days a week except on Mondays. So, if you're lucky to arrive on one of the museum's off-days, you can visit the nearby Baltimore Zoo or Ladew Topiary Gardens.

Patapsco Valley State Park

Located just about 15 miles south of Baltimore is the Patapsco Valley State Park, one of the oldest recreation areas in Maryland's state park system. The park has over 16,000 acres of woodland, beautiful waterfalls, and hiking trails. The Patapsco River flows through the park, offering opportunities to go swimming, fishing, and canoeing. The park's historic landmarks, including the McKeldin area, also serve as beautiful picnic grounds and campsites.

Historic Ellicott City

Next on the list would be the Historic Ellicott City. The area dates back to the early 1800s and was first a mill town. The charming town is on the Patapsco River's eastern side and is an ideal spot for a short break. It's a perfect spot for antique shoppers and fashionistas alike. Also, trek the Ellicott City Heritage Trail for stunning views of the city's rich past.

Elkridge Furnace Inn

Take a brief stop at the Elkridge Furnace Inn – one of the most historic venues on the National Register of Historic Places. The former Ironworks Estate has beautifully restored into a luxurious dining and lodging establishment. The inn boasts expertly prepared meals and stunning river views from their patio. If you're looking to relax a bit, you can stay overnight in one of their welcoming, cozy guest rooms.

Fort Meade

Your last stop on the journey from Baltimore to Hanover would be Fort Meade. If you're a history buff, the base and museum are excellent places to visit. It's the oldest US military base in existence and has been in operation for over a century. You can find the museum open from Wednesday to Sunday from 9.00 a.m. – 4.00 p.m. You'll get to learn about the installation's history, its significance in American military, and it's complex computer systems.

Conclusion

So, whether you're touring the region or preparing for a particular experience, you now have a great idea of the top sites to visit in Baltimore, Maryland to Hanover, Maryland. There are plenty of other stops on the way too—from exquisite restaurants to magnificent outdoor spaces. But the places listed above are a good starting point when it comes to exploring the cultural and historical aspects of Maryland. Whatever you do, have a great time discovering this beautiful state on your travels.