The Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Burtonsville, MD to White Marsh, MD

Burtonsville, MD - Driving from Burtonsville to White Marsh is about 60 miles, taking around 90 minutes. However, the journey deserves no rush as there are plenty of phenomenal stops along the way. After cruising along the scenic I-95, the halfway point, Linthicum Heights, MD, is a popular place to grab a bite to eat. However, the trip offers a variety of other highlights that are worth exploring:

1. National Cryptologic Museum

The National Cryptologic Museum is situated in Annapolis Junction, MD. The museum is run by the National Security Agency and is the only museum of its kind in the United States. The visitors can learn about the history of codes and code-breaking during different wars and enjoy an impressive collection of artifacts. The museum has an exciting mix of interactive exhibits, which makes learning about cryptography much more interesting.

Interesting fact: The museum has two Enigma machines among its exhibits, a device used by Nazis to encrypt messages in World War II.

2. Chesapeake Bay Bridge

The Chesapeake Bay Bridge, also known as the William Preston Lane Jr. Memorial Bridge, is a breathtaking gateway to Maryland's Eastern Shore. Travelers can reach the bridge via route 50. The bridge extends over 4.3 miles, and its unique design offers sightseers magnificent views of the Chesapeake Bay. The scenic drive experience involves a toll fee, but the expansive views and fresh air that come with it make it worth the price.

Interesting fact: The bridge has an impressive height of 186 feet above the water surface and is widely recognized as one of the most beautiful crossings in the country.

3. Assateague Island National Seashore

Assateague Island National Seashore is a jewel situated off Maryland's coast near Ocean City. The island is a natural sanctuary for the famous wild ponies, which roam free on the sand dunes and seashore. Visitors can leisurely drive through the area during the 37-mile stretch without having to worry about traffic. The wildlife and beautiful landscapes make the park a perfect spot for picnics, camping, walking trails, and saltwater fishing.

Interesting fact: The wild ponies are believed to have descended from Spanish breed horses that survived a shipwreck in the 16th century.

4. The Walters Art Museum

The Walter's Art Museum is situated in the city center of Baltimore. It is one of the most significant art Museums in Maryland State, with over 36,000 exhibits. The collections are diverse and span across different cultures, periods and geographic regions, with artifacts ranging from pre-dynastic Egypt to 20th-century Europe. Some of the most popular displays include paintings by Rafael, medieval works of art from the 3rd and 4th centuries, and Islamic and Asian arts.

Interesting fact: The museum has a unique collection of Faberge eggs, crafted by Peter Carl Faberge. These priceless artifacts are only displayed for limited periods.

5. Edgar Allan Poe's House and Museum

The Edgar Allan Poe House and Museum is situated at 203 Amity Street, Baltimore, MD. The museum was the writer's home in the late 1820s, and visitors can explore the space to learn about his life and the inspiration behind his famous works of literature. The exhibits feature multimedia presentations, pictures, and artifacts that add depth to Poe's complex and tragic life. The museum is an excellent spot for literature fans to explore one of the most famous authors of all time.

Interesting fact: Poe's life and death remain one of the most mysterious and controversial. While Poe's death remains somewhat of a puzzle, his works live on and are still taught in schools and studied by literature enthusiasts worldwide.

Conclusion

This road trip offers a wealth of experiences that merits taking time to discover all the places worth exploring. The top five things to do on the road trip, which are the National Cryptologic Museum, Chesapeake Bay Bridge, Assateague Island National Seashore, The Walters Art Museum, and Edgar Allan Poe's House and Museum, each offer unique experiences and are ideal for short stops during the journey. Overall, the trip may take a couple of hours, but the places to see will make the time spent worthwhile.