Discover Somerset County: Maryland's Best-Kept Eastern Shore Secret
- Willie
- Aug 22
- 5 min read
Looking for a getaway that blends waterfront beauty, fascinating history, and mouthwatering food? Look no further than Somerset County, Maryland -- a hidden treasure where small-town charm meets wide-open spaces.
With fewer than 26,000 residents, this Eastern Shore gem feels worlds away from the bustle of crowded resorts. Here, it's all about relaxed days, authentic experiences, and real Maryland flavor. Stay at the Washington Hotel and enjoy farm-and-water-to-table dining at Sugar Water Restaurant, and you'll be right in the heart of it all.
Ready to plan your trip? Here are a few local highlights you won't want to miss:
Explore Somerset's Waterways
Somerset County is practically surrounded by water, which means endless opportunities for fun on (and by) the Chesapeake Bay, Manokin River, and countless tidal creeks. Whether you're kayaking at Janes Island State Park, fishing off Crisfield's piers, or taking in the peaceful views along the shoreline in Deal Island, the scenery never disappoints. For something extra special, book a sunset cruise in Crisfield - trust us, the colors are unforgettable.
Step Back in Time
Founded in 1666, Somerset County is rich with stories waiting to be discovered. You'll find historic churches, colonial taverns, and centuries-old mansions sprinkled throughout its towns. History buffs will especially love:
J. Millard Tawes Historical Museum -- A deep dive into the Chesapeake Bay's culture, from Native American life to the seafood industry.
Chance Fire Museum -- A quirky, once-a-month stop featuring antique firetrucks and a home-style breakfast.
Teackle Mansion -- A neoclassical beauty built in 1819, complete with original furnishings and one of Maryland's earliest indoor bathtubs.
Nature and Outdoor Adventures
If you love the outdoors, Somerset County has plenty to keep you exploring. From peaceful birdwatching spots to wide-open marshland, the area feels like nature's playground. Head out to the Cedar Island Marsh Sanctuary, a 3,000-acre preserve only accessible by boat, where black ducks, snowy egrets, herons, and even barn owls make their seasonal homes. Photographers and bird lovers will find themselves in heaven here.
And don't skip a stop at the Scott's Cove Marina in Deal Island -- especially at sunset. The sky lights up in shades of pink, orange, and gold, casting a glow across the working boats and still water. It's the kind of view you'll want to bottle up and take home.
5 Things You Have to Do While You're Here
8380 Crisfield Highway, Westover, MD 21817
Swing easy, because this public championship course is all about wide-open fairways and relaxed Eastern Shore vibe. With over 7,000 yards of greens, it's perfect for golfers who want a challenge but don't want the pressure of a country club crowd. The rolling landscape gives you sweeping views while those light coastal breezes keep you on your toes (and sometimes throw your ball off course--fun, right?). Warm up at the driving range, test your skills on the course, and then reward yourself with a laid-back meal or cold drink at the Caddy Shack Snack Bar.
| Pro tip: Book a lesson if you want to polish up your swing--it's like getting a vacation and a glow-up for your golf game.
3 Ninth Street, Crisfield, MD 21817
Located right on the water in Crisfield, this museum is basically a love letter to the Chesapeake Bay and its people. It dives into over 10,000 years of history, covering everything from the lives of Native Americans to the boom of the commercial seafood industry. Inside, you'll see historic tools, artifacts, model boats, and even a replica crab shanty that makes you feel like you've stepped back into a working waterman's life.
| Bonus points: after your visit, you can stroll along the Crisfield marina, where the view of the harbor pairs perfectly with the museum's stories.
10090 Deal Island Road, Deal Island, MD 21821
This one is quirky, fun, and absolutely worth planning around. Open just one Saturday morning a month, the museum is run by volunteers and tied to the Ladies Auxiliary breakfast--a hearty, home-cooked community meal. Step inside and you'll be greeted by vintage fire trucks, restored firefighting gear, and decades of local history told through photos and equipment. It's equal parts charming and nostalgic, and if you bring kids, they'll be wowed by the shiny trucks. Adults? You'll love the small-town feel and the chance to chat with locals over pancakes and coffee.
11736 Mansion Street, Princess Anne, MD 21853
This is where Somerset County's elegance comes to life. The Teackle Mansion, finished in 1819, is one of the most beautifully preserved neoclassical homes on the Eastern Shore. Walking through its halls, you'll find ornate plasterwork, original furnishings, and fascinating little details like early indoor plumbing--fancy stuff for its time. The guided tours don't just give you facts; they weave in colorful stories about the Teackle family and the history of Princess Anne itself. Outside, the manicured grounds are picture-perfect, so don't forget your camera. It's history, architecture, and photo opportunities rolled into one.
Maryland Department of Natural Resources
Want to disappear into nature for a bit? This 3,000-acre tidal marsh sanctuary is the place. Only accessible by boat, it feels untouched and otherworldly--a hidden paradise for wildlife lovers. Birders will spot everything from black ducks and barn owls to graceful snowy egrets and great blue herons. The quiet waterways are perfect for kayaking, photography, or just drifting in peace. It's one of those spots where you instantly forget the rest of the world exists. If you want to make a day of it, launch nearby at Crisfield or Deal Island and head out during golden hour for some unforgettable light.
Bonus: Somerset Choice Station
11724 Mansion Street, Princess Anne, MD 21853
In the heart of downtown Princess Anne, just a stroll from the Washington Hotel, you'll stumble upon Somerset Choice Station -- a lovingly restored 1950s Texaco gas station that now hums with community energy. From the outside, it's a piece of Eastern Shore nostalgia; inside, it's brimming with antiques, collectibles, and architectural salvage curated by the Somerset County Historical Society. The shop opens daily, and visitors consistently rave about the friendly atmosphere and unique finds. It's a must-visit stop whether you're starting your day with local flavor, picking up a one-of-a-kind souvenir, or just exploring the local store.
Plan Your Somerset County Trip Now!
Whether you spend your time exploring waterfront towns or relaxing with a cocktail at Sugar Water Restaurant, Somerset County makes it incredibly easy to unwind and reconnect with the simple things. Book a room at the Washington Hotel, reserve a table at Sugar Water, and experience the Eastern Shore at its very best.
📞Reserve a table by calling (410)430-5251
📍11784 Somerset Ave, Princess Anne, MD 21853
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