Plan Your Trip to Dorchester County, MD
Dorchester County is easy to get to and worth getting to know. Use the resources below to plan your visit to Maryland's Eastern Shore: brochures, maps, transportation info, and more.
Quick Facts
- Location: Eastern Shore, MD
- Distance: ~2 hours from D.C. and Baltimore
- County Seat: Cambridge, MD
- Best Time to Visit: April through November
- Known For: Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park, Chesapeake Bay seafood, cycling, and paddling
- Visitor Center: 2 Rose Hill Place, Cambridge, MD 21613
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Dorchester County from Washington D.C. and Baltimore? About two hours from both cities. Take Route 50 east across the Bay Bridge and follow it into Cambridge.
When is the best time to visit? Spring through fall is prime. Crab season runs April through November. Migratory bird season at Blackwater peaks in October and November. Summer brings the water, the festivals, and the soft-shell crabs.
Is Dorchester County good for families? Yes. Wildlife refuge trails, kayak rentals, cycling routes, and working waterfront culture give families plenty to do without a packed itinerary.
Do I need a car? For most of Dorchester County, yes. Cambridge is walkable, but Blackwater, the Tubman sites, and the back roads require a vehicle. Bikes are a legitimate option if you are staying in Cambridge.
Where should I stay? Cambridge has the most options that include hotels, B&Bs, and vacation rentals along the waterfront. See our Where to Stay page for the full list.
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