March 20 marked the start of spring and harkens the arrival of warm weather – along with the return of many of Dorchester County’s seasonal favorites. To help get you in the mood for adventure, history, dining and recreation, we’ve rounded up a list of can’t-miss places opening this season.
As if greeting old friends wasn’t enough to spark a case of spring fever – we’re also looking forward to the debut of three new arrivals this Spring in Cambridge: Rise Up Coffee, Route 50; The Blue Awning, 430 Race Street; and, Artisan Gourmet, 410 Race Street. Read the story.
Tune up your bike, rev up your boat, or dust off your walking shoes and get ready to call on some of the Shore’s best restaurants, shops and attractions. Check out our suggested itineraries here.
Make time to paddle or peddle your way around Dorchester this year when Blackwater Adventures re-opens its kayak, bike and watercraft rentals at both the Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Resort and Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge on Key Wallace Drive.
Hyatt: Opens Memorial Day, 7 days a week, 10am-6pm
BNWR: Opens Memorial Day Weekend, Mon-Sat, 9am-4pm
Cambridge Farmers’ MarketShop for local produce, cheese, wine and flowers at Cambridge’s weekly farmers market, held every Thursday – weather permitting – at historic Long Wharf overlooking the Choptank River.
Open: May 3 to October 11, 3pm-6pm
Choptank Riverboat Company Cruises
Enjoy a spectacular views and delicious seafood when the Dorothy Megan and Choptank River Queen resume their beloved sightseeing, dinner, and crab feast cruises.
Open: April 28 through October 27, schedule varies
Ascend this authentic replica of an historic screwpile lighthouse that guided mariners along the Choptank River. Discover the area’s seafaring history at the museum and information center.
Open: May 1 to October 31, daily, 9am-6pm.
Dorchester’s largest farm market with locally grown fruits and vegetables, baked goods, flowers, u-pick and more returns to Church Creek. Enjoy free apple cider donuts opening day!
Open: April 20 through November, seven days a week.
Ghost Tours / Haunted Eastern Shore
Visit 18 of Cambridge’s most haunted sites along historic High Street when Ghost Tours returns with this popular 1.5-hour walking tour along Maryland’s most haunted street.
Begins April 14 on select Friday and Saturday evenings through the Fall. Reservations required.
Discover the world-renowned UMCES on this 90-minute walking tour of the Horn Point Lab where scientists use cutting-edge research and oyster restoration to save the Chesapeake Bay
Tours begin Tuesday, May 29, 10am, through Labor Day (Sept 3)
Plant a beautiful garden this Spring when locally owned and operated plant and gift center offers special events, workshops and more throughout the season.
Opens: March 12, hours vary
Mark your calendar for mid-April when OO returns!
Cambridge’s seafood, crab house and beer garden serves local specialties lovingly prepared by the same family for three generations. A favorite haunt for foodies and craft beer lovers.
Opens: April 19
Get your downward dog on by land and by sea or ride the stand-up paddleboard wave when Overboard returns to Sailwinds and sets off at Suicide Bridge Restaurant. Activities are weather permitting.
Yoga: Starts in April, Wednesday and Sunday, Dorchester Visitor Center.
SUP: Starts in May, Saturdays, East New Market
Cruise by car or boat to Dorchester’s floating restaurant and tiki bar as Palm Beach Willie’s celebrates another season at Slaughter’s Marina in beautiful Taylor’s Island.
Opens: March 17, open daily, hours vary
Skipjack Nathan of Dorchester – Public Sails
Experience a sail on the scenic Choptank River aboard the Skipjack Nathan of Dorchester, a traditional sailing vessel and an icon of the Chesapeake Bay.
Opens: May 12 with sails on most Saturdays through October from 1-3pm departing from Long Wharf.
Pick up fresh and local produce. Wear red when you come in on Fridays and get 10% off your purchase. Also, watch for news on their new spring and summer movie nights.
Opens: May 4
This barbecue joint has been working on a new food truck they’ll unveil this spring. Watch for updates on their Facebook page.
Opens: Soon
