Maryland Off The Beaten Path Tips by kathycollins

The third place to visit in...

The third place to visit in this area is the National Wildlife Visitor Center at Patuxent Research Refuge. Exhibits and videos describe the ongoing research that hopes to lead to a better environment for wildlife, and cleaner air and water for us humans. There is also a tram thru the wetlands, visitors pods for viewing wildlife, excellent trails for all to enjoy, and a prime location for watching migratory birds - all within a few miles of the cities of Washington and Baltimore.

Another unique place to...

Another unique place to explore is theUS Dept of Agriculture's Agriculture Research Service at Beltsville,, Maryland. There is a really terrific log lodge built in the 1930's by the Civilian Conservation Corps. If you are in the area you can visit monday thru friday 8am to 4:30pm. If you call (301-504-9403) you can schedule a personal tour of the facility!!

the riding stables at Wheaton...

the riding stables at Wheaton Regional park and Brookside gardens

If you take New York Avenue...

If you take New York Avenue east leaving Washington DC, you come to the Baltimore Washington Parkway follow this towards Baltimore to Powder Mill Road to find 3 great places to see more sites or to rest and relax!
The first is NASA Goddard Space Flight Center. The visitor's center has educational activities for kids, interactive learning centers and exhibits.

The National Capital Area Park...

The National Capital Area Park Commission oversees lots of public parks. This one, Brookside Gardens and Nature Center in the Wheaton Regional Park, in Montgomery County has a wonderful garden, lots of walking paths, a riding stable, and lots of other attractions - not bad for a neighborhood park!

just a shot of my backyard!

See the wild ponies on...

See the wild ponies on Assateague Island. The state park has camping at the beach. It is a unique experience to be sitting in a beach chair and watching the horses walk by! Please remember, however, that these are WILD animals - they bite and kick! I might also point out that having the horses share the beach definitely increases the number of flys and other bugs -bring insect repellent!

The Baltimore Conservatory and...

The Baltimore Conservatory and Botanic Gardens feature this 1888 Palm House. Baltimore's parks and gardens are often overlooked but are truly beautiful. The Conservatory is located at Druid Hill Park.

Edgar Allen Poe's house and...

Edgar Allen Poe's house and his gravesite in Baltimore are great to visit, especially on Halloween!