Maryland Staycation: 7 Fun Things to Do While Staying Close to Home

Maryland offers many great attractions for the families planning a vacation or staycation. Its scenic landscape extends from the seashore (Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean) to the mountains (the Appalachians) to urban areas (Baltimore and the DC suburbs).

Here are seven great places to visit in the Old Line State:

1. The Eastern Shore: Families on vacation or a staycation can explore beaches, historic towns and natural settings to enjoy activities such as boating, swimming, fishing, bird watching, biking and golf.

VOTE NOW: Is Maryland Sen. Ben Cardin Doing a Good Job?

2. Baltimore Inner Harbor: Baltimore's Inner Harbor is a premier tourist attraction considered one of the city's crown jewels. In addition to great shopping and dining, families on vacation or staycation can visit the National Aquarium, Harborplace and Maryland Science Center.

3. Annapolis City Dock: Take a sightseeing cruise or walking tour and learn about the history of the seaport. Annapolis is the home of the United States Naval Academy and St. John's College, third oldest institution of higher education in the United States.

4. C&O Canal National Park: This scenic 184.5 mile stretch includes mountains, rivers and lakes for a wide selection of activities. Families on a staycation can go hiking, bicycling, picnicking, boating, fishing, camping, swimming and horseback riding in warmer weather. During the winter, skiing, snowboarding, snowtubing and snowmobiling are among the other activities.

VOTE NOW: Should the Government Be Doing More to Promote Tourism in America?

6. Six Flags America: The amusement park features more than 100 rides, shows and the area's largest water park. There are eight roller coasters, including Wild One, Joker’s Jinx and Superman Ride of Steel, and the Batman stunt show is entertaining for kids of all ages. The park is open April through October.

7. National Harbor: Located along the Potomic River is this 300 acre, $2.1 billion mixed-use community in Prince George's County. There are hotels, restaurants and great shopping.

URGENT: Do You Approve of the Job Ben Cardin Is Doing as a Maryland Senator?

Related Stories:

• Maryland History: 8 Events That Shaped the State

• Maryland Gun Laws: 7 Quotes From Heated Debate