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Looking for a relaxed Eastern Shore city that combines history and modern facilities? Then spend a weekend visiting Salisbury in Wicomico County, Maryland. I love discovering places that people tend to drive through – those gems that people skip to go to the overcrowded and overhyped destinations – while missing the charming smaller towns. There are so many great things to do in Salisbury that you don’t see if you drive by.
Enter Salisbury in Wicomico County, Maryland. Here are the best reasons to enjoy a weekend in surrounding Wicomico County.
Best Things to do in Salisbury MD
1. Start your morning with a cup of joe.
As a coffee lover, that first cup of morning coffee is what gets me going. Salisbury enjoys a plethora of local coffee roasters, so you won’t have to go far to find one. Rise Up always has a line with good reason – try their Sunset Burrito with your coffee, and you’ll be ready to explore the town!
2. Enjoy Afternoon Tea at Gillis Grier B&B.
The Gillis Grier Bed & Breakfast hosts monthly afternoon teas every third Sunday of the month from 2 to 4 pm. Check out my experience at Gillis Grier and afternoon tea etiquette tips!
3. Treat yourself to a sweet treat.
Have a sweet tooth? Salisbury’s bakers satisfy every type of craving. The Ugly Pie’s brownie chess is a treat to behold – perfectly sweet but not overly sickening. Or a delicious brownie by Sugar Rush (detecting a theme here?), where the center melts in your mouth.
4. Sip a tall cold draft (or glass of wine).
Salisbury is home to four breweries and one winery. No matter what type of ale you prefer, there is sure to be one to pique your interest. You can read more about Salisbury’s beer and wine trail, including addresses and food options at each location.
5. Cheer on the Shorebirds.
There’s something about the crack of a bat as the crowd cheers on the home team at a minor league baseball game. The laidback family atmosphere makes this a fun event for guests of all ages, whether baseball fans or not. The Shorebirds are no exception. Check out their schedule and plan on attending a game capped with a fireworks show!
6. Admire craftsmanship at Ward Museum of Wildfowl Art.
Not a huge museum-goer? Then the Ward Museum of Wildfowl Art is for you. Dedicated to the artistry of decoys and other artistic renditions of nature, the Ward Museum is unique in its subject matter. The Museum hosts the Ward World Championship Wildfowl Carving Competition and Art Festival, and the winning projects are unique!
7. Discover history at the Poplar Hill Mansion.
Poplar Hill Mansion’s construction began in 1795-1796. This well-preserved home is on the National Register of Historic Places and is open to visitors. There’s even a reported ghost!
8. Scope out the Parsons Cemetery.
As the grandchild of funeral directors, I believe that you can learn a lot about the history of a place by visiting its cemetery. In Salisbury, a visit to Parsons Cemetery is a must. Six volunteers lovingly preserve the history of those buried here. Select from a variety of walking tours that highlight curious burials. Was there a horse buried here?
9. Shop at the largest country store in the East.
Lovers of country stores should stop by The Country House, the largest country store in the East. Don’t let the outside deceive you about the treasure trove hidden inside. Find everything you need for home decor and gift giving in this cute shop!
10. Wander the streets of historic Salisbury.
Small towns with a walkable downtown attract crowds that like to stroll and window shop. They are the gems of Americana. Historic downtown Salisbury is no exception. Its coffee shops, art galleries, and stores are wonderful places to walk and relax. Taste local fare at Mogan’s Oyster House, serving delicious lunch and dinner specials.
Whether you enjoy clothing boutiques, skate shops, records, or anything else, you’ll find something to pique your curiosity. Wander into Blackwater Apothecary for some unusual and quirky items!
11. Art, art, everywhere, art!
While walking downtown, check out several art spots. The Salisbury Art Space, Salisbury University Art Galleries, and private art galleries dot Main Street. Or explore the Public Art Walking Tour guiding visitors through sculptures and painted utility boxes. Art lovers should visit the third Friday of the month for special events downtown.
12. Take your photo in front of all the murals.
Murals are art, but they are their own category! Salisbury embraces artists exploring their art on large canvases – walls. Looking for the perfect Instagrammable spot in town? Choose from several in town, from whimsical balloons and color splashes to historical markers.
13. Explore Pemberton Hall Plantation and Park.
Built in 1741, Pemberton Hall Plantation serves as an example of eighteenth-century Eastern Shore regional architecture. The historical park preserved several historic buildings. Visit Pemberton the first and third Sundays, between 1 and 3 pm, May through October.
Surrounding the Plantation, Pemberton Park offers visitors several trails comprising up to 4.5 miles of hiking trails. These trails allow you to stretch your legs after your car ride and all you ate!
14. Ride the Whitehaven Ferry.
Did you know that the Whitehaven ferry is the oldest continuously-operating ferry in the country? In operation since 1687, the ferry crosses the Wicomico River. The best part? It’s free!
15. Discover Historic Whitehaven.
Stay at the Whitehaven Hotel Bed & Breakfast, where you’ll feel right at home. Original hosting guests from steamships passengers traveling Maryland’s Eastern Shore, this historic hotel has preserved life on the waterfront as it was in the past with the comforts of modern day. Not sure if you want to stay at a B&B? Check out B&B tips for first-timers.
Explore the Wicomico River on a kayak or ride on one of their bicycles through the surrounding area. Take a walk through historic Whitehaven, where you’ll find the Schoolhouse and Museum and the Methodist Church. Both are undergoing renovations to preserve this idyllic life.
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What activity are you looking forward to the most? Share with me below!
I’d like to thank Wicomico County for sponsoring my weekend in Salisbury and Wicomico County. As always, my posts are an accurate reflection of the experiences I had.
Happy travels,
Annick, The Common Traveler
Raised as a third culture kid living in South America and Europe, Annick caught the travel bug early. As an empty-nester, Annick enjoys sharing her tips for traveling for those with champagne taste and beer budgets.