Because we went on a Saturday, beach traffic was insane. It still took us about 2.5 hours across the Bay Bridge, but if we had left earlier, we probably could have avoided some of it. If you don't have an EZ Pass, tolls are $6. If you don't want to want in the lines to pay cash, you can bust through an EZ Pass lane and get a $9 ticket in the mail. It's up to you.
The one good thing about going on a Saturday though, is that there are Farmer's Markets in almost all the small towns along the shore. Chestertown's Farmer's Market lasts from 8 am to 12 pm in their central square. When we got there, it wasn't a huge affair, but there was, of course, fresh produce and hand-cut flowers, wool, handmade craft jewelry, professional local pictures, and a pie-eating contest for the kids. It was also Crazy Days this weekend, which means that stores bring items out on the sidewalk to sell for majorly discounted prices. If you're looking to pick up that goose, rockfish, or crab insignia with the MD flag for your car, this would have been the weekend to do it.
The shops are quaint, the sidewalks are brick, and the houses are beautiful. You can follow High Street down to the water and walk along the docks, read about the Schooner Sultan, and spend some time along the Chester River. There are a variety of shops from traditional preppy menswear to shoes to music shops and the Prince Theatre to a bakery with fresh bread from 7 am to 5 pm. There is literally something that can be found for everyone. Even the history buff can read about Chestertown's involvement in the American Revolution all the way to Desert Storm just off the square in a War Memorial.
Before we left, we walked around Washington College's campus for a bit. We were mostly aiming to visit the bookstore and pick up some Flock gear, but during the summer, the store is only open Mondays thru Fridays. They failed to mention that on their website! But it was okay - they have an online store. The campus is beautiful with traditional brick buildings in colonial style mixed with more modern buildings. It's definitely worth a stop if you're driving through - maybe you'll get lucky and see the Lacrosse team doing an open practice!
We headed north up the shore to Rising Sun to see some of Robby's family. If you're ever in Rising Sun, stop at the Greenhurst Market and pick yourself up some crabs or a signature sandwich. Robby's Aunt and Uncle own the store (be aware - they're closed on Mondays), and it has that local Mom and Pop charm. They'll ask you where you're coming from and they'll tell you where to go, if you inquire. Once we were on our way out, we went to Havre de Grace to see the Concord Point Lighthouse and walk along the Promenade there. It offers wonderful views of the bay and its wildlife. The CPL is the northern most lighthouse in Maryland and marks the spot of prominent activity during the War of 1812. There are informational plaques that span from the time of John Smith to the present as you walk along the planks. We went in the evening, and it couldn't have been a better atmosphere.
If you're in the area for longer, you should look into seeing an Aberdeen Ironbirds game or bask in the local Decoy and Maritime culture by visiting their museums (also in Havre de Grace). There are so many great things that Maryland's Eastern Shore has to offer. From small town charm to activities on the bay, hopefully you can find something you enjoy!
Happy traveling!
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