Located a two-hour drive from D.C., Cambridge, Maryland is chock full of history, great eats, quaint shops, a scenic waterfront, and even a wildlife refuge. The Eastern Shore gem is undergoing a renaissance as of late, adding new restaurants, hotels, and independent retailers without losing any of its small town charm. From kayaking through the brackish Blackwater River to savoring local seafood, there is an abundance of activities and foods to try in this travel-worthy destination. Here’s a step-by-step guide to dining and drinking along the way during a quick overnight trip to picturesque Cambridge.
9:30 a.m.: Breakfast at Rise Up
This independent small-batch coffee roaster in Cambridge is the perfect place to start the day, with seating indoors and out. The locally owned chain is known for great caffeinated drinks and smoothies, refreshing acai bowls, and hearty breakfast burritos served with two varieties of homemade hot sauces. The Happy Cow burrito, made with a tofu scramble, is an ideal order for vegans.
Other options: For delightful doughnuts, stop by Bay Country Bakery to sample a wide array of inventive flavors like lemon cheesecake, creamsicle, and pina colada.
ACTIVITY INTERLUDE: Learn Harriet Tubman’s story and explore local wildlife
The Harriet Tubman Railroad Museum and Educational Center provides an immersive opportunity to learn about the trials and tribulations of Harriet Tubman, a formerly enslaved abolitionist that risked her life to help countless others find freedom. Then drive, cycle, or hike through the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge Center to catch a glimpse of bald eagles, fox squirrels, and other native animals. Blackwater Adventures, located in an old cannery building next to the park, rents out single and tandem kayaks or bicycles and offers guided tours and even moonlight paddles.
12:30 p.m. Stroll through downtown Cambridge
Check out the historical markers on many of the homes around the high street which date back to the 1700s and 1800s. Not surprising, considering the city of Cambridge dates back to 1694 — making it one of the oldest towns in Maryland. After indulging in some retail therapy, stop for lunch at microbrewery Chessie’s Burger. Order a burger or fried chicken sandwich and load up on some drunken tots or pretzel bites at this local brew pub that specializes in “creative food truck-driven fast food.”
Other options: Bombay Social puts out fantastic Indian food like tandoor chicken and an array of biryani rice dishes.
ACTIVITY INTERLUDE: Get in (or on) the water
Whether you are staying here or not, consider purchasing a day pool pass at Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Golf Resort, Spa and Marina. Wade in the outdoor infinity pool to soak up views of the Choptank River; a hot tub and indoor pool are also available. The hotel is also home to its own blue heron nesting rookery, where you might get a chance to see the majestic birds nesting. Blackwater Adventure is also on-site to rent out jet skis, catamarans, paddle boats, powerboats, kayaks, and stand-up paddle boards.
Other options: Head down to the waterfront and take a (free) tour of the Choptank River lighthouse, which is actually a replica crafted in a six-sided screw pile design so it stands over the river. Or take a two-hour sunset cruise on the Choptank River to explore the Eastern Shore waterways.
7 p.m.: Dinner at Blue Ruin
Situated the town’s high street, this reliable mid-Atlantic restaurant with a speakeasy-styled bar showcases locally harvested J.M. Clayton lump crab in dishes like corn fritters and Chesapeake gumbo. Other delectable options like vegetable stir-fry with drunken shiitake mushrooms, blackened salmon, and freshly baked desserts are also hard to pass up.
Other options: Ava’s Pizzeria & Wine Bar serves specialty pies like thin crust, thick Detroit-style, and even a gluten-free option along with salads and tasty sandwiches.
10 p.m.: Nightcap at Dive Club
Think shipwreck-meets-haunted house with an hourly tropical “rain storm,” the Dive Club is anything but an actual dive. Tiki drinks and Polynesian fusion fare like conch fritters, crab balls, curry chicken, and jerk chicken with a caramelized pineapple sauce pair perfectly with the place’s nautical theme. Closed Sundays and Mondays.
Lodging:
Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay offers first-class rooms facing the Choptank River. The hotel has its own spa, golf course, two pools, and even a wildlife refuge. For more of a B&B experience, head to the Cambridge House Bed and Breakfast in the town’s historic district to enjoy a full breakfast overlooking the garden pool in the morning.
