5 Winter Activities in Maryland to Enjoy

Even when temperatures drop, winter is still a fantastic time to visit Maryland. Here are several winter activities in Maryland that would make a cool-season trip worthwhile…

Washington Monument Lighting, Baltimore

December 3 at 5:30pm

600 block of North Charles Street 

 

At the December lighting of Baltimore’s Washington Monument in Mount Vernon’s West Park, music, food and fireworks contribute to a magical winter’s night. This is one of the most festive winter activities in Maryland…rumor has it that Santa Claus likes to make an appearance here each year.

The annual lighting of the Washington Monument features musical selections by area choirs, a spectacular fireworks show and refreshments on Thursday, December 3 at 5:30pm on Mount Vernon Place, centered on the 600 block of North Charles Street. This event is produced in conjunction with Downtown Partnership of Baltimore and the Baltimore City Department of Recreation and Parks.

 

Polar Bear Plunge

January 24, 2015 

It’s not just an event—it’s one of the truly standout winter activities in Maryland that has become a wintertime tradition for thousands of warm-hearted Plungers! This event benefits Maryland’s children and adults with intellectual disabilities, as they enjoy the life-changing benefits of participating with Special Olympics of Maryland.

 

Christmas on the Potomac 

Gaylord National Resort

November 21, 2015 – January 3, 2016

Marvel at more than 2 million twinkling lights, amazing nightly snowfall and beautiful dancing fountains. Back this year is ICE! with a new theme featuring Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town! Learn how Santa Claus started giving toys to good girls and boys in the retelling of the classic television special. Enjoy a special bonus area—The Frostbite Factory—a LIVE ice carving zone. And, don’t forget about Gingerbread Decorating Corner, The Elf on the Shelf® Scavenger Hunt and much more to get you in the spirit of the season!

 

Baltimore Winter Restaurant Week

January 22-31, 2016

One of the great winter activities in Maryland is to visit Baltimore during restaurant week, with popular upscale chain restaurants like Ruth’s Chris and local favorites like Blue Agave offering select three course meals for $35. Some restaurants offer a three course lunch for only $20 so you can eat great for a great price all day!

This is an opportunity to try out some new restaurants that may be out of your price range or to visit some old favorites and just take advantage of the deal. If you do decide to eat at one of the participating restaurants be sure to make a reservation and leave early enough to allow yourself time to find parking if you are headed downtown.

 

Holiday Festival of Trains 

Wednesday – Sunday

November 27, 2015 – January 24, 2016

11am–4pm 

Enjoy the museum’s annual holiday celebration of toy trains and model railroading. Santa will be on-hand to greet visitors opening weekend. New this year is a custom-built 360-degree LEGO model train layout created by The Washington D.C. Metropolitan Area LEGO Train Club. This masterpiece made completely of LEGO toy pieces is interactive for children of all ages. There are push buttons along the sides that will activate lights, motors, and sounds. 

To learn more about the area, check out our vacation guide. To book accommodations at Wayside Inn, click here.