The Wayside Inn

A Treasure in Our Backyard: Merriweather Post Pavilion

Gina — Sat, 14 Apr 2012 15:15:45 +0000

A mere fifteen minutes from The Wayside Inn in Columbia, MD, lives an amazing amphitheater nestled within the 40 preserved acres of Symphony Woods: Merriweather Post Pavilion. Named after the American socialite and founder of General Foods, Marjorie Merriweather Post, the venue offers an spectacular array of concerts and other events that draw thousands of visitors from around the country each year.

According the their website, “A concert season at Merriweather Post Pavilion is like putting your iPod on shuffle: the calendar features the best in rock, country, rhythm and blues, pop, jazz, hip hop, alternative, electronica and classical.” And, it’s true. This year’s season kicks off with the Sweetlife Food and Music Festival showcasing performers whose names we found incredibly intriguing: A$AP Rocky, Zola Jesus and Fitz & the Tantrums. Later in the season, concert goers can see the Capital Jazz Fest with well-known artists Anita Baker and George Benson.

The site also notes that, “Yes, Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin and the Grateful Dead played here!” and “If the backstage walls could talk, they’d echo Roger Daltrey and Robert Plant trading some wicked stories about when the Who and Led Zeppelin played here in the ‘70s.” If only we could have been a fly on the wall!

Improvements to the theater are ongoing, and, we believe, these changes foster the longevity of the venue, which has been hosting music legends and fans for more than 40 years. According to the site, “Recent enhancements include building an enormous kitchen that prepares the most delectable cuisines from all over the world, a Music Pinball Arcade, award-winning sculptures and the tripling of restroom facilities.” Ahem to that!

Come visit Merriweather Post during your next stay at The Wayside Inn. We know they’ll have a concert or two for you!

We look forward to seeing you soon,
David and Susan Balderson
Innkeepers
The Wayside Inn
Ellicott City, MD
(410) 461-4636

Are you longing for a romantic getaway to a bed and breakfast in Ellicott City? Will your visit include shopping and dining at unique stores and gourmet restaurants? We invite you to The Wayside Inn, where relaxation, gourmet breakfasts and access to historic Ellicott City await.

The “WhereTraveler” Website

Gina — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 14:29:19 +0000

We recently found this very appealing site we had to share: WhereTraveler.com, which provides city guides and tourist information for many major US cities and even a handful of international cities. If you’re staying at The Wayside Inn, check out the Baltimore Guide (photo of Downtown Baltimore pictured to the left) and the Washington DC Guide to learn about the dining, shopping, entertainment, museums and attractions. WhereTraveler also lists accommodations, but, as you would imagine, we always recommend staying at The Wayside Inn when you’re in the Baltimore or DC areas!

Additionally, the site provides a city’s current weather conditions and airport and traffic delays and you can sign up for weekly emails to learn what’s happening in many of your favorite cities.

Okay, we had to close the WhereTraveler site (for now) to finish this post, but we’ll be back to it when we want to find out what’s happening around town or other cities we visit!

We look forward to seeing you soon,
David and Susan Balderson
Innkeepers
The Wayside Inn
Ellicott City, MD
(410) 461-4636

February’s NOT Boring Here

Gina — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 18:37:34 +0000

February is the shortest month (even with the extra day this year), yet it often feels like the l-o-n-g-e-s-t month. In this part of the country, the cold weather is slowing everyone down, and we can feel stuck in this “tweener” period between the winter holidays and the spring.

What to do this month? What to do? Plenty, if you visit The Wayside Inn! These activities, happening close to The Inn during the remainder of February, are ones we know you’ll enjoy:

February 18, 2012
Candelight Concerts Presents: Gryphon Trio – Piano, Violin, Cello
8pm, General admission $30; Senior $28; Student $12
The Smith Theatre, Horowitz Visual and Performing Arts Center – Howard Community College: 10901 Little Patuxent Parkway, Columbia, MD 21044

Winner of the 2011 Juno Award for Classical Chamber Ensemble Album of the Year! Having impressed international audiences and the press with their highly refined, dynamic performances, the Gryphon Trio has firmly established itself as one of the world’s preeminent piano trios. With a repertoire that ranges from the traditional to the contemporary and from European classicism to modern-day multimedia, the Gryphons are committed to redefining chamber music for the 21st century. 410-997-2324; www.candlelightconcerts.org; info@candlelightconcerts.org

February 21, 2012
Adult Cooking Class: Complex Sauces
7:00 pm to 10:00 pm
The Elkridge Furnace Inn
$80 per person inclusive of materials and tax
Registration is Required

Complex sauces begin with one of the basic “mother sauces”, and through the addition of diverse ingredients one derives a host of variations in structure and taste with the ability to compliment a wide range of meats, chicken and seafood. In this lesson, we will begin by exploring three of the base sauces and create two wonderful new sauces from each, giving you the ability to experience all nine sauces and how best to pair them for an outstanding dinner. For more information, visit www.elkridgefurnaceinn.com.

February 23, 2012
Afternoon Tea
11:30 am to 2:00 pm
The Elkridge Furnace Inn
$28.50 per person inclusive of service and tax
Registration is Required

Join us for a relaxing, traditional afternoon tea including a seasonal selection of fine loose teas, a scone with clotted cream and jelly, a choice of salad or soup, followed by four assorted tea savories and finishing with four sweets. For more information, visit www.elkridgefurnaceinn.com.

February 25, 2012
Young People’s Concert – Columbia Orchestra
12:30pm & 3pm
The Jim Rouse Theatre

The Kinetics Dance Theatre joins us for Saint-Saens enduring classic, Carnival of the Animals. Students will love this exploration of the orchestra and can try their hand at playing many of the instruments at our Musical instrument petting zoo from 1:30 to 3:00 p.m. sponsored by Music & Arts. For more information visit www.columbiaorchestra.org

February 25, 2012
An Evening in the Stacks – Howard County Library
7-11pm, Tickets are $100 each and may be purchased at the door.
The Howard County Library System, Miller Branch

Join us at Evening in the Stacks, the Library’s annual gala fundraiser. The event features a silent auction, fine food and drink, and a literary spotlight. For more information visit www.hclibrary.org

Come enjoy Ellicott City this month!

We look forward to seeing you soon,
David and Susan Balderson
Innkeepers
The Wayside Inn
Ellicott City, MD
(410) 461-4636

Are you longing for a romantic stay at a bed and breakfast in Ellicott City? Will your retreat include shopping and dining at unique stores and gourmet restaurants? We invite you to The Wayside Inn where relaxation, gourmet breakfasts and access to historic Ellicott City await…

Announcing the New Miller Branch Library in Ellicott City (Quietly)

Gina — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 20:44:35 +0000

It would feel a bit strange to make a big, loud announcement about the new Charles E. Miller Branch Library & Historical Center, which opened in Ellicott City (about 5 minutes away from The Wayside Inn) on December 17th, 2011, so we’re making this quiet, unassuming post to share some interesting info about the newest library branch in the Howard County Library System (HCLS).

According to the HCLS website:

“A 21st Century facility for a 21st Century public education, the new Miller Branch matches the quality of the curriculum HCLS delivers through its three pillars: Self-Directed Education, Research Assistance & Instruction, and Instructive & Enlightening Experiences.

The branch features a collection of a quarter million items, 100 web accessible computers equipped with word processing software, and nine quiet study rooms. Classroom space includes a 3,000 sq. ft. meeting room that can be partitioned, an 800 sq. ft. children’s classroom, and a 700 sq. ft. Tech Lab. The Terrace Overlook allows customers to read and work outdoors while enjoying the green vegetated roof and views beyond.

The new Miller Branch will elevate Howard County and Maryland history education, bringing our heritage to life in unprecedented ways. The Historical Center vision includes a strengthened partnership between HCLS and the Howard County Historical Society, as well as other organizations, to leverage funding and expertise for enhanced research opportunities, classes, seminars, and events.

Also located at this branch, the innovative Enchanted Garden will focus on health, nutrition, and environmental education. Scheduled to open in May 2012, this outdoor teaching garden intends to “grow healthy habits” through wondrous experiences including frog statues, water features, and themed plant beds such as the Peter Rabbit patch, providing children and their families with the opportunity to learn about garden cultivation and nutrition.

Designed to achieve LEED Silver Certification from the United States Green Building Council, the energy efficient new Miller Branch includes 72 solar panels and ample natural light.”

Additionally, we’ve learned of this upcoming fundraiser at the Miller Branch Library:

February 25, 2012
Howard County Library, Miller Branch
7-11pm, Tickets are $100 each and may be purchased at the door.
Join us at Evening in the Stacks, the Library’s annual gala fundraiser. The event features a silent auction, fine food and drink, and a literary spotlight. For more information visit www.hclibrary.org

We recommend that when you’re in town, you make a visit this extraordinary new library. You won’t be disappointed.

We look forward to seeing you soon,
David and Susan Balderson
Innkeepers
The Wayside Inn
Ellicott City, MD
(410) 461-4636

(Miller Branch Library Photo Credit: Brandie Jefferson)

Enter to Win a Romantic Getaway…

Gina — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 21:03:07 +0000

Hmm…what romantic holiday is coming up soon? Yes, it’s almost Valentine’s Day! And we innkeepers love to facilitate the celebration of this special day. Most “BnB” owners are big romantics at heart, which is one of the reasons we got into this business in the first place (but that’s another blog post altogether…).

This year, just for Valentine’s Day, our friends at Sergio’s Jewelers in Ellicott City have put together some terrific specials offers: great gifts under $200, special discounts on fine jewelry and (drum roll, please…) stop by to enter to win a romantic getaway to The Wayside Inn! Isn’t that cool? We’re excited and honored to be part of this fun event.

For more information and contest restrictions (there are just a few), contact Sergio’s at 410-461-4400.

We wish you and yours a very happy Valentine’s Day!

We look forward to seeing you soon,
David and Susan Balderson
Innkeepers
The Wayside Inn
Ellicott City, MD
(410) 461-4636

“Sundays At Three” Concert Series

Gina — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 18:40:23 +0000

One Sunday a month at 3pm, various chamber musicians gather at the Christ Episcopal Church in Columbia, Maryland to play for local music enthusiasts as part of a concert series that’s aptly named: “Sundays At Three”.

The musicians who play include: “Baltimore Symphony Orchestra Members, Baltimore Chamber Orchestra Members, Guest Performers with U.S. and International Orchestras, Faculty of the Peabody Conservatory, Other Distinguished Teachers and All Active Chamber Musicians.” Wow, that’s impressive and I feel more worldly and sophisticated just reading this list.

And, not only are the musicians impressive, but so is cost: just $15 per show (and series subscriptions include discounts as well). That’s a lot of culture for such a low price.

It’s also worth mentioning that you can subscribe to receive email reminders from “Sundays At Three”, which arrive one week before each show and that concert tickets are available at the door.

Susan and I big music lovers and plan to enjoy one of the concerts soon. And, if you’re staying at The Inn during a “Sundays At Three” concert weekend, we encourage you to catch a performance!

We look forward to seeing you soon,
David and Susan Balderson
Innkeepers
The Wayside Inn
Ellicott City, MD
(410) 461-4636

Howard County Restaurant Weeks: January 16 – 30, 2012

Gina — Sat, 07 Jan 2012 15:07:12 +0000

Here’s some gastronomically great news: Winter Restaurant Weeks in Howard County begin on Monday, January 16 and run through Monday, January 30, 2012.

Howard County’s top restaurants and chefs are serving up savings and memorable dining experiences with international twists. With nearly 20 participating restaurants, residents and out-of-town guests can visit old favorites and try new local restaurants. Savor the best French, Italian, Latin, Asian, Eclectic, Continental cuisine and upscale English pub fare (right here in Howard County!) at fabulous prix fixe menus with prices ranging from $10.12 to $40.12 (Beverages, tax, gratuity are not included and promotions and menus vary.)

“From urban foodies to suburban families, Howard County’s exciting dining scene has something for every taste and at every budget, especially during winter Restaurant Weeks” says Rachelina Bonacci, Executive Director of Howard County Tourism & Promotion.

Participating restaurants include:
AIDA Bistro & Wine Bar
Azul 17- Mexican Cuisine & Tequila Lounge
Bistro Blanc
Café de Paris
Coho Grill
El Hidalgo
Elkridge Furnace Inn
Iron Bridge Wine Co.
Kelseys Restaurant & Catering
Ram’s Head Tavern
Ranazul Tapas & Wine Bistro
Stella Notte Restaurant
Tersiguel’s French Country Restaurant
The King’s Contrivance
The Melting Pot
The Woodstock Inn
Victoria Gastro Pub

For more information, give us a shout at (410) 461-4636. We’re always happy to talk about food!

We look forward to seeing you soon,
David and Susan Balderson
Innkeepers
The Wayside Inn
Ellicott City, MD
(410) 461-4636

Why Stay at B&B’s?

Gina — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 20:59:57 +0000

Well, one good reason is: because we get really lonely when nobody’s around! But seriously, there are many reasons people opt to stay at B&B’s including:

- You’re treated as a guest rather than a customer, and it shows. B&B’s are usually owner operated and the owners go out of their way to personalize your experience. Innkeepers help you locate the best new restaurant in town, fun places to visit (being social people, innkeepers have usually visited every attraction in town) and new happenings in the area.

- B&Bs provide a warm and cozy atmosphere that many traditional hotels (or your family’s guest bedroom) just can’t match. Think plush robes, luxurious sheets, and – in most rooms at The Wayside Inn – fireplaces.

- Enjoy the sounds of silence. It’s no secret that people choose B&B’s to get away from it all and, whether you need a night away from the family or a place to call home for a week, peace and quiet are big perks at B&B’s.

For more reasons why people stay at B&B’s, check out the Top 10 Reasons a B&B Beats Mom’s Lumpy Sofabed Any Day.

We look forward to seeing you soon,
David and Susan Balderson
Innkeepers
The Wayside Inn
Ellicott City, MD
(410) 461-4636

Hate Those Holiday Shopping Lines?

Gina — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 20:09:11 +0000

We do, too. And, have you noticed how packed the mall parking lots have been? Susan and I were thinking of just walking from The Inn to the Columbia Mall (4.25 miles) and saving ourselves the time and aggravation of trying to find a parking spot (and, if we parked in a satellite lot, our car might actually be 4.25 miles from the mall! )

Here’s an alternate way to shop this holiday season: purchase gift certificates to The Wayside Inn.

Who wouldn’t enjoy a day or two retreat at The Inn and a home-cooked breakfast whipped up and served by David?

We wish you and your family a very happy holiday season and, as always, we look forward to seeing you soon,
David and Susan Balderson
Innkeepers
The Wayside Inn
Ellicott City, MD
(410) 461-4636

By the Chimney with Care…

Gina — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 15:23:53 +0000

Well, once again, Susan and I assumed our seasonal jobs as elves and have been scurrying around The Inn putting up holiday decorations. We’ve put up the tree with the ornaments and lights, hung the wreaths in the windows and displayed our other decorations, including a reindeer donning sun glasses and a saxophone (hey, who says reindeer aren’t cool?). The vast majority of the decorations are natural and bring the freshness and scents from the outdoors in (Inn!).

Each year, we also try to make the holiday decor a little different and, as we grow older, it gets easier and easier to make things unique as we can’t remember how we put things up the year before! Age brings a small handful of benefits…

Come stop by The Wayside Inn to take in the decorations and cheer this holiday season!

We look forward to seeing you soon,
David and Susan Balderson
Innkeepers
The Wayside Inn
Ellicott City, MD
(410) 461-4636