My Kids Love These Learning Adventure Spots in Maryland

As a homeschooling mom of four, I prioritize learning from experiences, and my family especially enjoys learning while on adventures. I have found that my children retain what they learn so much more if they are having fun while learning. Fortunately, many places in Maryland offer families both fun adventures and good learning opportunities. From hiking trails to beaches to historic sites, here are our 5 favorite learning adventure spots in Maryland:

Washington Monument State Park—Middletown, MD

Erected in 1827, the monument at Washington Monument State Park is a rugged stone tower at the top of South Mountain. It is the first completed monument dedicated to the memory of George Washington. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower and take in gorgeous views of the surrounding area. You might even see migratory birds like eagles, falcons, and hawks.

You can park at a nearby parking lot and take the short but steep walk up to the top. There are placards along the paved path about the life and accomplishments of George Washington. Or, if you are feeling more adventurous, you can park further down the trail and hike part of the Appalachian Trail before arriving at the monument. 

 Assateague Island National Seashore—Berlin, MD

Here, families can swim in the Atlantic Ocean, go fishing and clamming, camp by the ocean, and most notably, enjoy watching the wild horses in their natural habitat that live and roam this area. Seeing one of the feral horses walking along the beach or through the campsite will be something everyone in the family will also remember.

In addition to these fun adventure opportunities, families can also learn about the wild horses and other wildlife that live here by completing the Junior Ranger program or by attending a guided bayside kayak tour. 

The Underground Railroad Experience Trail—Sandy Spring

The Underground Railroad Experience Trail is located at Woodlawn Manor Cultural Park. The trail is almost four miles roundtrip and takes you on a journey similar to one that enslaved people went on when they were trying to escape slavery through the Underground Railroad.

You walk through wooden areas and past hollowed trees that may have been used to hide food or sleep in overnight, as well as property markers that may have been used as a trail marker for freedom seekers. This stop allows your family to spend a few hours active in nature while getting a firsthand experience and a better understanding of American history. 

Eden Mill Nature Center & Historic Grist Mill Museum—Pylesville, MD

Eden Mill Nature Center is an ideal spot for outdoor adventurists or a family just wanting a day to connect with nature.

There are 3 miles of hiking trails, paths for nature walks along the water, and a launch for kayaks and canoes in Deer Creek. After a day of adventuring, you can then explore the amazing nature center that features live animals, multiple displays about the animals in the area, and even a children’s play area.

You can also take a self-guided tour of the historic grist mill museum, which was constructed in the early 1800’s and today is filled with historic equipment and placards explaining how the mill was used throughout its rich history.   

Fort McHenry National Monument—Baltimore, MD

Fort McHenry is the location of the Battle of Baltimore, which was fought in September 1814, and inspired Francis Scott Key to write a poem that later became the United States’ national anthem. Your family can explore the fort, participate in the Junior Ranger program, and may even have an opportunity to raise a replica of the original Star-Spangled Banner. In between learning about this piece of American history, you can also walk around the grounds, including a path that circles the fort along the water’s edge.

No matter which of these amazing adventure learning spots you choose, you and your children will have a great time being active, connecting with nature, and learning something new.

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Feature Photo Credit: Alison Humphreys