20 Best & Fun Things to Do in Solomons (MD)

Solomons is a beautiful unincorporated community within Calvert County, Maryland. It has a history that goes way back to the Revolutionary Era of the United States.

This census-designated community is nestled at the entrance of the gorgeous Patuxent River into the Chesapeake Bay. It is a well-known leisure destination for people living in Washington D.C. and Baltimore.

This area is well known for its maintained historic Drum Point Lighthouse, offering an opportunity for exploring the lighthouse via guided tours provided by the Calvert Marine Museum.

Solomons has been acknowledged as one of the country’s most cheerful coastal communities, renowned for its delectable seafood restaurants, premium fishing charter choices, and beautiful gardens. 

Here are the top things to do in Solomons, MD.

Things to Do in Solomons, MD

1. Annmarie Sculpture Garden and Arts Center

The Annmarie Sculpture Garden and Arts Center, a prime cultural attraction in Solomons Island, is situated on a stunning 30 acres of landscaped grounds in the central part of the city. The exploration of this Center should be on your itinerary of what to do in Solomons, MD.

This sculpture park connected with the Smithsonian aims to link residents and visitors on vacation with Arts and nature via diverse, intriguing, permanent, and rotating exhibits.

When you visit, be sure to tour the ¼-mile walking track in the park, which winds through forest areas filled with sculptural works by artists from national and regional levels.

More than 30 artworks are in the garden and were borrowed from establishments like the Smithsonian Institution and the National Gallery of Art. The acclaimed Arts Building in the center displays indoor exhibits and houses a guest patio and gift store.

Address: 13470 Dowell Rd, Solomons, MD 20688, United States

2. Carmen’s Gallery

Carmen’s Gallery is a beautiful art gallery situated in historical Solomons Island. It displays the artworks of international and local artists whose works span different artistic disciplines.

The Gallery is the leading home for artistic works by Carmen Lee, Jo Barry, Marius Zabinski, and Nance Gambrill, who are acknowledged as outstanding artists in their respective disciplines. 

When you visit the Gallery, take your time to explore the paintings, sculptural works, poetry, clothing, jewelry, and fabric artworks showcased all year round in their beautiful waterfront showroom.

Visitors can have their purchased paintings framed for them on the same day of purchase. Their staff are super friendly and always available to answer any questions you have concerning purchasing any piece.

Address: 14550 Solomons Island Rd S #466, Solomons, MD 20688, United States

3. The Calvert Marine Museum

The Museum protects part of the three only surviving screw-pile lighthouses in Chesapeake Bay. They were initially built during the 1850s at Drum Point to guide vessels passing through the entrance of the Patuxent River.

The lighthouse was in operation until 1962, when it stopped operations and was substituted with a stationary offshore light. After ten years of abandonment, the Calvert County Historical Society reclaimed and repaired the structure.

In 1978, the Society opened the lighthouse as a historic exhibit at their public museum. Currently, guided tours are available in the Museum all year round.

When you visit, you can go through the conserved logbooks whose history dates from 1883 to 1943, giving you a peek into the daily activities of the lighthouse keeper.

There are various other displays inside the Museum, such as the Tennyson buoy boat and Dee skipjack vessel. Exploring the Calvert Marine Museum is one of the top things to do in Solomons, MD.

Address: 14275 Solomons Island Rd S, Solomons, MD 20688, United States

4. No Thyme to Cook

No Thyme to Cook is an innovative culinary school at historic Bowen’s Inn in Solomons. It was originally built in 1918 by Mortimer Bowen. 

In its prime days, the restaurant and Inn emerged as a well-known meeting place for prominent persons in Washington, D.C., such as John F. Kennedy, Arthur Godfrey, Harry Truman, and Sam Rayburn. 

Despite the Inn being destroyed by fire in 2006, a modern kitchen facility was built in 2018 at its lot, featuring a cooking institute managed by the fourth-generation members of the Bowen family.

This restaurant offers a vast selection of weekly and one-time options for culinary courses tailored for both adults and children. These classes encompass different themes, including craft brew, sushi courses, and local French cuisine courses.

Address: 14624 Solomons Island Road S, Solomons, MD 20688, United States

5. Miss Susie Charters

 

Miss Susie Charters is led by Captain Greg Buckner, who hails from St. Mary’s County in Maryland. This charter company provides trips on the Chesapeake Bay’s waters from mid-April till late November.

Their excursions begin from Solomons Island’s Happy Harbor Marina, Point Crab House and Grill, and Point Lookout Marina.

All their trips take place on the Miss Susie II. A customized Markley Meekins charter boat that can accommodate about 29 people and can move at 18 knots of speed. 

Amenities inside this boat include a large heated cabin that can accommodate about nine persons. It also has a dinette and a private head, a well-equipped cockpit with GPS, radar services, C.B., and VHF radio.

 Address: 105 Charles St, Solomons, MD 20688, United States

6. Spring Cove Marina

Spring Cove Marina is usually regarded as one of the best marinas in Chesapeake Bay. It provides a unique boating experience for visitors on the gorgeous shores of Solomons, giving it a reputation as one of the best places to visit in Solomons, MD.

This family-oriented Marina provides modern amenities inside its complete-service boatyard, comprehensive mechanical maintenance and repair services, customized marine services, and a fifty-ton travel lift for haul-out services.

The family-friendly Marina offers upscale amenities within its full-service boatyard, including complete mechanical repair and maintenance services, custom marine services, and a 50-ton travel lift haul-out service.

Full or half-day boat rentals are available at the Marina, allowing visitors to discover the Patuxent River in exclusive accommodation.

Their whole-day boat rental encompasses various marine services, the Marina’s picnic sites, poolside bar, pool, and private restrooms.

Address: Lore Rd, Solomons, MD 20688, United States

7. Half Shell Adventures

Half Shell Adventures is a charming private charter establishment that provides diverse opportunities for visitors to discover Southern Maryland’s waterways.

The vessels managed by this company are all available for scheduled chartered events, inviting visitors and groups with a maximum of 40 passengers to explore the waters.

Their tours include Happy Hour cruises each Thursday evening, featuring specialty cocktails, beers, and wines. Visitors can enjoy beautiful vistas of the Patuxent River and Chesapeake Bay’s water from the expansive 54-foot deck.

Additionally, visitors can venture out to the seas for oyster and crab feasts, collaborating with nature caterers and seafood restaurants to provide the finest offerings from the region’s waters.

Address:14624 Solomons Island Road S, Solomons, MD 20688, United States

8. Sail Solomons

For five years, Sail Solomons has been conferred the title of ASA Outstanding School, providing ASA certification sailing instruction and leisure yacht charters on the Chesapeake Bay’s waters. 

Husband and wife duo Jeff and Kami Carisen own this luxury yacht charter company. It is known to be one of the region’s finest sailing schools, offering a comprehensive selection of sailing courses and on-water instruction time.

Sail Solomons provides different sailing courses for beginners, intermediate, and professional students looking forward to refining their skills in a one-on-one personal instructional setting.

Most of their courses are done on weekends, with one-time course options that are ideal for visitors vacationing in the area. Additionally, visitors can hire any of the company’s well-equipped yachts for charter trips on the waters of Chesapeake Bay while on vacation.

Address: 245 C St, Solomons, MD 20688, United States

9. Lighthouse Restaurant and Dock Bar

Since 2014, Lighthouse Restaurant and Dock Bay has provided its guests with tasty seafood and steak foods in Chesapeake Bay. They are situated along the famous Solomon’s Maryland Crab and Oyster Trail.

Lighthouse Restaurant and Dock Bay is prominent for its top-notch offerings, welcoming environment, and expansive drink menu, which features specialty locally crafted beers and specialty cocktails.

Various offerings from their raw bar and gourmet seafood house specialties can be enjoyed with a vast range of exceptional shareable appetizers. Dining at this Restaurant is one of the best things to do in Solomons, MD.

Fried buffalo oysters, crab dip potato skins, ahi tuna nachos, and Sriracha-infused crab towers are delightful offerings you should try. Outdoor seating is provided seasonally, providing a scenic view of the Patuxent River.

Address: 14636 Solomons Island Rd S, Solomons, MD 20688, United States

10. Calvert Cliffs

Another exciting place not to miss out on is the Calvert Cliffs. Despite its location being outside the city, many visitors still explore this attraction before they leave town.

Following a two-mile hike through what looks like an ancient forest, you will reach a chalky white cliff by the Chesapeake Bay.

The beach is a popular location amongst fossil hunters. There is always something fascinating to discover, perhaps even an ancient shark’s teeth.

Calvert Cliffs State Park offers sifters and spades for visitors to use. However, most dedicated people come with theirs. Besides this, you can sit and relish the natural beauty of Chesapeake Bay.

Address: 10540 H G Trueman Rd, Lusby, MD, USA

11. Perigeaux Vineyards & Winery

The wine industry in Southern Maryland has been thriving. If you are a wine enthusiast, ensure to visit Perigeaux Vineyards & Winery. Saturdays at the winery are fascinating as live music or yoga entertain visitors.

You can try out their French-inspired wines and relish the beautiful views of the vineyards when in the mini-tasting room.

The atmosphere there is welcoming, and the staff are friendly. You can also come with your picnic snacks if you want to.

Address: 8650 Mackall Rd, St Leonard, MD 20685, United States

12. Cone Island Ice Cream Shop

 

The Cone Island Ice Cream Shop is situated on the Solomons Island Boardwalk, adjacent to the playground.

Despite the short boardwalk, there is no feeling that beats enjoying a cup of soft serve ice cream on a summer day while you stroll beside the water while the sun sets.

Cone Island Ice Cream Shop is a go-to store for anyone seeking to satisfy their sweet tooth craving. Their ice cream is delicious and is quickly served after you make an order.

There are different flavors of ice cream for you to choose from, and prices are pocket-friendly for everyone.

You can bring your kids with you to have fun playing at the playground while you relax on a bench to relish the spectacular views in sight.

Address:14441 Solomons Island Road S, Solomons, MD 20688, United States

13. Bunky’s Charter Boats, Inc.

Since 1989, Bunky’s Charter Boats has been a notable family-operated fishing charter company in Solomons Island, providing guests with all they need to enjoy fishing on the Chesapeake Bay’s waters.

This company has about 18 boats for visitors to hire for their fishing escapades, crabbing, and cruising on the waterways of the Patuxent River.

All their boats are outfitted with properly maintained Johnson Outboards. Completely furnished charter boats are available for daily hire with professional captains and first mates to guide visitors.

Visitors are driven to a range of waterfront restaurants for dinner cruises in this area. Most of the restaurants in the neighborhood provide gourmet foods prepared from locally sourced seafood.

Address: 14448 Solomons Island Rd S, Solomons, MD 20688, United States

14. Chesapeake Biological Laboratory

The Chesapeake Biological Laboratory, located within Solomons Island, is an affiliate of the University of Maryland’s Center for Environmental Science.

The Laboratory is situated at the intersection between Patuxent and Chesapeake Bay. It is the longest surviving publicly funded marine Laboratory on the East Coast.

Since its inception in 1925, this Laboratory has been a national pioneer in estuarine ecology, neurochemistry toxicology, and fisheries for over ninety years.

There is a visitor center inside the Chesapeake Biological Laboratory that can be accessed by the general public, where people can learn about their work concerning healthy waterways and marine ecosystems. 

Address: 146 Williams St, Solomons, MD 20688, United States

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15. Solomons Islands Heritage Tours

 

Solomons Islands Heritage provides Chesapeake Bay tours through four Coast Guard-licensed boats that can accommodate six people. Going on this tour is one of the fun things to do in Solomons, MD.

During the tours, visitors will see Chesapeake watermen fishing for oysters, blue crabs, and finfish while aboard the fishing vessel.

Visitors will get the chance to have firsthand knowledge about gears and techniques, as well as crab pots, trotlines, and oyster dredges.

Their tour options encompass crab streams, area lighthouse tours, and recreational days that offer watersports and birding opportunities along the area’s waterfront.

Solomons Islands Heritage Tours is ideal for every family visiting the Solomons Island area as they cordially invite kids and well-behaved pets on every one of their trips.

Address: Solomons Boardwalk, Solomons, MD 20688, United States

16. Kingfisher’s Seafood

Are you craving seafood dishes? If yes, one of the best places to visit in Solomons, MD, is the Kingfisher’s Seafood.

The seafood restaurant offers a friendly ambiance where you can enjoy a variety of seafood dishes with families and friends, together with an excellent, friendly, welcoming staff.

Kingfisher’s Seafood offers guests different seafood classics ranging from crab cakes and rockfish to fried oysters, including a raw bar menu, scallops, and tuna.

The restaurant has minimal outdoor seating, making it challenging to reserve a spot right by the water. However, the indoor dining spaces offer views of the harbor.

Address: 14442 Solomons Island Rd S, Solomons, MD 20688, United States

17. Cruising Tikis Solomon Island

Still wondering what to do in Solomons, MD? This boat tour agency provides boat tours on a tik boat for visitors seeking to explore the Patuxent River and surrounding areas.

When you visit, you will be welcomed by their friendly and professional captain, who will lead you through a safety talk and the tour plans.

Upon boarding the boat, you and five of your dearest friends and family members will relax in an exclusive floating tiki hut equipped with cozy seating and a shaded canopy to shield you from the sun’s rays.

Visitors are sure to have the best experience on their different cruises, which are ideal for whichever occasion you have planned out. They also have a friendly staff that will ensure you enjoy your stay while on board.

Address: Solomons, Maryland

18. Jerry’s Subs and Pizza

Jerry’s Subs and Pizza is a fast-casual eatery famous for its pizzas and sandwiches in the entire Washington, D.C area. With 28 locations spread across Maryland and Virginia, this eatery also has its location in Solomon Island.

The restaurant began operations in 1954. It is well known for its sizable food portions, famous New York-style pizza, and superb cheesesteak sandwiches.

Top-notch ingredients are the focal point of every dish this eatery serves, presenting creative cheesesteak options filled with ingredients such as fried jalapenos, provolone cheese, and pepperoni.

Their sub-options span from tuna subs to chicken sandwiches dipped in buffalo sauce, whereas their pizza choices feature varieties, such as pie topped with crab cake.

Address: 13962 Solomons Island Rd S, Solomons, MD 20688, United States

19. Solomons Island Boat Launch

One of the fun things to do in Solomons, MD, is tidal water fishing. As such, an ideal place to visit is the Solomons Island Boat Launch.

This boat ramp and fishing pier are available for public use throughout the day. The Solomons Boat Ramp and Fishing Center manages the Solomons Island Boat Launch.

The boat launch provides easy access to the water, allowing visitors to do some fishing and crabbing. A Chesapeake Bay & Coastal Sport fishing license is needed by visitors aged 16 and above.

Address: 14195 Solomons Island Road S, Solomons, MD 20688, United States

20. The Tiki Bar

The Tiki Bar is a seasonal alfresco lounge open to the public from the third Friday of April till October. They are renowned for their Mai Tais, fresh, delicious foods, weekend parties, welcoming atmosphere, events, and live music.

The atmosphere to meet there when you visit is filled with energy. They offer a great selection of delicious foods for you and everyone you come with to enjoy.

If you are searching for a place to host your family or friends for a delightful meal in Solomons, this is an ideal place to be. Their services are excellent, and their staff is friendly as well. Visiting this Bar is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Solomons, MD.

Address W1: 85 Charles St, Solomons, MD 20688, United States

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Plan Your Trip to Solomons

Solomons is a beautiful community with many fascinating attractions that will pique any traveler’s interest. It features many marinas, gift stores, a sculpture garden, seafood restaurants, and many other exciting attractions for you to explore. Do visit!