Some of the best travel memories aren't planned. They're the ones you stumble into completely by…read moreaccident. While spending Fourth of July weekend on a solo adventure in St. Michaels, I decided to drive over to Oxford after hearing it was worth exploring. I found a parking spot, got out of my car and started taking in the waterfront. That's when I realized I had parked directly beside the Oxford terminal of the Oxford-Bellevue Ferry. I hadn't researched the ferry. Honestly...I didn't even know it existed. As I stood there trying to figure out what exactly I was looking at, I noticed a sign advertising a special fireworks cruise that very evening. The ferry would head out onto the water so passengers could watch Oxford's Fourth of July fireworks from the river. The price? Twelve whole dollars. I just stood there staring at the sign thinking..."Wait...THIS is a thing?!" There was only one problem. The ferry was leaving in about two hours. And I didn't have a ticket. And there was no one around. I immediately pulled out my phone to buy a ticket, but online sales had already closed, which made complete sense. I figured I'd missed my chance. While I was standing there wondering what to do next, a gentleman happened to walk by. I asked if he knew anything about the ferry and whether there was any chance I could still get a ticket. As it turns out...he was the captain. Because apparently that's just how my adventures go! He smiled, told me there would probably still be room for walk-on passengers and suggested I come back closer to departure time. Challenge accepted! I set an alarm, spent the next couple of hours wandering around Oxford and made absolutely sure I was back at the terminal when he told me to return. Sure enough...they welcomed me aboard! I happily paid for my ticket and climbed onto the ferry with one thought running through my head. "I cannot believe this is actually happening." What followed was one of the coolest travel experiences I've ever had! Watching fireworks explode over the water from the deck of a ferry was something I didn't even know belonged on my bucket list until I experienced it. The reflections dancing across the river...The darkness surrounding the boat... The fireworks exploding so close that you could actually feel the booms in your chest...It was absolutely magical! I honestly don't know if I spent more time watching the fireworks or grinning from ear to ear. What made the experience even more memorable, though, wasn't just the fireworks. It was the people. The crew didn't have to find room for one random traveler who showed up without a reservation two hours before departure. But they did. Every person I interacted with was welcoming, kind and genuinely happy to help make my evening happen. I don't know if they realized it at the time, but they created one of my favorite memories from my entire Fourth of July weekend. PRO TIP: If you're visiting Oxford, look at the ferry schedule before you arrive. Whether you're taking your vehicle across to Bellevue, walking on as a passenger or getting lucky enough to catch one of their special event cruises, don't make the same mistake I did and discover it by accident. Although...maybe a little bit of serendipity is part of the magic. The next time I'm back in Oxford, riding the Oxford-Bellevue Ferry will already be on my itinerary. Next time, though...I'll actually know it's there!

This short and fun ferry trip was made even better by the fact that they're dog friendly! Kallie…read moreand I walked on from the Bellevue side, had lunch in Oxford, and then went back a few hours later. Staff was super friendly and even took a few pictures for me. Highly recommend!

My fiancé and I stayed for a weekend getaway. If you're looking for a relaxing and quiet escape,…read morethis is the perfect place! The scenery was breathtaking and the service was excellent. It's a perfect secluded environment right on the bay with some of the best sunset views. The staff were both respectful of our privacy and very attentive if we ever needed anything. My absolute favorite part was the coffee drop-off every morning. It was an extra touch that made the mornings effortlessly relaxing with a cup of coffee while you watched the boats putt around the bay.

What an absolutely lovely place to get away. The room was cozy, the screened porch was a dream, the…read morelawn with Adirondak and lounge chairs was so inviting, the staff were friendly and helpful, and the location was peaceful and serene. The 7am coffee-and-treats delivery was a welcome surprise and made lazy mornings that much more possible. I could honestly have sat on that porch all day and night. The town is sweet, and not far from Easton/St. Michaels if you need a little more "action". I would absolutely return and will recommend to my friends and family. Thank you for a lovely vacation!

Once a year its "Tilghmans Island Day" at the firehouse and Kronsberg Park with oysters, crabs, and…read moreshrimp benefitting the Tilghmans volunteer fire department. If you truly love seafood this is the festival for you. This is the day of celebrating the Chesapeake Bay waterman and seafood with work boat racing, anchor throwing, crab eating contests, oyster shucking, and boat docking. Tilghman's island is only 3 miles long and is located about 11 miles from St. Michaels, and is an old fishing village. If you have never been to Tilghmans Island its cool to see the "W" houses which is a unique architectural style to the island. The Knapp's Narrows drawbridge is the busiest drawbridge in the nation and averages over 10 k openings per year. If you have never seen a skipjack Tilghman Island has the oldest working skipjack on the Chesapeake Bay built in 1886 over at Dogwood Harbor. The music was great this year with Birddog and the Road Kings in the park and picking/eating crabs. The Tilghman on the Chesapeake Yacht club was a beautiful place to watch the work boat racing and most breathtaking view of the Choptank River and Harris Creek. FYI 1 dozen crabs were $35.00,

one of the many small islands that sits at the edge of chesapeake bay. we came to watch the sunset…read moreand that we saw, as well as many old school farm houses, farm animals, and even an old school gas station. i think the gas station was the highlight of my short trip here since i'd never seen an old school gas station. there were one or two restaurants here, but they appeared pretty quiet, even for a sunday evening. generally speaking, pretty barren, at least in the wintertime. will have to try coming back in the summertime to see if things liven up here.

As another reviewer stated, the H.M Krentz is a working skipjack. Capt. Ed is a working oysterman…read morewho provides tours leaving from the Chesapeake Maritime Museum. His willingness to share his deep knowledge of the history and ecosystem of Chesapeake Bay and oyster industry made the two hour sailing cruise go by too quickly! The small boat makes for a great sailing experience. The sound of the water and no engine was very peaceful.

Spent a beautiful afternoon on the H.M Krentz, a working skipjack. Capt. Ed is a working oysterman…read morewho provides tours leaving from the Chesapeake Maritime Museum. He is extremely knowledgeable and and gave us a clear picture of the history, ecosystem and challenges faced by the Chesapeake Bay and oyster industry. His perspective as a working waterman added a perspective that tours conducted by those not immersed in the issues can lack. The sail was 2 hours long and included a dredging demonstration. This is someone who clearly loves what they do and it shows. The price was reasonable and despite being a native Marylander who tries to keep up with Bay concerns, I learned a great deal. I hope to be back soon.

Had such a fun experience here on a girls trip!…read more Checking in was a breeze. They had my keys (yes old school keys!!) in a little envelope and the staff was so efficient and friendly. Plus there was bubbly!! My room was on the second floor facing the bay and it was so dreamy. The room was spacious and comfortable. My only complaint is that there wasn't any outlets close to the bed to be able to charge my devices, so I had to do it in the bathroom. We swam in the pool, played bocce and cornhole, used the paddle boards (watch out for jellyfish and sharks!!), and bought s'mores supplies to roast around the fire pits. I loved being able to walk around barefoot as their grass is so soft. The Breakfast spread was pretty typical of a hotel -- muffins, bagels, oatmeal, cereal, yogurt, fruit, and hot coffee.

I'm so late in posting this review and was reminded to do so when I went to look into booking…read moreanother stay with my family for this summer. In October, I stayed in the Wylder Hotel for a quick weekend away. It was my first time and I have to say it was the most relaxing and peaceful trip. The hotel's property is spacious and beautiful with a stunning view of the water. There are fire pits around the property to gather around, have a drink, roast marshmallows or just watch the sun go down. There is also a restaurant attached to the hotel which was perfect for having drinks and dinner at for a resort kind of vibe. The sauna on the property with a cold water plunge was incredible! You can sign up at the front desk for your session. The pool is another amazing amenity on the property to add to relaxation and fun. In the morning, there is a continental breakfast prepared. You are able to take your coffee and/ breakfast to any of the seating options. I found some really comfortable couches outside that were perfect to wake up to. They supply a bunch of community games as well. The room I stayed in was was on the smaller side. However, it didn't impact my stay. The bed was comfortable! The room was clean. The staff were extremely helpful and friendly. Like I said, I'm making another trip back but this time with my family and I can't wait to show them around and have a fun and peaceful weekend with them as well.

We have been wanting to go Fossil hunting in Calvert County for years ! So glad we decided to go…read morewith Paul instead of attempting this exploration by ourselves! Paul is a wealth of information not only about fossils but also about Calvert County history. We had such a great time and look forward to the next adventure!

My boys and I had a fantastic day with Paul Murdoch! I have one child in elementary school and…read moreanother in high school, and both had an amazing time. Paul shared his deep knowledge of fossils and history in a way that was engaging for both of them. He's a true expert fossil hunter--he spotted things we never would have seen on our own! Before the outing, we also had the chance to visit his office and explore his incredible fossil collection. Paul communicated clearly and promptly leading up to the day, which made everything smooth and easy. We're already looking forward to our next adventure. Thank you so much, Paul!

Our Winter Storm Accommodations have been the content of GREAT Retiree Off-Season RoadTrip Stories…read more Guest Relations and Hospitality Comfort recognized by a seasoned Traveller. Short Drive to North Beach; a walk to one of Our Favorites: Ketch22; or DELICIOUS Chesapeake Market & Deli, across the street.- Deale, Edgewater and, just beyond, Annapolis, a short drive up Route 2. Third Sunday @ Honey's Harvest, on Sunday! Loving the Winter "Experience" at The Inn.

I had such an amazing stay here over the 4th of July weekend. I stayed in the Osprey Suite and I…read moretruly enjoyed it. Full kitchen, balcony overlooking the Marina, a nice dining and living room space and spacious King and Queen size bed rooms. The suite was clean. Private parking area, fire pit, grill and a huge back space. Beautiful pool, especially at night where it appears to glow. Gym and fitness center. Ketchup 22 is a wonderful eating establishment for all of your dining needs. Plenty of activities to do with the family and children. I especially enjoyed the "Movie on the Beach". Beautiful night sky with hundreds of stars, cool ocean breeze and the calming sound of the waves. Amazing. And a special thank you to Kim Cobbs, whose smile, warmth, courtesy and professional hospitality and service was the cherry on top of this beautiful experience. I will definitely be back again and again!

My friend and I took a tour w Spooky Solomon's & was fantastic! We heard lots of wonderful…read morehistorical info with a splash of spooky fun. Easy walk for people with limitations. Highly recommend!

Adam is an engaging storyteller. He did an excellent job intertwining the history of Solomons…read moreIsland's history with its mysteries and ghostly past. He even shared a more recent story of intrigue that was an interesting surprise. I learned a lot about the area and enjoyed the full 2 hr tour. Definitely a fun 2 hours..