Think you know all about Maryland? If you’ve visited all of our major attractions, consider heading to these hidden gems next. These 9 places are under the radar but are so worth seeking out. From secret state parks to glorious gardens, here are 9 beautiful Maryland locations you probably didn’t know existed.

  1. Brighton Dam Azalea Garden (Brookeville)

Google / Stacey Briles Head to this park during spring when the azaleas bloom bold and bright. The surrounding water views add to the beauty. This attraction is set to re-open fall 2018.

Address: 111 Brighton Dam Rd, Brookeville, MD 20833

  1. National Shrine Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes (Emmitsburg)

Facebook / National Shrine Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes Head to this hidden shrine to explore, pray, or meditate among nature. Various sculptures and springs are sprinkled throughout the grounds, providing an inspiring environment for ultimate serenity.

Address: 16330 Grotto Rd, Emmitsburg, MD 21727

  1. Purse State Park (Marbury)

Flickr / F Delventhal This underrated gem is perfect for fossil hunting, especially when it comes to shark teeth. If you want to avoid crowds, head here during the off-season (rather than summer months).

Address: 2750 Sweden Point Rd, Marbury, MD 20658

  1. Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge (Rock Hall)

Flickr / Chesapeake Bay Program Be sure to bring your binoculars when visiting this wildlife refuge. There’s an abundance of animals to see, especially birds. Bring a kayak to experience the sights from the water.

Address: 1730 Eastern Neck Rd, Rock Hall, MD 21661

  1. Ladew Topiary Gardens (Monkton)

Flickr / Fred Schroeder Whimsical hedges await at this unique garden in Maryland. Spend the day posing for photos among the different gardens and keep an open mind.

Address: 3535 Jarrettsville Pike, Monkton, MD 21111

  1. Greenwell State Park (Hollywood)

Google / Amy Luong This spot is located along the Patuxent River so it’s perfect for kayaking or canoeing. There are plenty of trails to explore, even equestrian routes, so you may spot horses. Spend the day fishing, picnicking, and more.

Address: 25420 Rosedale Manor Ln, Hollywood, MD 20636

  1. Lilypons Water Gardens (Adamstown)

Facebook / Lilypons Water Gardens You don’t have to own a water garden to appreciate this gorgeous spot. Simply stroll the property, which is packed full of colorful water lilies and more. It’s a great place for a photo op.

Address: 6800 Lily Pons Rd, Adamstown, MD 21710

  1. Cedarville State Forest (Brandywine)

Flickr / F Delventhal This state forest is gorgeous year-round but it’s at its best during autumn months. Fall foliage lines the trails and ponds, making for plenty of peaceful places to take in the beauty.

Address: 10201 Bee Oak Rd, Brandywine, MD 20613

  1. Sugarloaf Mountain (Frederick Maryland)

Flickr / William F. Yurasko Sugarloaf Mountain can be appreciated from afar or up close. Hike this natural gem straight to the top and enjoy the views down below.

Would you like to learn more about southern Maryland’s attractions? Then check out this list!

Google / Stacey Briles

Head to this park during spring when the azaleas bloom bold and bright. The surrounding water views add to the beauty. This attraction is set to re-open fall 2018.

Address: 111 Brighton Dam Rd, Brookeville, MD 20833

Facebook / National Shrine Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes

Head to this hidden shrine to explore, pray, or meditate among nature. Various sculptures and springs are sprinkled throughout the grounds, providing an inspiring environment for ultimate serenity.

Address: 16330 Grotto Rd, Emmitsburg, MD 21727

Flickr / F Delventhal

This underrated gem is perfect for fossil hunting, especially when it comes to shark teeth. If you want to avoid crowds, head here during the off-season (rather than summer months).

Address: 2750 Sweden Point Rd, Marbury, MD 20658

Flickr / Chesapeake Bay Program

Be sure to bring your binoculars when visiting this wildlife refuge. There’s an abundance of animals to see, especially birds. Bring a kayak to experience the sights from the water.

Address: 1730 Eastern Neck Rd, Rock Hall, MD 21661

Flickr / Fred Schroeder

Whimsical hedges await at this unique garden in Maryland. Spend the day posing for photos among the different gardens and keep an open mind.

Address: 3535 Jarrettsville Pike, Monkton, MD 21111

Google / Amy Luong

This spot is located along the Patuxent River so it’s perfect for kayaking or canoeing. There are plenty of trails to explore, even equestrian routes, so you may spot horses. Spend the day fishing, picnicking, and more.

Address: 25420 Rosedale Manor Ln, Hollywood, MD 20636

Facebook / Lilypons Water Gardens

You don’t have to own a water garden to appreciate this gorgeous spot. Simply stroll the property, which is packed full of colorful water lilies and more. It’s a great place for a photo op.

Address: 6800 Lily Pons Rd, Adamstown, MD 21710

This state forest is gorgeous year-round but it’s at its best during autumn months. Fall foliage lines the trails and ponds, making for plenty of peaceful places to take in the beauty.

Address: 10201 Bee Oak Rd, Brandywine, MD 20613

Flickr / William F. Yurasko

Sugarloaf Mountain can be appreciated from afar or up close. Hike this natural gem straight to the top and enjoy the views down below.

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