Take a Road Trip on the Chesapeake Country National Scenic Byway

Maybe we're a bit biased, but we think Maryland's Eastern Shore is pretty spectacular – from its picturesque waterfronts and quaint historic towns to its recreation sites and pristine natural areas. Travelers looking for an epic adventure can take the Chesapeake Country National Scenic Byway to explore the area's rich history, culture and landscapes. The route will lead you through pastoral farmlands, wildlife preserves and bayside waters, providing an oasis of tranquility away from the distractions of everyday life.

The full length of the Chesapeake Country National Scenic Byway runs 419 miles, stretching from Chesapeake City south to Crisfield and Smith Island. You could spend days exploring the beauty of the tidewater region along the entire byway. We suggest a manageable one-day itinerary that showcases the Upper Eastern Shore section from our historic inn down to Kent Island.

Your scenic byway journey begins right here in Chesapeake City, where you can look out over the 14-mile-long C&D Canal, the busiest canal in the United States and third busiest in the world. Watch ships from all over the world come and go, dwarfing the Victorian homes and shops along the canal's banks. A great place to learn about this 165-year-old treasured waterway is at the C&D Canal Museum, which depicts the history and operation of the canal connecting the Chesapeake and Delaware bays.

After a restful night's sleep at the Inn at the Canal, you're ready to hit the road. From Chesapeake City, take Maryland Route 213 south through the impressive scenery of Cecil County. As you cross the Bohemia River and enter Cecilton, plan a stop at Crystal Beach near Earleville. Once home to a summer resort in the early 20th century, it's now a quiet, sandy beach where you can dip your toes in the Elk River. Also in the Earleville area is Mount Harmon Plantation. This 200-acre Colonial-era tobacco plantation, featuring a manor house, formal gardens and walking trails, is on a peninsula surrounded by the Sassafras River.

Continue on to Kennedyville, where you will find Crow Vineyard and Winery, an award-winning winery and third-generation working farm located on 365 acres. Visit their tasting room for a few samples of wine and a bite to eat. Also in Kennedyville is the Kent Museum, where you'll learn about Kent County's agricultural heritage with displays of antique tractors, horse-drawn sleds and household equipment.

Veer southwest to Chestertown to visit the Schooner Sultana, a working reproduction of a 1786 British sailing vessel. The area that extends from Chestertown through Centreville and into Queenstown is famous for its large number of fine antiques shops. Along the way, make a stop at the Museum of Eastern Shore Life to admire an eclectic collection of artifacts ranging from a log canoe to early hand tools. From Queenstown, make your way to Kent Island, the largest island in the Chesapeake Bay. You'll find a number of delicious dining options here where you can refuel before your trek back to the Inn at the Canal. Finish the day with a night cap in our Rummur Lounge before retiring to your luxurious guest room to reflect on the day's adventure along the scenic byway.