Maryland is a hidden gem for summer travelers and photography enthusiasts alike. From its picturesque shorelines to its historic cities, the Old Line State offers a diverse range of landscapes that make it an ideal destination for capturing stunning images.
Whether you’re photographing the wild horses of Assateague Island, the bustling waterfront of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, or the breathtaking waterfalls of Great Falls, Maryland’s summer beauty is endless. The variety of natural scenery, urban settings, and cultural events ensures that every photographer—whether professional or hobbyist—has something spectacular to shoot.
Beyond its natural beauty, Maryland comes alive with summer festivals, vibrant cityscapes, and rich history waiting to be explored. Stroll through the cobblestone streets of Annapolis, catch a sunrise over the Chesapeake Bay, or embark on a scenic drive through the rolling hills of Western Maryland. With so many diverse photography opportunities, a well-planned trip can result in a stunning portfolio of images showcasing everything from wildlife and architecture to lively celebrations and peaceful nature retreats.
This Maryland summer travel guide is your ultimate resource for discovering the state’s most photogenic spots, must-visit locations, and scenic drives. Grab your camera, pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable summer adventure in Maryland!
Table of Contents
- Stunning Landscapes for Nature Photography
- Wildlife Photography Hotspots
- Best Cityscapes and Urban Photography Locations
- Must-Visit Summer Festivals & Events for Photography
- Scenic Drives & Road Trip Photography Stops
- Where to Stay: Photogenic Lodging Options
- Recommended Restaurants with a View
Stunning Landscapes for Nature Photography
Photo by nathaniel gonzales via Shutterstock
Maryland offers breathtaking landscapes that are perfect for capturing the state’s natural beauty. While there are many locations for nature photography from border to border, some of the top spots include the following:
- Assateague Island National Seashore – This barrier island is famous for its wild horses, pristine beaches, and stunning sunrise photography. Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds, making it ideal for capturing the horses against the ocean backdrop.
- Great Falls of the Potomac – Located just outside of Washington, D.C., this dramatic waterfall system provides excellent opportunities for long-exposure photography. The rugged terrain and rushing water create dynamic compositions.
- Cunningham Falls State Park – Home to Maryland’s largest cascading waterfall, this park is a great spot for capturing lush forest scenery and serene water shots.
- Deep Creek Lake – This picturesque lake is perfect for sunset and reflection photography. The surrounding mountains and recreational activities make it a great all-day location for photography.
- Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge – A must-visit for nature photographers, this area boasts stunning marshland landscapes and incredible birdwatching opportunities, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Wildlife Photography Hotspots
Photo by Danielle W Press via Shutterstock
For wildlife photographers, Maryland is a dream destination, offering diverse ecosystems that support a variety of species. Again, there are possibilities for wildlife photography in all corners of the state. However, if you want to prioritize some of the best hotspots for your summer trip to Maryland, consider visiting the following:
- Assateague Island – The wild horses mentioned earlier are a bucket-list subject for many photographers. They roam freely along the beaches, dunes, and marshes, providing unique and dynamic photo opportunities.
- Patuxent Research Refuge – A paradise for bird photographers, this refuge is home to eagles, ospreys, and countless migratory birds.
- Chesapeake Bay Environmental Center – A great place to photograph waterfowl, herons (like the one shown above), and eagles in a natural wetland habitat.
- National Aquarium (Baltimore) – While not a traditional wildlife spot, the aquarium offers incredible opportunities for underwater photography, capturing exotic fish, jellyfish, and sharks.
Best Cityscapes and Urban Photography Locations
Photo by Sean Pavone via Shutterstock
Maryland’s cities are full of architectural wonders and bustling streets perfect for urban photography. Whether you want to photograph historic buildings, modern skyscrapers, bridges, street scenes or something else, there’s a spot for you in Maryland!
Below is a quick list of some of my favorite spots to photograph Maryland’s cities:
- Baltimore Inner Harbor – Capture the vibrant waterfront, historic ships, and the stunning skyline during golden hour.
- Annapolis Historic District – Colonial-era streets (shown above), colorful boats, and charming docks make for picturesque street and architectural photography.
- Silver Spring & Bethesda – Modern architecture, public art installations, and bustling nightlife make these areas great for street photography.
Must-Visit Summer Festivals & Events for Photography
Photo courtesy of Let’s Go Music Festival
Let’s face it – traveling is tough business. Even when you’re having fun, getting great shots, and enjoying exploring new places, there comes a point when you just want to sit back, relax, and take a break.
As a landscape photographer, taking a break often means sitting down on a rock or a bench and taking in the view for a while. But when you’re exploring Maryland this summer, you can elevate your break quite a bit…especially if you enjoy music!
Photo courtesy of Let’s Go Music Festival
Maryland is home to all sorts of summer music events and other festivals that you can incorporate into your itinerary. Personally, when I visit Maryland this summer, I’m making a beeline for the Let’s Go Music Festival in Crownsville, Maryland, on June 6-7, 2025.
This festival has been around for a few years now, and it has a track record of including emerging local artists with world-famous musicians to kick off the summer. In years past, the festival has highlighted bands like Dashboard Confessional, Taking Back Sunday, and Live. Other featured acts include 311, Bush, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and the Gin Blossoms, to name a few. And as you can see below, this year has a killer lineup, too…
And if you’re a foodie like me, you can enjoy food from tons of local vendors and chefs while you’re at the festival. Nothing tops off a great vacation day like some local food, a cold drink, and some fantastic music!
Plus, the festival is open to all ages, so you can do as I’m doing and bring your kiddo along for a fun family outing. You can bring your phone to the venue to take a few pics, but leave your professional gear behind.
Photo courtesy of Let’s Go Music Festival
As an added bonus, the festival’s location in the Annapolis area means you can easily spend the morning photographing the area’s local attractions, and when the harsh light of midday shows up, you can head to the festival and enjoy the show. The combination of good weather (hopefully!), great food, and the electric atmosphere of sharing music with a venue full of people is a great way to spend a summer weekend in Maryland.
Let’s face it…live music is an experience like no other—it’s more than just sound; it’s energy, atmosphere, and pure connection. The thrill of watching musicians perform in real time, feeling the vibrations of the bass, and being surrounded by a crowd that shares your excitement creates an awesome sense of unity.
Whether it’s a small, intimate venue or a big festival like Let’s Go, live music has a way of making you feel completely immersed in the moment, free from everyday worries. There’s something magical about hearing your favorite song played live, with the rawness and spontaneity that recorded music just can’t replicate.
Photo courtesy of Let’s Go Music Festival
Beyond the music itself, live shows are a sensory adventure. The flashing lights, the dynamic stage presence of the performers, and even the unexpected surprises—like an extended guitar solo or a spontaneous encore—add to the excitement.
At events like Let’s Go, each artist’s performance is unique. It’s a place where people come together, sing at the top of their lungs, dance like nobody’s watching, and create unforgettable memories. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just discovering a new artist, the shared experience of a live performance makes music feel more alive than ever!
Photo courtesy of Let’s Go Music Festival
Of course, Maryland hosts a variety of other summer festivals that offer fantastic opportunities to relax, have fun, and snap some candid photos:
- Maryland Renaissance Festival – Capture elaborate costumes, jousting, and medieval street scenes.
- Artscape in Baltimore – A street photographer’s paradise, featuring murals, sculptures, and dynamic street performances.
- Howard County Fair – Carnival rides, livestock, and farm life provide diverse shooting opportunities.
- Sunflower Festivals – Various farms across Maryland bloom with sunflowers, creating a perfect backdrop for portrait and macro photography.
Scenic Drives & Road Trip Photography Stops
Photo by PTAP Aerial via Shutterstock
A road trip through Maryland offers plenty of opportunities to capture breathtaking landscapes. And the nice thing is that Maryland isn’t an enormous state, so you can criss-cross from north to south, east to west and enjoy all of these beautiful drives if you like:
- Chesapeake Country Scenic Byway – Explore lighthouses, historic fishing villages, and scenic coastal landscapes.
- Historic National Road (U.S. Route 40) – Rolling hills, historic towns, and classic Americana make this a fantastic drive for photography (shown above).
- Catoctin Mountain Park Drive – Dense forests, scenic overlooks, and waterfalls provide stunning natural photography opportunities.
- Ocean Gateway (Route 50 to Ocean City) – Wide open farmland, iconic bridges, and Chesapeake Bay views.
Where to Stay: Photogenic Lodging Options
You’ll find endless lodging opportunities in Baltimore. Photo by Sean Pavone via Shutterstock
Whether you prefer luxury or rustic retreats, Maryland has a range of scenic accommodations. Plus, where you stay doesn’t have to be just a place to put your head at night. Instead, Maryland offers some truly beautiful and iconic lodging options that you can photograph. Try these on for size:
- Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel Baltimore (harbor views), Inn at Perry Cabin (St. Michaels).
- Cozy B&Bs: Brampton Bed & Breakfast Inn (Chestertown), Gramercy Mansion (Stevenson).
- Rustic Retreats: Treehouse Camp at Maple Tree (Rohrersville), Blue Moon Rising (McHenry).
- Camping: Assateague Island Campground (oceanfront), Cherry Hill Park (College Park).
Recommended Restaurants with a View
Enjoy a waterfront view as you dine on Kent Island. Photo by Jon Bilous via Shutterstock
After a long day of photography, unwind at one of Maryland’s scenic restaurants. There are way too many restaurants to list, but the ones below should get you started:
- Waterfront Dining: Rusty Scupper (Baltimore), Kentmorr Restaurant (Kent Island).
- Historic Cafés: The Blue Moon Café (Baltimore), Miss Shirley’s Café (multiple locations).
- Seafood Specialties: The Crab Claw (St. Michaels), Ocean Odyssey (Cambridge).
- Scenic Vineyards & Breweries: Boordy Vineyards (Hydes), Black Ankle Vineyards (Mt. Airy).
Explore Maryland This Summer
Photo by Jarvin Hernandez via Shutterstock
Maryland is a place of endless discovery, just waiting for you and your camera. Whether you love capturing dramatic coastlines, vibrant festivals, architecture (like the Chesapeake Bay Bridge shown above) or charming small towns, there’s always something new to explore.
So pack your gear, hit the road, and let this summer be filled with unforgettable adventures and stunning shots. The best stories are the ones you create—go out and capture yours in Maryland!
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Learn More:
- Travel Photography Tips for Beginners: How to Make the Most of Your Photos
- Beyond the Selfie: Creative Portrait Ideas to Elevate Your Travel Photography
Hero photo by Sean Pavone via Shutterstock.
