Maryland in Autumn: A Cornucopia of Colors, Culture, and Crab Feasts

As the sweltering heat of summer wanes and the leaves take on their fiery hues, Maryland stands ready to embrace you with open arms into its autumnal splendor. The Old Line State is a tapestry woven with vivacious waterfronts, historic landmarks, and lush landscapes that come alive during fall. Here's how to soak up the best parts of Maryland's fall season while celebrating its unique charm.

**Savor Seafood With History at Faidley’s Seafood (203 N Paca St., Baltimore MD 21201)**

Begin your journey in Baltimore at Faidley’s Seafood in Lexington Market (400 W Lexington St., Baltimore MD 21201). Founded in 1886, this isn't just about tasting some renowned jumbo lump crab cakes; it's about biting into over a century of culinary tradition. As you savor the flavors, consider Edgar Allan Poe's haunting presence in this city—perhaps his spirit still lingers by his grave at Westminster Hall nearby (519 W Fayette St., Baltimore MD 21201).

**Venture Through Vibrant Vistas at Swallow Falls State Park (2470 Maple Glade Rd., Oakland MD 21550)**

Dive into nature’s palette within Garrett County where Swallow Falls State Park awaits adventurers and leaf peepers alike. Wander through trails dusted with golden leaves beside the murmuring Youghiogheny River—the perfect homage to Henry David Thoreau who once rambled these woods. Capture photos by Muddy Creek Falls—a spectacle not even John Smith could have envisioned as he explored Chesapeake Bay.

**Discover Annapolis’ Naval Heritage on Foot (52 King George St., Annapolis MD 21402)**

Stroll through Annapolis’ brick-lined streets enveloped by colonial architecture which tells tales of our nation's infancy. Pay respects at the United States Naval Academy where midshipmen are steeped in both rigorous training and storied traditions reflecting Maryland’s role as protector of America’s freedoms.

**Experience Progressive Energy At American Visionary Art Museum (800 Key Hwy., Baltimore MD 21230)**

For those drawn to visionary experiences beyond classic historical fare, immerse yourself within outsider art expressions found here—where innovation meets raw human creativity amid progressive thought manifested visually.

**Unearth Spirited Celebrations In Frederick’s Fall Festivals (Carroll Creek Linear Park between East Patrick & Commerce Streets)

Frederick comes alive during fall weekends hosting festivals like Oktoberfest echoing Germany right here amidst rolling hills punctuated by spirited local brews paired perfectly against oompah music reverberating under tent canopies—a scene plucked from picturesque Bavarian fantasies yet distinctly flavored by Free State character.

In each choice location across Maryland—from quaint Eastern Shore towns casting their fishing lines out like well-read verses from Ogden Nash poems hailing from Riva—to lively festivals igniting collective merrymaking akin to Zora Neale Hurston chronicling Eatonville festivities—one can bask inside authentic local customs interwoven with cultural depth beckoning visitors near and far toward its hospitable hearthside warmth before winter whispers again.

Websites:

- [Faidley Seafood](http://www.faidleyscrabcakes.com/)

- [Swallow Falls State Park](http://dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/Pages/western/swallowfalls.aspx)

- [United States Naval Academy](https://www.usna.edu/homepage.php)

- [American Visionary Art Museum](http://avam.org/)

Twitter Handles:

- @LexingtonMkt

- @MDStateParks

- @NavalAcademy

- @TheAVAM