Ellicott
Day Trips
Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Ellicott's hidden gems and unique experiences!
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and artisanal coffee. After breakfast, stroll along Main Street, admiring the charming historic buildings and unique shops that have stood the test of time. Take a moment to explore the Ellicott City Museum, where you'll learn about the rich history of the town.
Enjoy lunch at a quaint bistro, where you can sample regional specialties. Afterward, make your way to the Patapsco Valley State Park for a leisurely hike along the scenic trails, taking in the lush landscapes and perhaps spotting some local wildlife. Stop by the historic B&O Railroad Museum to delve deeper into the area's transportation history and its impact on Ellicott City.
As the sun begins to set, head to a cozy restaurant for dinner, where you can enjoy a farm-to-table experience with seasonal ingredients. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the paths of the historic district, soaking in the ambiance of the charming town lit up at night. Wrap up your day with a nightcap at a local pub, sharing stories with friendly locals.
Kick off your morning with a hearty breakfast at a local diner, known for its classic American fare. After breakfast, gear up for an adventure at the nearby Centennial Park, where you can rent a bike and explore the scenic trails that wind around the lake. Don't forget to pack a camera, as the park offers beautiful views perfect for capturing memorable moments.
After a morning of biking, enjoy a picnic lunch by the lake, surrounded by nature. Post-lunch, engage in some kayaking or paddleboarding on the calm waters, providing a refreshing way to connect with the outdoors. Spend some time relaxing by the water, soaking up the sun and enjoying the serene environment.
As the day winds down, return to Ellicott City and treat yourself to dinner at a riverside restaurant, offering stunning views of the water. Savor the evening with live music at a local venue, where you can enjoy the sounds of local artists. End your day with a leisurely stroll along the riverbank, listening to the gentle flow of the water.
Begin your day with breakfast at a local café, enjoying fresh fruit and homemade granola. Afterward, visit the Howard County Arts Council to appreciate local art exhibits and perhaps participate in a workshop. Take your time to explore the works of talented local artists and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
Head to a local restaurant for lunch, where you can indulge in dishes inspired by diverse cultures. Spend your afternoon visiting the nearby museums, including the Maryland Museum of African American History and Culture, to gain insight into the rich cultural heritage of the area. Engage with interactive exhibits and learn about the contributions of African Americans in the region.
For dinner, choose a restaurant that features a diverse menu, showcasing global flavors. After your meal, attend a performance at the local theater, where you can enjoy a play or live music event. Conclude the evening by discussing your favorite parts of the day over a dessert at a nearby ice cream shop.
Start with a leisurely breakfast at a local bakery, indulging in freshly baked goods and aromatic coffee. After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to a nearby vineyard, surrounded by rolling hills and picturesque landscapes. Join a guided tour to learn about the winemaking process and the history of the vineyard.
Enjoy a delightful wine tasting experience, sampling a variety of local wines paired with artisanal cheeses. For lunch, picnic among the vines with a gourmet basket filled with local treats. Spend the afternoon at the vineyard, relaxing on the patio and taking in the stunning views while sipping on your favorite wine.
Return to Ellicott City and enjoy a dinner at a restaurant that specializes in wine pairings. Share your favorite wines from the vineyard experience while enjoying a carefully crafted menu. Conclude your day with a relaxing evening walk, reflecting on the beautiful landscapes and flavors you encountered.
Wake up early to visit the Ellicott City Farmers Market, where you can browse fresh produce, homemade goods, and artisanal products. Enjoy a breakfast of locally-sourced ingredients while chatting with friendly farmers and vendors. Take your time exploring the stalls, picking up some unique items for later.
After the market, indulge in a lunch at a popular food truck park, sampling various cuisines from local vendors. Spend the afternoon at the Ellicott City Historic District, exploring its shops that feature handmade crafts, antiques, and local artwork. Don’t forget to stop by a chocolate shop to satisfy your sweet tooth with gourmet treats.
For dinner, head to a renowned local restaurant that emphasizes a farm-to-table approach, showcasing the best of the region's ingredients. Enjoy a multi-course meal paired with wines from local vineyards. After dinner, take a stroll through the town, enjoying the lively atmosphere as the shops begin to close and locals gather.
Begin your day with breakfast at a cozy café, enjoying a hearty meal to fuel your explorations. Afterward, visit the historic Ellicott City Courthouse, learning about its significant role in the town’s history. Take your time to appreciate the architecture and the stories behind this landmark.
Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant featuring Southern comfort food. Spend your afternoon visiting the nearby Historic Ellicott City Station, where you can explore the railroads that shaped the region. Walk along the scenic paths that offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the Patapsco River.
As evening approaches, dine at a local restaurant with outdoor seating, enjoying the view as the sun sets. After dinner, catch a guided ghost tour of Ellicott City, hearing spooky tales from the town's storied past. Conclude the night with a warm drink at a local café, discussing the ghostly legends you've learned.
Start your day with a nutritious breakfast at a local café, fueling up for a day of adventure. Head over to Patapsco Valley State Park, renowned for its beautiful trails and river views. Begin with a guided nature walk, learning about the local flora and fauna from a knowledgeable ranger.
After your morning exploration, enjoy a packed lunch picnic by the river, surrounded by the serene sounds of nature. Spend the afternoon trying your hand at rock climbing or zip-lining, both offered within the park, for an adrenaline rush in beautiful surroundings. Capture the moments with some photos as you tackle new challenges.
As you finish your adventure, return to Ellicott City for a well-deserved dinner at a local steakhouse. Share stories from your day’s adventures over a hearty meal. End the evening with a cozy bonfire at a local campground, roasting marshmallows and enjoying the company of fellow campers.
Kick off your morning with a rejuvenating breakfast at a health-conscious café, featuring smoothies and wholesome options. After breakfast, pamper yourself with a spa appointment, starting with a soothing massage to ease any travel tensions. Spend time in the relaxation area, enjoying herbal teas and calming music.
After your spa treatments, enjoy a light and nourishing lunch at a nearby café that focuses on fresh and organic ingredients. Spend the afternoon at a local wellness center, participating in a yoga class that helps you unwind and reconnect with yourself. Take some time to explore holistic shops in the area, picking up products that resonate with your wellness journey.
For dinner, indulge in a restorative meal at a farm-to-table restaurant that emphasizes healthful dining. Spend the evening reflecting on your day of self-care, perhaps journaling in a quiet corner of a café. Finish off with a calming herbal tea, embracing the tranquility you've cultivated throughout the day.
Start your day with breakfast at a local diner, known for its lively atmosphere and hearty portions. Check the local event calendar and head out to a neighborhood festival showcasing art, music, and local food vendors. Spend the morning enjoying live performances and browsing artisan booths.
Grab lunch from one of the food stalls, sampling local favorites and treats. Continue to explore the festival, participating in workshops or activities that pique your interest, from pottery to dance. Take advantage of the opportunity to connect with local artists and artisans, learning about their crafts firsthand.
As the festival winds down, enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant featuring dishes inspired by the event's theme. Celebrate new friendships and experiences over a glass of wine as you discuss your favorite moments from the day. Conclude your evening with a final stroll through the festival, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere as it transitions into night.