Things To Do
in Severn

Severn is a suburban Maryland community in Anne Arundel County, just outside Baltimore. It offers easy access to city amenities while preserving a quiet residential feel with ample green space. The area is influenced by nearby Fort Meade, Annapolis, and the Chesapeake Bay, which shape day trips and dining options.

Visitors can enjoy outdoor recreation, seafood-centric cuisine, and convenient connections to major regional attractions.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Severn Historical Society, where you can learn about the rich history of the area through engaging exhibits. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and artisanal coffee while soaking in the small-town charm. Stroll through the quaint streets, admiring the beautifully preserved architecture that tells the story of Severn’s past.

afternoon
:

After your morning exploration, head to the Severn River for a relaxing afternoon by the water. Rent a kayak or paddleboard to enjoy the scenic views while getting some exercise. For lunch, find a nearby restaurant that specializes in local seafood, indulging in the fresh catches of the day.

evening
:

As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk along the riverfront, enjoying the calming sounds of the water and the sight of the colorful sky. Choose a cozy restaurant with outdoor seating for dinner, where you can enjoy a delicious meal while watching the sunset. Finish the day with a visit to a local pub, where you can enjoy live music and mingle with friendly locals.

day 2
Nature and Wildlife Adventure
morning
:

Begin your day at the nearby Patapsco Valley State Park, where you can immerse yourself in the lush greenery and diverse wildlife. Go on a guided nature walk, learning about the local flora and fauna while keeping an eye out for deer and various bird species. Pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy at one of the scenic overlooks, surrounded by the tranquility of nature.

afternoon
:

After your morning hike, spend the afternoon at the park's picnic area, where you can relax and soak in the beauty of your surroundings. Explore the many trails at your leisure, taking the time to enjoy the sights and sounds of the forest. Consider renting a bike to cover more ground and discover hidden gems within the park.

evening
:

As evening approaches, return to Severn and unwind at a local brewery, sampling craft beers made from local ingredients. Enjoy a hearty dinner featuring farm-to-table cuisine, celebrating the flavors of the region. Cap off your adventure with a night walk under the stars, reflecting on the beauty of the day.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
Coffee or latte$3-5
🛒Groceries for a week$70-120
🏨Hotel (per night)$110-180
🚗Public transportation / ride-share$8-25 per ride

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Proximity to Baltimore and Annapolis for day trips
  • Excellent access to Chesapeake Bay seafood
  • Abundant parks and outdoor spaces
  • Family-friendly neighborhoods and communities
  • Limited urban nightlife within Severn itself
  • Commute times to Baltimore can be heavy on major highways
  • Rising housing costs in the broader metro area
  • Summer humidity can be intense for some visitors

Places to Visit in Severn

Visit one of these nice places.

Sandy Point State Park Overlook

Iconic view of the Chesapeake Bay with striking sunsets and lighthouse-inspired shoreline silhouettes.

Annapolis City Dock

Historic harbor with boats, masts, pastel townhouses, and water reflections—great for morning and golden-hour shots.

Severn Run Nature Preserve

Boardwalks through wetlands and marshes offering wildlife photography opportunities and marshland textures.

Fort McHenry (Baltimore)

Historic fort with star-shaped ramparts and skyline views across the harbor; ideal for dramatic historical portraits.

Culinary Guide

Food in Severn

Severn sits in the Chesapeake Bay region, where seafood, Old Bay seasoning, and farm-fresh produce define the local cuisine. Expect crab-focused dishes, coastal sandwiches, and plenty of seasonal produce year-round.

Severn Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Maryland Crab Cake

A classic crab preparation featuring lump crab meat, minimal binder, and Old Bay seasoning; best enjoyed at waterfront spots in Annapolis.

Must-Try!

She-Crab Soup

Creamy soup with crab meat and a splash of sherry or cream, a Maryland staple often found at seafood restaurants.

Old Bay–Seasoned Steamed Crabs

Seasonal Chesapeake Bay tradition served with corn and potatoes, typically enjoyed with friends and family during crab season.

Rockfish (Striped Bass) Sandwich

Lightly seasoned fried or grilled rockfish served on a bun with local toppings, a common coastal option near Annapolis.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Baltimore Farmers' Market & Bazaar

Downtown market near the Inner Harbor offering fresh produce, seafood, baked goods, and street-style snacks.

Anne Arundel County Farmers Market

Seasonal market with locally grown produce, dairy, meats, and prepared foods in nearby communities.

Climate Guide

Weather

Severn experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons: hot, humid summers; cool to cold winters; and mild springs and falls. Precipitation is fairly evenly distributed, with more rain in the spring and early summer. Proximity to the Chesapeake Bay moderates summer humidity slightly and provides cooling breezes near the water.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Friendliness and greetings

A friendly hello, please, and thank you go a long way in shops and restaurants.

Respect for waterfront spaces

Follow posted rules on beaches and parks; dispose of trash properly and be mindful of wildlife.

Safety Guide

Safety

As a suburban area, exercise typical safety precautions: lock vehicles, secure valuables, and stay aware in crowded areas. Waterways can be busy with boats; wear life jackets when boating. In hurricane season, monitor weather updates and follow local guidance for coastal storms. 911 is the emergency number for urgent help.

Tipping in Severn

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Restaurant service typically 15-20% of the total bill; small tips at bars are common. For takeout, tipping is optional.

Payment Methods

Major credit/debit cards are widely accepted; many places support contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay). Cash is still welcome.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temps with blooming trees; frequent showers. Great for hiking and waterfront photography.

Summer

Hot and humid with bright days; mosquitoes common near marshes. Plan water activities and early-morning explorations.

Autumn

Pleasant temperatures and colorful foliage; ideal for outdoor walks and harbor views without the heat.

Winter

Cool to cold with occasional snow; fewer crowds and cozy dining options in Annapolis and Baltimore.

Nightlife Guide

Severn at Night

The nightlife in Severn is modest, with most options concentrated in nearby Annapolis and Baltimore. Expect harbor-side pubs, casual bars, and live music venues, especially on weekends. For broader choices, head to downtown Annapolis or the Inner Harbor, where craft breweries, jazz venues, and late-night eateries are readily available.

Hiking in Severn

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Severn Run Nature Preserve Trails

Wetland boardwalks and marshland trails suitable for birdwatching and nature photography.

Fort Smallwood Park Trails

Coastal woodlands and bay views with accessible looping trails near the water.

Airports

How to reach Severn by plane.

Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI)

Approximately 30-40 minutes from Severn by car; major international and domestic flights; rental cars and good transit connections to Anne Arundel County.

Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)

About 45-60 minutes by car to the DCA area; convenient for quick trips to DC and the region.

Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)

Approximately 60-75 minutes by car; broad international network and car rental options.

Getting Around

Walkability

Severn is primarily suburban with limited walkable cores. Nearby Annapolis and Glen Burnie offer walkable waterfront districts and compact centers, but most attractions require a car. Sidewalks exist in commercial areas and along some park trails, with bike lanes on select routes. For most trips, plan to drive or use ride-share to reach sights, dining, and shopping.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

A mix of long-term residents and newcomers; many neighborhoods with school-age children.

Military and Retirees

Proximity to Fort Meade and related facilities; diverse veteran and retiree presence in the area.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Local amateur and youth leagues are common in community parks; school fields host games in season.

Basketball

Rec leagues and pickup games at community centers; indoor courts available year-round.

Transportation

Traffic

Rush-hour congestion can occur on I-695, I-95, and local corridors. MARC train service and commuter buses offer alternatives for longer trips to Baltimore and DC. Expect variability on weekends and during commute times; plan extra travel time for popular events in Annapolis or Baltimore.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Severn.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Look for seasonal salads, grain bowls, veggie burgers, and seafood-friendly sides; many restaurants offer vegetarian versions of local dishes. In markets, choose fresh produce, cheese, and prepared veggie items.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is accessible via Anne Arundel Medical Center in Annapolis and nearby Johns Hopkins-affiliated facilities in Baltimore; urgent care centers and pharmacies are widespread in Severn and neighboring towns. For major procedures, Baltimore city hospitals are reachable by car or transit. Always have local emergency numbers handy while traveling.

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