Things To Do
in Severna Park
Severna Park is an affluent, family-oriented suburb on the western shore of the Severn River in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, known for its waterfront neighborhoods, marinas, and easy access to Annapolis and Baltimore. The town combines quiet residential streets, riverfront parks and a lively small downtown strip with shops and restaurants. Outdoor life centers on boating, fishing, biking and the popular Baltimore & Annapolis (B&A) Trail that runs through town.
Visitors appreciate Severna Park for relaxed Chesapeake Bay culture, good local seafood, and proximity to historic Annapolis and regional attractions.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café in Severna Park, enjoying fresh pastries and aromatic coffee. Afterward, take a stroll through the historic district, where you can admire charming architecture and quaint shops. Don't forget to visit the local farmer's market for fresh produce and artisanal goods.
In the afternoon, head to the nearby B&A Trail for a scenic bike ride or a peaceful walk surrounded by nature. Stop by the Severna Park Community Center to check out any ongoing events or activities. Grab lunch at a popular diner, indulging in classic American fare while soaking in the local atmosphere.
As the sun sets, enjoy a waterfront dinner at a cozy restaurant overlooking the Magothy River. Savor local seafood dishes while listening to live music that often accompanies the vibrant dining scene. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront to watch the boats drift by, ending your evening with a sense of tranquility.
Begin your day with an invigorating hike at Broadneck Park, where you can breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings. The park features various trails, perfect for walking or jogging, and you might spot some local wildlife along the way. After your hike, relax with a picnic breakfast on one of the park's benches.
In the afternoon, engage in some fun outdoor activities, such as playing frisbee or soccer in the park's open fields. Visit the park's playground if you're traveling with children, or simply unwind under a tree with a good book. Grab lunch at a nearby eatery known for its sandwiches and salads to refuel before the next adventure.
As night approaches, transform your picnic into a dinner under the stars by bringing a portable grill or snacks. Gather around with friends or family to enjoy a casual outdoor meal while sharing stories and laughter. Wrap up the evening with a starlit walk along the park trails, making the most of the peaceful ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| ☕Coffee (regular) | $3-5 |
| 🍺Local beer (pub) | $6-8 |
| 🚗Short taxi / ride-share | $10-25 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $120-220 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Easy access to Chesapeake Bay and excellent boating/fishing opportunities
- Quiet, family-friendly neighborhoods with good parks and trails
- Close to Annapolis and within commuting distance of Baltimore and Washington, D.C.
- Car-dependent with limited late-night public transit
- Summer can be crowded with boat traffic and tourist activity
- Seafood-heavy cuisine may be limiting for those with shellfish allergies or strict dietary preferences
Places to Visit in Severna Park
Visit one of these nice places.
Marinas, pilings and sailboats provide classic Chesapeake Bay compositions—sunrise and sunset photos are especially dramatic.
Long, tree-lined sections and converted-railroad bridges offer great perspectives for landscape and cycling/action shots throughout the year.
Pastoral trails, farm buildings and open fields make this a picturesque spot for nature and family photography, particularly in golden hour.
Colorful colonial architecture, sailboats at the harbor and narrow streets deliver abundant photo opportunities; best in morning light to avoid crowds.
Food in Severna Park
Severna Park Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Chesapeake blue crabs steamed with Old Bay seasoning are the local icon; order by the dozen in season at crab houses and waterfront restaurants.
Must-Try!
A lump-crab cake, often broiled or lightly pan-fried, is widely available—look for ones with high crab content and minimal filler at taverns and seafood spots.
Fresh local oysters are served raw, grilled, or Rockefeller-style at seafood restaurants and seasonal raw bars.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A seasonal farmers market with local produce, baked goods, and occasional prepared-food vendors; a good place to sample local cheeses, pies and seasonal fruits.
During summer and early fall you’ll find occasional crab feasts, oyster fests and pop-up stands near marinas and community events—perfect for quick, authentic tastings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Residents tend to be polite and informal—small talk and friendly greetings are common in shops and at markets.
Many shorelines are private—avoid trespassing on private docks and yards, and use public access points for launches and photography.
At casual crab houses, expect communal seating and hands-on eating; bring wet wipes or use provided tubs for shells and tidy up after dining.
For tours, rentals and restaurants, reservations are appreciated—arrive on time for scheduled activities, especially in peak season.
Safety
Tipping in Severna Park
Ensure a smooth experience
Restaurants: 15–20% of the pre-tax bill for sit-down service; bartenders: $1–2 per drink or 15–20% for a tab; taxis/ride-share: 10–15%; hotel housekeeping: $2–5 per night. For exceptional service consider tipping more.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments and mobile wallets are common. Cash is still useful for farmers markets, small vendors and tipping. Notify your bank before travel to avoid card holds.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming trees and rising boat traffic—great for biking the B&A Trail and early-season boating; occasional showers are possible.
Hot, humid and busy with boating, crab feasts and festivals; peak tourist activity means reservations are recommended for restaurants and boat rentals.
Comfortable temperatures and attractive fall foliage along trails and shorelines make this a popular time for outdoor activities and photography.
Cold with possible snow and icy conditions; quieter with fewer tourists—some seasonal businesses may reduce hours but winter walks and brisk waterfront views can be rewarding.
Severna Park at Night
Hiking in Severna Park
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A multi-use, mostly paved trail that runs through Severna Park—good for walking, running and cycling with scenic stretches and access points.
Offers a network of easy-to-moderate trails, open fields and historic farm features—family-friendly and good for birdwatching.
Short drive away, this park has miles of paved and natural surface trails, riverside views, sculpture gardens and picnic spots.
A bit further south, Jug Bay offers boardwalks and trails through wetlands with excellent wildlife- and birdwatching opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Severna Park by plane.
Main regional airport about 20–30 minutes by car; offers domestic and international flights, car rentals and direct shuttle options to the Baltimore-Annapolis area.
Located across the Bay in Arlington, VA (about 40–60 minutes by car depending on traffic); convenient for domestic flights and closer to Washington, D.C.
Major international airport further out (roughly 60–90 minutes by car); useful for wider international flight options but less convenient than BWI for Severna Park.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are families who commute to Annapolis, Baltimore or D.C. for work—family-oriented services, schools and parks are prominent.
A significant group of retirees and part-time residents who enjoy the waterfront lifestyle and quieter suburban pace.
Proximity to Naval Station Annapolis and the broader D.C. metro area means a presence of military personnel and government employees among the population.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Recreational boating, sailing and yacht activities are culturally important due to proximity to the Severn River and Chesapeake Bay.
Lacrosse is popular at youth, high school and club levels across Maryland, including Severna Park area schools.
Local high school football and soccer attract community support and weekend crowds during their respective seasons.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Severna Park.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available at cafés and bistros (salads, veggie burgers, grain bowls). Call ahead at seafood-focused restaurants to confirm vegetarian entrées.
Vegan choices are more limited but increasing; look for specialty cafés in nearby Annapolis for broader plant-based menus and vegan-friendly bakeries.
Many restaurants accommodate gluten-free requests—cross-contamination can be an issue in crab houses, so inform staff and ask about preparation methods.
Seafood is central to the local cuisine; if you have shellfish allergies, notify staff and choose places with clear allergy protocols or visit general American restaurants instead.