Wish to step right into a dwelling postcard? Chestertown, Maryland, has every little thing you need in a small coastal city: walkable historic streets, pleasant folks, distinctive eateries and indie retailers that really feel extra like treasure hunts than retail.
Historic Chestertown Maryland
Peaceable waterfront views alongside the Chester River in Chestertown, MD. with maritime appeal on full show | Picture: Higher DwellingChestertown has a everlasting spot on our must-visit listing.
Nestled alongside the Chester River, Chestertown, on Maryland’s Japanese Shore, could also be off the overwhelmed path, however that’s precisely what makes it so particular. With massive character and historic colonial appeal, this distinctive small city could also be one in all America’s coolest under-the-radar locations.
As soon as an essential port metropolis based in 1706 and nestled alongside the banks of the Chester River, in the present day you’ll be able to stroll by means of peaceable brick-lined streets lined with 18th-century properties, go to historic landmarks, and store your means by means of a city that feels prefer it was embellished for a Hallmark film set. Besides this one is actual.
Chestertown’s downtown and historic district, listed on the Nationwide Register of Historic Locations, is dwelling to Washington Faculty, the primary faculty chartered in the US in 1782.
This pleasant city is stuffed with character. And there’s loads to do inside a number of sq. blocks. On the lookout for extra Maryland Japanese Shore locations? Discover close by St. Michaels, MD and Kent Narrows.
Issues to Do in Chestertown MD
The enduring Hebe fountain in downtown Chestertown – an ideal spot to relaxation whereas exploring the historic district | Picture: Higher DwellingDiscover Historic Fountain Park
Begin your day at Chestertown’s small however lovely Fountain Park on the intersection of Excessive and Cross Streets within the coronary heart of city. A gathering place all year long, it’s additionally dwelling to the Hebe Fountain, one in all Chestertown’s iconic historic landmarks.
An emblem of the city’s timeless appeal, it’s one of many many public artwork installations all through the city.
Put in in 1899, product of forged iron, painted turquoise, and totally purposeful, you’ll be able to’t miss it. Adorned superbly with carved lions and swans, its standout function is the Greek goddess of youth, Hebe, who pours “ambrosia” right into a chalice on the fountain’s high.
Go to the Chestertown Farmers Market
Each Saturday from 8 to midday, right here you’ll discover the year-round Chestertown Farmers Market, the place you’ll be able to store for native contemporary produce, eggs, meat, dairy, flowers, baked items, and artisan crafts.
Stroll the Historic Waterfront
Stroll Chestertown’s peaceable waterfront boardwalk alongside the Chester River | Picture: Higher DwellingWhen you’re visiting Chestertown for the primary time, don’t miss the prospect to walk alongside its historic waterfront the place you’ll be able to get pleasure from shaded benches, river views, and a quiet place to calm down with espresso or a picnic. It’s a well-liked birdwatching spot the place ospreys, hooded mergansers, nice blue herons, and different native birds make common appearances.
Docked on the Chestertown Marina, you can too see the Schooner Sultana, a shocking reproduction of an 18th-century British Navy vessel. It’s usually open for public sails or dockside excursions throughout particular occasions.
Take a River Cruise
For extra time on the Chester River, ebook a cruise on The River Packet. This 65-foot, Nineteen Twenties-style traditional yacht and tour boat affords weekend brunch, dinner, sundown and informal excursions April by means of November that go away proper from the Excessive Avenue Dock.
For extra waterfront eating experiences, take a look at Dock and Dine Kent Narrows MD.
Attend Chestertown Festivals and Occasions
Catch a present on the Garfield Middle for the Arts on the Prince Theater housed in a superbly restored Nineteen Twenties theater or plan your go to round one of many many yearly occasions in Chestertown just like the Chestertown Jazz Competition or the Sultana Downrigging Competition every fall which is the most important annual gathering of tall ships in North America mixed with bluegrass music.
Throughout the Christmas season, come for ‘A Dickens of a Christmas’ pageant weekend the place you’ll be able to “step again into 1840s London and expertise the vacation season as Charles Dickens imagined it.” Actions embody complimentary carriage rides by means of historic downtown, a ticketed home tour, meals distributors, an artisan village and an genuine Victorian tea time. Sporting your Victorian finest is very inspired.
Get Cozy With Pleasant Felines on the Cat Colloquium
Meet the resident cats within the Cat Colloquium’s cozy second-floor lounge | Picture: Higher DwellingChestertown’s Cat Colloquium (215 Excessive St #2C, Chestertown, MD 21620) run by nonprofit Package Care Inc. is a heat, welcoming and distinctive spot for cat lovers. Right here you’ll be able to meet and snuggle up with resident cats, get pleasure from quiet time, or chat with their pleasant volunteers.
Stroll by means of the alley subsequent to Stam’s Luncheonette and comply with the indicators to the second ground. The house is shiny, peaceable and playful, with cozy seating, and cat-friendly furnishings (together with a life-sized cat tree).
It’s a real hidden gem and a singular expertise for those who’re an animal lover like us and might’t go up an encounter with a furry buddy. Visiting is free, however you’ll be able to take a look at their weblog and donation choices to be taught extra and help them.
When you’re touring with 6 folks or extra, make an appointment earlier than you go.
Go to Lockbrier Farm for Contemporary Produce and Do-it-yourself Ice Cream
Lockbriar Farms bursts with fall colours and contemporary seasonal produce | Picture: Higher DwellingFor a farm expertise, an eight-minute drive from downtown Chestertown, go to Lockbrier Farm to select berries, flowers and pumpkins, savor farm-churned ice cream, and fill up on contemporary, native and seasonal produce.
Since 1993, the Lockwood household—whose farming roots stretch again to the Civil Battle—has opened the gates of Lockbrier Farms (10051 Worton Rd, Chestertown, MD 21620) to guests searching for contemporary air, vibrant blooms, and the enjoyment of choosing their very own seasonal produce.
Throughout our current fall go to, they had been brimming with mums, pumpkins, Indian corn and gourds in each coloration. Seasonally, you’ll be able to choose your personal fruits like strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries. Wander by means of their flower and herb gardens, the place you’ll be able to reduce your personal to create your personal DIY bouquet.
Then store the farm stand and fill up on contemporary produce, apple cider, jams, pickled veggies, native honey, and treats like apple butter, eggs and contemporary cheese.
After exploring the farm, head over to their ice cream barn for a scoop of their unbelievable home made ice cream in 28+ rotating flavors like strawberry and lemon cookie. It’s made on-site with Lockbrier’s personal grown and domestically sourced elements and is a few of the finest in Kent County.
Lockbrier Farm is open each day (climate allowing), Might by means of Thanksgiving, and there’s no admission payment. Put on boots you received’t thoughts getting soiled for those who plan to discover the fields.
The place to Store in Chestertown MD
Downtown Chestertown’s brick-lined streets come alive with fall appeal | Picture: Higher DwellingWhen you’re tired of cookie-cutter vacationer traps, you’ll love Chestertown’s authentically unbiased spirit. It has 200 domestically owned retailers, galleries, eating places, bakeries, and cafes the place you’ll be able to take your time looking handmade items, uncommon books and discovering one-of-a-kind finds.
Twigs & Teacups
Twigs & Teacups overflows with whimsical items and distinctive dwelling items | Picture: Higher DwellingWhen you solely have time to enter one retailer in Chestertown, make it Twigs & Teacups (111 S Cross St, Chestertown, MD 21620). Everybody we requested for native suggestions mentioned it was their favourite retailer.
Method greater than it seems to be from the surface, this 2-story store is full of a curated assortment of whimsical and distinctive items full of character, together with every little thing from quirky kitchenware and nostalgic toys to domestically made items, stationery, books, puzzles, clothes and seasonal treasures. Give your self loads of time to browse, as a result of there’s a lot to see.
Pricing is inexpensive, and the pleasant workers, which incorporates their resident cat Jonathan, will aid you discover a distinctive present for any event.
Chester River Wine & Cheese Co.
Sampling the unbelievable collection of infused olive oils and artisan meals at Chester River Wine & Cheese Co.A couple of doorways down, foodies and wine lovers should pop into Chester River Wine & Cheese Co. (117 S Cross St, Chestertown, MD 21620) This cozy connoisseur store and native favourite affords a curated collection of wines from world wide, and cut-to-order cheeses, charcuterie, olives, pickles, jam, snacks and specialty objects. Construct a picnic to take to the riverfront or collect snacks for winding down later.
The workers listed below are joyful to supply pairings or samples, and the store usually hosts tastings and seasonal occasions. Whether or not you need a new wine to attempt otherwise you’re a fromage fanatic, this store is a scrumptious detour.
The Bookplate
The Bookplate’s charming youngsters’s part options whimsical finds and uncommon titles | Picture: Higher DwellingE-book lovers ought to head throughout the road, the place they will get misplaced within the cabinets at The Bookplate (112 S Cross St, Chestertown, MD 21620).
This unbiased used bookstore, which additionally sells classic prints and pottery, has an infinite choice with all kinds of genres and onerous to search out titles. The choice right here is really one in all a form, and the books are properly organized. If there’s one thing you need however don’t see, ask the workers, they usually might have it hidden within the stacks or can particular order it.
The place to Eat in Chestertown MD
With a lot to do right here, there’s little question you’ll get hungry. Whenever you need to eat, Chestertown has a scrumptious mixture of choices, from Chesapeake seafood, farm-to-table fare, worldwide flavors, informal eats and comfortable consolation meals.
Stam’s Luncheonette
Stam’s Luncheonette serves nostalgic consolation meals in a restored historic soda fountain | Picture: Higher DwellingFor an informal chunk, Stam’s Luncheonette (215 Excessive Avenue, Chestertown, MD 21620) is a retro-style lunch counter, soda fountain and ice cream store in a restored house that was initially Chester Pharmacy, opened by a neighborhood named John Stam about 175 years in the past.
The mantra right here is nostalgic appeal serving up informal and traditional American lunch staples like Pizza Grilled Cheese, Dill Hen Salad sandwiches and tomato soup. Our favourite is their well-known signature juicy Butter Burger served with cheddar cheese, caramelized onions, and on a buttery toasted brioche bun. It’s oh so buttery and value each darn calorie.
A neighborhood favourite is their in-house made ice cream and sundaes made with inventive rotating seasonal flavors like Oatmilk Chai and Honeycomb + Graham Cracker. They even have pints of ice cream to go. It’s a must-stop for those who’re craving cozy consolation meals with flavors that by no means exit of favor.
The Kitchen on the Imperial
The award profitable crab cake at The Kitchen at Imperial – a must-try when visiting Maryland’s Japanese Shore. | Picture: Higher DwellingAfter 25 years within the tech world, Chef Steve Quigg traded IT consulting for culinary creativity, and is the guts behind The Kitchen on the Imperial (208 Excessive Avenue, Chestertown, MD 21620). It’s one in all Chestertown’s most beloved informal upscale eating spots, the place each dish appears like a celebration of the Japanese Shore.
Winner of Finest Chef on the Japanese Shore three years in a row, Chef Steve crafts his farm-to-table menu impressed by what’s harvested contemporary from each the native farms and waterways. The menu modifications right here usually, and every little thing from the dinner rolls and hand-cut fries and desserts is made in-house.
A must-try right here is the Braised Lamb Shank and the signature crab muffins with completely no filler, full of contemporary lump crabmeat, completely seasoned and paired with native produce and house-made sauces for an elevated twist. They’ve received a number of awards for ‘Finest Crab Cake’, together with honors from What’s Up? Journal and Chesapeake Bay Journal. Pair it with their Rosemary Grapefruit Margarita or a glass of wine from their in depth curated worldwide wine listing.
Open for lunch, dinner and brunch on Sundays, The Kitchen on the Imperial is closed Tuesdays.
Retriever Bar
The Retriever Bar’s Home Burger options domestically raised grass-fed beef | Picture: Higher DwellingThe 21 and over Retriever Bar (337 1/2 Excessive Avenue, Chestertown, MD 21620) blends Chesapeake taste with a contemporary lounge really feel and craft cocktails. Cozy up within the lounge, seize a seat on the bar, which boasts one of the in depth spirit picks on the town, together with uncommon bourbons and whiskeys.
It’s additionally Chestertown’s go-to spot for uncooked, domestically sourced Chesapeake Bay oysters, small plates like Ceviche, Heat Goat Cheese and Pickled Beets and mains like Shrimp and Grits and Lamb Birria Tacos. Whether or not you’re sipping one thing daring or nibbling on a cheese board, every little thing is thoughtfully crafted right here.
We love the Home Burger – a juicy double smash burger with domestically raised, grass-fed St. Brigid’s beef, American cheese, pickles, shredded lettuce slathered with bistro sauce served on a toasted brioche roll served with fries on the aspect.
For dessert, attempt their scrumptious Apple Strudel with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream from Stam’s Luncheonette.
El Rancho Mexican Delicacies
El Rancho serves genuine Mexican road tacos with hand-pressed tortillas | Picture: Higher DwellingFor genuine Mexican flavors, El Rancho Mexican Delicacies (851 Washington Ave, Chestertown, MD 21620) is a couple of minutes outdoors downtown. Opening early (6:30 AM most days) it’s one of many few locations on the town the place you’ll be able to seize a full sizzling breakfast. The genuine Mexican menu affords every little thing from omelets and pancakes to quesadillas, burritos, fajitas, and bowls and platters.
We love the tender steak and flavorful Al Pastor Mexican Avenue Tacos right here, that are served in heat, hand-pressed tortillas. We additionally ordered the hen enchiladas, ½ purple and ½ inexperienced, served with black beans. They had been scrumptious, satisfying and actually packed some warmth.
See additionally
El Rancho is informal, inexpensive, and ideal for vacationers craving daring flavors in a laid-back setting. Our server, Jordan, was tremendous pleasant, and we’re excited to attempt the spicy watermelon margarita subsequent go to. El Rancho is open 7 days per week for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Trendy Stone Age Kitchen
Contemporary artisan bread cooling at Trendy Stoneage Kitchen in downtown Chestertown.Trendy Stone Age Kitchen (236 Cannon St, Chestertown, MD 21620) based by meals anthropologist and former Washington Faculty professor Dr. Invoice Schindler and creator of “Eat Like a Human: Nourishing Meals and Historic Methods of Cooking to Revolutionize Your Well being,” this bakery, cafe and espresso bar open for breakfast and lunch is a one-of-a-kind edible vacation spot.
Right here you should purchase sourdough breads, bagels, croissants, pastries and scratch-made meals for breakfast and lunch ready in keeping with ancestral meals traditions made with elements like natural flour and lard and cooking strategies like fermentation that create essentially the most nutrient-dense meals.
Our favourite is their scrumptious hand-rolled sourdough pretzels, which promote out quick. You may also seize refrigerated ready meals to go like fermented veggies, yogurt, cheeses and house-made liverwurst.
Bakery seating is obtainable inside, nevertheless it fills up shortly. When it’s heat, head to their fairly courtyard outdoors. When you’re , examine their calendar of lessons to be taught historical meals prep abilities like sourdough baking and fermentation.
The place to Keep in Chestertown MD
Brampton 1860’s gorgeous Nineteenth-century structure glows towards a starlit Japanese Shore sky | Picture: Higher DwellingBrampton 1860
Keep longer and get up at an opulent historic Nineteenth-century boutique inn on a lush non-public 35-acre property, 1 mile from downtown Chestertown at Brampton 1860.
A TripAdvisor Traveler’s Selection Winner, featured on The Viewpoint with Dennis Quaid listed on the Choose Registry, Brampton 1860’s (25227 Chestertown Highway Chestertown, MD 21620) completely restored historic structure, tranquil environment, genuine hospitality and a spotlight to element have earned it high scores and a loyal following.
Inside Marley’s Cottage at Brampton 1860 | Picture: Higher DwellingGet up in one of many seven thoughtfully appointed rooms and suites in the primary home or six non-public cottages scattered all through the property. Every has luxurious facilities like spa tubs, fireplaces, luxurious Comphy™ linens, good TVs and free Wi-Fi.
Every morning, get pleasure from a freshly ready multi-course connoisseur à la carte breakfast of their sunlit eating room with menu choices like Lemon Croissant French Toast and Apple Pancakes that change each day. Have it served on their sprawling porch, deck or breakfast room. Seasonal elements, home made pastries, and heat hospitality are all the time included.
Brampton 1860’s connoisseur à la carte breakfast options each day specials like fluffy pancakes | Picture: Higher DwellingAll through the day, assist your self to a collection of baked items after which return within the afternoon for his or her Afternoon Tea for scrumptious small plates, dessert, complimentary wine, espresso and tea. After breakfast, go to their flock of chickens after which stroll by means of Brampton’s formal gardens with fruit timber, trails and wild meadows that appeal to birds, butterflies, and small wildlife.
At evening, curl up with a ebook by the fireside, do a puzzle within the library or get pleasure from a glass of wine of their bar and lounge. We love enjoyable by the out of doors firepit the place we will see tons of stars. Don’t be shocked if their cat Squeaky comes by to maintain you firm.
Curl up with a ebook in Brampton 1860’s inviting library by the fireside | Picture: Higher DwellingWith personalised service, Brampton 1860 affords a singular expertise that feels each timeless and welcoming. And also you’ll have one of the best of each worlds: lodging at a peaceable, luxurious, historic countryside property and the comfort of Chestertown’s indie retailers, galleries, and eating places simply 5 minutes away. Brampton is adults-only and pet-friendly. EV charging stations can be found. For one of the best charges, ebook direct.
💡 Learn our full Brampton 1860 Assessment and uncover Fall Enjoyable at Brampton 1860 for seasonal actions.
Attending to Chestertown, MD
On Maryland’s Japanese Shore in Kent County, Chestertown is:
- 1 hour from Wilmington, DE
- 1.5 hours from Baltimore
- 1.5 hours from Washington, D.C.
- 1.5 hours from Philadelphia
Driving: When you’re driving, you’ll be able to attain Chestertown through Route 213 or Route 301, whether or not you’re coming from the north or south.
Flying: The closest main airport is Baltimore/Washington Worldwide Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), about 70 miles away. From BWI, you’ll be able to hire a automobile or take a shuttle service to Chestertown.
Boating: Dock on the Chestertown Marina. Verify slip charges right here and name 410-778-3616 to ebook your transient slip.
Parking: As soon as in Chestertown, parking is free and handy. Choices embody on-street parking on Excessive Avenue, Cross Avenue, and Queen Avenue, in addition to a number of free municipal tons with deadlines on Spring Avenue, Cannon Avenue, and Calvert Avenue.
Chestertown makes the proper addition to any Maryland Japanese Shore itinerary. Think about it as a part of your day journeys from Washington DC or discover extra with one of the best day journeys from Philadelphia for nature lovers.
Ultimate Ideas
Chestertown, Maryland, is a historic Japanese Shore city identified for its brick-lined streets, colonial structure, and scenic riverfront.
Based within the 1700s, it affords an enthralling escape with over 200 unbiased retailers, galleries, and cafes, with a wide range of issues to do and occasions.
It makes the proper getaway or day journey if you wish to uncover a singular vacation spot with tons of appeal and with out the crowds.
For a peaceable and splendid retreat a couple of minutes from downtown Chestertown, keep at Brampton 1860.
Chestertown is compact however stuffed with issues to do!
Whether or not you’re planning a romantic weekend, a solo escape, or a family-friendly journey, Chestertown affords one thing for everybody:
- Historical past lovers can discover colonial structure and heritage websites
- Foodies can get pleasure from farm-to-table eating and home made ice cream
- Browse indie boutiques for distinctive finds
- Discover the historic waterfront or take a river cruise
- Decide your personal berries at Lockbriar Farms, then cool off with home made ice cream
- Help native and store Chestertown Farmers’ Market (Saturdays, March–December) for contemporary produce, flowers, and handmade items
For extra charming Japanese Shore locations, discover Onancock, Virginia, Cape Charles, Virginia, The Oaks Waterfront Lodge, and Chincoteague.
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