Activities

An authentic Chesapeake town on Maryland’s storied Eastern Shore, Cambridge has a rich maritime tradition, including shipbuilding, sailing, fishing, crabbing, waterfowling and more. With an outdoors & nature-loving culture, a rich history, charming small towns, and a slower and friendlier pace of life, Cambridge and Dorchester County offer you a wonderful opportunity for a getaway.

Cambridge is located near the metropolitan areas of Washington, DC and Baltimore, yet when you arrive to Cambridge, you’ll enjoy its small town charm. The surrounding areas include stunning nature, flora, fauna, local farms, rolling hills and ponds. Highway US-50 is known locally as the “Ocean Gateway,” with the segment running from Choptank River to Ocean City known as the “Sunburst Highway.”

Cambridge has local attractions and activities for the entire family. These include:

Downtown Cambridge

Cambridge is among the oldest cities in Maryland, laid out in 1684. Throughout the years, it’s served as a seaport, a major packing and canning center, and a vacation destination. At the height of its industrial boom around 1900, it was the largest community on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Through the first half of the 20th century, downtown Cambridge was the place to be—both on Race Street and Pine Street and surrounding streets.

Downtown Cambridge is home to great restaurants, unique small shops, bakeries and cafes and historic sights. Check the button below for Discover Downtown to see listings of downtown cafes, restaurants, shops, services and activities.

Downtown Cambridge Walking Tour Map

Dorchester County Events

Dorchester County has several events happening on GFNY weekend. On Saturday, Oct 5 is the Hurlock Fall Festival and Train Rides in Hurlock, MD. It’s an Arts & Crafts Show, Parade down Main Street, Music, Food, Train Rides. More info here.

Full calendar of events

The Seafood

Dorchester County is known for its delectable seafood–jumbo lump crab, rockfish, oysters, and more–fresh from the local waters. Many of the restaurants are waterside, and some are accessible by boat. You’ll also discover some surprises here, such as sophisticated restaurants tucked away down country lanes and in small towns.

Sit down restaurants

Dining guide PDF

Harriet Tubman Museum and Education Center

Harriet Tubman Museum and Education Center recounts the life story of Harriet Tubman – freedom seeker, Underground Railroad conductor, abolitionist, suffragist, human rights activist, and one of Maryland’s most famous daughters. Born around 1822 in Dorchester County on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, Tubman is one of the most lauded, recognized, and revered figures in American history.

Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge

Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge is home to an incredible amount of plant and animal diversity in its three major habitats – forest, marsh and shallow water. The refuge contains one-third of Maryland's tidal wetlands, which makes it an ecologically important area within the state. The refuge has been referred to as the "Everglades of the North," and has been called one of the "Last Great Places" by the Nature Conservancy. This area is perfect for short or long bike rides through a pristine, quiet, wildlife rich, environment. Located just 15 minutes off of Route 50 in Cambridge, Maryland

The Choptank River Lighthouse and Long Wharf Park

The Choptank River Lighthouse and Long Wharf Park stands on the waterfront in Cambridge, on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Built in the “screwpile” style characteristic of the Chesapeake Bay, it is a faithful replica of an earlier beacon that guided sailing vessels up and down the Choptank River. The Lighthouse offers visitors commanding views of historic Cambridge and the Choptank River. Inside is a small museum celebrating the rich maritime heritage of Dorchester County and the Eastern Shore.

Blackwater Adventures

Whether you're looking for a fun and relaxing paddle through the serene, brackish waters of the Blackwater River or the adrenaline pumping action of power boats or jet skis, Blackwater has the adventure for you! Rentals of kayaks or SUPs, guided kayak tours, boat rentals, and more. Call ahead to inquire about availability and make your booking.

Website: blackwateradventuresmd.com
Email: info@blackwateradventuresmd.com
Phone: 410-901-9255

Bucktown General Store Museum

Bucktown General Store, an authentic 19th century country store. This was the location of Harriet Tubman’s first public act of defiance. The legacy of Harriet Tubman lives on in this carefully restored and preserved museum. Besides the history inside, this unique building is surrounded by magnificent landscape.

Stop by for a visit inside during a pre-race training ride, it’s a great place to stop and enjoy the beauty and history. GFNY Aid Station 2 & 4 is located directly aside the Bucktown General Store, but you won’t have time to take a peek inside during the race. :)

A fun Dorchester bike history fact for you from the owners of the museum: Did you know Cambridge has had a bike club since 1853? Cycling is part of Dorchester County’s heritage.

Website: bucktownstore.com

Phone: 410-901-9255

More Information

Farmers Market on Thursdays

Operating May through November in 2024, Thursdays from 3pm – 6pm, the Long Wharf Farmer’s Market is a local favorite! What’s better than a waterfront Farmer’s Market? The market is situated in the Long Wharf park, nearby public parking. The market is within walking distance to the Municipal Marina, Skipjack Nathan, the replica Choptank River Lighthouse and downtown Cambridge along historic brick-paved High Street.

Approximately 18 or more vendors can be found throughout the season, including many local Dorchester and Eastern Shore regional farmers, crafters, and specialty food vendors.

More info about the Farmers Market

Arts & Entertainment

Thriving galleries and artist studios along with entertainment venues can be found in Downtown Cambridge including Art Bar 2.0, 3Ten Creative Design & Gift Gallery, Wednesday Morning Artists, Main Street Gallery, and the Dorchester Center for the Arts.