1. Introduction
Discover the historic charm of Cambridge, a delightful town on the Choptank River in Maryland.
2. Getting to Downtown Cambridge
From Washington, DC, Virginia, Baltimore, and points west: Take Route 50 East, pass over the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, continue on Route 50 for about 40 miles. After crossing the Choptank River Bridge, make the first right onto Maryland Avenue. Go about half a mile, cross a small drawbridge, and continue straight where Maryland Avenue becomes Market Street. Turn right on Spring Street. At the intersection of High Street, you will find the center of town. Turn right on High Street and continue to the end of the street to reach Longwarf Park and the lighthouse. There is a parking lot next to the lighthouse, along with street parking throughout the town.
3. Major Attractions Near Cambridge
- Choptank River Lighthouse – 10 High Street, Cambridge, MD. Experience a replica of a six-sided screw-pile lighthouse that has guided mariners along the Choptank River for generations. It is open to the public for free, self-guided tours daily from mid-May through October.
- Harriet Tubman Museum & Education Center – 424 Race Street, Cambridge, MD. This intimate museum showcases the life and legacy of Harriet Tubman, the courageous Underground Railroad heroine and native of Dorchester County. Open Tuesday through Saturday. Additionally, visit the Harriet Tubman Underground Visitor Center at 4068 Golden Hill Road, marking the entrance to the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Scenic Byway. The visitor center provides exhibits, a film, picnic facilities, and knowledgeable staff to assist your exploration.
- Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge – Situated 12 miles south of Cambridge, this expansive area, established in 1933, now serves as a sanctuary for a diverse range of wildlife, covering over 25,000 acres of wetlands, open fields, and forests. Enjoy biking, walking, or driving along the trails for excellent wildlife viewing. The refuge features three paddling trails in addition to hunting, fishing, and crabbing opportunities.
- Richardson Maritime Museum & Boatworks – Maryland Avenue & Hayward Street, Cambridge, MD. This museum honors a significant local boatbuilder, showcasing ship models and artifacts related to boatbuilding. The Ruark Boatworks Build-A-Boat Program offers student groups education in maritime heritage and hands-on boat building experiences.
4. Where to Eat and Dine
- The Wine Bar & Shop – 414 Race Street. A perfect stop for wine lovers.
- Bistro Poplar – 535 Poplar Street. Delight in French cuisine.
- Canvasback Restaurant and Irish Pub – 420 Race Street. A fusion of French, Italian, and Irish dishes.
- Don Chuy Mexican Taqueria – 411 Academy Street. Enjoy authentic Mexican fare.
- Jimmie and Sooks – 527 Poplar Street. A fantastic raw bar and seafood option.
- Portside Seafood Restaurant – 201 Trenton Street. A must-visit for seafood enthusiasts.
- RAR Brewing Taproom – 504-506 Poplar Street. A local brewpub worth checking out.
- Snapper’s Waterfront Café – 112 Commerce Street. Offering American and seafood dishes.
- Ava’s Pizzeria – 534 Poplar Street. Enjoy a variety of pizzas.
- Blackwater Bakery – 429 Race Street. A delightful bakery stop.
- Carmela Cucina – 400 Academy Street. Indulge in Italian cuisine.
- Cambridge House Bed & Breakfast – 112 High Street. Enjoy American and seafood specialties.
5. Hotels and Places to Stay
- Cambridge House Bed & Breakfast – 112 High Street
- Comfort Inn and Suites – 2936 Ocean Gateway
- Days Inn and Suites – 2917 Ocean Gateway
- Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Resort – 100 Heron Boulevard
- Holiday Inn Express Cambridge – 2715 Ocean Gateway
