If you’re staying anywhere in the Chesapeake Bay area, there’s one attraction that you have to visit: the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum. The 18-acre campus is filled with interactive exhibits, monthly events, and offers boat tours across the glistening Chesapeake Bay. All of this is done to preserve the rich history of the area in a way that appeals to all. The sense of fun and community that radiates from the museum is sure to put a smile on your face!
What You Can Do at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum
The Exhibits
Whether you’re on a weekend getaway or a winter escape, you should start your first full day in the area embracing the community here at the Chesapeake Bay Museum. Start becoming familiar with the exciting offerings that reside on the astounding 18-acres of land, pick your favorite exhibits, and plan out your path using the Chesapeake Museum Map!
-The 1879 Hooper Strait Lighthouse is a fan favorite at the St. Michaels Museum. This interactive exhibit grants access to scale the sea hatch, assume the role of “lookout” from the very top of the lighthouse, and even maneuver the giant lens that guided boats through the Hooper Strait.
-At Waterman’s Wharf, you can watch a demonstration to learn how to catch all kinds of seafood, then actually implement your new skills! Start by checking eel and crab pots for the catch of the day. Later, collect oysters from the Wharf’s very own living oyster bed. After trying out these activities, you’ll get a taste for what’s it’s like to be a real local fisherman!
-Why only marvel at the gorgeous Chesapeake Bay when you can sail across it? The Chesapeake Bay Museum offers fantastic boat tours that detail the history of the area as you peacefully glide past important landmarks. There’s nothing like the feeling of the soft wind in your hair as you embark on an adventure at sea.
Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum Oysterfest & Other Events
Oysterfest is one of our favorite events hosted by the museum. Enjoy an entire day of sampling oysters in all forms: steamed, raw, frittered, and more! Live local bands play from two stages, and craft beer is served all day. The event provides family-friendly activities like a scavenger hunt and face painting, and for adults, cast your vote on your favorite oyster dish after a blind taste test! Join us every October to experience the fun, and check out the other amazing festivals that the museum offers:
- April: Eastern Shore Sea Glass and Coastal Arts Festival
- May: Community Day & Maritime Model Expo
- June: Maritime Day & Blessing of the Fleet
- July: Big Band Night & Fireworks
- August: Watermen’s Appreciation Day
Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum Hours of Operation and Admission
The museum is open May to October from 9 a.m.–5 p.m., and November to April, 10 a.m.–4 p.m
Winter One-Day Admission (January 1 – March 31)
- All patrons: $5
- Free for active military, children 5 and under, and CBMM Members
General Two-Day Admission (April 1 – December 31)
- Adults: $15
- Seniors, students, and retired military: $12
- Children (6-17): $6
- Free for active military, children 5 and under, and CBMM Members
The Inn at Huntingfield Creek Welcomes You
If you’re ready to explore the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum but need a place to stay, join us at the Inn at Huntingfield Creek! Our lovely estate provides an undeniably relaxing retreat away from the stresses of everyday life. Consider our Huntingfield Room, where a cozy window seat overlooks our expansive, green lawn. Make yourself right at home in a rocking chair as you enjoy a beverage from your in-room mini fridge, and unwind in a plush king size bed. For the ultimate escape in the Chesapeake Bay area, our Inn provides nothing but the best on your much-needed, rejuvenating getaway.
