Maryland - “America in Miniature”

Often called by nicknames the state of Maryland is in the top ten list of smallest American cities  by area,  and one the  most densely populated. Although, the state  center is Annapolis. A former temporary capital of the United States (1783-1784), Annapolis is situated on the Chesapeake Bay about 29 miles east of Washington, D.C. and has a populous of about 38,000 people. The state is named after Queen Henrietta Maria, who was the Queen consort of England, Scotland and Ireland.

Maryland's area is almost as big as Belgium's territory, but encompasses a fair amount of varying  landscapes, including sandy dunes, low marshes  and oak forests. The Wye Oak, which is a huge example of a white oak, is the state tree and the largest white oak tree in the United States. Due to its diverse topography Maryland was nicknamed “America in Miniature”. The state also boasts abundant wildlife with many types of plants and animals. Middle Atlantic coastal forests, Northeastern coastal forests and Southeastern mixed forests cover different parts of Maryland.

The western Maryland is home to the Appalachian-Blue Ridge forests have some of the most diverse forest climates in the world known also for their rich biodiversity and a large amount of endangered animals. At the same time the state is recognized as being environmentally conscious. In 2007 it was ranked as the 5th  "Greenest" and in 40th place in energy usage. The same year Maryland  become avid supporters of the organization  fighting to reduce  greenhouse gases.

Maryland is also one of the richest states, as state households happen to be the wealthiest in the country with an average income of $69,272. It is a heavily industrialized state with many influential technology centers based within its limits. There are also important computer industries and more than 400 biotechnology companies in Maryland.

In addition to those who visit the beautiful nature in Maryland, there are many tourists that follow the historical routes that make up some of the rich historical heritage of this region. One of the main historical attractions is the Civil War Trails, on which you can trace back the footsteps of generals and find out many interesting stories about the Civil War. The route includes Baltimore City, the Chesapeake Region, Southern Maryland and Western Maryland. Another historical attraction is the Historic National Road, which is a 170-mile road that offers many recreational and historical activities.

In Ellicott City you can see the first railroad station in the United States, and the Thomas Isaac Log Cabin, built in 1780. Other places of interest that are part of the Historic National Road include the Inner Harbor in Baltimore; Downtown Frederick, which is one of the Arts & Entertainment Districts in Maryland; The Adventure Park, and many more. If you want to see how a Colonial home used to look like, then visit the restored 107 Tory House and its 19th-century wooden water tower.

Among cultural attractions you might like to see the exhibition space AFI (American Film Institute) Silver, one of the best cinemas, or the Arena Players, the oldest black community theater, which was founded in 1953.

In the Academy Art Museum you will be able to see some regional art, changing exhibitions, lectures, concerts and more. You can also check out the Baltimore Museum of Art and the Walters Art Museum (an admission-free attraction).

If you prefer outdoor recreation then renting a lakeside lodge or a cabin along the shoreline of Deep Creek Lake sounds like the right thing to do. It is Maryland's largest freshwater lake and offers activities, such as swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, golf, and more.