Hampstead, Maryland
Exploring the Charms of Hampstead, Maryland
Welcome to Hampstead, a quaint little town nestled in the beautiful countryside of Maryland! With its picturesque landscapes, rich history, and warm community, Hampstead offers the perfect setting for a delightful three-day weekend trip with friends. Let’s dive into a carefully curated itinerary that will allow you to make the most of your visit.
Day 1: Discover Hampstead’s Heritage
Morning: Hampstead Train Station Museum
Start your day by immersing yourself in the rich history of Hampstead at the Hampstead Train Station Museum. This charming museum, housed in a restored Victorian train station, offers a fascinating glimpse into the town’s railroad heritage. Explore the exhibits showcasing vintage artifacts, photographs, and stories about the significant role the railroad played in Hampstead’s development.
Lunch: The Roost
After your museum visit, head to The Roost for a delightful lunch experience. This local favorite combines rustic charm with delicious comfort food. Indulge in their famous crab cakes, made from locally caught Maryland blue crabs, or savor their mouthwatering pulled pork sandwich. Don’t forget to try their homemade sweet tea to complete your perfect Southern meal.
Afternoon: Uniontown Brewing Company
Quench your thirst and enjoy a relaxed afternoon at the Uniontown Brewing Company. This family-owned brewery offers a wide selection of handcrafted beers, each with its own unique flavors. Sip on their flagship IPA, delve into their seasonal brews, or opt for a refreshing flight to sample a variety of their offerings. Take a tour of the facility to learn about the brewing process and the stories behind their beers.
Dinner: Liberatore’s Ristorante
Finish off your day with a delightful Italian feast at Liberatore’s Ristorante. Known for their traditional dishes and warm hospitality, this restaurant is a local gem. Indulge in their homemade pasta, like the mouthwatering lasagna or rich fettuccine alfredo. Pair your meal with a glass of fine Italian wine, and save room for their delectable tiramisu for dessert.
Day 2: Nature and Adventure Await
Morning: Piney Run Park
Embrace the natural beauty of Hampstead by spending your morning at Piney Run Park. This sprawling park offers a variety of outdoor activities amidst serene surroundings. Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque lake, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the water, or simply relax and enjoy a picnic by the shore. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse wildlife and the numerous hiking trails that wind through the park.
Lunch: The Food Chick
Satisfy your cravings with a visit to The Food Chick food truck. Located near Piney Run Park, this local favorite offers a mouthwatering array of gourmet sandwiches and wraps. Whether you prefer savory roast beef with caramelized onions or a tangy buffalo chicken wrap, The Food Chick has something to please every palate. Grab your lunch to go, find a scenic spot in the park, and enjoy a delightful picnic surrounded by nature.
Afternoon: Gunpowder Falls State Park
After lunch, venture a little further afield to Gunpowder Falls State Park. This vast natural playground offers plenty of outdoor activities to suit every taste. Hike along the scenic trails, go fishing in the river, or cool off with a swim in one of the park’s designated swimming areas. If you’re feeling adventurous, bring your mountain bike and explore the exhilarating bike trails that wind through the forest.
Dinner: Rube’s Crab Shack
No trip to Maryland is complete without savoring some mouthwatering seafood, and Rube’s Crab Shack is the perfect place to indulge. Known for their fresh and flavorful crab dishes, this local gem offers a true taste of the Chesapeake Bay. Feast on their steamed crabs, seasoned with Old Bay, or try their crab cakes, bursting with succulent chunks of crab meat. With its cozy beach shack ambiance, Rube’s Crab Shack is a delightful spot to unwind and enjoy a satisfying dinner.
Day 3: Arts, Shopping, and Culinary Delights
Morning: Carroll Arts Center
Kick-start your day with a dose of culture at the Carroll Arts Center. This vibrant arts venue hosts a variety of performances, exhibits, and workshops that showcase local talent. Browse through the rotating art exhibits, catch a theater performance or a classic movie screening, or participate in one of the arts and crafts workshops offered. Immerse yourself in the creative spirit of Hampstead before embarking on the rest of your day.
Lunch: The Main Street Oyster House
Located in the heart of downtown Hampstead, The Main Street Oyster House is a must-visit for seafood lovers. This cozy restaurant offers a wide selection of oysters, sourced both locally and from around the world. Indulge in their raw oysters on the half shell or try their famous Oyster Po’ Boy sandwich. Their menu also features other delicious seafood options like crab cakes and shrimp po’ boys.
Afternoon: Old Town Hampstead
Explore the charming streets of Old Town Hampstead to experience its unique boutiques, antique shops, and local artisans. Browse through the eclectic collection of vintage treasures at Hampstead Antiques, or discover handmade crafts and art at local galleries like Artworks. Don’t miss the opportunity to engage with the friendly shop owners and learn more about the town’s vibrant community.
Dinner: Bullock’s Country Meats & Farm Market
For a taste of authentic farm-to-table cuisine, head to Bullock’s Country Meats & Farm Market. This family-owned market and restaurant offers a delectable array of dishes created with locally sourced ingredients. Feast on their juicy grilled steaks, savor their mouthwatering fried chicken, or delve into their seasonal farm-fresh creations. Don’t forget to explore their market area and stock up on local produce, meats, and specialty items to take a piece of Hampstead home with you.
As your three-day adventure in Hampstead, Maryland comes to a close, you’ll depart with cherished memories of picturesque landscapes, a taste of the town’s rich history, and the warmth of its welcoming community. Until your next journey, happy travels!
Please note that some attractions and restaurants may have specific COVID-19 restrictions or limited operating hours. It’s advisable to check their respective websites or contact them in advance for the latest information.