Looking for a Quieter, Relaxed Vacation? Come to St. Michaels, Maryland

If you are looking for a change from the usual type of vacation, try St. Michaels, Maryland. The name of the town sounds like the name of a tropical destination, but St. Michaels is a hidden east coast treasure. I should know-I spent the first seventeen years of my life there.

Situated on the Miles River on the eastern shore of Maryland, St. Michaels welcomes visitors all year round. Once primarily a fishing community, St. Michaels has enhanced its rustic charm, turning the small town into a tourist Mecca.

Just driving into the town gives the impression of driving back in time. There is one road in and one road out of town. You won't find any stop lights here, so watch that speed limit-it's only 25 mph. No destination is too far to walk or bike in St. Michaels. Bicycles are available for rent though most tourists choose to stretch their legs and take in the sights at a more relaxed pace. The shops and buildings along the main thoroughfare, Talbot Street, have been restored to their original design. Not much has changed here in many a year which adds to the town's appeal.

If you desire a more camera-worthy tour, St. Michaels is the place for that. Visit the town website for a detailed map outlining the points of special interest. A favorite of mine is the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum on Maritime Museum Road. As a kid in elementary school, our class traveled down to the museum at least once a year to see the boats and visit the Hooper's Strait lighthouse. And guess what? We walked all the way there. If you are a maritime buff, this popular St. Michaels' spot is for you. According to the map, there are twenty-six (26) points of interest that are "must-see". I grew up there and I haven't seen them all. I guess it's time for a visit….

Whenever you visit a new town always sample the local fare. If you have a taste for deep fried jumbo shrimp, stuffed flounder, broiled scallops, steamed crabs, and the like, you've come to the right place. The best seafood in the state can be found in St. Michaels. You haven't tasted an authentic Maryland crab cake unless you get it here. For more formal dining, try the Lighthouse Restaurant or Perry Cabin Restaurant. The service is as impeccable as the food. But, if you don't stand on ceremony, try Big Al's Seafood Market for fast fare or my ultimate favorite, The Crab Claw Restaurant.

The Crab Claw Restaurant is a must for everyone visiting St. Michaels. Get there early for lunch because it can become standing room only rather quickly. During the summer ask for a table outside on the dock for a wonderful panoramic view of the harbor. All the tables outside are picnic-style with large umbrellas. Each table has crab bibs, mallets, and paper towels. Order a bushel of steamed crabs and they'll roll out the brown paper for you. When you eat there, you're treated like family.

The lodging is as varied as the restaurants. Luxury accommodations can be found at Perry Cabin Inn or the St. Michaels Harbor Inn and Marina. If you are looking for a cozier, more romantic setting, try one of the Bed and Breakfast establishments. It'll feel as comfortable as home.

St. Michaels is the perfect place for a family-friendly vacation. Festivals and special events in the park highlight the other attractions this fabulous town has to offer. A fall festival at the end of October brings pumpkin carving, costume contests, parades, and more. Christmas features carriage rides and tree lightings. Come to St. Michaels once for the experience; visit every year for the feeling of home.