Ellicott City
Day Trips
Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Ellicott City's hidden gems and unique experiences!
Start your day with a visit to the Ellicott City Furnace Museum to learn about the town's industrial heritage. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the historic Main Street, taking in the quaint shops and charming architecture.
Have lunch at one of the local cafes offering delightful sandwiches and pastries. Spend your afternoon exploring the Patapsco Valley State Park, where you can hike trails and appreciate nature.
Dine at a cozy restaurant featuring local cuisine and enjoy some live music if available. Wrap up your day with a stroll downtown, soaking in the evening ambiance.
Head to Patapsco Valley State Park early for a refreshing hike surrounded by beautiful scenery. The crisp morning air and chirping birds make it a perfect start.
Pack a picnic and enjoy it in one of the many scenic spots in the park. After lunch, rent a kayak for a fun time on the Patapsco River.
Return to town for dinner at a local eatery known for its farm-to-table offerings. Conclude the day with a relaxing evening walk, admiring the stars.
Begin your day by exploring boutique shops along Main Street for unique souvenirs and crafts. Take your time chatting with local shopkeepers to discover hidden gems.
Stop for lunch at a trendy café that serves delicious coffee and baked goods. Continue your shopping adventure at the Historic Ellicott City shops for antiques and artisan goods.
Enjoy dinner at a restaurant that offers outdoor seating to relish the warm evening breeze. Afterward, join a local event or festival if available for some community fun.
Visit the Howard County Center for the Arts to appreciate local art exhibitions. Attend a morning workshop to unleash your creativity.
Lunch at a nearby bistro, then take a guided tour of historic sites in the area to learn about Ellicott City’s rich history. Don’t forget to take photos along the way!
Savor dinner at a trendy restaurant that showcases regional dishes. Round out your cultural exploration with a visit to a local theater for a show or performance.
Get an early start with a bike ride along the scenic paths in Patapsco Valley State Park. Enjoy the thrill of the outdoors and capture beautiful views.
Stop for lunch at a local deli, then head back out for more biking or explore a different trail for hiking. Make sure to take breaks to enjoy your surroundings.
Relax over dinner at a casual dining spot that is family-friendly. Wind down with a lovely evening at a local pub, enjoying live entertainment.
If visiting in the fall, start your day at a pumpkin patch or apple orchard for some seasonal fun. Enjoy picking fresh produce and taking photos among the colorful leaves.
After lunch, join in activities like hayrides or corn mazes before grabbing some freshly made cider. Visit local crafts fairs if available to shop for handmade items.
Experience a seasonal dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant, enjoying dishes made with local produce. Cap off the night with a visit to the local bonfire, if available.
Begin your day with a visit to a local farmers' market to source fresh ingredients for the day. Engage with local farmers and taste some delicious samples.
After assembling your ingredients, participate in a cooking class to learn how to prepare local dishes. Enjoy the meal you’ve created for lunch.
Dine out at a recommended restaurant known for its unique culinary offerings. Conclude your culinary adventure by trying a local dessert shop for something sweet.
Take a short drive to the nearby historical landmarks for breathtaking photos and learning moments. Explore the surrounding nature trails for a refreshing hike.
Pack a lunch to enjoy at the scenic overlooks, and spend time embracing the views. Continue exploring the local parks or gardens for a tranquil afternoon.
Return to Ellicott City for dinner at a restaurant with a view, where you can catch the sunset. Spend the evening relaxing at a coffee shop, appreciating the day's adventures.
Start your day with some rock climbing at a local gym or outdoor climbing site if available. Get your adrenaline pumping as you tackle different routes.
Grab lunch at a nearby sports café designed for the active crowd. Continue with an outdoor activity like zip-lining or a visit to adventure parks in the area.
Wrap up the day with a fulfilling dinner at a casual spot where other adventurers gather. Reflect on your adventurous day and plan your next outing.
Begin the day with a visit to a local music shop to browse and maybe try your hand at an instrument. Attend a morning open mic event if available.
Have lunch at a restaurant with live music, enjoying both food and entertainment. Spend your afternoon visiting local art galleries that often feature musical-themed art.
Dinner at a nearby venue known for hosting live music performances. Enjoy the energy of the night, dancing and listening to local bands.