It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic The Bayou gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Havre De Grace, MD is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“Always Best care is the best! Their caregiver is very nice with respective attitude. They”
“I am a past client of this provider My mother passed away two months ago after”
“I am a past client of this provider ABC Upper Chesapeake provided excellent and compassionate care”
“I met with Elaine Gill as we needed a secure place for my Dad. She”
“I cannot really find the words to say how wonderful the staff is at Always”
“I interviewed this provider I used Always Best Care to care for my parents who happen”
“I used Always Best Care to care for my parents who happen to live in”
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“I interviewed this provider Elaine is professional, knowledgeable, and has a heart for people. Her recommendations”
“I interviewed this provider When we needed help getting our Father the proper care we were”
“Always Best care is the best! Their caregiver is very nice with respective attitude. They are all expert and knows their job very well in all ages. I never regret that their service to take care of my grandmother. They are trustworthy, respectful, honest and passionate to their work. I highly recommend them on their work.”
“I am a past client of this provider My mother passed away two months ago after nearly four years of coverage from the team members of ABC Upper Chesapeake. Mom and I were both very pleased with the coverage. ABC was most congenial to do their best to provide Mom with caretakers whom we found suited to Mom's personality and temperament. In the very few cases this was not so, we asked for someone else to care for Mom and this was promptly provided. All in all the caretakers were kind, friendly, competent and helpful, providing Mom with good care and company. Elaine G was very helpful in getting us in contact with the VA so that Mom was able to obtain a monthly benefit entitled to her because of Dad's service in the military. That was a great financial help to us in our particular situation. I strongly recommend this agency for the homebound and ill. They will work with you to do all they can to grant your reasonable requests. Thank you, Elaine and caretakers!”
“I am a past client of this provider ABC Upper Chesapeake provided excellent and compassionate care for my late father during his prolonged decline at age 95. The care enabled him to live in his home with my mom during his final months of life. Elaine worked with me diligently to match my parents' difficult situation with the perfect caregiver. My father was treated with dignity and gentleness when he was no longer able to care for himself at all. It gave our family great peace of mind knowing he was so well cared for.”
“I met with Elaine Gill as we needed a secure place for my Dad. She was very knowledgeable and professional. Fortunately, the second location she showed us was a good fit (Dakota Paradise). I heartily recommend Always Best Care if you want help finding a loved one the proper care.”
“I cannot really find the words to say how wonderful the staff is at Always Best Care of Upper Chesapeake: Highly competent, Comforting, caring, extremely attentive, endlessly patient and reassuring. Elaine Gill has done an amazing job at ensuring that the staff she has are just as committed to ensuring the highest quality of life for every client, as Elaine! You are on the top of my list for any further care services that my family members may need going forward.”
“I interviewed this provider I used Always Best Care to care for my parents who happen to live in another state. I met with Elaine (the owner) to discuss my options and determine the best caregiver service to meet my parents needs. She was a great help; addressed all my questions and concerns and gave me peace of mind that my parents were in good hands. Their caregiver is wonderful and very competent. I don't have to worry about them or become a detective to find out what is going on with them in Maryland. Although my parents were a little skeptical at first, Elaine and her staff have put their mind at ease and made them feel very comfortable about the entire experience. They both feel much safer now and happier that they are able to stay in the home that they love. I am comforted in knowing that my parents are receiving quality care and they are in the capable hands of Elaine and her staff at Always Best Care. Words can not express my sincere gratitude for the awesome care provided to my parents.”
“I used Always Best Care to care for my parents who happen to live in another state. I met with Elaine (the owner) to discuss my options and determine the best caregiver service to meet my parents needs. She was a great help; addressed all my questions and concerns and gave me peace of mind that my parents were in good hands. Their caregiver is wonderful and very competent. I don't have to worry about them or become a detective to find out what is going on with them in Maryland. Although my parents were a little skeptical at first, Elaine and her staff have put their mind at ease and made them feel very comfortable about the entire experience. They both feel much safer now and happier that they are able to stay in the home that they love. I am comforted in knowing that my parents are receiving quality care and they are in the capable hands of Elaine and her staff at Always Best Care. Words can not express my sincere gratitude for the awesome care provided to my parents.”
“I am a past client of this provider I cannot really find the words to say how wonderful the staff is at Always Best Care of Upper Chesapeake: Highly competent, Comforting, caring, extremely attentive, endlessly patient and reassuring. Elaine Gill has done an amazing job at ensuring that the staff she has are just as committed to ensuring the highest quality of life for every client, as Elaine! You are on the top of my list for any further care services that my family members may need going forward.”
“I interviewed this provider Elaine is professional, knowledgeable, and has a heart for people. Her recommendations have been invaluable. We are thankful for Always Best! It is a 5 Star Company!!”
“I interviewed this provider When we needed help getting our Father the proper care we were recommended to Elaine and ABC. It was the right move. Fortunately for us the second location she showed us was the right fit. It's been a difficult time and having their expertise eased our concerns.”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Millard Tydings Memorial Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local La Cucina or visit Rochambeau Plaza, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Havre De Grace, MD, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Havre De Grace, MD understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Havre De Grace, MD 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.Havre de Grace|Local EventFri, May 2, 2025 at 5:00 PMHavre de Grace, Havre De Grace, MD, 21078Stop by our 1st Friday booth and let us tell you about our youth sailing program.More Upcoming EventsLocal EventMay2...
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.
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HAVRE DE GRACE, Md. — Maryland has a lot of beauty but there is one hidden gem in Havre De Grace which has been a best kept secret.Chris Scholz was able to get a hold of some peonies from a neighbor almost 15 years ago.He learned how to plant and take care of the peonies and during the pandemic he opened his land to the public for people to visit the beautiful flowers."The first year I think we had 25 or 26 people and he made the website and the next year we had about I think about 100 and something and it's j...
HAVRE DE GRACE, Md. — Maryland has a lot of beauty but there is one hidden gem in Havre De Grace which has been a best kept secret.
Chris Scholz was able to get a hold of some peonies from a neighbor almost 15 years ago.
He learned how to plant and take care of the peonies and during the pandemic he opened his land to the public for people to visit the beautiful flowers.
"The first year I think we had 25 or 26 people and he made the website and the next year we had about I think about 100 and something and it's just grown and I think we're up to about our fifth or sixth year," says Scholz.
He says over time he has enjoyed sharing the beauty with people who come to visit, and over the years he has even gotten different types of peonies from Festiva Maxima to Madame Emile.
"But the thing that makes me happy is when I see everybody out here and the flowers are blooming and there is just lots of smiles. That's worth the money the investment I made so that's one thing," says Chris Scholz.
Scholz says as he expands his peony garden he enjoys having people come by and take pictures and even take some home.
"They bloom like you see for such a short period of time take them with you," he says.
They not only bloom for a short time, but the time they bloom depends on the weather, but he says they should be ready in may.
Scholz says this year he also wants to let people pre-select a type of peony they would like to take with them in the off season to grow on their own.
"So you put a steak at the one you like and then come back and see me in the fall we find a steak and we dig them up so that's something new we're going to try." says Scholz.
He is also looking to expand his garden over-all adding more plants than just peonies.
"We started a bunch of sunflowers so later on in the summer we're gonna have some flowers and hopefully over where the goats were will make a place for pumpkins and then out and that lower field, I've got a bunch of wildflower seeds and I want to make like a wildflower area," he says.
The St. John's Peony Farmfields are expected to start blooming ahead of mother's day.
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Maryland, often celebrated for its bustling cities and picturesque coastal destinations, also boasts an array of charming small towns that have quietly risen to the ranks of favorites among U.S. travelers. From the tranquil streets of Berlin, where history meets artistry, to the colonial time capsule of St. Mary's City, where the past comes alive, and down to the Chesapeake City's serene canal-side charm, Maryland's small towns have something...
Maryland, often celebrated for its bustling cities and picturesque coastal destinations, also boasts an array of charming small towns that have quietly risen to the ranks of favorites among U.S. travelers. From the tranquil streets of Berlin, where history meets artistry, to the colonial time capsule of St. Mary's City, where the past comes alive, and down to the Chesapeake City's serene canal-side charm, Maryland's small towns have something special to offer. Each town unveils a unique narrative, with museums, historic sites, and hidden wonders awaiting exploration. Visitors can savor the essence of Maryland's diverse identity, from maritime traditions to colonial roots, and indulge in regional cuisine that reflects the state's bounty from the Chesapeake Bay. So, why not add these gems to your travel itinerary and uncover the authentic soul of Maryland?
As the sun kisses the Susquehanna River, Havre De Grace awakens in all its maritime glory. As you cross the stunning Thomas J. Hatem Memorial Bridge, you will see picturesque views of sailboats dancing on the bay's shimmering waters. Nature enthusiasts will be mesmerized in Susquehanna State Park, where hiking trails lead to the majestic Rock Run Grist Mill. You can also discover the region's lesser-known, the jaw-dropping King and Queen Seat, a natural rock formation with a thrilling legend. And don't skip out heading to Concord Point Lighthouse. This 19th-century beacon guided ships through treacherous waters and offers dazzling bay beauty. As you wander along the Promenade, be sure to spot the mysterious "Poe Toaster," who pays annual homage to Edgar Allan Poe near his memorial.
It's a journey to the center of the Earth, right in Boonsboro. You get to explore Crystal Grottoes Caverns, Maryland's only show cave, where you can marvel at the subterranean wonder of stalactites, stalagmites, and underground pools. You can step into the pages of a novel at Turn the Page Bookstore, owned by bestselling author Nora Roberts' husband, and if you're lucky, you might even catch a book signing event. Refuel at Dan's Restaurant and Tap House, a local favorite known for its craft beer selection and hearty dishes. You can also schedule a visit to the Pry House Field Hospital Museum, which played a crucial role during the Battle of Antietam. The museum showcases artifacts and stories from this pivotal Civil War battle.
Just a stone's throw from the bustling heart of Washington, D.C., lies the charming enclave of Kensington, where suburban tranquility and artistic vibrancy booms at every corner. Head to the nearby Wheaton Regional Park for a day of outdoor fun. Hidden amidst its acres is the beautiful Brookside Gardens, a blooming oasis with vibrant flora and serene koi-filled ponds. The Kensington Armory is where you will find the Kensington Arts Theatre and the Montgomery Art Association Gallery. You should check their schedules for captivating performances and exhibitions that showcase the town's creative talent. Kensington Antique Row will delight and surprise you with its classic furnishing, antiques, and everything in between at The Cusp of Extinction, Goldsborough Glynn Classic Furnishings & Finds, and Starr’s Antiques & Collectibles.
About 30 miles from Delaware, Berlin welcomes you with its charming streets straight out of a postcard. The Atlantic Hotel, a beautifully restored Victorian-era establishment, proves to be a fantastic first stop with its elegant façade and luxurious accommodations. Discovery awaits you at Burley Oak Brewing Company, where craft beer enthusiasts can enjoy innovative brews. Their experimental approach to brewing sets them apart. You can also visit the Calvin B. Taylor House Museum, a historic treasure trove showcasing Berlin's rich past. You can uncover the town's history, including its role as a hospital center during the Civil War, through its exhibitions, local author sessions, and storytelling sessions. Don't forget to discover the collection of Victorian mourning jewelry, a captivating and somewhat eerie glimpse into the past.
The maritime wonderland and the "Heart & Soul of the Chesapeake Bay," St. Michaels, bring you the Hooper Strait Lighthouse. Here, you can check out the working boatyard and discover the craft of shipbuilding, see exhibits on oystering, or step aboard for breathtaking bay views. You can also hop aboard the Winnie Estelle, an oyster buy boat, and learn about the region's oyster-harvesting history for an experience like no other. St. Michaels is renowned for its boutique shopping along Talbot Street, where you can step into charming stores like The Preppy Redneck and The Treasure Chest for unique finds, from nautical-themed jewelry to coastal home decor. For a taste of the bay's culinary delights, head to the Crab Claw, where you can indulge in fresh, steamed blue crabs while overlooking the water, or the Miles River Yacht Club, where you can savor fresh seafood.
As you stroll down the brick-lined streets of the timeless Chestertown, you will get a glimpse of the vibrant culture. You can take a trip to the historic Emanuel Churchyard, the final resting place of notable figures like George Washington's aide-de-camp, Tench Tilghman. Chestertown's artistic spirit is on full display at galleries like the Carla Massoni Gallery, showcasing the work of regional and nationally recognized artists. Don't miss the RiverArts Gallery, where you can admire various artworks, from photographs to pottery to paintings. You can also stop by the Custom House, a historic site that now houses the Chestertown Visitor Center. Here, you can gather information about the town's attractions and events, including the Chestertown Tea Party Festival, a lesser-known celebration of the local colonial heritage.
Founded in the 17th century, Oxford emerges like a pearl in a hidden oyster. You will find an 18th-century tavern room, a time capsule of colonial life, a collection of ship models intricately crafted by local artisans, and artifacts from the shipwrecks in the Oxford Museum. You should also keep an eye out for the Skipjack Nathan, a historic wooden sailing vessel that occasionally graces the harbor with its majestic presence. Oxford's culinary scene is a testament to its waterfront location. You can savor the freshest seafood at the Oxford Market and enjoy views of the Tred Avon River. Or indulge in a gourmet meal at the Masthead at Pier Street, where you can dine right on the water's edge.
Step into a living history book as you arrive in St. Mary's City, a town that allows you to experience Maryland's colonial roots like no other. Established in 1634, it's a place where history comes alive on every cobblestone street. Your journey begins at Historic St. Mary's City, a remarkable outdoor museum. You can explore the reconstructed State House of 1676 and the Print House, where you can witness the printing of colonial documents. Don't miss the Maryland Dove, a replica 17th-century ship that provides insight into early maritime life. A hidden gem in this historic town is the Woodland Indian Hamlet, an intriguing wonder that portrays the lives of indigenous peoples in the 17th century. You can also dine like a colonist at the nearby Brome-Howard Inn, offering a menu inspired by colonial-era recipes. Or head to the Green Door Tavern for a cozy atmosphere and classic American fare.
As you arrive in Crisfield, the briny breeze and the sight of watermen at work will set the tone for your visit. The J. Millard Tawes Historical Museum allows you to explore exhibits on the town's history and its significance in the world of crabbing and oystering and dive deep into the lore of Chesapeake watermen. Don't forget to admire the exhibit on the legendary Chesapeake skipjack, providing a glimpse into the world of oyster dredging. A must-do in Crisfield is a boat tour to Smith Island to discover a unique culture, indulge in Smith Island cake, and witness the island's picturesque landscapes. Also, sample fresh crab dishes at the Watermen's Inn or dive into a seafood buffet at the Crisfield Crab Place.
Ocean City is a town where the rhythms of the Atlantic Ocean set the pace, and the fun never stops. Your Ocean City adventure begins on the iconic boardwalk, where you can savor the scent of saltwater taffy at Dolle's Candyland and enjoy thrilling amusement park rides at Trimper's Rides. Ocean City is a watersports paradise, with options for jet skiing, parasailing, and paddleboarding. The town's sport fishing is legendary, and you can book a charter for a chance to catch marlin, tuna, or striped bass. When the sun sets, the Ocean City nightlife comes alive. Fager's Island offers waterfront dining with live entertainment, and Seacrets, Jamaica USA boasts a lively atmosphere with multiple bars, stages, and a bayfront beach.
Once a vital transportation hub, Cumberland invites travelers with its stunning natural beauty and rich railroad history. The C&O Canal Towpath presents endless hiking and biking opportunities, while Deep Creek Lake, just a short drive away, is ideal for water sports and relaxation by the shore. A quick trip takes you to the Paw Paw Tunnel on the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, where you can admire this engineering marvel carved through the mountain as you stroll the towpath alongside the tranquil waters of the canal. Cumberland's vibrant arts scene flourishes at the Allegany Arts Council, which hosts rotating exhibitions, workshops, and live performances.
Imagine a place where narrow streets wind past quaint shops and charming cafes, and boats lazily drift along a picturesque canal. That's Chesapeake City. Housed in the historic Lockkeeper's House, the Chesapeake City Museum allows you to explore the town's role in canal history, including stories of mule-drawn boats and lock operations. You can also book a canal boat ride with Chesapeake City Water Tours. You’ll glide along the canal, passing beneath the soaring Chesapeake City Bridge, and learn about the town's history and its bustling maritime traffic. Be sure to indulge in the tapas and seafood dishes at Schaefer's Canal House, a historic waterfront restaurant boasting stunning canal views. And for dessert, visit the lovely Bayard House Restaurant, renowned for its decadent crab imperial.
Maryland's small-town favorites have built their reputation not through fleeting charm, but by providing genuine experiences that resonate with travelers. From the delectable seafood of Crisfield to the rich maritime heritage of Chesapeake City, these communities celebrate their roots with open arms. Culinary delights, historic treasures, and a warm local welcome await you. It's not just about visiting; it's about becoming part of the story, one that unfolds in real time and lingers with you long after you've gone.
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The elusive morel mushroom is popping out of the ground in Maryland as temperatures warm up. Here's where sightings have been reported.Deb Belt, Patch StaffMARYLAND — One of the most delectable of springtime treats — elusive morels, the so-called “sacred mushroom” — are popping out of the ground in Maryland.Morels are among the most desired wild mushrooms in the world. Although morel hunters are...
Deb Belt, Patch Staff
MARYLAND — One of the most delectable of springtime treats — elusive morels, the so-called “sacred mushroom” — are popping out of the ground in Maryland.
Morels are among the most desired wild mushrooms in the world. Although morel hunters are a notoriously secretive group, many have reported the date and general area they found their caches to The Great Morel.
Reports in Maryland include these from the last two weeks:
Keep in mind, as we move toward warmer temperatures, there’s only a small window to find morels, which are just decaying fungi that pop out of the ground under just the right fusion of atmospheric conditions and pollen counts.
Weather patterns have everything to do with the timing of morel mushroom season. Prime mushroom hunting time is usually over by Mother’s Day, which is on Sunday, May 11, this year.
The ‘Sacred Mushroom’
If you’ve never experienced these earthy, woodsy and nutty tastes of spring, don’t turn down an invitation to partake in their deliciousness. Alex Guarnaschelli of “Iron Chef” called them the “sacred mushroom,” wrote the late food author Simon Majumdar, who said the mention of morel mushrooms “will bring a look of appreciation to every chef” he encounters.
“The morel, or morchella, is actually more related to the truffle than it is to other mushrooms and, like truffles, is the fruit of a fungus that sprouts in the moist soil of woods and forests,” Majumdar wrote. “There are debates about the number of different types of morel, but the most common ones are black morels and yellow morels. They both have a stem and a conical body that is covered with pits and ridges like a honeycomb, which makes them instantly recognizable to anyone who spends time hunting for them.”
Morel mushrooms are used heavily in French cooking, but the most common among morel cooking methods in the United States is to dip the mushrooms in egg, dredge the mushrooms in flour or seasoned bread crumbs or crackers, and fry them in butter.
Before You Head Into The Woods …
Mushrooms are typically found from March to May. Morels prefer certain habitats, for example near the base of dead or dying elm trees or around ash, tulip and old apple trees. Experienced hunters also report finding them in areas around washes, downed trees or logging areas, old flood plains, and burn sites.
The website Mushroom Appreciation offers morel hunting tips. After nighttime low temperatures warm up to 40 degrees or above, head out into the woods on a warm morning after a spring rain.
The big thing to know before heading out is how to recognize the difference between an edible morel and a poisonous false morel that can make you sick or even kill you. This page has everything you need to know about morel mushroom identification.
No matter how tempting, “don’t pick every mushroom you see,” the site suggests. “Leave a few, so they can continue to drop spores and you and others can enjoy them for years to come.”
Also, be sure to take along a map, compass and a phone with GPS tracking. While practicing safe social distancing, it’s also a good idea to take along a friend. Mace or pepper spray is a good idea, too, in case you run into a moose, bear or dog taking exception to you tromping around the woods.
Mushroom Appreciation cautions against coming right out and asking hunters where precisely to find morel mushrooms, though.
“If you have superior charm and people skills, you might try asking about local morels in a roundabout and modest way,” the site advises. “Just beware that you may not get the desired response, or you may wind up with directions to the local haunted forest!”
The Great Morel is accepting reports of morel sightings through its website, or by emailing them to [email protected] with the ZIP code, city, state and date found, along with any other helpful information, such as weather conditions. Don’t worry — the exact location where hunters found the morels is sacrosanct.
410-877-3787
