Understand

St. Mary's City, despite its name and slogan, is not exactly a bustling metropolis. Rather, it is a captivating collection of historical exhibits both outdoors and indoors, centered around the sites of this once pioneering town. Adding to its charm is the presence of the esteemed St. Mary's College, a public liberal arts institution. One must-see attraction is the Historic St. Mary's City Museum, which not only offers a satisfying journey into the past but also provides an educational and engaging experience for children, with its interactive exhibits and costumed staff. On top of that, a visit to St. Mary's College is highly recommended for its picturesque grounds and scenic waterfront. And for those seeking a truly unforgettable stay, the waterfront Brome Howard Inn, located just south of the city, has earned its place as one of the top 10 inns in the entire D.C. metro area, according to Washingtonian Magazine. Dating back to 1632, St. Mary's City holds the distinction of being the fourth oldest permanent settlement in British North America and the first capital of Maryland. It stands as a testament to America's journey towards religious freedom, being the first openly practicing Catholic community on the continent. Originally established by colonists who arrived from St. Clement's Island, they first resided in a Yaocomaco village before constructing their settlement here. Over the years, St. Mary's City flourished into a bustling hub, housing Maryland's first public buildings and serving as the provincial capital until 1708, when the capital was relocated to Annapolis. Despite this move, the heart of St. Mary's City never truly took hold, as the local population spread out among the surrounding tobacco plantations.

Get in

To fully experience the wonders of St. Mary's City, it is best to explore by car. The city is located away from major public transportation routes. - By car: Embark on an exciting road trip and discover the hidden gems of St. Mary's City. Starting from the D.C. Beltway/I-95, follow the MD-5 South exits. This road will lead you straight to St. Mary's City. Just make sure to bear right at Harpers Corner for a seamless journey.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

**1. Hamburger**The hamburger, often simply called a burger, is a sandwich consisting of a cooked patty of ground beef, usually served in a bun with toppings and condiments such as lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese, and pickles. It is a quintessential American fast food item that can be found at restaurants, fast food joints, and even street vendors throughout the country. While traditional hamburgers typically include beef, there are also vegetarian options available made from plant-based ingredients.

**2. Pizza**Pizza is a popular Italian-American dish consisting of a yeasted flatbread base, typically topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and various other ingredients such as meats, vegetables, and herbs. In the United States, pizza is often sold as both a take-out and sit-down dining option, with numerous regional variations in styles and toppings. Pepperoni is a particularly popular topping in the U.S., but vegetarian and vegan pizzas are also widely available.

**3. Fried Chicken**Fried chicken is a southern-style dish comprised of marinated chicken pieces that are coated in a seasoned flour mixture and deep-fried until golden brown and crispy. Originating from the American South, fried chicken has become a staple in the country's culinary landscape, with various regional variations in preparation styles and seasonings. It can be enjoyed as a standalone meal or as part of a larger feast, and although traditionally prepared with chicken, vegetarian alternatives do exist.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing