North East, MD

It may be small, but North East is overflowing with beauty, history, and culture. Settled in 1658, this quaint coastal town retains much of its colonial charm, from its cozy and historic downtown to its tree-filled neighborhoods with narrow streets. Located at the top of the Chesapeake Bay on the North East River, this is quintessential New England -- from the boats dotting the waterways to the spectacular fall colors.

You'll discover history in some surprising places in North East. The Upper Bay Museum features hunting and fishing memorabilia, while Saint Mary Anne's Episcopal Church, the oldest in Maryland, contains graves of the Susquehannock, dating back to the 1600s. Gilpin's Falls Covered Bridge, built in 1859, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Turkey Point Lighthouse, built in 1833, has the most female light-keepers of any other lighthouse -- nearly half of the light-keepers over the 115 years it was maintained were women.

Of course, being on the Chesapeake Bay, outdoor activities range from boating and fishing to hiking and camping. Elk Neck State Forest -- where Turkey Point Lighthouse is located -- covers 2,200 acres and offers camping, hiking, a boat launch, an arboretum, a swimming beach, and a miniature golf course. After moving to North East, be sure to spend some time exploring the wide selection of shops and restaurants along pedestrian-friendly Main Street, where you can enjoy the Turkey Point Vineyard Tasting Room, Woody's Crab House, and North East Chocolates.