I have lived in Maryland all my life and I would not want it any other way. Ever since I left for school in Pennsylvania I realized how much I miss Maryland. Here are 10 reasons why I love Maryland!!
1. OPACY
Oriole Park at Camden Yards was rated the best park in baseball, and for good reason. Summer nights are some of the best nights at the ballpark; the ball flies further and the sunsets are more than picture worthy. When you are able to go to the park in October take it because that means that you made it to the post-season, and what can be better than that? The nights are cold, but that is what makes October baseball fun. The crowd erupts when a ball is hit out of the park or a great play is made. I cannot wait for this upcoming summer so I can spend time at the park with my family and my boyfriend.
2. The Inner Harbor
The Inner Harbor is such a pretty place to visit and there is so much to do. You can go to the Maryland Science Center and learn about all different forms of science in a hands on way. You can go to the World Trade Center Baltimore, from the top you can see a gorgeous view of the Harbor and the rest of the city. I have not yet got to experience this, but I hope that one day soon I do!
3. The National Aquarium
The Inner Harbor is home to The National Aquarium and it is one of the main focal points, which is why it gets its own number. There is so much to see. They do not just have the traditional fish and amphibians that would be expected at an aquarium, but they also have birds and snakes. It is such a memorable experience, I went when I was young and I cannot wait to go back soon.
4. The Flag of course
I know, I know every Marylander raves about our flag. But lets be honest the Maryland flag is pretty unique and looks great on clothing. In fact there is an entire online store devoted to Maryland clothes, check it out here.
5. M&T Bank Stadium
If it is not baseball season, that means that it is time to spend time at our other great ballpark. M&T Bank is one of about 14 parks that have real grass over artificial turf. It was installed this previous off season. The players on the Baltimore Ravens have even said that it is better than the artificial turf. Terrance West, a running back, said "It makes the cuts easier and I like it." In the games played at the stadium this year, you can see the improvement of the run game and the ways that players are able to make quick cuts and turns. I have only been to one game at the stadium, but I cannot wait for my next game there. The energy is unreal. The crowd is always full of energy, and other players have come into the stadium say it is hard to come in and play because of the noise the crowd makes.
6. 34th Street at Christmas Time
One thing that is a must do around Christmas is go to 34th street in Hampden, It is such a pretty place. Each house is fully decorated with lights and other different decorations. Some houses have themes to them, and others are just different lights. Lights stretch above the houses across the street. It was one of the most memorable experiences I have ever done around Christmas time.
7. Ocean City
Yes, Ocean City is the stereotypical vacation spot. But it does have some good aspects of it, like Chincoteague Island where you can see wild ponies and spend time on the beach with them. You can also go parasailing and jet skiing. There is nothing wrong with just laying on the beach and getting tan, then going in the water to cool off and jump some waves. Late nights on the beach are the best, add fishing in there and it makes it even better.
8. The Weather
Yes, the seasons can be a bear. But the part that I love is that we experience all four of the seasons. Yes the winters and summers can be brutal, but fall and spring bring some of the most beautiful scenery. It is most certainly picture worthy.
9. We are an American Miniature
In Western Maryland we have mountains. In Central Maryland we have farm land. In Southern Maryland we have the city. On the Eastern side of Maryland there is the beach. It is such a great experience and I love that I can see everything within one state, instead of having to travel to another state to do so.
10. Crabs and Old Bay
These two go hand in hand. They are Marylander's version of peanut butter and jelly. Crabs are pretty much the mascot of Maryland. Old Bay can go on pretty much anything: fries, popcorn, chicken, corn. Summer time means it is time for crabs smothered in Old Bay. The only thing about Old Bay that sucks is that it finds even the littlest of cuts and hurts like a b****h. Other than that it is one of the best things Maryland has to offer.
