Maryland. The Old Line State. The last of the original 13 colonies to become a state. Maryland is home to all sorts of plants and animals, people, and cultures. Here are some interesting Maryland natives.

1. Michael Phelps

We all know the most decorated Olympic athlete of all time, but did you know he's from Baltimore, Maryland? That's right. Michael Phelps is originally from Baltimore but has recently relocated to Tempe, Arizona. He's now is a swimming coach at Arizona State University.

2. Star Spangled Banner

In 1814 Francis Scott Key wrote the Star Spangled Banner at Fort McHenry. Fort McHenry is in Baltimore and is now considered a national monument.

3. The Preakness Stakes

The Triple Crown is the biggest horse race and the second leg of it originates in Maryland. The race recently took place at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore. This race was the 143rd annual race.

4. The Coolest State Flag

Yes, it's my opinion. But if you look at the Maryland flag, there is no denying that the flag is unique. The flag was created in 1634 by the Calvert and Crossland families when it was founded as an English colony.

5. Old Bay

The Chesapeake Bay falls right between Maryland and Virginia. It's hard to not find a seafood dish on a menu in Maryland, but what we are most known for our blue crabs and what we put on them. In Maryland, we have a seasoning called Old Bay. This seasoning can be found all over the state and not just on crabs. Chip, fries, pizza, pretzels, chicken wings, and countless other food items.

These are my favorite parts of my favorite state.