Discover the Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Catonsville, MD to Overlea, MD

Are you looking for an adventure that takes you through charming towns and bustling cities? Look no further than the road trip from Catonsville, MD to Overlea, MD. This scenic journey of about 26 miles takes you along I-695 and I-95, with several notable stops along the way.

The halfway point is none other than Baltimore, the largest city in Maryland. Known for its picturesque harbor and vibrant cultural scene, Baltimore has plenty to offer visitors of all ages.

Visit the National Aquarium

One of the top attractions in Baltimore is the National Aquarium. With over 20,000 animals from more than 700 species, this aquarium provides a fascinating glimpse into the underwater world. Visitors can watch dolphins and sea turtles gliding through the water, marvel at the vibrant colors of tropical fish, and even get up close and personal with sharks and rays.

Interesting fact: The National Aquarium is home to the largest collection of jellyfish in the United States, with more than 15 different species.

Explore the Inner Harbor

After visiting the aquarium, take a stroll around the Inner Harbor. This bustling area is filled with restaurants, shops, and attractions, all set against a backdrop of glistening water and historic ships. Admire the USS Constellation, a Civil War-era vessel, or take a spin on the carousel in the Maryland Science Center.

Interesting fact: The Inner Harbor was once a bustling seaport, with ships from all over the world bringing goods into Baltimore.

Stop at the Patapsco Valley State Park

Heading out of Baltimore, the next stop on this road trip is the Patapsco Valley State Park. This park covers over 32 miles, with winding trails, cascading waterfalls, and serene streams. Hiking, biking, and fishing are popular activities in the park, but visitors can also simply relax and take in the natural beauty around them.

Interesting fact: The Patapsco Valley State Park is home to the Thomas Viaduct, one of the oldest and longest stone railroad bridges in the world.

Learn About History at the Hampton National Historic Site

Next up is the Hampton National Historic Site, located in Towson, MD. This sprawling 18th-century house provides insight into the lives of early American aristocrats and the enslaved people who worked on the property. Visitors can tour the mansion, walk through the ornamental gardens, and learn about the daily life of those who lived and worked there.

Interesting fact: The Hampton National Historic Site was once a bustling slave plantation, with over 300 enslaved people working on the property in the 1800s.

Indulge in Sweets at Parfections

As the road trip comes to a close in Overlea, be sure to stop at Parfections, a local chocolate shop. This sweet spot offers a wide variety of truffles, caramels, and other chocolate treats, all made by hand with high-quality ingredients. Visitors can watch the chocolatiers at work, and even take a class to learn about the art of chocolate-making.

Interesting fact: Parfections was founded by a husband and wife team, who started making chocolates in their basement to sell at local farmers' markets.

With these five stops, visitors can experience a range of activities and attractions on their road trip from Catonsville to Overlea. From the bustle of Baltimore to the serenity of Patapsco Valley State Park, there's something for everyone on this journey.

The trip takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour (depending on traffic and time spent at each location), making it a perfect day trip for those looking to explore the many wonders of Maryland.