This article was provided by Visit Howard County, the Tourism Council of Howard County.
Join in as Visit Howard County takes you on a tour of Elkridge, Maryland. Founded on the banks of the Patapsco in the early18th Century, Elkridge began as an industrial town where the river’s currents were used to power water wheels at numerous mills. Today, you can find plenty to explore in this charming part of Howard County, from the waterways and trails to the diverse cuisine and historical buildings.
Recreation in Elkridge
Maryland’s first state park, Patapsco Valley State Park, is where industry meets nature. Driving in, you’ll pass the Thomas Viaduct, named after Philip E. Thomas, the first president of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. Today, it is the world’s oldest multiple arched stone railroad bridge.
As you go horseback riding, paddling, fishing or hiking, you come across historic structures, sites and ruins. Trains pass by in the distance. CSX Transportation, the largest railroad in the eastern United States, runs the length of the valley.
For some excitement, visit the Swinging Bridge, a suspension bridge supported by large cables high above the Patapsco River. Walk across for the thrill of slightly swinging in the air. Only a short hike away is Cascade Falls, where a waterfall gently descends.
Nearby, Rockburn Branch Park has pathways and trails. Enjoy an active day on their four tennis courts, 18-hole disc golf course, two basketball courts, and many other sports fields. At Rockburn Skills Park, bikers can practice on tracks that cater to all skill levels. Troy Park has several athletic fields, playgrounds and trails.
At the Elkridge Library, visit the DIY Education Center, where you can borrow power tools and baking pans. Adjoining the showroom is a classroom area. Register for free crafting nights, from acrylic paint pouring to rock painting.
Dining and Hospitality in Elkridge
After a day of exploring, you’ll want to settle in for a hearty meal. Across from Patapsco is Rathskeller, a German-style restaurant with every kind of schnitzel and brat imaginable. To enter, head to the basement as you would in a true German rathskeller. In the 19th century, the building was a judge’s house. Today, the original jailhouse sits on the biergarten patio, where you can listen to live music during the warmer months while sipping on authentic German beer.
For a fusion of New American and French-inspired cuisine, visit the Elkridge Furnace Inn, and start your meal with the delicious French Onion Soup. Owned by Chef Dan and his wife Donna Wecker, the organic farm-to-table restaurant and historic venue offers special events from literary theater teas to hands-on cooking experiences. This beautiful wedding location also has historical markers marking its significance and location on the Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail, Civil War Trails and the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom.
Another beautiful location to reserve for special events and weddings is the 68-acre Belmont Manor and Historic Park. Preserved land surrounds the manor, which was built in 1738.
If you’re looking for a casual, laid-back eatery, head to Mutiny Scratch Kitchen and Fresh Bar for a crab cake sandwich and Natty Boh. Walk inside and you’ll feel as though you’ve set sail on a foodie adventure since the interior resembles a pirate’s ship with nets hanging from the ceiling carrying traveling supplies and unfortunate captives.
Finish with a visit to Kupcakes & Co., a boutique bakery that offers tiered cakes and a variety of cupcake flavors, including gluten-free and vegan options.
Visiting Elkridge is convenient with easy access to I-95, I-695 and MD-100. With so much to do, you’ll want to book an overnight stay at the Best Western BWI.
Visit Howard County, Maryland. Open. Learn more at VisitHowardCounty.com or @visithocomd.
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