Published May 7, 2019
By Maryann Hammers
Maryland has much to offer travelers. Relax and play in scenic areas such as the Chesapeake Bay and Eastern Shore coastline. Explore historical sites such as Fort McHenry, the birthplace of the U.S. national anthem; Historic Ships, a collection of military vessels dating from the 19th century; and the U.S. Naval Academy, where future officers are educated and trained (military discounts on tours). Plus, there are major attractions such as the Inner Harbor, National Aquarium, and Maryland Science Center.
Now that you want to visit, here’s how to save money with military discounts on accommodations while you’re there.
The Inn at the Chesapeake Bay Beach Club in Stevensville, near the U.S. Naval Academy and less than an hour from Washington, D.C., offers active duty and retired military families a 20-percent “Bravery in Action” discount on overnight accommodations, plus a free breakfast voucher for two. The 77-room inn offers a choice of luxury guest rooms, suites, and cottages. The deal is valid Sunday through Thursday. Call (410) 610-5900 or find more details online.
The Tidewater Inn in downtown Easton, an arts and cultural center on the Eastern Shore, is steps from the Avalon Theatre, specialty shops, galleries, and museums. The 92-room inn is sophisticated, warm, and inviting, with a grand curved staircase, elegant furnishings, and a wood-burning fireplace. Active duty and retired military members get 20 percent off overnight accommodations and a free breakfast for two at the inn’s onsite Hunters' Tavern. Call (410) 822-1300, and ask for the Thank You for Your Service special.
Maryland’s 72 state parks offer a variety of programs and special rates for active duty servicemembers and veterans, who can enjoy hiking, biking, boating, swimming, horseback riding, teambuilding ropes courses, and camping. “Our state parks represent the best of Maryland in many ways — as a natural resource ranging from Atlantic Ocean beaches to the Allegheny mountain range; a large variety of land and water-based recreational opportunities; and historic sites dating as far back as the French and Indian Wars and the War of 1812 among others,” says spokesperson Connie Spindler for the Maryland Office of Tourism.
Among the state park military programs are these offerings:
- The Wounded Warrior and Veteran Outreach program waives day-use entrance charges for veterans, active duty servicemembers, and Maryland National Guard members.
- Wounded or sick service members from local military hospitals can relax at a weekend retreat in a quiet country setting, completely free, with the Southern Maryland Vacations for Vets.
- Operation: Campout lends military members and their families free gear (tent, chairs, stove, lantern, and more) to be used at campsites in these state parks: Swallow Falls State Park, New Germany State Park, Rocky Gap State Park, Patapsco Valley State Park, and Pocomoke River State Park.
Learn more about state park programs.
Deals are available as of May 7, 2019, and may be subject to change.