Salisbury, Maryland
Founded in 1732, Salisbury is the county seat of Wicomico County, a place where John Smith touched land in 1608 during his exploration of the Chesapeake Bay bringing him in contact with the Wighcocomoco or Wicomico, the Nause, the Kusk’arawack, and the Nantaquack or Nanticoke tribes who had lived in the region for several millennia. Situated on Maryland’s historic Eastern Shore at the crossroads of the Delmarva Peninsula, Salisbury is now one of the region’s largest cities, and serves as the capital of the Eastern Shore, a rural area defined by its agricultural and maritime traditions, landscapes, and industries. The Chesapeake Bay is central to this distinctive identity. Though a relatively small city, Salisbury is the geographic and economic hub of one of the nation’s fastest-growing Metropolitan Statistical Areas. Led by a dynamic mayor, the City of Salisbury is working to build its reputation as an arts and culture destination and is aligning its downtown development and revitalization efforts with the arts. Salisbury believes hosting the National Folk Festival is the perfect catalyst to further a cultural renaissance and urban renewal. https://salisbury.md/
Accommodations
Hotels in Salisbury and Wicomico County, Worcester County, and Ocean City would love you to be their guest. Please check out the links below to find the perfect hotel for your stay during the National Folk Festival.
Salisbury – Wicomico Area Accommodations
Ocean City Area Accommodations
Worcester County Accommodations
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Things to do in Salisbury & neighboring areas
From a truly unique and delicious dining experience to attending the next 3rd Friday with your family- Salisbury has many things for you to see, hear, taste, touch and experience! We’ve gathered them below and encourage you to explore the Capital of the Eastern Shore!
What are you looking for?
Local Heritage & History | The Great Outdoors | The Arts | Delmarva Wineries & Breweries
Local Heritage & History
Adkins Historic & Museum Complex (Mardela Springs, MD)
Explore what life was like in the village of Barren Creek Springs over a century ago by exploring the property’s ten historic buildings. Hours vary, so please call ahead.
Barren Creek Springs Heritage Center & Museum (Mardela Springs, MD)
Take a tour through history with a visit to the restored church and springhouse, both built in the mid-19th century. After exploring the heritage museum, visit the on-site Mason-Dixon marker that honors the memory of Native Americans allegedly buried on the sacred ground. Hours vary, so call ahead.
Charles H. Chipman Cultural Center (Salisbury, MD)
Built in 1838, the Chipman Center is the oldest standing African-American church on Delmarva. It occupies the site of a former open meadow where slaves gathered for worship. A plain one-story structure was built in 1838 for religious services and a day school. The church was identified as the African Methodist Church and informally known as the “Hill Church” or “Church on the Hill.” The building was eventually expanded, and incorporated in 1876. Eventually the property was abandoned as a church, but educators Charles and Jeanette Chipman purchased the property and deeded it to the Newtown Association. Currently, visitors can enjoy the variety of educational displays and cultural events highlighting our area’s rich African-American Heritage.”
Chesapeake Ghost Tours (Salisbury, MD and surrounding area)
Chesapeake Ghost Tours on Maryland’s Eastern Shore is the largest cluster of regional ghost tours in America. Eleven year-round night-time walks—from Easton to Ocean City—scattered over 100 miles on the Delmarva Peninsula.
Eastern Shore Baseball Hall of Fame Museum (Salisbury, MD)
Enjoy the rich history of baseball on the Eastern Shore. Come celebrate our love for the players past and present by stopping in and visiting the museum. Free admission.
Furnace Town Living Heritage Village (Snow Hill, MD)
Take a step back in time when you visit Furnace Town Living Heritage Village and experience 19th century village life. Set in the Pocomoke Forest, the village is built around the Nassawango Iron Furnace, a National Historic Landmark.
Harriet Tubman Byway (Various locations, MD)
Visitors and groups are welcome to explore the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway, a scenic driving tour that includes sites such as the new Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Visitor Center that opened in March 2017.
Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park (Church Creek, MD)
Harriet Tubman was a deeply spiritual woman who lived her ideals and dedicated her life to freedom. She is the Underground Railroad’s best known conductor and before the Civil War repeatedly risked her life to guide nearly 70 enslaved people north to new lives of freedom. This new national historical park preserves the same landscapes that Tubman used to carry herself and others away from slavery.
Museum of Eastern Shore Culture at Salisbury University (Salisbury, MD)
The Museum of Eastern Shore Culture cultivates the preservation and expression of the cultural heritage and traditional arts of Delmarva’s various communities.
Newtown Historic District (Salisbury, MD)
Newtown was Salisbury’s first designated historic district in recognition of its historic and architectural character. Take a self-guided walking tour of this unique neighborhood (map available here to download).
Pemberton Hall (Salisbury, MD)
The Pemberton Hall Foundation continues to carry out its mission of restoring Pemberton Hall and the land surrounding it to its colonial condition as well as providing interpretive programs on our local colonial history.
Poplar Hill Mansion (Salisbury, MD)
Poplar Hill Mansion is Salisbury’s oldest documented home and is a fully restored Federal House Museum available for tours and events!
The Great Outdoors
Assateague Island National Seashore (Assateague Island, MD)
Visit a place recreated each day by ocean wind and waves. Life on Assateague Island has adapted to an existence on the move. Explore sandy beaches, salt marshes, maritime forests and coastal bays. Observe the natural beauty of Assateague’s wild horses. Camping spots on the beach is available.
Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge (Cambridge, MD)
Located 12 miles south of Cambridge, the refuge has more than 28,000 acres of woodland, rich tidal marsh, freshwater ponds and managed cropland—great for birdwatching, cycling, hiking, and paddling. The refuge features a full service Visitor Center with a bookstore, restrooms, butterfly garden, and observatory, and a 4-mile Wildlife Drive with walking trails and a photo blind
Pemberton Historical Park (Salisbury, MD)
While hiking the trails, you will encounter ecosystems and their natural complement of plants and animals that are specific to many different regions of the Eastern Shore. It is rare to find any other place on the Eastern Shore where tidal and fresh water wetlands, fresh water ponds, upland pines, hardwood forests and meadows can all be studied within the same site. This unique feature, when coupled with the historical aspects of Pemberton Park, makes it especially attractive for school studies or a casual hike.
Naylor Mill Forest Trails (Salisbury, MD)
Naylor Mill Forest Trails (formerly Naylor Mill Park) was established through funding from Maryland’s Program Open Space and the City of Salisbury. Find out more about all of our Parks and Open Spaces through our Parks & Rec Committee, found here.
The Arts
AMP Studios- Academy of Music Performance (Salisbury, MD)
Right in the heart of Downtown, there lives an amazing organization that fosters and empowers student musicians. Playing throughout the community for public events and community organizations, they are the future of music in and around Salisbury.
Community Players of Salisbury (Salisbury, MD)
Bringing live local theater to life for decades, the Community Players of Salisbury regularly produce four shows within the season; a major musical and three additional shows.
Salisbury University Art Galleries (Salisbury, MD)
The mission of the Salisbury University Art Galleries and Collection is to enrich the cultural environment of Salisbury University, the city of Salisbury, and Maryland’s Eastern Shore by encouraging the appreciation and understanding of contemporary art and its role in society.
Salisbury Art Space (Salisbury, MD)
A true community gallery with a passion for sharing the arts throughout the Salisbury community in an educational and inspirational way, the mission of Salisbury Art Space is to enhance the visual arts in the Mid-Delmarva region through art education and exhibition opportunities for all. There is always something going on at the gallery, check out what classes are open and who’s show is happening here.
Delmarva Wineries & Breweries
Bordeleau Vineyards & Winery (Eden, MD)
Bordeleau Vineyards & Winery is located just fifteen minutes south of Salisbury on the beautiful Wicomico Creek. Tours are free; tasting fees apply.
Burnish Beer Company (Salisbury, MD)
Burnish Beer Company is a new brewery and restaurant proudly located at the north end of Salisbury.
Costa Ventosa Vineyard and Winery (Whaleyville, MD)
Look out over the gorgeous vineyard while sitting and sipping delicious wines made in house.
Dogfish Head Craft Brewery (Milton, DE)
Enter the sizable brewery and brewpub where they offer hearty food, an ample selection of beers on tap, and tours of the facility.
Evolution Craft Brewing Company (Salisbury, MD)
Evolution makes top-rated beers with a focus on great food pairings. “Ever-better beer for ever-better food” is Evolution’s motto.
Gateway Craft Brewing (Salisbury, MD)
Gateway Craft Brewing is a small, craft brewery located in Salisbury Maryland..
Layton’s Chance Vineyard & Winery (Vienna, MD)
With a variety of great wines, over 14 acres of beautiful vineyards, a large picnic area with outdoor games, a nature trail, and friendly staff, Layton’s Chance has it all!
Tall Tales Brewing Company (Parsonsburg, MD)
Brewing beers worthy of the legendary tall tales, including John Henry, Sasquatch, and many more!
Downtown Eats
Two Scoops Ice Cream & Waffles (Salisbury, MD)
Two Scoops Ice Cream & Waffles is a one-of-a-kind ice cream parlor and gift shop
Brew River (Salisbury, MD)
Watch the captivating sunsets overlooking the Port of Salisbury Marina over Brew’s seafood-heavy American menu & craft brews that are served at this riverfront eatery & nightclub.
Cake Art (Salisbury, MD)
Fresh homemade cupcakes everyday! Custom cakes created for each special occasion.
Caribbean Flava (Salisbury, MD)
Caribbean Flava is a Jamaican Restaurant specializing in authentic Jamaican cooking. If you love Jamaican food, you will love eating at Caribbean Flava.
Evolution Craft Brewing Co. & Public House (Salisbury, MD)
Trendy brewpub offering housemade draft microbrews & local, seasonal grub in an urbane space.
Market Street Inn (Salisbury, MD)
Waterfront choice serving upscale American fare with local seafood and paired wines, with live music.
Mogan’s Oyster House (Salisbury, MD)
Inspired coastal cuisine pays homage to the seafood culture of the eastern shore, while hand-crafted cocktails can be also enjoyed at Mogan’s exquisite long oak bar.
MoJo’s Urban Eatery (Salisbury, MD)
Festive eatery providing eclectic comfort fare and a rotating beer list with wide screen TVs and live music.
Rise Up (Salisbury, MD and surrounding area)
Dedicated to only roasting sustainable coffees Certified Organic and Certified Fair Trade, a unique café that is somehow both modern and comfortable. The College Avenue location serves up fresh breakfast and lunch.
Roadie Joe’s Bar and Grill (Salisbury, MD)
Amazing, freshly prepared food, paired with over 60 craft beers and a full bar of spirits make Roadie Joes the destination on the Eastern Shore for happy hour, lunch, dinner or late-night entertainment!
Sushi De Kanpai (Salisbury, MD)
Innovative sushi and Japanese entrees served with sake and cocktails in a simply appointed space.
Family Fun
Altitude Trampoline Park (Delmar, MD)
Jumping on the trampolines is suitable for all ages! With over 24,000 square feet of indoor trampolines, this trampoline park offers high-energy and exciting entertainment activities such as a Main Arena, Foam Pit, Dodgeball Arena, Kid’s Arena, Aero ball, and Laser Maze, in addition to even more innovative, family fun activities.
Ben’s Red Swings (Salisbury, MD)
Designed by kids, for kids! From swings to slides to a misting station, this park has everything needed for your little one to have fun!
Coco’s Funhouse (Salisbury, MD)
Large, colorful bounce houses and playscapes fill this airy, indoor amusement venue for kids.
Crown Sports Center Rollerblading (Eden, MD)
Dust off those old skates or lace up the new ones, gather family and friends and come roll to the music from our sound system as it pumps out the latest hits and skating anthems of the past. Grab a bite to eat from our snack bar and check out our pro-shop for a set of custom wheels to jam on.
Frontier Town Western Theme Park (Berlin, MD)
Get yourself ready for a trip back into America’s Wild West with all its purdy nostalgia and tons of colorful characters! Visit our replica western town circa 1880 and enjoy our revamped Wild West Show, which features an all new Best of the West Exhibition, while still keeping in tradition with bank holdups, Native American dancing, Can Can shows, gunfights, and jailbreaks.
Jolly Roger Amusement Park (Ocean City, MD)
Jolly Roger Park is comprised of Speed World, Splash Mountain, Jolly Roger at 30th Street and Jolly Roger at the Pier, providing locals and visitors with plenty of things to do in Ocean City.
Maui Jack’s Waterpark (Chincoteague, VA)
Maui Jack invites the whole family to catch a wave at his brand new waterpark on Chincoteague Island, VA. Enjoy sliding and splashing on brand new waterslides, floating on the lazy river, chilling in our tiki cabanas, refueling at our concession area and shopping for Maui Jack’s souvenirs.
Ocean City Boardwalk (Ocean City, MD)
Take a walk on the Boardwalk to explore an iconic East Coast pedestrian thruway. The award-winning boardwalk is home to amazing hotels, fabulous restaurants, and attractions befitting a world class seaside resort.
Old Pro Mini Golf (Ocean City, MD)
Created in 1965, this local mini-golf chain features indoor and outdoor mini-golf courses that are safari and pirate-themed. Fun for the whole family!
Salisbury Art Space (Salisbury, MD)
Salisbury Art Space is a unique family art center focused on community, family, and the revitalization of downtown Salisbury. You will find amazing classes for children, adults, couples, and families plus amazing events and gallery shows.
Salisbury Skate Park (Salisbury, MD)
Grind the rails and bowls of Salisbury’s only skate park! All individuals who wish to utilize the Salisbury Skate Park must be appropriately registered with the City of Salisbury.
Salisbury Zoo (Salisbury, MD)
The Salisbury Zoological Park is committed to enhancing our quality of life by providing a FREE friendly, relaxing environment where educational and recreational opportunities come together through participation and interaction. With its animals, staff, volunteers, and park-like setting, the zoo encourages an appreciation of wildlife and inspires conservation of our natural world.
Southbound Bowling Alley (Salisbury, MD)
This alley is bringing Bowling back to Salisbury—try something fun and different! Hit the bowling lanes. Open Bowl day and night. Brand new arcade games, food and drink specials, and plenty of bowling!
