Just because summer is fading into fall, doesn't mean that vacation season has to be over. Leave the work week behind and make plans to escape to Howard County, Maryland for the weekend! Conveniently located between Baltimore and Washington D.C., Howard County will have you feeling positively autumnal after a few days of seasonal fun, delicious food and Maryland-made brews.
Friday
Get into the weekend spirit and treat yourself to a special dinner at one of Howard County's top restaurants.
Saturday
Enjoy a Saturday morning stroll through the farmers market in Old Ellicott City. Get a glimpse of what's in season and snag some A.M. sustenance from some of the vendors. If you'd prefer to linger a bit stop by Little French Market or Bean Hollow for coffee and breakfast sandwiches.
After you've let your taste buds guide you through the farmers market, let Maryland Brewery Tours chauffeur you to four of Howard County's unique craft breweries on an afternoon bus tour. Get a behind the scenes look at Manor Hill Brewing, Black Flag Brewing Co, Frisco Tap House and Jailbreak Brewing Company. You'll enjoy tastings and a pint of your choice at each location.
If you'd prefer a self-guided brew trail experience, download the HowardOnTap app or pick up a map at any of the trail stops.
Enjoy a cool evening with even cooler music as your soundtrack. Merriweather Post Pavilion rocks well into the fall. See who's playing and get yourself some tickets here. Bring your favorite wool blanket and camp out on the lawn.
Sunday
It's a well known fact that all epic weekends involve an equally epic Sunday brunch. From build-your-own (bottomless) bloody mary bars to Old Bay infused breakfast favorites, you'll find a dish to match your cravings at any of these brunch spots.
- 5485 Restaurant & Bar
- Alexandra's Restaurant
- The Ale House Columbia
- Baldwin's Station
- Bolder Food/Drink
- Centre Park Grill
- Clyde's of Columbia
- Elkridge Furnace Inn
- Great Sage
- Grille620
- Hudson Coastal
- The Iron Bridge Wine Co.
- Kelsey's Restaurant
- Petit Louis on the Lake
- Ram's Head Tavern Savage Mill
- Seasons 52
- The Turn House
- Town Grill at Foster's Country Store
- Victoria Gastro Pub
- White Oak Tavern
Before you have to head home, make a pit stop at Larriland Farm and wander through their fields of apple trees for a bit. Pick a basket for yourself, stock up on other seasonal goodies at their farm store and don't even think about leaving before you've enjoyed some of their apple fritters. If you're traveling with others we highly recommend an order per person. This will help you avoid any fights over who gets the last fritter.
Ready to enjoy a seasonal sabbatical? Book a room at one of Howard County's cozy hotels or comfortable B&Bs.
Looking for more ideas of things to do with the whole family? Check out more about Howard County's unique farms and fun fall events.
