Itineraries
Become a HowardOnTap weekend warrior or explore some of the trail's more remote locations. None of our suggestions strike your fancy, create an itinerary that's all your own! Howard County's hotels, restaurants and unique attractions are here to help make the most of your HowardOnTap adventure. Need additional info or options, feel free to contact the experts at the Howard County Welcome Center. Give us a call at 800-288-8747 or email us at info@howardcountytourism.com.
Trail travelers know to let someone else handle the driving for them, so don't forget to make plans for a ride!
THE WEEKEND WARRIOR
Saturday
Fuel up with a late breakfast! You’ll find a bottomless brunch at The Ale House Columbia on Saturdays and Sundays. Dig into an Ale House Benedict or the Chef’s Featured Hash while sipping on one of their house brews from Oliver Brewing Co.
After breakfast consider heading to Black Flag Brewing Company and Lost Ark Distilling Co., two of Howard County’s newest craft beverage producers. At Black Flag you’ll find 10 taps. They have 5 always available signature beers and a rotating list of 5 that they make on their small batch system. It may still be early in the day, so consider trying their Brunch Breakfast Stout.
Lost Ark Distilling Co. is the first distillery to open in Howard County since prohibition. Deriving their name from the story of the first Maryland settlers, Lost Ark wants you to experience some Maryland history with every pour. Here you’ll find premium spirits - mashed, fermented, distilled, and bottled by hand, using the finest local ingredients available.
At this point you’re probably hungry. Luckily Frisco Taphouse is nearby. Not only will you find some delicious grub, but you’ll have your pick of their large selection of craft beers from around the globe. Frisco’s is also home to PUSH American Brewing Company, Howard County’s second oldest brewery.
Sunday
Brunch starts at 10 am at Rams Head Tavern in Savage Mill. Order a pint of one of their Fordham & Dominion brews to enjoy with your Sirloin Steak & Eggs, Firehouse Biscuits or whatever else your hop happy heart desires.
If you’re in the mood to get your adrenaline pumping a little bit, make plans to have some high-flying fun at Terrapin Adventures while you’re in Savage Mill.
Jailbreak Brewing Company is almost around the corner from Savage Mill. Head there to sample some of their artfully crafted beer from one of their 8 taps. A few fan favorites include Feed the Monkey and Welcome to Scoville. If you’re feeling pecking you can bring some snacks or if you’re lucky you’ll find a food truck waiting to satisfy your hunger pains right outside.
THE OUTER RIM
On this trip we’re going to start at the farthest reaches of the HowardOnTap galaxy and make our way back in. In other words, start your brew tour at Red Shedman Farm Brewery. Located among the rolling hills of neighboring Mt. Airy on over 200 acres of farmland. This farm brewery and tasting room features 12 handcrafted ales, ciders and barrel aged beers.
Continue to enjoy the beauty of Western Howard County and head to Manor Hill Brewing next. (Don’t forget to make a reservation for this one, capacity is limited.) Here you’ll find aromatic, hop-forward farmhouse-style beers made from high-quality, seasonal ingredients. Howard County’s first farm brewery.
From there, venture over to Old Ellicott City and Howard County’s oldest brewpub. At Ellicott Mills Brewing Company you can settle in for a meal and enjoy some of the hand-crafted micro brews inspired from the best-of-brewing all over the world.
If time allows, spend some time exploring Old Ellicott City. You’ll find unique museums, the country’s oldest railroad terminal, cool shops and much more!
