Top

Menu

MATPRA

MATPRA is a cohesive unit of regional tourism partners encompassing Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington D.C. and West Virginia.

admin

Mid-Atlantic Breweries

Greetings MATPRA Media Partners,

MATPRA distributes press releases designed to inspire media coverage of the Mid-Atlantic region. We plan topics months in advance to accommodate longer lead times. If you have suggestions for future topics, we’d love to hear them! Please email ([email protected]).

Explore the Mid-Atlantic through its craft beer scene! Enjoy distinct flavors from makers large and small, pouring everything from crisp lagers to bold ales and rich stouts. A new favorite pour is waiting at one of these standout spots!

MARYLAND


Annapolis and Anne Arundel County (MD)
Annapolis and Anne Arundel County offer a dynamic craft beer scene. In Annapolis, Forward Brewing delivers small-batch creativity in Eastport known for its sustainability practices and support of oyster beds to rehabilitate the Chesapeake Bay. Nearby, Crooked Crab Brewing Co. in Odenton features 16 rotating taps and playful brews like “Crabtain America.” Chesepiooc Real Ale Brewery in Crofton thrives on experimentation and Pherm Brewing in Gambrills blends beer and art, including a special brew you can only find aboard the Schooner Woodwind – “Seas the Bay IPA.” From nano-breweries to taproom hubs, the region pours out flavor and community spirit.
Visit Annapolis


Calvert County (MD)
Discover the craft beer scene in Calvert County this November! From family-owned favorites to small-batch artisanal breweries, the county offers a variety of flavors for every palate. Sip award-winning beers at Mully’s Brewery in Prince Frederick, enjoy artisan brews paired with fresh cuisine at Ruddy Duck Brewery & Grill in Dowell, or relax outdoors at the Southern Maryland Biergarten at Running Hare Vineyard in Prince Frederick. North Beach’s Unauthorized Brewing offers friendly vibes and carefully crafted small-batch beers, while Greenspring Brewing Company brings art, science, and cheer to every pint. Explore local breweries and find your new favorite brew!
Choose Calvert


Hagerstown-Washington County (MD)
Washington County is home to an energetic and growing brewery scene that reflects both local tradition and innovation. From small batch craft breweries to taprooms that pair regional ingredients with experimental brewing techniques, the area offers a diverse beer-lover’s playground. In our Grapes & Grains Guide (available on our website), you’ll find a curated map and descriptions of our breweries, specialty brews, and notes on the local grains or hops they source. The Guide is a great companion whether you’re doing a brewery tour or simply discovering your new favorite brew in Washington County.
Visit Hagerstown-Washington

Photo Credit Scott Cantner


Harford County (MD)
Harford County’s brewery scene is overflowing with local flavor and fun! With eight breweries ranging from microbreweries to three scenic farm breweries; there’s a craft experience for every taste. Each spot offers its own unique vibe, from rustic countryside settings to lively taprooms, all proudly serving locally brewed beers and seasonal specialties. Family-friendly and most known for their welcoming, dog-friendly patios, these breweries are perfect for relaxing afternoons or nights out with friends. Enjoy rotating food trucks, live entertainment, and community events throughout the year as you sip, savor, and explore the vibrant craft beer culture of Harford County.
Hello Harford

Photo Credit Jodi Marschhauser


Kent County (MD)
Raise a glass to Rock Hall’s newest gem, Rock Hall Brewing Co. Nestled in this waterfront town, the brewery brings fresh energy to Kent County’s growing craft beverage scene. Visitors can enjoy a rotating selection of handcrafted beers, from crisp lagers to bold IPAs, brewed with creativity and local pride. The inviting taproom offers the perfect spot to relax after a day of exploring the Chesapeake Bay, while live music and community events add to the lively atmosphere. Whether you’re a craft beer aficionado or just looking for a refreshing stop, Rock Hall Brewing Co. is a must-visit destination.
Kent County Tourism


Talbot County (MD)
Talbot County, Maryland is home to Maryland’s longest-running brewery, Eastern Shore Brewing. Located in the charming, waterfront town of St. Michaels, Maryland, Eastern Shore Brewing offers its ales, lagers, and seasonal specialties in a lodge-like tasting room.
Tour Talbot

Photo Credit @carraway.beer

PENNSYLVANIA


Bucks County (PA)
Follow the Bucks County Ale Trail and discover 30+ outstanding craft breweries with the digital passport. One check-in to any brewery location is equal to 100 points. Start checking in to earn points and redeem for prizes. Visit https://www.visitbuckscounty.com/food-and-drink/bucks-county-ale-trail/ for more information.
Visit Bucks County


Cumberland Valley (PA)
Pennsylvania is one of the biggest producers of craft beer in the U.S., which is why the Cumberland Valley Beer Trail, located in Cumberland Valley PA should be on your list of brewery destinations to explore! There are nearly 30 breweries on the Cumberland Valley Beer Trail, which rewards craft beer with prizes and one-of-a-kind experiences. This year’s beer trail celebrates Pennsylvania sports, with new shirts and exclusive tailgates. The Cumberland Valley features a mix of well-known breweries like Pizza Boy and Ever Grain to smaller, growing craft beverages.
Visit Cumberland Valley


Endless Mountains (PA)
Nimble Hill is a family-owned Winery & Brewery located in the Endless Mountains of Northeastern Pennsylvania that is dedicated to producing some of the finest products available in the region. Stop in the Tasting Room located on Route 6 in Tunkhannock to discover the award-winning products brewed by this regional business. Nimble Hill’s products are sourced from a locally maintained one acre hop field which climbs on trellises just past our the family’s10 acre vineyard. Plans include advancing the local hop fields and vineyards each year so that the Nimble Hill grows as a self-sustaining regional winery and brewery.
Endless Mountains


Juniata River Valley (PA)
At Shy Bear Brewing, it’s all about great beer, good vibes, and a positive impact. Their 10-barrel brewhouse turns out everything from classic styles to progressive, whimsical brews—paired perfectly with a creative menu that evolves with the seasons. Families, kids, and pups are always welcome, especially in the beer garden where extensive live music and entertainment programs make warm days unforgettable. Beyond the glass, they’re committed to sustainability with 363 solar panels, on-demand water heating, and eco-friendly practices across the property.
Juniata River Valley Visitors Bureau


Lancaster County (PA)
Our Lancaster County Brew Trail is a great way to explore our many suds (some of the most in any PA county) and earn points toward branded swag at the same time. Learn why we were once known as the “Little Munich of America” and check out Bube’s Brewery in Mount Joy – the only U.S. lager brewery from the 1800s that has survived intact.“
Discover Lancaster


Lawrence County (PA)
Home to 5 microbreweries, each location offers a different atmosphere down to the type of brew. Enjoy a sports themed brewery at Brew 32, Crooked Tongue Brewing offers homemade food pairings with each lager and Neshannock Creek Brewing or “The Crick” as some Western Pennsylvanians would say, keeps its roots close with a rustic fishing lodge feel.
Visit Lawrence County


York County (PA)
York County, PA is a must-sip destination where craft beer fans can hop from one flavorful stop to the next. Enjoy American IPAs at AleCraft, Hefeweizen at Aviator, bold, balanced beers at Gift Horse and the ski-chalet vibe complete with outdoor bar and fire pits at South County Brewing Company. Many taprooms offer seasonal outdoor seating, welcome pets, and feature great live music. Plan your adventure with Explore York’s Digital Good Libations Trails, where you can check in, discover new favorites, and sip for swag. It’s York County—one memorable pint at a time.
Explore York

About the Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance
The Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance (MATPRA) is a collaborative network of tourism partners across Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington D.C., West Virginia – and coming soon… New Jersey! The alliance is dedicated to supporting travel journalists by providing resources that transcend geographic boundaries, much like travelers themselves. By identifying common themes and regional highlights, MATPRA offers a wealth of story ideas for journalists interested in showcasing the diverse destinations of the Mid-Atlantic region as a unified whole. For more information, visit matpra.org.

###

Detour Destinations

Greetings MATPRA Media Partners,

MATPRA distributes press releases designed to inspire media coverage of the Mid-Atlantic region. We plan topics months in advance to accommodate longer lead times. If you have suggestions for future topics, we’d love to hear them! Please email ([email protected]).

Enhance your next trip to the MidAtlantic Region’s big cities with a delightful detour destination stop. Explore the surrounding area’s charming villages and towns to make the most of your trip by enjoying local eats, quirky shops, and peaceful parks along the way.

MARYLAND

Annapolis and Anne Arundel County (MD)
Beyond Annapolis, Anne Arundel County offers hidden gems worth exploring. Visit Historic London Town and Gardens in Edgewater for colonial history and lush landscapes. Try your luck at Live! Casino & Hotel in Hanover, adjacent to Arundel Mills Mall for shopping and entertainment. Discover cryptology’s secrets at the National Cryptologic Museum near Fort Meade. For nature lovers, hike scenic trails at the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center in Edgewater or bike the BWI Trail. A trip to Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse is a hidden gem and a must-experience! These attractions blend history, nature, and fun—all just outside the capital’s spotlight.
Visit Annapolis


Calvert County (MD)
Battle Creek Cypress Swamp in Prince Frederick, Maryland is an ideal detour stop! Visitors can explore the boardwalk through the cypress trees, newly designed interactive exhibits, and one of the northernmost bald cypress swamps in the country! It’s peaceful, educational and uniquely local.
Choose Calvert


Kent County Economic and Tourism Development (MD)
Next time your travels take you through the Mid-Atlantic’s bustling cities, plan a refreshing detour to Kent County, Maryland. Just a short drive from urban hubs, this Eastern Shore gem offers a slower pace and authentic small-town charm. Wander Chestertown’s historic district, lined with unique shops and cozy cafés. Savor local flavors at waterfront restaurants or explore Rock Hall, where maritime heritage and friendly faces shine. Outdoor lovers can unwind at serene parks, scenic trails, or along the Chester River. Whether for a quick stop or a lingering stay, Kent County makes every detour truly delightful.
Kent County Tourism


Talbot County (MD)
Find the yin to the big city’s yang in Talbot County, Maryland, where you can explore the best of the Chesapeake Bay’s culture and cuisine, much of it bound together by a ribbon of backroads that string together the small-town pearls of Easton, Oxford, St. Michaels, and Tilghman Island. Each town offers its own distinct character and timeless appeal, creating a journey that whispers tales of colonial grandeur, maritime heritage, and the tranquil beauty of the Chesapeake Bay.
Tour Talbot


Washington County (MD)
When in D.C. or Baltimore, add a charming detour to Hagerstown-Washington County, MD. Just 1 hour away, it offers an escape from city life, inviting you to explore its quaint historic towns. Discover Hagerstown’s Arts & Entertainment District or visit the Antietam National Battlefield in Sharpsburg. Hike or bike the C&O Canal in Williamsport. Enjoy local eats, browse quirky shops, or find peace in serene parks like Greenbrier State Park. Try kayaking on the Potomac River and hike the Appalachian Trail. This trip is filled with history, nature, and authentic local character. History – it’s in our Nature!
Visit Hagerstown

PENNSYLVANIA

Bucks County (PA)
Peddler’s Village has 65 unique shops and six unique restaurants on 42 acres of landscaped gardens and brick pathways located between Doylestown and New Hope. Guests can enjoy year-round events and festivities, including specially themed months, weekend celebrations, fall scarecrow displays, comedy nights and so much more.
Visit Bucks County


Butler County (PA)
Butler County’s small towns are constantly evolving and growing. By fostering new businesses, creating unique events, and community collaboration, they’ve become a true destination for visitors. Just 25 miles from Pittsburgh, they make a perfect detour.

The charming towns of Saxonburg, Zelienople, and Harmony are known for their unique history with specialized museums, trendy boutiques and delicious restaurants. Butler and Zelienople come alive with seasonal street fairs and markets, offering extended shopping hours, local music, and fun for all.

Finally, visit Portersville and beautiful Moraine State Park, the perfect spot for a picnic, hike, or boat tour.
Experience Butler


Endless Mountains (PA)
Three seasons of the year, Brown Hill Farms is a detour destination in the heart of the Endless Mountains agricultural area that offers visitors seasonal ways to celebrate! At the beautiful property located near Tunkhannock, right off historic Route 6, Brown Hill Farms provides opportunities to stroll through over 400,000 tulips and daffodils each spring, bask in the glow of summertime magic on thirty acres of sunflowers and cut flowers, and provide the perfect fall foliage activity of picking a pumpkin from a patch that grows classic orange pumpkins as well as blue heirloom varieties.
Endless Mountains

York County (PA)
York County, PA is the perfect detour destination—close to Lancaster, Gettysburg, Hershey, and Baltimore, yet full of its own unforgettable experiences. It’s easy to turn a quick stop into a full weekend with vibrant downtowns, rich history, rolling farmlands, and a thriving food and craft beverage scene. Fun year-round, York County always has something new to explore, whether you’re chasing seasonal festivals, scenic trails, or hidden gems that make every visit feel fresh and inviting.
Explore York

About the Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance
The Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance (MATPRA) is a collaborative network of tourism partners across Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington D.C., West Virginia – and coming soon… New Jersey! The alliance is dedicated to supporting travel journalists by providing resources that transcend geographic boundaries, much like travelers themselves. By identifying common themes and regional highlights, MATPRA offers a wealth of story ideas for journalists interested in showcasing the diverse destinations of the Mid-Atlantic region as a unified whole. For more information, visit matpra.org.

###

The Mid-Atlantic Story: Celebrating 250 Years of America’s Spirit

Across the Mid-Atlantic, 250th anniversary commemorations are unfolding in imaginative and meaningful ways from storytelling performances and art installations to small-town festivals that remind us what unity and independence truly mean.

Each event reflects a different thread in the nation’s rich tapestry whether through music, community pride, or creative expression offering visitors endless opportunities to uncover authentic stories that connect people and place.

The Juniata River Valley is gearing up for a spectacular year of celebration as we commemorate America 250 with special events all year long. The festivities begin with the Star Spangled Soirée, a semi-formal evening at Juniata Valley Winery featuring live music, delicious food, patriotic décor, and an appearance by a George Washington impersonator inside the winery’s beautiful Federal-style home.

Independence Day week will shine even brighter with fireworks and two hometown parades. Goose Day will join in the fun with a patriotic twist, offering a whimsical “Goose Washington” photo shoot, while the Festival of Ice transforms into an American Adventure themed celebration. With many more events planned throughout 2026, our community is ready to honor America’s 250th birthday in unforgettable style.

In Greensburg, Pennsylvania, the Palace Theatre will host “The Unlikely Union: A Storytelling Symphony of America” on January 17, 2026. This distinctive performance brings together Professor Greg Jackson, the historian behind History That Doesn’t Suck, and the Westmoreland Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Maestro Daniel Meyer. Blending narrative and music, the performance reimagines the pivotal moments of America’s first century. The show will not be recorded, making it a once-in-a-lifetime experience for audiences and an irresistible subject for writers seeking to explore how art and history intersect in the Mid-Atlantic’s creative scene.

Add a bit of humorous knowledge to your 250 celebrations with “The Complete History of America (Abridged)” at Prima Theatre in Lancaster City, running April 17 through May 3. Three performers, dozens of characters, centuries of chaos—90 minutes of laughs! It’s a perfect reminder that history can be meaningful and wildly entertaining, especially when shared in a room full of people ready to celebrate.

Each summer, Culpeper, Virginia comes alive with its beloved 4th of July Celebration—a day that captures the essence of small-town America at its most joyful. Parades, live music, food, and fireworks fill the day with color and community spirit. Set against the backdrop of Culpeper’s historic downtown and rolling countryside, the celebration brings together locals and visitors alike to honor independence, fellowship, and tradition. For travel writers, it’s a vivid opportunity to explore how a town with deep Revolutionary roots continues to celebrate freedom in ways that feel both timeless and new.

On the coast, Hampton, Virginia adds its own creative twist to the 250th commemorations with “Crabs on King & Queen.” This charming event places decorative “crabs” throughout downtown Hampton, each featuring a QR code linking to stories and information about Hampton VA250. The trail leads visitors through King Street and Queen Street, culminating in the city’s annual Lighted Crab Pot Drop on New Year’s Eve—a festive local tradition that illuminates the night sky as the community rings in a new year of history, hope, and heritage. This event offers visitors a chance to explore how art and technology can come together to tell a city’s story, blending creativity, curiosity, and coastal charm.

Crab on King & Queen Event

A Region of Endless Discovery

Whether you’re standing in a concert hall in Pennsylvania, a historic downtown in Virginia, or a bustling coastal street lined with lighted sculptures, the Mid-Atlantic offers an ever-growing list of experiences and stories to tell. It’s a region where communities transform history into art, festivals into fellowship, and anniversaries into opportunities for reflection. Each celebration—whether grand or intimate—adds another verse to America’s ongoing narrative.

America’s 250th Commemoration – New Exhibits in the Mid-Atlantic

The Mid-Atlantic region stretching from the Chesapeake Bay to the Blue Ridge Mountains is more than just a geographic crossroads. It is where America’s story was written, challenged, and rewritten again through generations of innovation, faith, and freedom. For travels, it offers a landscape of inspiration: a region alive with museums, historic sites, culinary experiences, and communities that continue to shape the nation’s identity.

A Living Legacy of Freedom and Faith

Across Virginia and its neighboring states, the echoes of revolution and reform still resonate. In Culpeper, Virginia, the Museum of Culpeper History invites visitors to reflect on the founding ideals that forged the American spirit.

Culpeper Minute Men: Icons of Independence

One of the museum’s cornerstone exhibits, “Culpeper Minute Men: Icons of Independence,” explores how the local militia’s bravery during the Revolution evolved into an enduring symbol of patriotism and civic pride. The story connects past and present, showing how ideals of independence continue to inspire communities today.

Culpeper Baptist Church 250: 1774–2024

Just steps away, another exhibit “Culpeper Baptist Church 250: 1774–2024” celebrates 250 years of faith and service. Developed by the church itself, the display tells how Baptist missionaries in Culpeper helped secure America’s early religious freedoms, and how that commitment to faith-based service has guided the church’s mission for centuries.

Coming Soon in Lancaster: History, Democracy, and the Fight for Opportunity

Slated to open in May 2026, the powerful national stories and insights of the Thaddeus Stevens & Lydia Hamilton Smith Center for History and Democracy in Lancaster City will utilize their experiences to help highlight larger themes within our country’s continuous striving for freedom and opportunity for all. More than a museum stop, the Center will invite visitors to connect Lancaster’s story to the broader American journey—how democracy is shaped, challenged, and strengthened through courageous leadership, community action, and the ongoing pursuit of justice.

These stories invite travelers not just to look back, but also to see how the Mid-Atlantic’s pursuit of liberty and community still thrives today. From colonial landmarks and Civil War trails to modern art centers and living museums, the region offers a thousand ways to explore America’s evolving identity.

Moreover, new stories and experiences are always emerging, new exhibits, restorations, and celebrations that breathe life into old ideas and invite travelers to see history through fresh eyes. Future additions may explore everything from maritime heritage to music, migration, and the ongoing fight for equality and innovation.

Voices That Shaped the Nation: Tracing Indigenous Roots Across the Mid-Atlantic

Before the highways and train lines, before town squares and brick courthouses, the Mid-Atlantic was a living landscape of forests, rivers, and mountains that sustained countless generations of Indigenous peoples. Today, those stories still breathe through the land—from the rolling ridges of Maryland to the quiet riverbanks of Pennsylvania and the open fields of Virginia. For travelers who like to dig deeper, this region offers more than scenic overlooks—it’s a chance to walk in the footsteps of America’s first storytellers, artists, and stewards of the earth.

In Frederick, Maryland, follow the curve of the Monocacy River, where the echoes of ancient villages linger beneath the rippling water. Archaeological sites in Catoctin Mountain Park and Monocacy National Battlefield reveal how Native communities shaped their world through skillful quarrying, hunting, and trade. It’s a reminder that every trailhead here has a story far older than the Civil War markers nearby.

Head north to Cumberland Valley, Pennsylvania to explore the city of Carlisle, where the Cumberland County Historical Society invites reflection on a more complex chapter of Indigenous history. This is where Jim Thorpe, one of America’s greatest athletes, trained at the Carlisle Indian School—a place that symbolizes both cultural loss and enduring resilience. For writers, it’s a setting rich with emotion and duality: the triumph of spirit against the backdrop of painful assimilation.

Further south, the Culpeper, Virginia countryside holds quiet traces of the Manahoac people, whose tools, ornaments, and artifacts rest today in the Museum of Culpeper History. The story of their migration westward, following the bison across the Blue Ridge, is one of movement, adaptation, and the search for balance with nature—concepts that still resonate deeply with travelers seeking meaning beyond the map.

And in Fairfax County, a layered history unfolds at every bend of the Potomac. From Riverbend Park to Mason Neck, archaeological sites reveal the lives of the Dogue, Patawomeck, Piscataway, Powhatan, Pamunkey, and others who lived and traded along these waterways for over 14,000 years. Modern festivals, exhibits, and parklands invite visitors not just to learn—but to listen.

These places offer more than historical context—they offer connection. The Mid-Atlantic’s Indigenous stories remind us that every journey begins with those who first named the rivers, mapped the trails, and read the seasons through the trees. Whether you’re exploring museum archives, attending a cultural festival, or simply standing by a quiet stream, take a moment to honor the voices that came before. In doing so, you’ll find that the true story of this region isn’t just written in books—it’s written in the land itself.

Affordable Adventures Abound in the Mid-Atlantic

Greetings MATPRA Media Partners,

MATPRA distributes press releases designed to inspire media coverage of the Mid-Atlantic region. We plan topics months in advance to accommodate longer lead times. If you have suggestions for future topics, we’d love to hear them! Please email ([email protected]).

The Mid-Atlantic Region offers a wealth of budget-friendly travel options, from free historical sites to affordable outdoor adventures. With charming small towns, scenic landscapes, and numerous no-cost festivities, it’s an ideal destination for travelers looking to stretch their dollars without sacrificing fun. Check out the MidAtlantic region – where affordable adventures abound.

DELAWARE


Statewide (DE)
Delaware has several affordable, family-friendly options for you! First, we are the home of tax-free shopping! Delaware State Parks include a $5 fee per vehicle for residents and a $10 fee for non-residents. It covers a day-long stay, including access to the beach, biking and hiking trails, and other activities. At the Brandywine Zoo you can see animals from around the world. Admission is $3 for children and $5 for adults. Delaware’s capital city, Dover, includes free public facilities such as the Delaware Public Archives and museums such as the Biggs Museum of American Art and the Air Mobility Command Museum.
Visit Delaware

MARYLAND


Annapolis and Anne Arundel County (MD)
Explore Annapolis and Anne Arundel County without breaking the bank! Stroll the cobblestone streets of the Annapolis Historic District or tour the U.S. Naval Academy for a small fee. Get on the water with one of the many watersports and sailing adventures that are offered for under $100. Discover colonial history with a curated history walking tour, pub crawl, or ghost tour for an affordable nighttime adventure. Attend free concerts at the Annapolis Maritime Museum or watch planes at the BWI Trail’s observation area. With nature, history, and charm, affordable adventures await at every turn.
Visit Annapolis


Calvert County (MD)
Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center, a Smithsonian affiliate in Solomons, Maryland, blends art and nature along shaded woodland trails dotted with sculptures, native plants, and butterfly gardens. Families enjoy the whimsical Fairy Lolly playground, while the Arts Building offers galleries, rotating exhibits, a hands-on artLAB, and a gift shop featuring local handmade goods. Admission is pay-what-you-can (suggested $5), making it accessible to all. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Arts Building opens at 10 a.m.), Annmarie is an inspiring destination for travelers, families, and art lovers seeking creativity, beauty, and play in a unique natural setting.
Choose Calvert


Harford County (MD)
Harford County is not only where adventure begins, but we can also offer the price conscious traveler an array of experiences. Whether you are looking for community theatre productions, museums, scenic trails, a visit to one of our working farms, or a family centric event we are here to welcome you to our close-knit community. Check out our website for more information. Whatever your pace or budget, there is so much to experience, so close to home. See you soon!
Hello Harford


Howard County (MD)
In Howard County, some of the best moments don’t come with a price tag. Hike scenic trails to gorgeous natural wonders like the Cascade Falls, explore historic towns like Ellicott City and Savage, or enjoy family-friendly parks and inclusive playgrounds. Enjoy free museums and seasonal events, including concerts and outdoor movies, with variety for every traveler type. From trails to towns, uncover FREE (or Almost FREE) adventures perfect for your next getaway.
Visit Howard County


Kent County Economic and Tourism Development (MD)
Looking for a getaway that won’t break the bank? Kent County, Maryland is brimming with budget-friendly adventures for every traveler. Stroll the historic streets of Chestertown, where art galleries and waterfront views invite you to linger at no cost. Explore Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge with miles of trails and abundant birdwatching opportunities. Spend an afternoon at a local festival, many of which are free and family-friendly. From small-town charm to wide-open spaces, Kent County proves you don’t need to spend big to enjoy rich experiences. Affordable adventures are waiting right here on Maryland’s Eastern Shore.
Kent County Tourism


Talbot County (MD)
Enjoy five free things to do in Talbot County, located conveniently on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. 1) Appreciate art at the Academy Art Museum, with collections showcasing well-known and emerging artists. 2)Attend the Chesapeake Fire & Ice Festival on Feb. 20-21, 2026, and explore downtown Easton through an ice sculpture trail. 3) Explore the life of Frederick Douglass through a four-part, self-guided driving tour. 4) Celebrate the founding black families of America at the Water’s Edge Museum. 5) Take in the beauty of Talbot County by bike, with routes ranging from 26.7 to 38.2 miles.
(Photo Credit: @mamakatemoving)
Tour Talbot

PENNSYLVANIA

Bucks County (PA)
Save your money and enjoy some frugal fun in Bucks County! Venture through grand museums for a dash of history and experience the family-friendly festivities scattered throughout the County: 25 Free Things to Do in Bucks County.
Visit Bucks County


Butler County (PA)
Did you know PA State Parks are free to enter? Plan your trip, pack a picnic, and bring your fishing poles, kayaks, and bicycles to explore Moraine State Park in Portersville, Butler County, PA. Tour Lake Arthur on the Preston’s Pearl, a tour boat offering various cruises from Memorial Day Weekend through October. If you want to pack light, you can rent kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and bikes at affordable rates. Nearby diners and coffee shops like Brown’s Country Kitchen and Hillview Coffee offer budget-friendly snacks and meals. Don’t miss The Snowman, a photo-worthy shaved-ice stand minutes from the park.
(Photo Credit: Jim Cheney/UncoveringPA )
Experience Butler


Endless Mountains (PA)
Three seasons of the year, Brown Hill Farms is a detour destination in the heart of the Endless Mountains agricultural area that offers visitors seasonal ways to celebrate! At the beautiful property located near Tunkhannock, right off historic Route 6, Brown Hill Farms provides opportunities to stroll through over 400,000 tulips and daffodils each spring, bask in the glow of summertime magic on thirty acres of sunflowers and cut flowers, and provide the perfect fall foliage activity of picking a pumpkin from a patch that grows classic orange pumpkins as well as blue heirloom varieties.
Endless Mountains Visitors Bureau


Juniata River Valley (PA)
Experience Juniata County on a budget with the So. J. Co itinerary—packed with budget-friendly adventures! Start with a visit to LoveTwo Farm to see adorable animals, then step back in time at the Tuscarora Academy Museum. Walk through the iconic Pomeroy-Academia Covered Bridge, a true Pennsylvania landmark, and enjoy a relaxing day fishing or floating on the Juniata River. Wrap up your journey at the historic Lewistown Narrows Canal Park, where history meets breathtaking views. Affordable, fun, and full of charm, the SoJCo itinerary is your ticket to exploring Juniata County.
Juniata River Valley Visitors Bureau

Lancaster County (PA)

Nestled along a quiet stretch of Mill Creek in Lancaster County, Mascot Roller Mills & Ressler Family Home offers visitors something rare: a living, working glimpse into the past that you can see, hear, and feel – and all for free. The property is one of a few remaining mills in the U.S. that still operates for the public on a near-daily basis from early May to late October, grinding corn with machinery over a century old.
Discover Lancaster


Lawrence County (PA)
Lawrence County, PA is full of affordable adventures. Take a self-driving tour of the Amish Countryside, tour historic sites such as the Scottish Rite Cathedral, the period house at Arts + Education at the Hoyt, The first Warner Brother’s theater at the Historic Warner Cascade Theater Museum, and our Historical Societies. Enjoy beautiful walking trails such as West Park Nature Center, Pearson Park, McConnells Mill State Park and more!
Visit Lawrence County


York County (PA)
Discover great free and low-cost adventures in York County, PA! Stroll or bike the scenic Heritage Rail Trail, explore the art-filled streets of downtown York and Mural Park in Royal Square, and take in sweeping Susquehanna River views from Samuel S. Lewis State Park. Enjoy outdoor fun at Gifford Pinchot and Codorus State Parks, or step back in time with budget-friendly visits to the York County History Center and Indian Steps Museum. There’s plenty of fun here that’s rich in experience, not expense!
Explore York

About the Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance
The Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance (MATPRA) is a collaborative network of tourism partners across Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington D.C., West Virginia – and coming soon… New Jersey! The alliance is dedicated to supporting travel journalists by providing resources that transcend geographic boundaries, much like travelers themselves. By identifying common themes and regional highlights, MATPRA offers a wealth of story ideas for journalists interested in showcasing the diverse destinations of the Mid-Atlantic region as a unified whole. For more information, visit matpra.org.

###