Have you ever visited a place where you immediately felt welcome and just knew that you would come back again? The County of Kent is that place.  Less than a two-hour drive from Baltimore, Washington D.C. and Philadelphia, this scenic peninsula on the Chesapeake Bay and the Chester River claims a portion of the first National Scenic Byway in Maryland, “Chesapeake Country”.  Fishing, boating, paddling, biking and horseback riding are just some of the things to do in this unspoiled country setting.  Home to some of the United States’ most quaint and beautiful towns, this is a destination of historic waterfront towns, stretches of low, rolling farmlands, dramatic sunsets, scenic beauty, wildlife, rich heritage and overly accommodating inn keepers. Whether you want to explore after a great day of fishing or paddling or just want to experience Kent County, there’s plenty to see and do.

Chestertown, 1706

Whether you are exploring its history or shopping the red-brick, tree-lined sidewalks of Historic Downtown, you will quickly fall in love with Chestertown. Once a thriving colonial port town, Chestertown is a well-kept historic treasure, located on the shores of the Chester River. It was recently named one of America’s Distinctive Destinations, by the National Historic Trust, a designation for unique and lovingly preserved communities. And, it is also a designated Maryland Main Street. Enjoy the Geddes-Piper House Museum ca. 1784, guided and self-guided historic tours, the Schooner Sultana 1768 public sails, Prince Theatre’s live performances, specialty and antique shops, art galleries & studios, restaurants and a farmers’ market, held Saturday mornings, from April through the weekend before Christmas in historic Fountain Park, located at the center of town.

The Town of Rock Hall

This small-town treasure is rich in maritime history, with watermen continuing to harvest the bounty of the Bay. You will find live performances at Mainstay Theater, unique shops, more than a dozen marinas, a small beach with a quaint boardwalk and gazebo, captivating Bay sunsets and three story-filled museums: The Rock Hall Museum, Tolchester Beach Revisited Museum and Waterman’s Museum. Get on the water with a licensed fishing captain, charter a sailboat or go kayaking. Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge, with nature trails, picnic areas, wildlife and bird watching is only seven miles from Rock Hall.

The Town of Betterton

Located on the northern shores of the County, this Bay front town offers spectacular views of the Chesapeake Bay, a favorite of photographers.

The Town of Galena

This historic town is dotted with unique gift shops, antique shops, a seafood market and family style restaurants. Nearby is Georgetown on the Sassafras River, with boating and waterfront dining and lodging.

The Town of Millington

Millington is located at the northern tip of the Chester River, just off of route 301 and is a great spot for paddling. It is also a perfect day trip for mouth watering dining.

For more information or to order a free visitor information packet, please visit www.kentcounty.com or call Kent County Tourism Development at 410-778-0416.