Difference between Eastern Shore and Western Shore? (Frederick, Annapolis: college, place to live)

[Blake2502]

After enjoying a weekend on Tilghman Island near St. Michael's, we are wondering what the other shore is like -- towns of Scotland, St. Mary's City, etc. Is it equally quaint and pretty? Or is there a reason we never hear much about that area? Thanks for any insight!

[North Beach Person]

At one time in the not too distant past Southern MD and the Eastern shore were very similar. Starting in the 1980's and accelerating in the 90's, SoMD became an extension of the DC suburbs. Much of it is still rural but in many areas that is a veneer, go 100 yds. off the road and you'll find acres of McMansions. Waldorf/St. Charles, and to a lesser extent Prince Frederick, seem to have adopted the worst in suburban strip mall and traffic congestion design. Traffic has become intolerable and many of the newer residents, who moved here for the "rural ambience" have no clue what that ambience really means. Many also immediately start lobbying for things like mega-malls, cutesy boutiques, and specialty stores that they supposedly moved here to get away from.

[tercel95]

Areas like Scotland and St. Mary's City are still extremely rural. With St. Mary's city there is a little activity due to the college though. I don't know that much about the eastern shore but St. Mary's county is still a really nice place to live. You can still get land in rural St. Mary's but you are going to pay for it.

But going on what North Beach Person said it is only about 30 minutes from the most rural area in St. Mary's to the most populated (PAX River/Lexington Park). However even lexington park is still not congested when compared to places like Waldorf...

[RT85]

Tilghman Island is pretty similar to Solomons. They both have a good view of the water and some touristy stuff. I bet Solomons get more visitors just because it is on the west side of the bay.

[tercel95]

There is not much to Solomons though. It is very small, there are a few restaurants. What attracts the crowd is the tiki bar. In fact Tiki bar opening is this weekend, its like the Redneck Mardi Gras.

[westsideboy]

The state capital of Annapolis on the Western Shore is worth a visit. Great historic arcitecture, right on the water, brick streets, very enjoyable.

[marielally]

If you are looking for a place to spend a full day or two, I agree with westsideboy, that Annapolis is worth a visit. Solomons Island is also very enjoyable, but you have to time your trip to events that suit you to really enjoy it ... there are outdoor concerts with various well known bands, The Calvert Marine Museum (which is excellent), AnnMarie Garden Park (hosts a variety of art/cultural events), and the biggest draw of Solomon's being boating...without a doubt. There are a variety of restaurants, bars and small shops, but what brings people to Solomon's Island is the boating, both power and sail.

Historic St. Mary's City, Sotterly Plantation, St George's Island (be sure to ride the SkipJack!) and a few other areas in St Mary's County, combined, might fill a full day at most. I think that these areas are worth a trip. These are very pretty areas and are rich in history...