Media Contacts:
Camila Clark Connie Yingling
PR& Promotions Manager Public Relations Coordinator
410-767-6298 410-767-6329
cclark@visitmaryland.org cyingling@visitmaryland.org
WHAT'S NEW IN MARYLAND 2010
Editor’s Note: The Maryland Office of Tourism has compiled a sampling of tourism venues that have opened recently or that are planned in the near future. Opening dates are always subject to change, so please check information just before your publication or broadcast date.
We’ve provided the name and, if applicable, the direct phone number of the public relations representative at each site so you may conduct additional research. Information in parentheses at the end of the listing should not be shared with the public.
Should you have any questions on the listings below, please do not hesitate to contact us at the Maryland Office of Tourism Development.
ATTRACTIONS, MUSEUMS & PERMANENT EXHIBITS
Bordeleau Winery, Wicomico County
Opened summer 2008
Located on Maryland's Eastern Shore between the gentle slopes of Wicomico Creek, Bordeleau’s 12 acres produce 11 varieties of red and white grapes. The vineyards are also home to an abundance of wildlife - bald eagles, great blue herons, foxes, deer, geese and wild turkeys. www.bordeleauwine.com, 3155 Noble Farm Rd, Eden, MD 21822 (Media Contact: Thomas “Tom” Shelton, Owner, 410-677-3144)
Columbia Air Center, Prince George’s County
Outdoor exhibit dedicated October 2009
In 1941, aviation history was made when the first African American owned and operated airfield in the state of Maryland was licensed on the site. Last fall, the story was lifted from the landscape with new signage that interprets this heritage site located adjacent to the Patuxent River State Park. http://www.pgparks.com/Things_To_Do/History/Columbia_Air_Center.htm See also www.dnr.state.md.us/publiclands/aapaxcolumbia.html 16000 Croom Airport Road, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772 (Media Contact: Prince George’s County Recreation and Parks 301-627-6074)
Costa Ventosa Winery, Worcester County
Tasting room opening spring/summer 2010
First planted in 2008, Worcester County’s first winery (named “Windy Coast” in Italian) now produces varietals including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, and Cayuga. In mid-2010 a tasting room will be opened to the public. www.costaventosa.com, 9031 Whaleyville Road, Whaleyville, MD 21872 (Media Contact: Kathryn Danko-Lord, Winemaker, 410-352-9867 cheers@costaventosa.com )
Dinosaur Park in Laurel, Prince George’s County
Opened October 2009
Dinosaur Park is the site of fossil deposits from the Cretaceous Period (144 to 65 million years ago). Fossil of dinosaurs and plants can be found here under the direction of knowledgeable paleontologists. Interpretive signs tell the story of early flowering plants and of the industrial history of the area. Any fossils unearthed on site will be donated to the Smithsonian Institute. www.pgparks.com/page12033.aspx 13200 block of Mid-Atlantic Blvd., Laurel, MD 20708 (Media Contact: Don Creveling, Archaeology Program Manager, 301-627-1286, donald.creveling@pgparks.com)
Galloping Goose Vineyards, Carroll County
Opened October 30, 2009; tasting room opens spring 2010
Estate wines are crafted from the best grapes and are fashioned in small lots on this 100-acre farm located in the rolling hills of northern Carroll County. The winery sold out of their initial supply of Cabernet Franc during their grand opening weekend. Check website for special events. www.gallopinggoosevineyards.com, 4326 Maple Grove Road, Hampstead, MD, 21074 (Media Contact: Diane Hale, 410-374-6596, dianehale@qis.net)
Harford Vineyards, Harford County
Wine tasting room opened in November 2009
Founded in 2003, Harford Vineyards specializes in selling fresh grape, fresh juice, barrels, equipment and wine supplies to the home wine maker in Maryland and surrounding areas. They were certified as a winery in May and opened a tasting room to the public in November. www.harfordvineyard.com 1311 West Jarrettsville Road, Forest Hill, MD 21050 (Media Contact: Kevin and Teresa Mooney, Owners, 443-495-1699. mail@harfordvineyard.com)
Layton’s Chance Vineyard and Winery, Dorchester County
Opening May 2010
Continuing a third generation farming legacy, the Layton family is opening Dorchester County’s first vineyard and winery on land near the original property grant that first entered the family in 1702. In addition to the vineyards, the property will contain a stage, event room, picnic areas, and nature trails. www.laytonschance.com, 4225 New Bridge Road, Vienna, MD 21869 (Media Contact: Joseph or Laura Layton, Owners, 410- 228-2464, info@laytonschance.com)
Leroy Merritt Center for the Art of Joseph Sheppard, Prince George’s County
Opening Spring 2010
The 5,500 square-foot Center includes a light-infused painting gallery and indoor sculpture garden, both opening onto a spacious reception area. The gallery will display Sheppard’s paintings, on loan and in rotating exhibits; the sculpture garden will feature more than 20 of Sheppard’s finest bronze and marble sculptures, all donated to the Center.
The $6 million gallery was fully funded by private donations from Baltimore real estate developer Leroy Merritt and other supporters of the University of Maryland University College’s Arts Program. www.umuc.edu/sheppard_center/index.shtml, 3501 University Blvd E, Hyattsville, MD 20783 (Media Contact: Chip Cassano, Director of Public Relations, University of Maryland University College, 240-582-2509, ccassano@umuc.edu)
Maryland Women’s Heritage Center, Baltimore City
Opening early summer 2010
An outgrowth of the Maryland Women’s History Project, the heritage center will celebrate “herstory” and will showcase the achievements of Maryland women in sports, politics, the arts, and science via historic artifacts and exhibits plus programs with a major focus on unsung heroines. www.mdwomensheritagecenter.org, 39 West Lexington Street, Baltimore, MD 21201 (Media Contact: Cheryl Knauer, Account Executive, Nevins & Associates, 410-568-8808, cknauer@nevinspr.com)
National Pinball Museum, Montgomery County
August 2009, temporarily opened on “by appointment only” basis; permanent site opening TBD
The museum owns 800 pinball machines and vintage arcade games, of which 50 are on display at any given time until a permanent location can be identified. The temporary showplace contains rotating shows and exhibits, with a selection of hands-on machines that visitors can play. www.nationalpinballmuseum.org Silver Spring, MD (Media Contact: David Silverman, Owner, 240-372-3333, dsilverman@nationalpinballmuseum.org)
Port of Leonardtown Winery, St. Mary’s County
Opening May 2010
One of the only cooperative wineries in the country and the first winery in St. Mary's County, Port of Leonardtown Winery is operated by 16 members of the Southern Maryland Wine Grape Growers Cooperative (formed in 2006) The co-op will make Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Chambourcin, Chardonnay, Viognier, and Vidal Blanc, and in the future, it will also create unique wine blends. The Port of Leonardtown Winery will hold demonstrations of wine making during the crushing cycle and will offer occasional barrel tastings for its wine club members. www.portofleonardtown.com, 23190 Newtowne Neck Rd, Leonardtown, MD, 20650 (Media Contact: Rich Fuller, Summerseat Farm, 301-481-9189, Fullergnr@verizon.net)
Smith Island Baking Company, Somerset County
Opened fall 2009
Shortly after Smith Island Cake became Maryland’s official state dessert, the Smith Island Baking Company opened their doors. Currently the Island’s only commercial bakery, their mission is to share with the world this sweet delicacy that has been a staple menu item for celebrations held on the island for generations. Visitors to the island, reachable by passenger ferry, can watch cakes as they as bakes, indulge in a slice in their café area, or purchase whole cakes to go. www.smithislandbakingco.com, 20926 Caleb Jones Road, Ewell, Smith Island, Maryland, 21824, Store Phone: 410-425-CAKE (2253) (Media Contact: Kristen Manzo, Manager, 410-425-2253, kristen@smithislandbakingco.com)
Thomas Town at Six Flags America, Prince George’s County
Opening mid-summer 2010
It’s all aboard for family fun at Six Flags America when North America’s largest Thomas Town opens this summer. Based on the whimsical Island of Sodor, home to Thomas the Tank Engine and his friends, Thomas Town will feature eight rides and attractions, a new retail location, and Sir Topham Hatt, a new character. Thomas Town at Six Flags America is the park’s largest expansion in over a decade and fun for all ages. www.sixflags.com/america, 13710 Central Avenue, Largo, MD 20775 (Media Contact: Julia Filz, Communications Director, 301-249-1500 x3264, jfilz@sftp.com)
U.S. Naval Academy Chapel, Anne Arundel County
Reopened December 2009
The $2.3 million renovation project on the circa 1908 chapel begun in January 2009 included restoring the wooden floors and pews, repairing the plaster trim, replacing pew cushions and carpeting, returning the building to its original color scheme, and sprucing up the chapel’s majestic dome. www.usna.edu
U.S. Naval Academy Museum, Anne Arundel County
Reopened September 2009
After an 18-month renovation, the museum, housed in the 1939 Preble Hall, features among its 50,000 artifacts the recently conserved “Don’t Give Up the Ship” flag that was flown by Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry during the Battle of Lake Erie in the War of 1812. www.usna.edu/Museum
Wild West Waters at Adventure Park USA, Frederick County
Opening Spring 2010
The new, five-acre waterpark will open in two stages: first, a 20,000 square foot wave pool, interactive play structure and a 1,500 square foot spray recreational area will bring to life the park's playful, high-energy nature. The waterpark will also have a 5,000 square foot bathhouse with concessions and a retail store to serve guests. In 2011, a quarter-mile lazy river and major slide structures fitting for the most active children will open. www.adventureparkusa.com, 11113 West Baldwin Road, New Market, MD, 21774 (Media Contact: Larry Stottlemyer, 301-865-6800, larrys@adventureparkusa.com)
TOURS, DRIVES, TRAILS, WALKS AND CRUISES
Antique Trail Guide for Maryland’s Upper Eastern Shore
Published summer 2009
Travel along Maryland’s historic byways to find relics of the past. Produced by the Upper Shore Regional Council and the tourism offices for Cecil, Kent and Queen Anne’s counties, this brochure serves as a handy guide to antique stores selling all manner of vintage goods. Brochures available at visitors centers along the route. (Media Contact: Sandy Maruchi-Turner, Cecil County Tourism, 410-996-6292, sturner@ccgov.org)
Chesapeake Wine Trail, various counties on Eastern Shore
Dedicated August 2009
Encompassing wineries from Cecil to Wicomico counties, the trail includes ten wineries. The wine trail will guide visitors on a multi-day trek through Maryland’s historic Chesapeake region, rich in nautical and agricultural heritage. See www.chesapeakewinetrail.com for details. (Media Contact: Kevin Atticks, Maryland Wineries Association, 410-252-9463, kevin@marylandwine.com)
Charm City Circulator, Baltimore City
January 11, 2010
Fast, frequent and free...that's the trademark of downtown Baltimore's new shuttle bus system. Every ten minutes, sleek, hybrid buses provide convenient and reliable transportation on three different routes – Federal Hill and the Inner Harbor to Mt. Vernon and Penn Station; Westside’s B&O Railroad Museum and the University of Maryland to Harbor East and Fell’s Point; and the Shot Tower/Marketplace Metro Station to Harbor East, Fell’s Point and Johns Hopkins Metro Station. The free shuttles will run every 10 minutes from early morning to late night, seven days a week, so it will be easy for visitors to hop on and off to shop, visit a museum or attraction, browse around one of our many historic neighborhoods, or eat at one of Baltimore’s amazing restaurants. www.charmcitycirculator.com (Media Contact: Nancy Hinds, Visit Baltimore, 410-659-7032, nhinds@baltimore.org)
S.J. Koch Duffy Electric Boats, Anne Arundel County
Begin operating April, 2010
Visitors can currently rent these 10-passenger, climate-controlled, 22’ electric boats by the hour or by the day to explore the waters surrounding Annapolis and Galesville on their own, or arrange for a captain to operate the vessel. New locations opening in April in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor and the Potomac River Basin (National Harbor, DC and Northern Virginia) www.experiencetheduffyboat.com, various locations, consult website for address and driving directions. (Media Contact: Sally Koch, Owner, 443-871-0246, sjkoch3@comcast.net)
The Journey Through Hallowed Ground National Scenic Byway, various counties
Designated October 16, 2009
The trail runs 180-miles from Gettysburg, PA through the heart of Maryland’s Civil War country and into Virginia where it ends at Monticello. The route is said to contain more historic sites than any other scenic byway in the country. See www.byways.org/explore/byways/2343/ and www.hallowedground.org for more information. (Media Contact: John K. Jones, Director of Communications, 540-882-4929, press@jthg.org)
Piedmont Wine Trail, Baltimore and Harford Counties
Opened September 2009
A short drive into the country from Baltimore City leads you deep into the state’s agricultural heritage and through a landscape of rolling hills dotted with thoroughbred horse farms, to where Maryland wine began and award-winning wineries thrive today. Visit historic towns, hike through numerous state parks and tour the many cultural attractions set along the Piedmont Wine Trail, while you visit six different wineries in the area. Visit www.piedmontwinetrial.com for details (Media Contact: Kevin Atticks, Maryland Wineries Association, 410-252-9463, kevin@marylandwine.com)
Religious Freedom National Scenic Byway, Southern MD
Designated October 16, 2009
The Religious Freedom Byway takes visitors on a scenic tour of St. Mary's, Charles, and Calvert Counties in Southern Maryland. The byway incorporates many of the nation's oldest churches, the site of the first Roman Catholic Mass held in English-speaking America, and Maryland's colonial capital, Historic St. Mary's City. The route was designated a state scenic byway in 1999. www.byways.org/explore/byways/40532/index.html (Media Contact: Connie Yingling, PR Coordinator, Maryland Office of Tourism, 410-767-6329, cyingling@visitmaryland.org)
Tudor Hall, Harford County
Tours resume April 2010
Built in the early 1850s as the dream home of Shakespearian actor Junius Brutus Booth Sr. and his wife Mary Ann, many of the ten Booth children, including Edwin and John Wilkes grew up here. Tours will discuss the first family of American theatre, the architecture of the house, Civil War history and ghost stories. www.spiritsoftudorhall.blogspot.com (Media Contact: spirits-of-tudor-hall@msn.com)
SPORTS AND OUTDOORS
Edward T. Hall Aquatic Center, Calvert County
Opening late spring 2010
Prince Frederick is the site of the county’s first indoor aquatic center. When opened, the center will contain a 50-meter lap pool, seating for spectators, a therapy pool, leisure pool with scheduled children’s recreational activities, a spa, exercise room, locker rooms and meeting rooms. A full menu of programs and instruction will be available, including children’s birthday parties and other small group events. www.co.cal.md.us/residents/parks/, 130 Auto Drive, Prince Frederick, MD 20678 (Media Contacts: Kenneth Gray, Aquatics Supervisor, 410-535-1600, ext. 2673, graykm@co.cal.md.us or Timothy DeLucia, Aquatic Facility Manager, ext 2674, delucitf@co.cal.md.us)
Ice Skating Rink at Wisp, Garrett County
Opened December 2009 (Seasonal operation)
The 50’ X 85’ oval rink has the true ambiance of a winter ice skating wonderland with benches to rest on, twinkle lights hung, a bonfire area near and warm beverages to sip. The Ice Skating Rink operates in conjunction with the Bear Claw Snow Tubing Park and Mountain Coaster hours of operation. Lessons and skate rentals available. (Media Contact: Lori Epp, Wisp Resort, 301-387-4911 x 2160, lepp@wispresort.com)
Off-road Segway Tours, Allegany County
Seasonal Operation
Get ready for an amazing adventure, as you glide along effortlessly and take in the beauty of Rocky Gap State Park. Western Maryland Adventures, with offices located inside Rocky Gap Lodge and Golf Resort, offers environmentally-friendly Segway transport that the whole family can enjoy! www.wmdadventures.com, 301-784-8467, 16701 Lakeview Rd NE, Flintstone, MD 21530 (Media Contact: Tom Acton, Owner, Western Maryland Adventures, 301-784-8403, tom.acton@wmdadventures.com )
INNS & B&B’s
104 Kidwell
Opened fall 2009
Located in a circa 1880 Georgian Colonial, this quiet inn just off the town square is a combination of tasteful antiques and contemporary comfort. The 2-level Loft Room has a separate entrance and is designated as a pet-friendly suite. www.104kidwell.com, 427 North Street, Centreville, MD 21617 (Media Contact: Michael J. Kursch, Innkeeper, 443-262-8394, innkeeper@104kidwell.com)
A Home in the Hill, Baltimore City
Opened December 2009
Located in the Federal Hill neighborhood of Baltimore City, these two city “rowhouses” provide a temporary home away from home for visiting families or business travelers. Within easy walking distance of the Inner Harbor, convention center and both stadiums, the one and two-bedroom houses serve as an ideal base for taking in Charm City’s tourist attractions. www.ahomeinthehill.com, 1109 and 1111 S Hanover St, Baltimore, MD 410-215-1664 (Crystal Ryan, Innkeeper, 410-215-1664, ahomeinthehill@gmail.com)
Canal Quarters, various counties
Opened November 2009
Visitors can now spend the night in one of four refurbished lockhouses along the 184.5 mile C&O Canal that have been furnished to evoke different eras in the canal’s history. Lockhouse 22 and Lockhouse 28 depict conditions during the establishment and construction of the canal in the 1830s; Lockhouse 49 reflects the period around the turn of the 19th century, toward the end of the canal’s operations; and Lockhouse 6 is furnished as it may have been in the 1950s to tell the story of the campaign to preserve the canal led by Supreme Court Justice William O. Douglas. In keeping with the amenities available during various time periods, only Lockhouse 6 offers indoor plumbing and electricity. www.canaltrust.org (Media Contact: C&O Canal Trust, 301-714-2233, info@canaltrust.org )
The Riverside Country Inn, Caroline County
Circa 1912 historic hotel overlooks the Choptank River. With ten rooms and a cozy on-site tavern, it's the perfect place for heritage or outdoor enthusiasts, or for those looking for a peaceful weekend getaway. www.riversidecountryinn.com, 204 N Main St, Greensboro, MD (Media Contacts: Barb and Doug Mutolo, gtco@verizon.net, 410- 482-2200)
Trent Hall Bed & Breakfast, St. Mary’s County
Opened January 2010
Part of Trent Hall Farm, a working farm encompassing more than 300-acres on the scenic Patuxent River, the B&B features two guest suites: the Truman Room and the Bailey Room. Each suite offers beautiful panoramic views of the farm and river. Birdwatchers will delight in the property’s three miles of shoreline, beaches, walking trails, marshes, and restored wetlands. Guests are also invited to bring their canoes or kayaks to explore the Patuxent River. http://sites.google.com/site/trenthallbb/home, 29350 Trent Hall Road, Mechanicsville, MD, 20659. (Media Contact: Henry "Bud" Virts, hvirts@gmail.com, 301-884-3700)
ANNIVERSARIES
Boordy Vineyards 65th Anniversary, Baltimore County
Catonsville’s 200th anniversary, Baltimore County
Druid Hill Park 100th anniversary, Baltimore City
Easton 300th Anniversary, Talbot County
Glen L. Martin Aviation Museum 75th Anniversary of the China Clipper, Baltimore County
Mount Clare Museum House 250th anniversary, Baltimore City
Thomas Viaduct 175th anniversary, Howard/Baltimore County
Wisp Resort 55th anniversary, Garrett County
