No Plane, No Problem: The Best Family Getaways Near Anne Arundel County

By Charissa Wiltshire

TERRAPIN ADVENTURES (SAVAGE, MD)

Terrapin Adventures is an outdoor adventure park offering exciting experiences for individuals, families, and groups. The attraction provides a range of activities in a safe and guided environment, making it perfect for a fun escape, birthday parties, and weekend outings. With convenient access from Baltimore, Annapolis, and Washington, D.C., Terrapin Adventures is an easy-to-reach destination for thrill-seekers of all ages.

There is no shortage of thrills, from soaring across zip lines and conquering the high ropes course to taking a plunge on the giant swing and scaling climbing towers. For a different kind of adventure, the park also offers guided bike and kayak tours, perfect for exploring the great outdoors.

DEEP CREEK LAKE VACATION RENTALS (MCHENRY, MD)

Deep Creek Lake is a four-season paradise, offering fun on the lake in the summer sun, stunning colors during fall, fluffy snow for downhill skiing at Wisp Resort, and fresh mountain air in the spring. There’s plenty of family friendly fun, even for your most adventurous kiddo!

Challenge your bravery at the Monkey Business Adventure Park, get creative at Simon Pearce Glassblowing, or test the waters at Deep Creek Surf Sessions. There’s always a reason to escape to the lake!

GREAT WOLF LODGE (BALTIMORE/PERRYVILLE, MD)

Great Wolf Lodge’s main attraction is a year-round indoor water park. With onsite accommodations and lots of adventure, the destination offers fun for parents and adults alike. This is a great option for large families, offering standard suites for up to six guests, themed suites, “featuring one-of-a-kind accommodations,” and spacious premium suites.

Explore the waterpark open to all guests, or stop by the Adventure Park (at an additional cost) and get lost in some competitive family-friendly fun, playing lots of arcade games or mini-bowling! Guests also enjoy access to free daily activities and events, including dance parties, arts and crafts, and more!

KENT ISLAND RESORT (STEVENSVILLE, MD)

Kent Island Resort is a country house perfect for families, “where luxury and life go hand-in-hand.” You’ll appreciate the property’s active outdoor spaces, historical features, and unique home-like feel to help you relax. The resort boasts experiences and adventures for all ages. Just a short drive from Annapolis, Kent Island Resort provides a charming opportunity for a weekend escape or a day trip. Take a day to relax by the pool while the kids play or explore the serenity of the Chesapeake Bay with a tailored trail ride or kayaking. Want to maintain or kickstart your fitness routine? Enjoy running trails that guide you through 1.7 miles of the waterfront property among acres of farmland. Plus, its 18TWENTY Bar & Restaurant offers locally sourced Chesapeake Bay cuisine, featuring house-made dishes, grass-fed beef, and regionally inspired seafood with international flavors.

FRONTIER TOWN WATER PARK (BERLIN, MD)

Want to add some excitement to the family’s annual camping trip? Bring the crew to Sun Outdoors Frontier Town, located near Ocean City and on the same grounds as Frontier Town Adventure Park. Park your RV or unwind in one of the premium lodging options, including cabins and Conestoga wagons, just steps from the excitement. Overnight guests at Sun Outdoors Frontier Town and Sun Outdoors Ocean City Gateway enjoy complimentary access to the water park. The Wild West-themed adventure park offers a splash-filled escape with exciting slides, a lazy river, and family-friendly attractions. Whether you’re racing down water slides, floating along the lazy river, or letting the kids enjoy the splash areas, this park is a must-visit for summer fun. Plus, its Western theme adds a unique twist to your adventure!

TURF VALLEY RESORT (ELLICOTT CITY, MD)

Turf Valley Resort offers “the comfort of a peaceful retreat.” Surrounded by 1,000 acres and two golf courses, the resort is a well-respected Central Maryland luxury destination and venue. Let the kids slide and splash into the pool, unwind with a massage, or grab your tennis rackets for a family battle. Enjoy delicious food at Alexandra’s American Fusion restaurant, which serves seasonally inspired dishes with locally sourced ingredients and scenic golf course views. Have a date night at Fairway Lounge to enjoy refreshing cocktails with live music and a late-night menu every Friday and Saturday. Relaxation is the theme of this resort, and you don’t even have to go too far!