Proceeding south on US-50 from Cordova, turn right (west) on Dover Street to enter downtown Easton. Prepare to enjoy the rich history and architecture of the county seat of Talbot County. Pull into one of nine free public parking lots and get ready to explore. Do you have your free Talbot County Guide?

Best Small Towns in America

Easton was recently named 8th Best Small Town in America, and a short stroll around town confirms their selection.  Brick is the color of choice, most often punctuated with authentic early American accent colors.  From banners and flowers on the light poles to inviting park benches, this is a small town that’s easy on the eyes.

As you wander the tree-lined lanes, you’re sure to discover inviting little galleries and boutiques. Each is unique and a far cry from the big-box stores you’re used to.

Academy Art Museum

Academy Art Museum
Opening every day at 10:00 a.m., the Academy Art Museum (106 South St, Easton, MD 21601; (410) 822-2787) is a great stop.  Check their calendar of events before you arrive and perhaps time your arrival to take an art class.  Classes in oils, pastels, sketching and pottery are available in April.

Be sure to learn about the temporary exhibit called Myth Makers, and witness the giant bird fashioned from tree saplings.

Paschal’s Chophouse

Pscals Chophouse

We’ve tried many fine restaurants as we travel cross-country, but Pascal’s (22 S Harrison St, Easton, MD 21601; (410) 822-3204) is one that we’d drive an extra hour to enjoy.  This vintage home makes for a cozy dining experience where the room and the menu work together.  Eat leisurely, you’re not going to want to leave.

I started with a delicious corn and crab chowder with lumps of crab meat among the grilled white corn. For a salad course, the Chophouse wedge was served with thick cut bacon and a bay blue buttermilk dressing that was quite unique. Despite the fact that this was a steakhouse, I knew I couldn’t do a big steak justice, so I opted for the pan seared day boat scallops.  Viola – the perfect entrée with fabulous accompaniments.

I luckily did save room for dessert – a scrumptious delight – Chef’s Walnut Carrot Cake with maple orange cream cheese icing.

The Tidewater Inn

The Tidewater Inn

The Tidewater Inn

You’ve gotta sleep sometime, and you won’t find a more comfortable place to stay than the historic Tidewater Inn  (101 East Dover Street; Easton, MD 21601;  (410) 822.1300). With a wide range of room types, we opted for one of the King Suites and it was quite spacious.  With separate double doors between the sleeping and living areas, I stayed up editing photos until all hours of the morning without disturbing my better half in the bedroom.

Downstairs, Hunter’s Tavern is a favorite dining spot for breakfast, lunch, dinner or Sunday brunch from 10:30 .m. until 2:00 p.m.  Breakfasts are a la carte Monday through Friday and buffet style on the weekends – both 7:00 a.m. until 10:30 a.m.

The Tidewater Inn

 


Did you miss any of these Maryland Eastern Shore articles?

Quick Getways in Maryland

Tasty Tour of Talbot County – Wye Mill and Cordova

Historic Easton, MD lauded as one of America’s Best Small Towns

Maryland’s historic seaports blend history with luxury

Wild, wonderful wood carved ducks and more at the Ward Museum of Wildfowl Art – Salisbury

Eastern Shores – the destination you need to see this year