From the City of Havre de Grace Office of Tourism:
From Memorial Day to Labor Day, Havre de Grace is a delightful place to explore in the summer. The area’s lush green forests and intriguing waterways entice visitors summer after summer. Havre de Grace Visitor Center is kicking off a local awareness campaign “Take a Tour of Havre de Grace this Summer” and discover what is close to home. “We are so fortunate to a live so close to so many sites and events that attract visitors from Pennsylvania, Virginia, New jersey and Washington D. C.” say Brigitte Peters, Havre de Grace Tourism Manager, “ I would like to encourage the regions residents to explore all the events and sites in the area.” There are plenty of fun summer outings that can be planned around Havre de Grace that are FREE or would accept small donations. The following sites are FREE and in your own backyard:
1. Susquehanna State Park – The Greenway Trail: Biking or hiking at the Susquehanna State Park located along the Susquehanna River, 3 miles northwest of HdG, off Route 155, Ph. 410-557-7994. The Susquehanna Park offers excellent fishing opportunities, boating, mountain biking, horseback riding, hiking, kayaking, bird watching and picnicking. The historic area features the Rock Run Grist Mill, built in 1794, the New Jersey Toll House, and the Archer Museum.
2. Susquehanna Museum of the HdG Lock House: (c.1840) The Susquehanna Museum keeps the history of Havre de Grace, the Susquehanna River, and the upper Chesapeake Bay alive through living history as well as exhibits. Open all year Thursdays thru Mondays, 1-5 pm. (Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays) Located at 817 Conesteo St., HdG, 21078, Ph. 410-939-5780 or 1-866-939-5780. Website: www.lockhousemuseum.org
3. Concord Point Light & Keeper’s House: Built in 1827, Concord Point is the oldest continuously operated lighthouse in the state of Maryland. It affords a spectacular view of the Chesapeake Bay. Across the street visit the newly restored Keeper’s House which offers a glimpse into the interesting story of Lighthouse Keeper John O’Neil, as well as the history of Havre de Grace’s best known landmark. Open April-October, 1-5 pm, Saturdays and Sundays, closed holidays. Located at the foot of Lafayette St., HdG 21078, Ph. 410-939-3213.
4. North Park Trail: A wonderful spot to walk and enjoy the beautiful serenity of the Susquehanna River. A 1.5 mile walking trail located at Erie and Conesteo Streets and adjacent to the Susquehanna Museum of the HdG Lock House.
5. Friday Concerts in the Park: Every Friday at 7:30pm during the months of June and July, the Havre de Grace Arts Commission presents a free concert at Tydings Park. Bring a picnic basket, blanket and chair; enjoy an array of music from the bandstand. Schedule of performers are posted at www.hdgtourism.com or call 410-939-2100.
6. Thursday Night Sailboat Races: Havre de Grace Yacht Club presents the sailboat races every Thursday evening throughout the summer. The race begins at the Tidewater Marina in Havre de Grace beginning 6:00pm. Picnic basket, lawn chairs and blankets are a great way to enjoy the races at the Tidewater Marina. For more information, call 410-939-0950 or 800-960-8433, Website: www.tidewatermarina.com
7. The Promenade: A scenic ¾ mile boardwalk to view the Susquehanna River adjacent to Tydings Park, Decoy Museum, Maritime Museum and Concord Point Light House. From dawn ‘til dusk enjoy waterfowl watching and interpretive signage about the Chesapeake Bay. Relax on the benches while enjoying the soft breezes or gather around a picnic table at Tydings Park and enjoy the playground and pavilion.
8. Fishing, Fishing, Fishing! Both Tydings and Hutuchins Parks offer areas in which No license is required. Cast your line and try your luck.
9. The Lafayette Trail: Historic Havre de Grace welcomes you to tour its Nationally Registered Historic District. This self-guided tour, presented by the Historic Preservation Commission, begins at the City’s North Park. As you follow the markings along our streets and refer to the prepared guide, you will learn more about the historical significance of the beautiful structures that make Havre de Grace unique.
10. Special Summer Happenings: Summer is the time when Havre de Grace is bursting with an outdoor Farmer’s Market, First Fridays celebration and Festivals. For a current list of the area events visit www.hdgtourism.com or phone 410-939-2100 or 1-800-851-7756 for a FREE Visitor Guide and Calendar of Events.
The City of Havre de Grace has served as an official tourism promotion agency through the Havre de Grace Chamber of Commerce, Havre de Grace Tourism Commission, and the City of Havre de Grace Office of Tourism since 1928.
Don’t forget about First Fridays!! On the first Friday of each month – May thru December, the store are open late, entertainment is provided for free along the streets of the historic downtown, ans there is even an outdoor beer garden!! Join us!!!