Welcome to the St. Michaels Tourism FAQ page! Here you'll find answers to common questions about visiting our charming waterfront town on Maryland's Eastern Shore. If you don't see your question answered here, feel free to contact us at St. Michaels Tourism.

General Information

What is St. Michaels known for? St. Michaels is a historic seaport town famous for its maritime heritage, boutique shopping, award-winning restaurants, and scenic views along the Miles River. It's often called "The Heart & Soul of the Chesapeake Bay" and was named one of USA Today's Top 10 Best Small Coastal Towns.

Where is St. Michaels located? St. Michaels is in Talbot County on Maryland's Eastern Shore, approximately 1.5 hours from Washington, D.C., Baltimore, and Annapolis (traffic dependent). It's easily accessible via the Chesapeake Bay Bridge.

What is the best time to visit St. Michaels? St. Michaels is a year-round destination! Spring and fall offer mild weather and fewer crowds, summer is perfect for boating and outdoor activities, and winter brings cozy holiday events like Midnight Madness.

Is St. Michaels pet-friendly? Yes! Many shops, restaurants with outdoor seating, and accommodations welcome pets. The St. Michaels Nature Trail is great for walks, and some boat tours allow leashed pets. Always check with individual businesses.

Getting Here & Around

How do I get to St. Michaels? By car: Take US-50 across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, then follow signs to MD-33 toward St. Michaels. By boat: Anchor in the Miles River or St. Michaels Harbor and use the Harbor Shuttle water taxi (VHF Channel 71 or 410-819-9606). Public transport options are limited; rideshares or private shuttles are available from nearby airports.

Is there parking in town? Yes, free public parking is available throughout town, including lots near the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum and along Talbot Street. Street parking is also common but can fill up on weekends.

How walkable is St. Michaels? Very walkable! The historic downtown along Talbot Street is compact, with most shops, restaurants, and attractions within easy walking distance. Bikes and golf carts are popular for longer explorations.

Accommodations & Dining

What types of lodging are available? Options range from luxurious waterfront inns (like Inn at Perry Cabin), charming bed & breakfasts, boutique hotels, and vacation rentals. Book early for peak seasons!

Are there gluten-free or vegetarian dining options? Absolutely—many restaurants offer fresh seafood alternatives, farm-to-table dishes, and accommodating menus. Waterfront spots like The Crab Claw are famous for crab cakes, but also have diverse options.

Do I need reservations for restaurants? Highly recommended, especially on weekends and during events. Popular spots fill up quickly.

Things to Do & Events

What are the top attractions?

• Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum (18-acre waterfront campus with exhibits and boat rides)
• Historic walking tours and the "Cannonball House"
• Boating, kayaking, sailing on historic skipjacks
• Boutique shopping on Talbot Street (including antiques at Antiques on Talbot)
• St. Michaels Winery, Eastern Shore Brewing, and Lyon Distilling for tastings

What events are happening, especially around Valentine's Day? St. Michaels hosts year-round events. For Valentine's Day, enjoy romantic specials at inns and restaurants, including the annual "Fall in Love with St. Michaels" weekend with dining and lodging packages. Check the events calendar for current details.

Are there family-friendly activities? Yes! The Maritime Museum has interactive exhibits, crab picking, nature trails, bike rentals, and seasonal festivals like OysterFest.

Shopping & Practical Info

What unique shopping can I find? Talbot Street is lined with independent boutiques, galleries, apparel shops (like Brackish Life for Chesapeake Bay-themed gear), and antique stores. Look for nautical items, local art, and Maryland souvenirs.

Is there sales tax, and what about tipping? Maryland sales tax is 6%. Tipping 15-20% is customary in restaurants.

Where can I find more information or brochures? Visit our official sites: stmichaelsmd.org (Business Association) or stmichaelsmd.com (Tourism). Digital guides are available online.

We hope this helps plan your perfect visit to St. Michaels! Safe travels. 🌊