The Old-Line State, or America in Miniature as some call it, is a part of the US famous for its blue crabs found at Chesapeake Bay, the Annapolis Naval Academy, the Pimlico Race Course, Old Bay seasoning, and its unique flag. These are a few of many things distinct to one of the most multicultural states in the country.
That said, one aspect of Maryland life that does not get talked about nearly enough is the entertainment available in this slice of America. Its cities are home to diverse nightlife scenes, renowned for waterfront partying, high-energy clubs, frozen cocktails, and more during after-dark hours. There is something for every taste here, regardless of whether someone is looking for a laid-back evening by the bay or an all-night dance party. Naturally, historic taverns/pubs, craft breweries, music venues like small-time jazz clubs, and even gaming are on the table in Maryland, and below, we tell you about five not-to-be-missed spots for anyone looking for a good time after sunset in the fifth-most densely populated region in the United States.
Without question, any list covering this topic would be poorly put-together if it did not feature this massive waterfront club at 117 49th Street in Ocean City. The venue has multiple bars, floating tables, DJ platforms, and everything else needed for vacation-style partying. This is a Caribbean-themed six-acre property where cover charges start at $50, offering a variety of drinks, including cocktails like piña coladas and orange crushes.
Seacrets is open every day from 11 AM to 2 AM and provides free parking. There are nearby bus stops for those planning to visit this restaurant/club, rich with tropical vibes. After 10 PM, only those over twenty-one with a valid ID can enter, and certain events may require a dress code. So, for all looking to visit Seacrets for live music happenings, it would be wise to check out its official website to see schedules and dress details. Yet, for the most part, Seacrets is known as a prime hotspot for bachelor and birthday parties.
Maryland is one of the more gambling-friendly territories in the US. It allows mobile sports betting, off-track horse race wagering, and commercial casinos. Regarding the latter, there are six high-end such properties active in Maryland, of which the best one, as far as nightlife goes, is the Live! Casino & Hotel in Hanover. Why? It is open around the clock, three hundred and sixty-five days a year. It boasts a Grand Ballroom, a four-thousand-square-foot space paired with six breakout rooms, and a concert venue with fifteen hundred people, almost always featuring some event.
On top of this, Live! Casino & Hotel has loads of high-end restaurants, a lively sports bar with big screens and entertainment, R Bar, a stylish cocktail lounge, and the Orchid Gaming & Smoking Patio, a smokers’ area. Gamblers can explore this casino’s four thousand slots or its exclusive fifty-card gambling tables. These are a top attraction, given that online poker in Maryland is only available via offshore sites.
Most young adults who have been to Baltimore are probably super familiar with Power Plant Live at 34 Market Place. It is a collection of bars/restaurants in the city’s Inner Harbor section. This group of outdoor venues for shows and events is especially popping during summertime, and they are close to attractions such as the Holocaust Memorial, Baltimore Soundstage, and Port Discovery Children's Museum.
Developed by The Cordish Companies, an established Baltimore real estate development and entertainment company, and opened in the early 2000s, this complex gets its name from the nearby Pratt Street Power Plant building. It is worth mentioning that the Power Plant was a former coal-burning station that got up and running at the beginning of the 1900s.
Ocean City is again on the docket, a two-acre scenic bayside hospitality property blending a restaurant, bar, and nightclub experience on 201 60th Street. During the daytime, most of Fager’s Island’s patrons come here for dining, looking to enjoy American and Pacific Rim cuisine or local craft beers and fine wines. But, during the night, DJs and live bands take center stage, and visitors traditionally pay a cover charge of around $10 during summer to take in quality live entertainment.
Traditionally, Fager’s Island is open until 2 AM year-round, but off-season adjustments are possible during specific periods of the year. The Monday Night Deck Parties and the Bachelorette Crawl with prize-packed scavenger hunts are the stuff of legend at Fager’s Island. This venue has shown impressive longevity and local community engagement.
Founded in 1972 in Fell's Point, we have a drinking site celebrated for its authenticity and maritime past, a standout in Baltimore's nightlife scene. Originally called The Horse, this saloon, whose history dates back to 1775, connects to probably the best-known gothic writer, Edgar Allan Poe. However, the link between Poe and The Horse often gets disputed and largely stems from erroneous claims that this was the last place this literary giant was seen alive.
Today, The Horse You Came In On Saloon entices visitors with its saddle-shaped seats, 18th-century vibe, and various varied drinks. Its Jack Daniels Bottle Club program is known throughout Maryland.
