Maryland in October

Late spring through early summer brings Maryland's sweet spot. May temperatures hit the 70s without summer humidity, and the Chesapeake Bay warms up for swimming. Crab season peaks from April through October, so you'll get the freshest catches. Summer means beach season, but also crowds and heat. Ocean City transforms from sleepy beach town to packed resort. Baltimore's Inner Harbor gets swampy by July, though the harbor breeze helps. Book accommodations early — summer weekends fill up months ahead. Fall delivers Maryland's most beautiful weather. September and October bring crisp mornings, warm afternoons, and stunning foliage in the western counties. Crab season continues strong, and you'll dodge the summer crowds. Winter stays mild compared to northern neighbors, but Baltimore's harbor winds cut right through you. Ocean City essentially shuts down except for a few hardy locals. But here's a secret — Annapolis looks magical with light snow on those colonial buildings, and hotel rates drop by half.