Havre de Grace

At the mouth of one of America’s most storied rivers, the Susquehanna, sits the wharf town Havre de Grace. Inspired by Revolutionary War hero General Lafayette, who commented that the small waterfront hamlet reminded him of the French seaport “Le Havre,” the townspeople incorporated in 1785 and adopted the name Havre de Grace. In the two-and-a-quarter centuries since, Havre de Grace has developed into an epicurean and recreational hub for all visitors to the northern Chesapeake Bay, with access to nearby state parks (Susquehanna and Elk Neck State Parks) and all manner of nature and wildlife.

Navigating to any of the marinas that line its waterfront may challenge even seasoned captains, as you’ll be crossing what’s known as the Susquehanna Flats—basically the shallower delta of the Susquehanna River with one- to four-foot depths. There are several channels up to 20 feet deep that run north to town and into the river itself. Nevertheless, the Flats are renowned for striped bass fishing early-spring through fall. Be mindful when boating this region.

Catering to transient boaters/anglers is the City Yacht Basin with more than 100 slips available, fuel, pump-out, boat ramp, angler amenities, and a restaurant (The Promenade Grille). It’s also the entry point to Millard Tydings Memorial Park and the boardwalk promenade, which meanders along the town’s southern waterfront. There are several other large marinas in Havre de Grace, ensuring options for almost every visiting vessel.

The charm of Havre de Grace is anchored to its waterfront parks, historic sites, dining, and shopping. The fully-restored Concord Point Lighthouse is a popular attraction.

It’s the second oldest lighthouse in Maryland, built in 1827 and decommissioned in 1975. Within footsteps of the lighthouse is the Havre de Grace Maritime Museum and the Havre de Grace Decoy Museum, recalling the golden age of waterfowl hunting the town and region became known for in the 1800s onward. Today, boating, angling, golf, vineyards, breweries, and creameries attract visitors to town and the surrounding countryside.

At the end of a long day, respite can be found at waterfront restaurants and taprooms. St. John Street at the town’s northern end boasts a concentrated number of such places, along with shopping, supplies, and antiques. And you’ll find even more dining variety and whimsical shops just a couple blocks inland, all walkable and all within the unique, historic charm of Havre de Grace. For a complete picture of all this town offers visitors, go to explorehavredegrace.com