LEONARDTOWN, Md. — As thousands prepare to travel to Southern Maryland for the 2026 NAS Patuxent River Air Show, local tourism officials hope visitors leave with more than photographs of fighter jets streaking across the sky.
They hope visitors leave understanding the story of St. Mary’s County itself.
Long before Blue Angels performances and modern aviation transformed the skies above Patuxent River Naval Air Station, Maryland’s first colony was taking shape along these same waterways. Founded in 1634, St. Mary’s City became Maryland’s first capital and one of the earliest English settlements in America, earning the region recognition as “Maryland’s Original Destination.”
Photo Sources: Visit St. Mary’s- Historic St. Mary’s City Visitors Guide
Today, centuries later, the county remains deeply tied to the water, the land and the traditions that shaped it.
For visitors arriving for the June 20-21 air show weekend, tourism leaders say the event offers an opportunity not only to experience world-class aviation demonstrations, but also to discover the culture, seafood, history and waterfront beauty that make St. Mary’s County unique.
“We have found a way to encapsulate what makes St. Mary’s County so special, and we’re excited to share that story with visitors,” said Liz Mildenstein, executive director of Visit St. Mary’s MD, in an interview with The BayNet.
Lodging Options For Every Budget
With large crowds expected for the air show, Visit St. Mary’s officials encourage travelers to plan accommodations early. The county offers a wide range of lodging options, from waterfront inns and higher-end hotels to campgrounds, budget-friendly lodging and short-term vacation rentals.
Visitors planning their stay for the NAS Patuxent River Air Show can explore lodging options ranging from waterfront inns and short-term vacation rentals to budget-friendly and upscale hotels by visiting Visit St. Mary’s Lodging Guide.
Visitors staying throughout Lexington Park, California, Leonardtown and surrounding communities can also use the air show as an opportunity to explore the county beyond the gates of NAS Patuxent River.
A Seafood Tradition Rooted In The Chesapeake Bay
One of the biggest attractions outside the air show itself may be found on local menus.
Surrounded by the Chesapeake Bay, Potomac River and Patuxent River, St. Mary’s County has long relied on the water for both livelihood and identity. Local watermen continue traditions passed through generations, harvesting blue crabs, oysters and fresh seafood that supply restaurants across Maryland and beyond.
Mildenstein said the waterways remain central to the county’s culture and economy.
“Our watermen work day in and day out to bring fresh seafood not only to our county, but to the nation,” Mildenstein said. “We have seafood that’s shipped across the country.”
From freshly shucked oysters and steamed blue crabs to award-winning crab cakes, St. Mary’s County offers visitors a true taste of the Chesapeake Bay. Tourism officials also encourage travelers to try Southern Maryland stuffed ham, a centuries-old regional specialty that originated in St. Mary’s County and is traditionally prepared with kale, cabbage, onions and seasonings stuffed into cured ham.
Local restaurants such as Chiefs Sports Bar & Grill, Crabknockers Seafood Market & Restaurant and Helen’s Kitchen are among establishments known for serving regional favorites and fresh local seafood.
Waterfront Parks, Beaches And Outdoor Beauty
For many visitors, the scenery itself becomes part of the experience.
As a peninsula surrounded by water, St. Mary’s County offers miles of shoreline, public parks and waterfront access. Popular destinations include Point Lookout State Park, known for its beaches, fishing, campground and Civil War history at the southern tip of Maryland.
Photo Sources: Visit St. Mary’s/Point Lookout State Park
Visitors can also explore local parks, kayak launches, hiking trails and waterfront communities throughout the county during their stay by visiting the Outdoor Recreation Visitors Guide. You’ll find activities on the land, on the water and in the air; there’s no shortage of outdoor fun to be had!
Mildenstein said the county’s natural beauty often leaves a lasting impression on travelers.
“I want people to leave having had a good time,” Mildenstein said. “And leave being able to share stories from their trip.”
Events Beyond The Flight Line
Several local events are also planned around the air show weekend, giving visitors additional opportunities to experience the community.
Among them are Salsa Night in Callaway, the UCAC Juneteenth Celebration at St. Mary’s County Fairgrounds and Lavender Nights, scheduled for June 20, along with other seasonal activities, restaurants and entertainment throughout the county.
Tourism officials say the goal is to encourage visitors to experience Southern Maryland as more than a single-day destination.
“We want visitors to feel welcomed,” Mildenstein said. “I hope they leave understanding why we love it here and why we think it’s beautiful.”
Photo Source: Visit St. Mary’s MD Visitors Guide
Sharing The St. Mary’s Story
For Visit St. Mary’s, the air show represents more than tourism numbers or hotel bookings. It is an opportunity to introduce thousands of visitors to a region shaped by history, agriculture, fishing communities and generations of families who continue to call the county home.
She said visitors often leave surprised by the county’s combination of history, waterfront views, hospitality and locally rooted traditions.
“We all say where we live is special,” Mildenstein said. “But it’s my hope that visitors leave having a good time, feeling welcomed and understanding even a little bit of St. Mary’s story.”
Things To Do
- Visit Point Lookout State Park
- Try Maryland stuffed ham: W.J. Dent & Sons/Chiefs Bar & Chaptico Market & Deli (pickup/delivery only)
- Visit Bon AppéSweet — recently on “Shark Tank”!
- Explore Historic St. Mary’s City
- Attend Lavender Nights on June 20
- UCAC Juneteenth Celebration at St. Mary’s County Fairgrounds, June 20
- Blue Angels Salsa & Bachata Afterburners at El Coqui
- Visit local seafood restaurants
- Explore Leonardtown waterfront shops and dining
Visitors can also check for events on The BayNet and on Visit St. Mary’s MD.
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