ST. MARY’S COUNTY, Md. — Museums are a popular place to learn more about local history and traditions. While some may offer art exhibits, others take you on a trip far into the distant past. St. Mary’s County has a variety of special museums and tourist spots that are perfect for an everyday outing.
The BayNet reached out to the Museum Division Manager in St. Mary’s County, Karen Stone. She conveyed the excitement of visiting each historic spot to better understand the history of Southern Maryland.
“In St. Mary’s County, a journey through time unfolds. Follow the footsteps from the 1634 colonial landing through every era of American history, culminating in the modern marvels of space travel and naval aviation. Or trace the vast maritime history with over 550 miles of shoreline, uncovering lighthouses, historic homes, and Chesapeake and Potomac heritage. From history to high tech, however you choose to explore, St. Mary’s County offers a profound connection to its storied past.”
St. Mary’s County is rich with history, including jails, lighthouses, and even historic schools. These are the museums in St. Mary’s County that you should visit for an afternoon of fun!
Drayden African American Schoolhouse
The Drayden African American Schoolhouse is a free tourist attraction operated by the Museum Division in St. Mary’s County. In the unique frame building, you’ll have an opportunity to learn about the local African American community in the 1900s. Whether you like historic architecture or collecting new knowledge on America’s history, the Drayden African American Schoolhouse is perfect for solo visitors and families alike!
Hours: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., first Saturday of every month, April–October
Address: 18287 Cherryfield Road, Drayden, MD 20630
The Old Jail Museum
Built in 1876, the Old Jail Museum is a free tourist attraction that features both a jail from 150 years ago and a living quarters where the jailer resided. Experience a lockup from two centuries ago and explore how jailers lived in early Maryland. If you have a fascination with historic jails or prisons, then the Old Jail Museum will provide unique insight. The Leonardtown Visitor Center is also located at the Old Jail Museum, a nice touch for those seeking a day of exploration.
Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Address: 41625 Courthouse Drive, Leonardtown, MD 20650
The St. Clement’s Island Museum
If local history is your jam, then you won’t want to miss the St. Clement’s Island Museum. Visitors will learn about the First Lord of Baltimore, colonial negotiations with Native Americans, and even the original voyage of the Ark and Dove. Children 5 and under enter for free, while there’s a $3 admission fee for adults and $1.50 for youth ages 6–18.
The Island Museum is on the Potomac River, so you can enjoy the view of St. Clement’s Island up close. The St. Clement’s Island Museum is one of the best museums in Southern Maryland, plus there’s a water taxi that’ll take you on a tour of St. Clement’s Island State Park for only $7 per visitor.
Hours: Every day between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day)
Address: 38370 Point Breeze Road, Colton’s Point, MD 20626
Piney Point Lighthouse Museum
Tourists and locals alike can enjoy a day at the Piney Point Lighthouse Museum and Park. You’ll find a tour guide at the museum who will help you explore the lighthouse’s living quarters and the Potomac River Maritime Exhibit. You can even climb to the very top of the lighthouse, though a staff member must be present. Adult visitors require a $7 entrance fee, while kids over 5 can enter for $3.50. Exploring the park is also a treat for the everyday outdoorsman, so there’s no shortage of fun activities at the Piney Point Lighthouse Museum!
Hours: Every day between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day)
Address: 44720 Lighthouse Road, Piney Point, MD 20674
Other Museums in St. Mary’s County
The Museum Division only operates the four locations above, but there are a variety of other museums within St. Mary’s County. Here’s a comprehensive list of exciting cultural centers you can visit today:
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