In fact, the Parkers Creek Preserve is a Calvert County crown jewel. Owned and operated by the American Chestnut Land Trust, it offers more than 3,000 acres of wetlands, forest and farmland to explore. Visitors can paddle a canoe over a mile and a half through salt marshes and wooded freshwater wetlands.

If you're looking for more wind in your hair than you get from hiking or paddling, Calvert County's marinas offer an array of outstanding, cost-effective services to guarantee a perfect day on the water cruising or water skiing. Or maybe bicycling is more your style. Click here for a full listing of businesses standing by to satisfy your need for speed.

Calvert Marine Museum (CMM) is a destination unto itself. From boat building classes, historic lighthouse tours and watermen exhibits to the wonderful frolicking worlds of otters, skates, seahorses and octopus, CMM continues to grow its renown as one of the best marine museums in the country.

And while small venue indoor concerts, classes, camps, exhibits and the museum store are a year-round staple at the museum, CMM has expanded its Waterside Concert Series this summer to include five major artists.

Visit CMM online for ticket sale information and make a night of it by staying at one of the hotels and bed and breakfasts within walking distance of the concert venue in Solomons. Click here for a complete listing of accommodations.

Want a preview of fun you'll have when you arrive at Calvert Marine Museum? Take a look its award-winning orientation video that was recognized with a Silver Telly during the 37th Annual Telly Awards. Come to the Calvert Marine Museum where exploring never ends.

The 31st Children's Day on the Farm is JPPM's flagship event that gets bigger and better every year. This year will be no different as more entertainers and rides have been added to this annual free day of straight-out fun! 

Children of all ages are invited to enjoy June 5 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., when JPPM turns into the coolest place to be in Calvert County. Make plans to enjoy a petting zoo, a tractor parade, pony rides, face painting and crafts. This year Pinch, the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs baseball team mascot, will be on hand for several appearances at the new train ride and on stage with dance performances, magicians and the Blue Sky Puppet Theater. Also new this year, artwork from area middle school students will be on display for all visitors to enjoy. It's a day you won't want to miss and children will never forget.

Another annual favorite is African American Family Community Day, organized the by the Calvert County Branch of the NAACP. This year's event will be held Saturday, June 18 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Featured are comedian Sean Sarvis, live music from the Bowie State University Community Jazz Ensemble and Hardaway Connection, historical re-enactments, raffles, prizes, food, merchandise and more. It's a great day of fellowship and fun.