With its unique blend of rolling hills up north and a cozy suburban feel further south, Harford County has something for everyone. We are fortunate to have a vibrant and diverse community with small businesses, farms, and national companies while maintaining a small-town, agriculture-centered feel. Where should you start when you’re planning your visit to Harford County? Here are our top 3 must-visit Harford County towns.
Bel Air
Bel Air is a small town with a big heart, and is aptly named the “Heart of Harford.” Start your tour on a Saturday morning at the Bel Air Farmer’s Market to explore the many local vendors for your local produce needs, then check out one of our many local restaurants, bakeries, and breweries. If you’re in the mood for something more active, why not pack up the bikes and head to one of the many trailheads for the Ma & Pa Trail, which follows the old Maryland & Pennsylvania rail line?
If you’re not in town on a Saturday, make sure you come out for a First Friday hosted by the Bel Air Downtown Alliance for shopping at our unique boutiques or stores, go for a walk on the Ma & Pa Trail, or carry-out from one of our delicious restaurants! You can bring the whole family for the Bel Air Summer Concert series at Shamrock Park, which has a large amphitheater and an open area for seating.
And all of this is just in downtown Bel Air -- there’s lots more to explore in the surrounding area! Many of our local farms and specialty shops are just a short drive away.
Havre de Grace
Havre de Grace is a beautiful waterfront town in Maryland located on the banks of the Susquehanna River where it meets the Chesapeake Bay and is a favorite landing spot for boaters and fishermen. It is also loaded with history, boutiques, restaurants, and scenic views.
Perhaps the most iconic feature in Havre de Grace is the Concord Point Lighthouse, which is the oldest lighthouse in Maryland and was in service from 1827 to 1975. It is still a popular wedding venue, engagement spot, and has been fully restored for volunteer keeper-led public tours on weekends during the summer. Right next to the lighthouse is a recently-erected Gold Star Family memorial, which honors the sacrifices of the families of fallen service members.
The Concord Point Lighthouse caps one side of the beautiful waterfront Havre de Grace promenade, where you can walk over the water to visit the gazebo, large playground, and memorial sculptures at Tydings Park. Havre de Grace also has local coffee shops, boutiques, a chocolatier, several museums, and more unique stores to explore, making it a can’t-miss destination that even locals keep coming back to!
Aberdeen
Did you know that the Baltimore Orioles have a short-season affiliate baseball team at Ripken Stadium in Aberdeen? The Aberdeen Ironbirds play at Leidos Field at Ripken Stadium, and yes, that’s the same Cal Ripken you’re thinking of! Bring the whole family for an afternoon of affordable, memorable family fun.
Aberdeen is also home to Aberdeen Proving Ground, which is the largest employer in the county and has been in operation since World War I. Its presence in Harford County has helped thousands of our residents settle and support their families and often contributes to our local initiatives. The City of Aberdeen is the largest municipality in the county and hosts festivals, a farmer’s market, and its own small town charm.
Plan Your Trip to Harford County
So, where will you go first on your trip to Harford County? Will it be to the scenic waterfront in Havre de Grace, a brewery in Bel Air, a baseball game in Aberdeen, or somewhere in between? Harford has something for everyone and you’re sure to come back to see what you missed the first time. Download our free Destination Harford app to explore everything that Harford County, Maryland has to offer!