Solomons, Maryland — This September 2025, the Calvert Marine Museum (CMM) is transforming the shores of the Chesapeake Bay into a month-long celebration of maritime heritage, nature exploration, and family-friendly fun. Whether you’re a history buff, a parent looking for an engaging day out with the kids, or a traveler seeking authentic Chesapeake experiences, the museum has curated a diverse calendar that combines education, entertainment, and local culture.
From pirate-themed adventures to hands-on fossil digs and scenic cruises on the Patuxent River, the Calvert Marine Museum continues its mission of bringing the Bay’s history and ecology to life for visitors from around the world.
Ongoing Attractions: History, Heritage, and Scenic Cruises
One of the museum’s year-round treasures is the Lore Oyster House, a preserved 1934 seafood packing facility that opens Wednesday through Sunday. Visitors can explore exhibits chronicling the region’s once-booming oyster industry, its impact on local livelihoods, and its role in shaping Maryland’s maritime economy.
The museum’s Wm. B. Tennison Public Cruise — aboard a traditional log-built bugeye — offers one-hour guided trips along the Patuxent River on select days in September. Adult tickets are just $9, and children ride for $5, making it one of the most affordable and scenic family activities in Southern Maryland.
For lighthouse lovers, the Cove Point Lighthouse Grounds & Visitor Center — the oldest operational lighthouse on the Chesapeake Bay — is open Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Bay and learn about centuries of navigational history. Admission is free, adding to the appeal for budget-friendly travelers.
Signature September Events: Something for Every Visitor
- Labor Day Cruise (Sept 1)
Kick off the month with a serene afternoon cruise aboard the Wm. B. Tennison at 2 p.m., blending leisure with local maritime storytelling. - Sea Squirts (Sept 4 & 11)
Designed for toddlers aged 18 months to 3 years, this interactive session introduces young learners to the world of “Terrific Turtles” through stories, songs, and crafts. - First Fossil Friday (Sept 5)
Fossil enthusiasts can bring their own finds for identification by paleontology experts from 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. The Calvert Cliffs, just a short drive away, are famous for Miocene-era fossils, making this a highlight for amateur and seasoned collectors alike. - Night at the Museum for Friends with Disabilities (Sept 12)
From 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., the museum offers a relaxed, sensory-friendly evening for individuals with disabilities and their families. Activities include interactive exhibits, river otter viewings, and a 30-minute Tennison cruise.
Pirate Day – The Month’s Most Anticipated Family Event
On Saturday, September 20, the museum’s campus transforms into a pirate’s paradise. From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., families can enjoy:
- Pirate costume contests and face painting
- Pirate crafts and tattoo stations
- Mini boat-building workshops
- Lively sing-alongs at 12:30, 1:30, and 2:30 p.m.
For the ultimate adventure, the Kids Pirate Cruise (11 a.m. – 12 p.m.) lets children follow a treasure map aboard the Wm. B. Tennison while dressed as swashbucklers. Tickets are $15 per person, and advance booking is recommended due to high demand.
CMM members enjoy an added perk with 20% off Museum Store purchases on Pirate Day, making it the perfect time to grab nautical-themed gifts and educational souvenirs.
End-of-Month Highlight: Fossil Club Lecture
On Sunday, September 28, Dr. Briana Pobiner from the Smithsonian Institution will lead a free public lecture titled “The Role of Scavenging in Human Evolution.” The talk follows the CMM Fossil Club meeting at 1:30 p.m. and is ideal for visitors interested in anthropology, paleontology, and human origins.
Why September Is the Perfect Time to Visit
Located in Solomons, at the confluence of the Patuxent River and Chesapeake Bay, the Calvert Marine Museum offers one of Maryland’s richest combinations of cultural heritage and natural beauty. September’s mild weather makes it perfect for river cruises, outdoor festivals, and waterfront strolls.
With proximity to Washington D.C., Baltimore, and Annapolis, the museum is a convenient day-trip destination for urban visitors while also serving as a must-stop point for those exploring Southern Maryland’s scenic byways.
Tourism & Economic Impact
According to Maryland Office of Tourism data, heritage and cultural attractions like the Calvert Marine Museum significantly boost local economies, supporting restaurants, hotels, and small businesses. Seasonal events such as Pirate Day and Fossil Friday draw both local families and out-of-state travelers, contributing to year-round tourism stability in Calvert County.
Plan Your Visit
- Address: Calvert Marine Museum, 14200 Solomons Island Rd S, Solomons, MD 20688
- Opening Hours: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily (special hours for events)
- Tickets: Adults $9, Seniors $7, Children (5–12) $4, Under 5 Free
Final Word
September 2025 at the Calvert Marine Museum isn’t just a list of events — it’s an immersion into Chesapeake Bay’s past, present, and future. Whether you’re sailing into history on the Wm. B. Tennison, digging for ancient shark teeth, or cheering on a mini-pirate crew, every visit offers new discoveries. This is heritage tourism at its best — hands-on, family-friendly, and deeply connected to the land and water that define Southern Maryland.
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