Berlin Maryland – a great hideaway

The year was 1998 and you can imagine the excitement in this small town in Worcester County.  Walking through the streets was Richard Gere and Julia Roberts filming Runaway Bride.  Shops along Main Street were used as sets.

Downtown Berlin, Maryland.
Downtown Berlin, Maryland.

Then in 2001 the town became Hollywood East again as the film Everlasting Tuck filmed there, along with Sissy Spacek, Ben Kingsley and William Hurt.

The excitement these days is generated by the fact  Budget Travel Magazine named Berlin America’s Coolest Small Town after an extensive nationwide search.  The criteria included history, food, culture, architecture and the people who live there.

I bet you past the sign to Berlin many times on your way to Ocean City.  I also bet you never stopped to explore.  It is located on route 113, just off 50.  Actually it makes for a great daytrip while visiting Ocean City.  You can be there in about 10 minutes.

Once upon a time the area was the home to the Assateague and Pocomoke tribes.  It was incorporated in 1868. During my all too brief visit I enjoyed simply strolling the streets of town.  It is so very quaint and is designated a National Register of Historic District.

The best thing to do is find a place to park, which wont be a problem, and then walk.  Any of the stores will do.  For live entertainment stop by the Globe Theatre.  It was built in 1910.  Another suggestion is to take a Ghost Walk, held every Thursday at 8 p.m.

Atlantic Hotel in Berlin.
Atlantic Hotel in Berlin.

I will also suggest a carriage ride which you can pick up at Pitts and Main Streets.  It runs daily through Labor day and is only five dollars.  There’s also the Calvin Taylor Museum at 208 Main Street.

I now want to spend some time (or in this case space) and tell you about the Atlantic Hotel (2 North Main Street).  It was built in 1895 and has undergone two renovations.  It has 16 Victorian guest rooms, one suite and a cottage located behind the hotel.  It was puchased in in 1986 by ten local businessman who wanted to preserve its history.

Today it is managed by John and Michelle Fager, yes those Fagers from Ocean City.  It is also the location of many social events.  One activity many seem to enjoy is to find a seat on the front porch and watch the activities of the town.

For dining, the restaurant is Drummer’s Cafe or Drummer’s Sun Room.  The main dining room is quite beautiful with a fireplace and grand piano.  I started playing and immediately got two requests, get out and stay out.

Rates this time of year range from $140 to $335. (410-641-3589 or atlantichotel.com)

By the way, when in town stop by City Hall and say hi to Mayor William ‘Gee’ Williams.  He loves meeting visitors.