Our Drum Point Lighthouse guide covers practical planning for Drum Point Lighthouse Maryland — best time to visit, getting there, and what to do on the ground. We're here to help you navigate a visit to this historic screw-pile lighthouse, now a centerpiece of the Calvert Marine Museum, ensuring you experience the best of Chesapeake Bay maritime history in 2026.
Drum Point Lighthouse Travel Guide — Maryland
The Chesapeake Bay is steeped in maritime history, and few structures tell its story as vividly as the Drum Point Lighthouse. Maryland's waters were once dotted with these unique screw-pile lighthouses, built directly into the bay to guide vessels through treacherous shoals. Today, the lovingly preserved Drum Point Lighthouse Maryland stands as a testament to that bygone era, offering visitors an intimate glimpse into the lives of the keepers and the vital role these beacons played in regional commerce and safety. Our team at Roam States believes this iconic landmark, relocated to the tranquil grounds of the Calvert Marine Museum in Solomons, is an essential stop for anyone exploring the state's rich heritage.
Why Visit Drum Point Lighthouse
Visiting the Drum Point Lighthouse offers a compelling journey back in time. This isn't just a static exhibit; it's a fully restored piece of living history, allowing you to step inside and imagine the solitude and dedication of a lighthouse keeper. The lighthouse, constructed in 1883, served the Chesapeake Bay for decades before being decommissioned and moved to the Calvert Marine Museum in 1975. Its survival is a story in itself, rescued from demolition and meticulously restored to its original condition. Inside, you'll find period furnishings and exhibits that bring the daily routines and challenges of lighthouse life to light. We find that the intimate scale of the lighthouse provides a deeply personal connection to the past, far removed from the grandiosity of larger, more modern structures.
The setting itself, on the scenic Back Creek at the Calvert Marine Museum, enhances the experience. You're not just seeing a lighthouse; you're experiencing it within the broader context of the Chesapeake Bay's natural and cultural history. It's a place where the past feels tangible, and the stories of the Bay come alive. We highly recommend taking the time to explore every nook and cranny of this unique structure.
Who It's Best For
The Drum Point Lighthouse is an ideal destination for a diverse range of visitors. History enthusiasts, particularly those interested in maritime heritage and the Chesapeake Bay, will find it incredibly rewarding. The detailed exhibits and preserved interior offer a genuine insight into 19th and early 20th-century life. Families with school-aged children will also discover it to be an engaging and educational experience. The compact size of the lighthouse and the interactive elements within the wider Calvert Marine Museum make it accessible and interesting for younger visitors, sparking curiosity about local history and marine life. We also find it perfect for photographers seeking unique architectural subjects and scenic waterfront views. Anyone looking for a peaceful, reflective outing that combines history with natural beauty will appreciate the tranquil atmosphere of the museum grounds and the lighthouse itself.
Getting There & Parking
The Drum Point Lighthouse is located within the Calvert Marine Museum at 14200 Solomons Island Road, Solomons, MD 20688. To get to Drum Point Lighthouse, travelers will typically drive to Solomons, Maryland. Solomons is situated on a peninsula at the mouth of the Patuxent River, easily accessible from major routes in Southern Maryland. From the Washington D.C. Metro Area, the drive is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic. From Baltimore, expect a similar travel time. We recommend using GPS navigation for the most accurate directions to the Calvert Marine Museum.
Regarding Drum Point Lighthouse parking, the Calvert Marine Museum offers free parking in its main parking lot for general museum visitors. For special events, such as the Waterside Music Series concerts, alternative parking arrangements may apply, often involving a $10 fee at Glascock Field across the street, or ADA parking in the Urgent Care Medical Building lot for $10. However, for a regular visit to the museum and lighthouse, you can expect ample free parking directly on site. Visitors arriving by boat can inquire about dinghy docking by calling the museum in advance.
Top Things to Do
A visit to the Drum Point Lighthouse is just one highlight of the rich experiences available at the Calvert Marine Museum and the charming town of Solomons. Here are the top things to do:
Explore the Drum Point Lighthouse Itself
Stepping inside the Drum Point Lighthouse is a must. The lighthouse is open to the public year-round, weather and conditions permitting, and visitation is included with paid museum admission. We encourage you to climb the narrow stairs, explore the living quarters, and imagine the solitude of a keeper's life. The exhibits inside offer insights into its history and the technology of its time. Be aware that the lighthouse may be temporarily closed for preservation projects; for instance, it was scheduled for exterior painting and preservation starting May 4, 2026, with an expected closure of 4 to 6 weeks. It will also not be open on Waterside Music Series concert dates, such as July 24 and August 22, 2026. Be sure to check the Calvert Marine Museum's website for the most current information before your visit.
Discover the Calvert Marine Museum
The Drum Point Lighthouse is an integral part of the Calvert Marine Museum, which offers a comprehensive look at the region's prehistoric past, natural environments, and maritime heritage. We recommend dedicating several hours to exploring the museum's diverse exhibits. Highlights include the Estuarine Biology Gallery, showcasing the Patuxent River and Chesapeake Bay ecosystems, and the Paleontology Gallery, featuring fossils from the nearby Calvert Cliffs. The museum also has a working boatyard where you can observe traditional boat-building techniques.
Take a Cruise on the Wm. B. Tennison
For a truly immersive experience, we suggest a public cruise aboard the historic skipjack Wm. B. Tennison. These one-hour cruises offer a unique perspective of the Patuxent River. Public cruises typically run Wednesdays through Sundays, May through October, at 2 p.m., with an additional 3:10 p.m. cruise on weekends during peak season. Tickets for the Tennison cruises are $9 for adults and $5 for children ages 0-12. Capacity is 40 passengers, and advance ticket purchase online or in person is recommended, especially for popular times. Special cruises, such as the Father's Day Evening Cruise and the Kids Pirate Cruise, are also offered throughout the year, requiring preregistration.
Stroll the Solomons Island Boardwalk
Beyond the museum, among the things to do in Solomons, MD, the scenic Solomons Island Boardwalk provides a pleasant place for a leisurely walk, offering stunning views of the water and surrounding landscape. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy the waterfront, watch boats, and soak in the relaxed atmosphere of this charming town. You'll find various shops and restaurants along the way.
Visit Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center
Just a short drive from the museum, the Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center offers a unique blend of art and nature. This 30-acre park features a walking path dotted with sculptures, often on loan from the Smithsonian Institution and other major museums. They also host various family programs and events throughout the year.
Explore Calvert Cliffs State Park
For outdoor enthusiasts, Calvert Cliffs State Park is a fantastic option nearby. Famous for its Miocene-era fossil-rich cliffs, the park offers hiking trails and a public beach where you can hunt for shark teeth and other ancient treasures. It’s a bit of a hike to the beach, but the rewards can be significant. We recommend checking the park's website for current conditions and fossil hunting regulations.
Enjoy Solomons' Culinary Scene
Solomons boasts a vibrant culinary scene, particularly known for its fresh seafood. We recommend sampling local oysters, crabs, and rockfish at one of the many waterfront restaurants. Establishments like the Lighthouse Restaurant and Dock Bar, CD Café, and Ruddy Duck Brewery and Grille are popular choices.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Drum Point Lighthouse and the Calvert Marine Museum is generally during the spring, early summer, or fall. During these seasons, the weather in Southern Maryland is typically pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the outdoor exhibits, enjoying a cruise on the Wm. B. Tennison, and strolling the Solomons Island Boardwalk. The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with closures on New Year's Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. It also closes at 3 p.m. on Waterside Concert days.
The summer months (June, July, August) offer warm weather, which is perfect for water activities and enjoying the full range of museum programs and cruises. However, it can also be more crowded, especially on weekends and during special events like Sharkfest in July. If you prefer fewer crowds, we suggest visiting on a weekday. Fall brings beautiful foliage and comfortable temperatures, making it a particularly scenic time to explore the area. The museum often hosts special events in the fall, such as Patuxent River Appreciation Day in October.
While the Drum Point Lighthouse is open year-round, weather permitting, we advise checking the Calvert Marine Museum's website for any temporary closures, especially for the lighthouse itself, as it may undergo preservation work or be closed during specific concert dates.
Where to Stay Nearby
When planning your trip to see the Drum Point Lighthouse, finding comfortable Drum Point Lighthouse lodging is key to a relaxing visit. Solomons and the surrounding area, including nearby Lexington Park and California, MD, offer a variety of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets. Our team has identified several excellent options for Drum Point Lighthouse lodging:
- Quality Inn Solomons - Beacon Marina: This hotel is conveniently located in Solomons, offering views of the marina and often praised for its helpful staff and clean rooms. It's just minutes from the Drum Point Lighthouse and Calvert Marine Museum.
- Hilton Garden Inn Solomons: Situated in Dowell, very close to Solomons, this hotel provides a comfortable stay with amenities like free parking and WiFi, an indoor pool, and on-site dining. Guests frequently commend the exceptional hospitality and location.
- Solomons Inn Resort & Marina: A popular choice directly in Solomons, offering a resort-style experience with marina access.
- La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Lexington Park - Patuxent: Located in Lexington Park, a short drive from Solomons, this hotel is often cited for its cleanliness and value, offering amenities like free breakfast and parking.
- Spark by Hilton California Lexington Park: Another well-regarded option in California/Lexington Park, providing comfortable accommodations and often receiving excellent reviews.
- Solomons Victorian Inn: For those seeking a more charming and intimate experience, a bed and breakfast like the Solomons Victorian Inn offers a unique stay with personalized service.
Many hotels in the area, particularly those in Lexington Park and California, offer free parking and complimentary breakfast, which can add value to your stay. We recommend booking your Drum Point Lighthouse lodging in advance, especially during peak travel seasons or if your visit coincides with one of the Calvert Marine Museum's popular concert series or festivals.
Sample 2-Day Itinerary
To help you make the most of your visit to the Drum Point Lighthouse and the Solomons area, our team has crafted a sample 2-day itinerary:
Day 1: Maritime History & Solomons Charm
- Morning (10:00 AM - 1:00 PM): Calvert Marine Museum & Drum Point Lighthouse
Begin your day at the Calvert Marine Museum. Upon arrival, head straight to the iconic Drum Point Lighthouse. Spend time exploring its interior, imagining life as a lighthouse keeper, and taking in the views of Back Creek. Afterward, delve into the museum's extensive exhibits, covering everything from prehistoric fossils found at Calvert Cliffs to the rich maritime history of the Chesapeake Bay. Don't miss the Estuarine Biology Gallery and the working boatyard. Admission is $11 for adults, $9 for seniors (55+), military, and veterans, and $6 for children ages 5-12; children under 5 and museum members are free.
- Lunch (1:00 PM - 2:00 PM): Local Seafood in Solomons
Enjoy lunch at one of Solomons' highly-rated seafood restaurants. We suggest a spot along the waterfront for fresh catches and scenic views.
- Afternoon (2:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Wm. B. Tennison Cruise
Embark on a one-hour public cruise aboard the historic skipjack Wm. B. Tennison from the museum dock. This offers a fantastic perspective of the Patuxent River and the surrounding natural beauty. Cruises typically depart at 2 p.m..
- Late Afternoon (4:00 PM - 6:00 PM): Solomons Island Boardwalk & Shops
Take a leisurely stroll along the Solomons Island Boardwalk. Browse the local shops and galleries, and perhaps enjoy an ice cream cone or coffee as you watch the boats in the harbor.
- Evening: Dinner & Relaxation
Savor another delicious dinner in Solomons. Consider a waterfront restaurant to enjoy the sunset over the Patuxent River. Return to your chosen Drum Point Lighthouse lodging for the evening.
Day 2: Art, Nature & Exploration
- Morning (9:30 AM - 12:30 PM): Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center
Start your second day with a visit to the Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center in Dowell, just a short drive from Solomons. Explore the walking trails dotted with impressive sculptures and enjoy the serene natural setting. Check their calendar for any special exhibitions or events.
- Lunch (12:30 PM - 1:30 PM): Picnic or Casual Fare
Pack a picnic to enjoy at Annmarie Sculpture Garden, or grab a casual lunch at a local cafe in Solomons or nearby Lusby.
- Afternoon (1:30 PM - 4:30 PM): Calvert Cliffs State Park
Head to Calvert Cliffs State Park for an afternoon of hiking and fossil hunting. The hike to the beach is approximately two miles, but the chance to find ancient shark teeth and other fossils makes it worthwhile. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring a bag for your finds. For those interested in more Maryland adventures, consider visiting Assateague Island for wild ponies or Antietam National Battlefield for Civil War history.
- Late Afternoon/Evening: Departure or Extended Stay
Depending on your travel plans, you can begin your journey home or enjoy another evening in Solomons. For those extending their trip in Maryland, we recommend exploring other incredible destinations such as the American Visionary Art Museum in Baltimore or the historic sites around Maryland.
Frequently Asked Questions
Drum Point Lighthouse with kids
Absolutely! Visiting Drum Point Lighthouse with kids is a fantastic educational and engaging experience. The lighthouse itself is compact and intriguing, allowing children to imagine life in a historic setting. It's part of the Calvert Marine Museum, which is very family-friendly, featuring interactive exhibits on marine life, paleontology, and boat building. Kids will particularly enjoy the otters, the fossil exhibits, and the opportunity to take a boat ride on the Wm. B. Tennison. The museum frequently offers specific children's programs and events, such as "Sea Squirts" for toddlers and toy boat building workshops for ages 5 and older (a $2 donation per boat is requested). We recommend checking the museum's calendar for current offerings.
Best hotels near Drum Point Lighthouse
The best hotels near Drum Point Lighthouse are primarily found in Solomons and the adjacent towns of Lexington Park and California, MD. Top recommendations include the Quality Inn Solomons - Beacon Marina for its waterfront location and proximity to the museum, and the Hilton Garden Inn Solomons for its amenities and highly-rated service. Other excellent options offering good value and comfort include La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Lexington Park - Patuxent and Spark by Hilton California Lexington Park. Many of these hotels offer free parking and complimentary breakfast.
Drum Point Lighthouse tips
Our top Drum Point Lighthouse tips include visiting during the spring or fall for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Always check the Calvert Marine Museum's official website (visitmaryland.org) before your trip for current operating hours, admission fees, and any temporary closures of the lighthouse for maintenance, as it was scheduled for a 4-6 week closure for preservation starting May 4, 2026. Arrive early in the day to allow ample time to explore both the lighthouse and the extensive exhibits at the Calvert Marine Museum. Consider taking a cruise on the Wm. B. Tennison for a different perspective of the Patuxent River. Wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to explore the museum grounds and the Solomons Island Boardwalk. Free parking is available at the museum.
Where to stay near Drum Point Lighthouse
For those wondering where to stay near Drum Point Lighthouse, Solomons Island itself offers a few charming options, including the Quality Inn Solomons - Beacon Marina and the Solomons Inn Resort & Marina. For a wider selection of modern hotels with consistent amenities, look to nearby Lexington Park and California, MD. These areas host brands like Hilton Garden Inn, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham, Spark by Hilton, and Comfort Inn & Suites, all within a short driving distance of the lighthouse and museum. Vacation rentals and quaint bed and breakfasts also provide unique lodging experiences in the area.
Drum Point Lighthouse parking
Drum Point Lighthouse parking is conveniently available at the Calvert Marine Museum's main parking lot, and it is free for general museum visitors. The lighthouse is located on the museum grounds, so once you park, you can easily access the lighthouse and all other museum exhibits. For special events, particularly concerts, separate parking arrangements may apply, often involving a fee and designated lots across the street. We recommend checking the museum's website for specific event parking details if your visit coincides with a concert or large festival.
Best time to visit Drum Point Lighthouse
The best time to visit Drum Point Lighthouse is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) when the weather is mild and comfortable for exploring both indoor and outdoor attractions. Early summer (June) is also excellent, though crowds may start to increase. The Calvert Marine Museum, where the lighthouse is located, is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.. While the lighthouse is accessible year-round, conditions permitting, it will be closed on specific concert dates, such as July 24 and August 22, 2026, and may undergo temporary closures for preservation, like the 4-6 week project starting May 4, 2026. Always consult the museum's calendar for the most up-to-date information.
Our team at Roam States confidently recommends the Drum Point Lighthouse and the Calvert Marine Museum as a compelling destination for anyone seeking to connect with Maryland's maritime past. It’s a well-preserved piece of history that offers both educational value and scenic beauty, making it a standout attraction in the Chesapeake Bay region. Whether you're a history buff, a family with curious kids, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, this unique lighthouse delivers an authentic and memorable experience.
Last updated: 2026-07-12 by the Roam States team.