Old-Fashioned Tavern and Inn with Ties to the American Revolution

Between 1781 and 1784, Declaration of Independence signer Robert Morris was considered one of the most powerful men in America. The superintendent of finance during the first few years of America’s independence, he was called the “Financier of the Revolution.” George Washington was a regular visitor at his home in Oxford, Maryland. The home, built in 1710 and enlarged several times since, is now known as The Robert Morris Inn. Because it’s been putting up travelers for more than 300 years, it’s believed by some to be the oldest inn in America. Walking inside is like stepping into the past. There’s an old slate floor, timber beams, and a taproom and tavern outfitted with a gigantic fireplace.

• Colonial decor: The inn’s 14 bedrooms each have period-appropriate decor including four-poster beds and maritime paintings. Admiral rooms look out over Chesapeake Bay.
• Breakfast is served in Salter’s Tap Room & Tavern and includes bagels, eggs benedict, french toast, and more.
• Until mid-November enjoy a Ferry ride from The Inn across to Bellevue with St Michaels then a short 8 mile cycle or drive.
• **Kayaks, bikes, jet skis, and boats are available to hire right in-town.
• Nearby attractions: The Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum (20 miles) and the wetlands of Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge in Cambridge (29 miles)

Oxford, Maryland: Charming Town on the Chesapeake

Set on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, jutting out into the Chesapeake Bay, the village of Oxford is a former colonial port for British trade. Today, locals enjoy exploring the bay by sailboat, and fishermen catch crab and striped bass before passing them off to nearby seafood restaurants. The surrounding Talbot County encompasses more than 600 miles of shoreline, earning the area the title of “the Hamptons of the Chesapeake Bay.”

Founded in 1683, Oxford is one of the oldest towns in Maryland and has fewer than 800 inhabitants. That doesn’t mean there’s little to do, though—the quaint downtown area is lined with art galleries, restaurants, and shops perfect for leisurely browsing. On the first Friday of each month, the town holds a gallery walk during which shops and studios stay open late and visitors are encouraged to wander the historic streets. If you’re interested in the town’s long history, head over to The Oxford Museum, which displays more than 2,500 artifacts, including paintings, furnishings, and official documents.

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