Maryland may be a small state, but it packs in a lot of personality. From blue crabs to blue laws, there are a few things about living in Maryland that you won’t read in the brochures. Sure, everyone talks about its location near D.C., great seafood, and historical charm—but what about the weird, funny stuff no one tells you?
Here are 8 quirky and unusual things about living in Maryland that you’ll only discover once you’ve actually moved in.
1. You’ll Have a Deep, Unexpected Love for Old Bay
At first, you might think Old Bay is just a seafood seasoning. But live in Maryland long enough and you’ll see it sprinkled on everything—crabs, chips, popcorn, fries, and even ice cream! Yes, ice cream. If you don’t already love Old Bay, you probably will.
2. State Pride Is Almost a Personality
People from Maryland are obsessed with their flag. It’s on t-shirts, car stickers, sneakers, and even wedding cakes. You’ll quickly realise that Marylanders have some of the strongest state pride in the country.
3. The Weather Has No Rules
It can snow in the morning and feel like summer by the afternoon. Thunderstorms pop up out of nowhere, and humidity in the summer is next level. Basically, don’t trust your weather app too much—and always carry layers.
4. “Downy Ocean” Is a Real Phrase
Locals don’t say, “I’m going to the beach.” They say, “We’re goin’ downy ocean, hon.” It’s a classic Maryland saying, especially around Baltimore. If you don’t get it at first, don’t worry—you’ll be saying it soon enough.
5. Hon Culture Is Alive and Well
Speaking of “hon,” it’s more than a word—it’s a full-blown Baltimore attitude. Big hair, cat-eye glasses, leopard print, and a warm, loud “how ya doin’, hon?” If you ever go to HonFest, you’ll know exactly what this means.
6. Roundabouts, Speed Cameras, and Strange Traffic Laws
Maryland drivers have to deal with a lot of speed cameras, confusing roundabouts, and ever-changing traffic signs. Even locals complain about how hard it is to drive around here without getting a random ticket in the mail.
7. You Might Accidentally End Up in Another State
Because Maryland is surrounded by D.C., Virginia, Delaware, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania, you can leave the state without even realising it. A simple grocery run could turn into a multi-state adventure. Don’t worry—it’s normal here.
8. Everything Is a Crab Celebration
In Maryland, crabs are more than food—they’re culture. There are crab feasts, crab festivals, crab mallets, crab cakes, and crab-themed home décor. You’ll even hear debates about who makes the best crab cake—locals take this very seriously.
Living in Maryland means learning a few odd things—from loving a spice mix on every snack to saying “downy ocean” like a local. But that’s what makes the state so charming.
It’s full of character, pride, and a few quirks that might just win you over. Whether you’re navigating strange weather or joining your first crab feast, Maryland has a way of surprising you—in the best way possible.
SOURCES
- (https://wheninyourstate.com/maryland/8-quirky-and-unusual-things-no-one-tells-you-about-living-in-maryland/)
- (https://news.maryland.gov/dnr/2024/10/04/marylands-cryptids-and-the-wildlife-that-may-have-inspired-them/)
- (https://seaofblush.com/things-to-do-in-maryland/)
