Maryland’s weather creates some pretty distinct windows for visitors chasing the most comfortable conditions. The state gets all four seasons, and each one brings its own mix of temperatures, humidity, and precipitation that can really affect your travel plans.
Late April through June and late August through October generally offer the best weather in Maryland. During these months, temperatures usually sit comfortably in the 60s to 80s Fahrenheit, humidity doesn’t get out of hand, and rain rarely ruins your outdoor plans.
If you understand Maryland’s seasonal weather patterns, you can pick the right time for your favorite activities. Some folks want warm beach weather, others like mild sightseeing, and some just want to avoid crowds. Maryland’s spot on the mid-Atlantic coast gives it a moderate climate with enough variety to keep things interesting, though some months are definitely better than others.
Best Time to Visit Maryland for Ideal Weather
Maryland really shines during two main stretches when temperatures and humidity stay in that sweet spot. These periods make it easy to get outside and explore everything the state has to offer.
Spring: Mild Temperatures and Blossoming Nature
Spring brings Maryland’s most comfortable weather. Average temps climb from the mid-50s in March to the mid-70s by May. April through early June hits that “just right” moment when humidity is low and rain doesn’t show up much.
You’ll see cherry trees blooming and landscapes coming back to life. March starts off cool, with highs around 53°F, but by May, it’s a pleasant 75°F. Nights don’t usually dip below the mid-40s or mid-50s.
Humidity stays reasonable in spring. March clocks in at just 52%, the lowest of the year, so outdoor time feels great. Even in May, when humidity bumps up to 61%, the moderate temps keep things comfortable.
Spring doesn’t get much rain—usually just 2 days a month with significant rainfall. That leaves plenty of dry days for hiking, sightseeing, or catching outdoor festivals. The National Cherry Blossom Festival near D.C. happens right in this window.
Winds stay gentle in spring, usually around 6-7 knots. When you add in the mild temps and low humidity, it’s honestly hard to beat Maryland’s spring.
Autumn: Crisp Air and Colorful Foliage
Autumn rivals spring for perfect weather. From late August through October, you’ll get comfortable temps and a break from summer’s sticky humidity. Highs range from the low 80s in early September to the mid-60s by late October.
September is Maryland’s driest month with only a 5% daily chance of rain. That’s ideal for fall festivals and outdoor fun. The Maryland Renaissance Festival really benefits from this stretch of stable weather.
Humidity drops a lot in autumn. August can hit 65%, but by September and October, it settles around 64-65%. With the cooler temps, that humidity feels way more manageable than it does in summer.
Fall foliage season lines up with the most stable weather. October averages a high of 67°F, perfect for leaf peeping. Nights cool off to the low 50s, which feels great for evening events.
Winds stay light in autumn, usually around 5-6 knots. With minimal rain and moderate temps, fall makes a strong case as Maryland’s second-best weather window for outdoor adventures and scenic drives.
Weather in Maryland By Season
Maryland has four clear seasons. Temperatures swing from winter lows around 28°F to summer highs near 86°F. Spring and fall usually feel the best for visitors.
Maryland in Spring
Spring means mild temps and plenty of chances to get outside. March sits between 36°F and 53°F, and things warm up from there.
April brings highs around 65°F and lows near 47°F. That’s when the ideal weather really kicks in and lasts through June.
May is a highlight—highs hit 75°F, nights drop to about 57°F.
Spring Weather Highlights:
- Low humidity (52-61%)
- Not much rain, only about a 7% chance each day
- Light breezes, 6-7 knots
- Snow’s gone after March
Winds stay gentle, and rain doesn’t show up too often—only about 7 days a month.
Maryland in Summer
Summer brings warmth and humidity, making it great for water activities and festivals. June through August is when things heat up.
June hits highs of 82°F, with overnight lows at 66°F. Humidity starts to rise but doesn’t get too bad just yet.
July is the hottest, with average highs at 86°F. Nights don’t usually drop below 70°F, so evenings stay warm—nice for outdoor dining.
August keeps the heat going, with highs of 84°F. Humidity peaks this month at 66%, which can make it feel even warmer.
Summer Characteristics:
- Most popular for tourists
- Moderate rainfall (6-8% chance each day)
- Winds stay light, under 6 knots
- Peak garden season
Summer storms pop up but usually pass quickly, though they can dump a lot of rain. Expect 1.1 to 1.4 inches of precipitation each month.
Autumn in Maryland
Fall brings some of the best weather and beautiful foliage. September through November stays comfortable, with less humidity.
September hangs on to some summer warmth, with highs at 78°F and lows at 62°F. Humidity drops to about 65%.
October cools things down. Highs hit 67°F, lows dip to 52°F. Perfect for hikes and festivals.
November means winter’s coming. Highs fall to 56°F, and nights can get down to 41°F.
Fall Weather Benefits:
- September has the lowest chance of rain (5%)
- Humidity stays comfortable (59-65%)
- Winds are calm, 5-6 knots
- Lots of sunny days
Weather stays pretty stable in fall, and rain doesn’t show up much, especially early in the season.
Winter in Maryland
Winter looks different depending on where you are. The east stays moderate, but the western mountains can get harsh.
December and January are the coldest. Highs struggle to reach 42-48°F, and lows drop to 28-35°F.
February sticks with the cold. Snow piles up, especially in the mountains.
Winter Weather Patterns:
- Most snow: December through February
- Average snow depth: 2-5 inches
- Windiest time, gusts up to 15 knots
- Lower humidity (53-56%)
Coastal areas like Baltimore are warmer than inland spots. Baltimore averages 20 inches of snow a year, but the western mountains get a lot more.
Winter storms can bring ice and heavy snow, especially in the mountains where sub-freezing temps are common.
Monthly Breakdown: Temperature and Conditions
Maryland’s climate is temperate, with four seasons. Temperatures swing from winter lows of about 28°F to summer highs near 86°F. Rainfall stays moderate, and humidity bounces around from season to season.
Weather in Baltimore Through the Year
Winter brings Maryland’s coldest weather. January averages 28°F to 42°F, making it the chilliest month. February is about the same, with temps from 28°F to 43°F.
Snow is common in winter, especially in the west. Baltimore and other eastern spots are milder but can still get snow and freezing rain.
Spring starts warming up in March, with temps from 37°F to 53°F. April feels pretty comfortable, with averages of 47°F to 65°F. May is pleasant, ranging from 57°F to 75°F.
Summer peaks in July, when temps hit 70°F to 86°F. June and August stay warm, with highs around 82°F to 84°F. It gets humid, so it often feels hotter than the thermometer says.
Fall cools things down in September, with temps from 62°F to 78°F. October is crisp, averaging 52°F to 67°F. November cools off more, with 41°F to 56°F.
Rainfall, Humidity, and Sunshine Patterns
Maryland gets steady rainfall all year. Most months see about 1.1 to 1.4 inches. June and October usually get the most, at 1.4 inches each.
The driest months are January, February, and November, when rainfall drops to 0.8 inches. September has the lowest daily chance of rain or snow—just 5%.
Humidity really changes with the seasons. March is the driest at 52%. Summer, especially August, is muggy at 66%.
Snow depth peaks in February, averaging about 5 inches. Western Maryland gets way more snow than the coast. Snow almost never sticks from April through October.
Winds stay pretty calm most of the year. February can get gusty at 7.2 knots, but July and August are the calmest, around 5 knots.
Best Times for Festivals and Local Events
Maryland’s biggest festivals pop up in spring and fall, when the weather is just right for outdoor events. Spring brings cherry blossoms and film fests, while autumn is all about renaissance fairs and harvest celebrations.
Cherry Blossoms and Spring Celebrations
The National Cherry Blossom Festival happens from late March through early April, when temps usually hit the 60s and 70s. That lines up with peak bloom for cherry trees around the D.C. area.
Spring weather usually behaves, so rain doesn’t often ruin big events for long.
Notable spring events:
- Maryland Film Festival (usually April)
- Baltimore Book Festival (spring dates)
- Maryland Craft Beer Festival (May)
Visitors get mild weather that’s perfect for strolling festival grounds. Crowds are moderate, since the summer rush hasn’t started yet.
Most spring festivals take place between March and May, when the weather is pretty reliable. Cold snaps are rare after mid-March in most places.
Maryland Renaissance Festival and Autumn Events
The Maryland Renaissance Festival runs from late August through October, right in the middle of autumn’s best weather. Early fall sees temps from 70-80°F, dropping to the 60s by October.
Fall festivals get a break from the summer humidity. Cool mornings and warm afternoons make for a great outdoor vibe.
Popular autumn festivals:
- Maryland Renaissance Festival (9 weekends)
- Frederick Oktoberfest (late September)
- Harvest celebrations
- Agricultural fairs
October’s fall colors really add to the festival atmosphere. Light rain can happen, but it rarely cancels events.
Crowds peak on weekends, when the weather is most stable. Festival grounds usually stay comfortable, even at midday.
Great Frederick Fair: Early Fall Highlights
The Great Frederick Fair usually happens in late summer or early September, right as the weather shifts from hot summer to mild fall. Temps stay around 75-85°F during the fair.
Early fall gives families a chance to enjoy outdoor events without summer’s intense heat. Evenings cool off, making nighttime entertainment more comfortable.
Organizers pick this timing to dodge both summer heat waves and the unpredictable weather that can come later in fall. Harvest season also lines up perfectly for agricultural exhibits.
Weather perks:
- Lower humidity than summer
- Little rain to interrupt things
- Comfortable for walking around
- Pleasant evenings
September weather is pretty steady across the state. Severe storms are less common than in midsummer.
Top Maryland Destinations by Season
Maryland’s mix of landscapes means you get totally different experiences depending on the season. From warm days on the Chesapeake Bay to snowy adventures in the western mountains, there’s something for everyone. Each spot really comes alive at different times, depending on the weather.
Exploring Chesapeake Bay in Warm Months
The Chesapeake Bay is at its best from late April through October, once water temps rise above 60°F. Summer brings ideal boating weather, with calm water and air temps in the mid-70s to low 80s.
Best Activities by Month:
- May-June: Crabbing season kicks off, and it’s less crowded
- July-August: Warmest water for swimming
- September-October: Top-notch fishing, comfortable air temps
Sailing is best in late spring and early fall, when humidity drops. The bay’s shallow water warms up fast in spring, so you can get on the water earlier than at the ocean.
Annapolis really comes alive in the warmer months. Harbor festivals and boat shows make the most of the weather, and the Naval Academy’s outdoor events usually line up with the bay’s best temps.
In fall, fishing is fantastic as the air cools down but the water stays warm. October strikes a great balance—warm enough for water activities, cool enough to be comfortable outside.
Coastal Escapes: Assateague Island National Seashore
Assateague Island National Seashore changes a lot with the seasons. Each time of year brings something different, so it really depends on what kind of weather you like.
Summer draws the biggest crowds. It also means the warmest ocean temps and those long, golden days.
Seasonal Highlights:
- Spring (April-May): Migrating birds, mild temperatures, fewer insects
- Summer (June-August): Swimming, camping, warmest weather
- Fall (September-November): Comfortable hiking, excellent bird watching
- Winter (December-March): Solitude, storm watching, hardy wildlife viewing
Over 300 bird species show up during spring migration. You’ll find temperatures in the 60s and 70s, which feels just right for hiking or grabbing some wildlife photos—without sweating it out.
Summer days usually hit the 80s, and the humidity can get pretty high. Ocean breezes help, though, so mornings and evenings at the beach are usually the best.
Fall might actually have the best weather. September and October bring warm days and cooler nights, which makes camping a lot more comfortable. The Atlantic stays warm into September, too.
Winter gives Assateague a rugged, dramatic vibe. If you’re brave enough, you’ll get empty beaches and a front-row seat to stormy weather rolling through.
Mountain Getaways: Deep Creek Lake and Wisp Resort
Deep Creek Lake and Wisp Resort show off Maryland’s mountain side. You get four real seasons up here, and it’s the highest part of the state.
Winter temps often drop into the 20s, so snow sports fans can count on good conditions.
Wisp Resort opens from December through March. Both natural and artificial snow keep the slopes ready. January and February are usually the most reliable for snow, since temps stay below freezing.
Seasonal Temperature Ranges:
- Winter: 20-35°F, ideal for skiing and snowboarding
- Spring: 45-65°F, perfect for hiking as snow melts
- Summer: 65-80°F, excellent for water sports on the lake
- Fall: 40-70°F, peak foliage season
Summer at the lake is pretty much perfect. Water temps reach the low 70s, and the higher elevation keeps the air 5-10 degrees cooler than Baltimore. It’s a great escape from the heat.
Deep Creek Lake sometimes freezes during harsh winters, so ice fishing becomes an option. When spring hits, snow melts fast and streams get lively. Fall brings out the best foliage, and the mountains cool off first.
This area gets the most snow in Maryland, with higher elevations averaging over 100 inches a year.
Historic Experiences: Fort McHenry National Monument
Fort McHenry National Monument stays open all year, and each season has its perks. Spring and fall usually bring the best weather for walking tours and events.
Ideal Visiting Conditions:
- Spring (March-May): Mild temperatures, blooming gardens, fewer crowds
- Summer (June-August): Longest daylight hours, outdoor programs
- Fall (September-November): Comfortable walking weather, clear skies
- Winter (December-February): Indoor exhibits, dramatic harbor views
The fort sits right on Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, so wind and weather can be a factor. Spring protects you from harsh winter winds but skips the muggy summer air.
Summer lets you enjoy longer days. Evening flag ceremonies feel special with warm temps and the calm harbor you usually get then.
In fall, you get clear views across the harbor. Cooler air makes walking around easier, and the weather usually cooperates for photos.
Winter is more about the indoor exhibits and the fort’s dramatic look during stormy weather. Sometimes snow covers the earthworks, which looks pretty striking.
Off-Season and Least Busy Times in Maryland
November through February is Maryland’s off-season. Tourism drops off, and hotels get a lot cheaper.
Winter brings cold temperatures and some snow, but if you’re watching your budget, you’ll find some real perks.
Visiting During Winter: Pros and Cons
Maryland’s winter runs from December through February. Highs average 41-47°F, and lows dip to 27-34°F. Western areas near Pennsylvania get the most snow, so Deep Creek Lake becomes a winter hotspot.
Advantages of winter visits:
- Lowest tourist crowds at major attractions
- Reduced hotel rates and accommodation costs
- Clear views at outdoor sites without summer foliage
- Winter activities available in mountainous regions
Winter drawbacks include:
- Limited outdoor activity options
- Some attractions may have reduced hours
- Higher heating costs and potential weather delays
- Shorter daylight hours for sightseeing
The Eastern Shore barely sees any snow, but western Maryland gets regular snowfall. Museums and historic sites stay open all winter, so you’ll still have things to do indoors.
Budget Travel: Cheapest Months to Explore
November is the cheapest month to visit Maryland. Tourism drops to just 28.5% of July’s peak. December through February also bring big savings on hotels and flights.
Money-saving opportunities:
- Hotel rates drop 30-50% below summer prices
- Restaurant deals and off-season promotions
- Reduced attraction admission fees
- Lower flight costs to nearby airports
Late fall and early spring give you the best mix of savings and decent weather. March usually has moderate temps and fewer tourists.
Book your place to stay early, even in the off-season. Annapolis and Baltimore always draw some visitors, just not as many as in summer.
Tips for Planning Your Visit Based on Weather
Maryland’s weather can be all over the place, depending on the time of year. Packing smart and booking at the right time really make a difference.
Packing Advice for Each Season
Spring visitors should bring layers. Temperatures jump around, so a lightweight jacket is great for chilly mornings and nights. Rain gear is a must since spring showers happen a lot.
Wear comfy walking shoes with good grip. You’ll want both short and long sleeves since it can range from 50°F to 75°F.
Summer travelers need light, breathable clothes for hot, sticky days. Cotton and moisture-wicking fabrics work best. Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat for the strong sun.
Bring a light rain jacket for those pop-up storms. Sandals or breathable sneakers beat heavy boots in the heat.
Fall visitors should pack warm layers. A medium-weight jacket handles those crisp mornings and evenings. You might need both summer and winter clothes, since early fall stays warm but late fall gets chilly.
Winter travelers should bring heavy coats, gloves, and warm boots for snow and ice. Thermal layers keep you warm outside. Waterproof outerwear is important since winter brings both snow and rain.
Travel Deals and Booking Strategies
If you’re hunting for the lowest hotel rates and flight prices, the winter months usually come out on top. December through February often brings significant savings for travelers watching their budgets.
Many attractions even drop their admission prices during these slow winter months. So, you can get more for your money if you don’t mind the chilly weather.
Try to book your accommodations early, especially during the off-season. Snagging a deal is a lot easier when you plan ahead.
Summer, on the other hand, is peak season. Hotels and flights get expensive fast. If you’re aiming for June through August, you’ll need to book early just to find a reasonable rate.
Popular spots like Ocean City love to charge premium prices on summer weekends. It’s not ideal, but that’s the reality for those dreamy beach days.
Spring and fall sit somewhere in the middle. Prices aren’t rock-bottom, but you won’t get hit with peak season sticker shock either. March through May and September through November usually offer a nice balance—good value and pleasant weather.
Definitely keep an eye on weather forecasts when you’re booking. Severe storms can mess up even the best-laid plans.
Travel insurance can help if weather cancels your trip, especially during hurricane season. Sometimes, it’s just better to be safe than sorry.