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Oxford, a charming, tree-lined and waterbound village with a population of less than 1000, Oxford is one of the oldest towns in America and has a long history in maritime activities. Early in the day, you will still find local watermen at the town dock unloading the catch of the day. You can watch the sailboats arriving from all over the bay to dine at the various local restaurants Oxford has to offer.
While other waterfront towns have succumbed to waterfront condos and glitz, Oxford has retained its historic charm. The tourism and leisure activities are fueled by people's desire for quiet charm, fresh air, summer breezes, and a haven from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The picture-perfect town of Oxford is one of the nation’s closest links to Eighteenth century England. Founded in 1683, it was the Shore’s first and only port-of-entry, a bustling village where at any given time up to seven ocean-going ships could be found unloading merchandise from abroad and loading locally-harvest tobacco, lumber and wheat. A few of the town’s most famous early citizens include Robert Morris, Jr., known as the financier of the American Revolution, and Colonel Tench Tilghman, aide-de-camp to George Washington and the man who carried the message of Cornwallis’s surrender to the Continental Congress. Learn more about Oxford's history here.
Today, Oxford is primarily a residential town and yachting haven, with grand historic homes hemmed by picket fences and tree-lined streets. Our advice: park your car and forget about it. The best way to see Oxford is by foot or bike. However, you choose to travel, be sure to take passage aboard the Oxford-Bellevue Ferry, take a moment to catch your breath at the waterfront Oxford Park and its new living shoreline, and explore the 300-year old Robert Morris Inn where James Michener outlined his epic, Chesapeake.
The Oxford Museum and Custom House archive the town’s rich past and the Oxford Community Center’s stage is home to the seasonal performances of the Tred Avon Players. Whatever your preference – waterfront dining or rooms filled with rich history, Oxford’s chefs offer menus that will please every palate.
Oxford is also home to The Scottish Highland Creamery, who just celebrated their 10th year Anniversary, as one of the Top 10 Best Ice Creams in 2015 in the Country by Huffington Post.
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St. Michaels, Tilghman and the Bay Hundred area have a wide range of lodging options to suit every taste and budget. Find the perfect place to fit your needs here.
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Nothing says Chesapeake Bay like a steaming pile of locally caught Maryland blue crabs, and our restaurants are serving the Chesapeake Bay's bounty, from steamed crabs and crab cakes to sweet soft shell clams and fresh rockfish. Find the perfect restaurant here.
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St. Michaels offers shopping galore, with an eclectic range of shops, including jewelry, clothing and home decor, galleries and more! Stop by one of the many tasting rooms, offering specialty foods and locally made libations. Find our unique shops here.
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Whether you're an experienced kayaker, a day-tripping boater, a sailing novice, a history buff, an avid fisherman, or anyone else who yearns to spend some time on the water, you will find something to do in St. Michaels and Tilghman Island. It's time to get out on the water and enjoy the outdoors! Find your boating options here.
