By Laura Walter

When was the last time you followed a road sign on a whim? Truly turned down a path out of pure curiosity?

Typically, when we start a journey, we already have a destination, path and time limit in mind. But if you pay attention to the road signs for cultural attractions, the state departments of transportation will show you exactly where to go.

Once, driving home from the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, I noticed one of these brown road signs pointing toward a highway exit. I knew nothing about the sideroads along U.S. Route 50. (Typically, that’s fine because the locals don’t need thru-traffic gumming up their streets for no reason.) But now I realized that the community actively beckoned highway travelers, for historical sites, antiques and cultural landmarks.

I took the exit.

Another sign pointed me right. Then a left. Another right. Half-a-mile later, I saw the welcome gates of a 500-acre Chesapeake Bay Environmental Center.

It was beautiful, even in winter. The gravel road led through woods and marsh grass, physically to a small peninsula—and mentally away from the rush of urban civilization. I glanced around the visitor center and trail map and swore to return.

Fast forward to summer 2024, when my Baltimore friend and I needed a middle-ground meeting spot. Chesapeake Bay Environmental Center was an easy decision. Even in the hot weather, this place was a respite—a kind of park, preserve and education center. Trees provided shade when we chatted, waterfront winds swept through the marsh, and a small bayfront beach cooled our bare feet. We hiked across grass, gravel and sand, not too strenuous on Delmarva’s coastal plain. A two-story overlook provided a great platform for contemplation—and selfies with old friends. We spent half the afternoon, sitting under blue skies, gazing at the picturesque Kent Narrows Bridge. Kayak rentals were off the table due to choppy conditions, but I’d gladly return to give it a whirl.

And I got to help a turtle cross the road (a beautiful, wholesome moment guaranteed to make you feel like a cross between Captain Planet and Gaia).

Now, this is all from the perspective of someone exploring the sights—but the Center has a 40-plus-year history of preservation and education there. “Transforming outdoor enthusiasts into active stewards of Chesapeake Bay and beyond” is the vision. The team wants to provide equitable access to nature, provide hands-on experiences and inspire a love of nature that contributes to stewardship.

I appreciated their hospitality.

Driving home from that wonderful day, and in no particular hurry, I decided to follow my old advice—and follow another random road sign near Easton, Md. Let’s just say that I look forward to returning to see the rabbits, walking trails and wildlife murals at Pickering Creek Audubon Center.

Always bring insect repellent, sunscreen and drinking water for outdoor exploration. Chesapeake Bay Environmental Center is located at 600 Discovery Lane, Grasonville, Md. Learn more at (410) 827-6694 and bayrestoration.org.

Bay to the Beach: Byways is a regular column in which we explore interesting places and projects on the Delmarva Peninsula. Videos and more photos at baytobaynews.com/bay-to-the-beach-byways