About Our City: Havre de Grace, Maryland

History of Havre de Grace, MD

Havre de Grace is a town with a long and storied history. The Susquehannock Native Americans were the first inhabitants of the area, and for a time, there was conflict between the tribe and the European settlers. However, a peace treaty was signed in 1652, and the Susquehannock conceded the land at the mouth of the Susquehanna River where Havre de Grace is now located.

In 1658, Godfrey Hammer established the 200-acre Hammer's Town right where the Havre de Grace Historic District can be found today. The establishment of this town played a crucial role in history, as it was where the Susquehanna Lower Ferry first came into being. This service was used to ferry troops across the river during both the Revolutionary War and the Civil War.

In fact, it was during the Revolutionary War when Havre de Grace's name originated. The Marquis de Lafayette visited the region in 1782 while on his way to meet George Washington in Philadelphia and remarked upon how much it resembled the city of Le Havre in France. The name stuck; Havre de Grace was officially founded in that same year and incorporated in 1785.

Unfortunately, only a few decades later, on May 3, 1813, the town was attacked and burned by the British during the War of 1812. Only a few buildings remained standing when it was all over, but it wasn't long before the town was revitalized by a bustling economy.

The Susquehanna Canal and the promise of a railroad being built through the region helped turn Havre de Grace into a popular commercial location by 1840. Industries like fishing, whiskey-making, and textiles began to flourish throughout the area. The popularity of Havre de Grace continued to grow throughout the next century, helped along significantly by the introduction of the Havre de Grace Racetrack in 1912.

Today, Havre de Grace is recognized as one of the best small towns in the entire nation and has been named as such in multiple publications, such as Travel World and Smithsonian Magazine.

Location of Havre de Grace, MD

Havre de Grace is located right at the mouth of the Susquehanna River on the Chesapeake Bay. The town is approximately 7 square miles in size and about 75 miles northeast of Washington, D.C.

Havre de Grace, MD, Weather

The weather in Havre de Grace fluctuates a great deal throughout the course of the year. The summers can be slightly warm and perhaps a bit muggy at times, but each summer day is just as likely to be very comfortable and perfect for an afternoon by the water. Winters, however, can be bitterly cold and snowy for most of the season. In general, the temperature in Havre de Grace, MD, can range anywhere from 14°F to 92°F depending on the time of year.

Attractions in Havre de Grace, MD

With the city's storied history, downtown shops and eateries, and placement right at the mouth of the Susquehanna River, there are always things to do in Havre de Grace, MD. Susquehanna State Park alone offers a varied selection of activities, including mountain biking, fishing, boating, and camping. For those interested in the history of the region, the Concord Point Lighthouse and Havre de Grace Maritime Museum both provide great insights into the past. However, if a relaxing day of playing 18 holes or trying out a new wine sounds more your speed, then the Bulle Rock Golf Course or Mount Felix Vineyard and Winery will have just what you're looking for.

• Concord Point Lighthouse
• Susquehanna State Park
• Havre de Grace Maritime Museum
• Mount Felix Vineyard and Winery
• Bulle Rock Golf Course

Where to Eat in Havre de Grace, MD

Choosing where to get some food in Havre de Grace, MD, is a tough choice. There's a wide variety of eateries available in town, and so many of them offer a superb dining experience. One that everyone should be sure to visit is the Vineyard Wine Bar in Havre de Grace, MD. It offers an extensive wine selection alongside a delicious bistro-style menu.

Some of the other best restaurants in Havre de Grace, MD, include Creole de Graw, with its amazing selection of French and Creole-inspired dishes; Tidewater Grille, known for its steak and seafood; and Coakley's Pub, featuring American and Irish fare.

If satisfying your sweet tooth is what you're looking for, then be sure to visit Les Petits Bisous. This boutique bakery specializes in French macarons but also offers scrumptious eclairs, cupcakes, and other desserts.

• The Vineyard Wine Bar
• Creole de Graw
• Tidewater Grille
• Les Petits Bisous
• Coakley's Pub

Where to Stay in Havre de Grace, MD

You'll have no problem finding hotels near Havre de Grace, MD. There are the usual hotel chains found throughout the country, but there are also numerous other options specific to the area. One such option is the Vandiver Inn, offering large hotel amenities in a country inn setting.

In addition to the more traditional hotels in Havre de Grace, MD, you'll find some lovely bed-and-breakfast options. The Spencer-Silver Mansion is a Victorian mansion built in 1896 and filled with numerous antiques from the era. It provides a classic bed-and-breakfast experience that's perfect for weddings and romantic getaways. Another popular bed-and-breakfast is The White House of Havre de Grace. This private guest house is located right in the historic downtown area and provides easy access to the river, shops, restaurants, and more. There's also La Cle D'or, situated in the historic Hopkins House, and the Currier House, which provides its guests with a great view of Concord Point Lighthouse.

• Vandiver Inn
• Spencer-Silver Mansion
• The White House of Havre de Grace
• La Cle D'or
• Currier House

Dental Care Services in Havre de Grace, MD

If your child needs a dentist in Havre de Grace, you can count on Main Street Children's Dentistry and Orthodontics to provide skilled, gentle dental care. We offer all of the services you need, from routine cleanings to braces to emergency care. Whether you live here or are just passing through Havre de Grace, Main Street can help take good care of your kids' smiles!