**Top 5 Cities to Film in Maryland**
Maryland is a state full of charm, history, and scenic beauty. Its diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to peaceful countryside, make it a fantastic place for filmmakers. Whether you need a modern city backdrop or a picturesque waterfront, Maryland has it all. Movieinsure.com is a proud provider of short term film production insurance and annual film production insurance for the state of Maryland. In this article, we will explore the top five cities to film in Maryland.
1. **Baltimore**
Baltimore is Maryland’s largest city and a popular destination for filmmakers. Known for its vibrant neighborhoods, historic landmarks, and stunning waterfront, it offers a variety of settings for different types of films. The Inner Harbor is one of the most iconic spots in the city. It’s home to boats, ships, museums, and restaurants, all of which can serve as excellent film locations. The harbor also provides beautiful views of the water and the skyline, perfect for cityscapes and waterfront scenes.
Fells Point is another popular filming location in Baltimore. This historic neighborhood has cobblestone streets, old brick buildings, and waterfront views, creating a charming atmosphere. Many filmmakers choose this area for its timeless look. Baltimore also has modern areas like the downtown business district, giving filmmakers the flexibility to shoot both historical and contemporary scenes.
Additionally, the city has been featured in many famous TV shows and movies. Its diverse architecture, ranging from old row houses to modern skyscrapers, makes it a versatile location for different genres.
2. **Annapolis**
Annapolis is the capital of Maryland and a city rich in history and charm. Situated on the Chesapeake Bay, it offers stunning waterfront views and a beautiful harbor filled with boats and yachts. Annapolis is famous for its well-preserved colonial architecture. Walking through its streets, you’ll find old brick buildings and historic homes that give the city a timeless, elegant feel.
One of the most iconic places in Annapolis is the United States Naval Academy. The academy’s beautiful campus, with its impressive buildings and manicured grounds, is often used for filming. The city also hosts several sailing events, which can add action and excitement to any film.
Annapolis is perfect for films that need a historic setting, a coastal town vibe, or a mix of both. Its quiet streets and waterfront scenes make it ideal for period pieces or films that focus on the beauty of small-town life.
3. **Frederick**
Frederick is a charming city located in western Maryland. Known for its historic downtown, it has been a favorite location for filmmakers seeking a small-town feel. The city’s beautifully preserved 18th and 19th-century buildings make it a great backdrop for period films. Frederick’s tree-lined streets, brick sidewalks, and historic churches add to its charm.
One of the city’s highlights is Carroll Creek Park. The park features a winding creek, picturesque bridges, and beautiful landscaping, making it a perfect location for outdoor scenes. Frederick’s surrounding countryside is also filled with rolling hills, farms, and scenic views, ideal for filmmakers looking for natural, rural settings.
Frederick is not just about history and nature. The city’s artsy, vibrant downtown also offers modern shops, galleries, and restaurants. Filmmakers can capture both the quaint, historical feel of the town and the creative energy of its people.
4. **Rockville**
Rockville is located just outside Washington, D.C., and offers a mix of suburban charm and urban convenience. Filmmakers often choose Rockville because of its diverse locations and proximity to the nation’s capital. The city has a thriving downtown area with modern architecture, shopping centers, and parks, providing many opportunities for contemporary films.
Rockville’s Town Square is a popular spot for filming. It’s a lively area with fountains, outdoor cafes, and a central plaza where people gather. The square has a friendly, community-oriented atmosphere that’s great for scenes set in suburban or small-town environments.
For those looking for more natural settings, Rockville has several parks and green spaces. The Croydon Creek Nature Center, with its woods and walking trails, offers a peaceful, outdoor backdrop. Rockville also has a variety of historic sites, such as the Beall-Dawson House, which can be used for period films.
5. **Havre de Grace**
Havre de Grace is a small city located at the mouth of the Susquehanna River and the head of the Chesapeake Bay. This charming waterfront town is known for its beautiful views, lighthouses, and quiet streets. It’s an ideal location for filmmakers who need a peaceful, scenic setting with a connection to Maryland’s maritime history.
One of the most iconic landmarks in Havre de Grace is the Concord Point Lighthouse. The lighthouse, along with its surrounding park, offers filmmakers a classic, picturesque backdrop for coastal scenes. Havre de Grace also has a beautiful promenade along the waterfront, which provides stunning views of the river and bay.
The city’s small-town atmosphere, combined with its natural beauty, makes it a great place to film romantic dramas, family stories, or even adventure films set along the coast. The historic downtown, with its antique shops and Victorian-era buildings, adds to the town’s timeless appeal.
In conclusion, Maryland offers a wide range of filming locations, from vibrant urban centers to peaceful waterfront towns. Baltimore stands out with its mix of historic and modern settings, making it suitable for many different types of films. Annapolis offers stunning waterfront views and a rich historical atmosphere, perfect for films that focus on history or life by the sea. Frederick’s charming downtown and scenic countryside provide a beautiful backdrop for period films or stories set in small towns. Rockville, with its suburban charm and proximity to Washington, D.C., offers both modern and natural settings for a variety of films. Finally, Havre de Grace’s scenic waterfront and classic lighthouses make it an ideal spot for peaceful, coastal films.
Each of these cities brings something unique to the table, allowing filmmakers to find the perfect backdrop for their stories. Whether you’re looking for the bustling energy of Baltimore, the historic charm of Annapolis, or the quiet beauty of Havre de Grace, Maryland has a location to fit your needs. The state’s mix of urban, suburban, and rural settings, combined with its rich history and stunning landscapes, make it a top choice for filmmakers across genres. No matter the type of film you’re making, Maryland’s top cities offer the perfect combination of charm, diversity, and beauty to bring your vision to life.