Just a few miles outside of Ocean City, Maryland, there is a little known gem just waiting to be discovered.

Historic Berlin, Maryland began as a tiny little village in the 1790's. It was incorporated after the Civil War in 1868. Early on, the towns popularity grew and became a popular spot for tourists who enjoyed hunting and fishing on the Eastern Shore, or were on their way to the then, small coastal town of Ocean City.

At the corner of Philadelphia Post Road and Sinepuxent Road, now South Main Street and Tripoli Street, colonial travelers stopped at the Burleigh Inn.  Here at the present day town center, memories linger of the tavern that probably gave its name to the village. "Berlin" is said to have come from a contraction of the words "Burleigh" and "Inn". 

When you visit today, you will feel like you traveled back into the past with a stroll down Main Street. The path you walk is the same as that taken by the Assateague and Pocomoke Indians well before the colonial period. 

Berlin, Maryland is a wonderful example of what can be done when dedicated citizens work together for the success of their community.  The renovation of the town center and the historic preservation of the commercial and residential districts, are a result of the cooperative efforts of local citizens, businesses and the Town government. 

Berlin has starred in two major motion pictures. In 1998 Berlin was the location for the filming of "Runaway Bride" with Richard Gere and Julia Roberts. Main Street became a "hot" set as filming was done using many of the downtown shops. Then in 2001 Berlin became "Treegap" the fictional setting for "Tuck Everlasting" starring Sissy Spacek, Ben Kingsley and William Hurt. Downtown Berlin was transported back to the turn of the century, complete with dirt roads, horse carriages and period costumes. 

47 individual structures in Berlin are noted in the National Registry of Historic Places and represent nearly two centuries of architectural heritage.  These structures are well preserved or renovated and date from three distinct periods:  Federal, Victorian and 20^th Century.  The town center features mostly brick structures with compatible rooflines, proportionate window and door openings, uniform setbacks from the street, and bulkheads beneath the lower windows.

Magnolias, sycamores, tulip poplars, bald cypress and ginkgo trees add to the beauty of the town.

All those who visit Berlin are captivated by the beautiful tree-lined streets, Victorian town center, museum and historic homes.  You don't want to miss seeing Berlin.

Berlin is especially festive as the entire town joins in to celebrate "Berlin's Victorian Christmas".  The entire town is beautifully decorated, and features a gigantic Christmas tree in front of the Atlantic Hotel.  Everyone enjoys horse and carriage rides, visits with Santa, and of course, the Berlin Christmas parade. This year the parade will be on December 4^th, beginning at 7:00pm

Stay around a couple more days and join in all the fun at the Ocean City, Maryland Christmas parade on Saturday December 6^th at 11:00am.