Maryland Heritage Areas Program

Patapsco Valley Heritage Area. Photo by AAIC Visual Perceptions

Maryland’s heritage areas are places to experience – to see, hear and even taste – the authentic heritage of Maryland in ways that you cannot experience anywhere else. Heritage areas exist where the stories of the people, the land, and the waters of Maryland—which have been intertwined for thousands of years—are told. In heritage areas individuals, businesses, nonprofits and governments form partnerships to preserve the best of Maryland's historic sites and towns, unspoiled natural landscapes and enduring traditions. These tangible links to both place and the past encourage residents to recognize they have a special piece of the American story to treasure and share with others, and that in doing so they create more livable and economically sustainable communities.

The Maryland Heritage Areas Program is governed by the Maryland Heritage Areas Authority (MHAA) and administered by the Maryland Historical Trust. MHAA provides targeted financial and technical assistance within thirteen locally designated heritage areas, each of which has a distinct focus or theme that represents a unique aspect of Maryland’s character. Local partners operating within Heritage Areas may be eligible for a variety of benefits designed to support economic development through heritage tourism, including grants, tax credits and loans. Together, MHAA, the heritage areas and local partners support the economic well-being of Maryland's communities by promoting, sustaining and creating place-based experiences for visitors and residents alike.