Ellicott City
Ellicott City became the first terminus outside Baltimore for the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad. Andrew Jackson became the first president to travel by train when he boarded a car here in 1833. Many of the stone buildings that line the narrow, winding streets above the Patapsco River have been preserved.
Another historic site, Patapsco Female Institute Historic Park, at 3691 Sarah's Ln., was one of the first schools in the nation to offer girls an academic education. Now a ruin, the school is the focal point of the park where a variety of special events are offered. Outdoor Shakespeare performances by Baltimore's Chesapeake Shakespeare Company are held mid-June to late July; phone (410) 244-8570.
Visitor Centers
Howard County Welcome Center 8267 Main St. Ellicott City, MD 21043. Phone:(410)313-1900 or (800)288-8747
Self-guiding Tours
A visitor guide outlining a walking tour of the historic district is available at the welcome center.
Shopping
The downtown historic district offers a wealth of boutiques, antiques and art shops.