Oxford
More Than a "Ferry" Tale
Like an old-fashioned postcard, Oxford is picture perfect. Surrounded by water, with Town Creek to the east and the Tred Avon River to the north and west, the town’s waterways bustle with the passing of yachts, sailboats, powerboats and its own Oxford-Bellevue Ferry. Author James Michener even penned the novel “Chesapeake,” in this peaceful nautical oasis. Take a stroll back in time as you navigate the tree-lined streets, peppered with historic homes and picket fences, charming inns and taverns, and a local ice cream creamery. It’s a quiet escape, with water views around every turn.
Discover the History
Oxford’s place is firmly rooted in American lore. Notable citizens included Robert Morris Jr., financier of the American Revolution, and Colonel Tench Tilghman, aide-de-camp to George Washington, who carried the message of Cornwallis’ surrender to the Continental Congress. More than 300 years ago, the town even served as one of the original ports of entry for Maryland and until the Revolution served as an international shipping center. Today, Oxford’s history lives on in the oldest private ferry service in the country.
Explore the Town
Oxford is the perfect place to escape the stress of the daily grind and focus on R&R. Reminiscent of simpler times, it’s the perfect place for a bike ride or picnic in the park where you can take in the waterfront view. A smattering of stores provide a pastime for lovers of art, books, and antiques. For an evening out, savor your seafood waterside or reserve a table at a fine-dining restaurant. No day in Oxford is complete without a ride on the ferry and a scoop or two of homemade ice cream. Come for a weekend or a week of hospitality, tranquility and nautical serenity.
Get Back to Nature
Perhaps the best way to enjoy the natural resources of Oxford is to take a sail. A yachting haven, Oxford plays host to at least three sailing regattas over the summer. With five marinas and a wealth of water access, it’s the perfect destination to dock after a weekend or weeklong cruise. Just sail on in, cast a line, and stroll through the town. It’s a sailors oasis. If you’d prefer to ride along, you can charter a boat, or take an easy cruise on the Oxford-Bellevue Ferry. Chesapeake Bay magazine ranks Oxford one of the best towns for families, sightseeing, and inexpensive docking.
Experience Oxford
Walk down the picket fence-lined streets of Oxford and you’ll find quaint shops, antique stores, markers and sites referencing America’s early colonial history, and restaurants offering waterside dining and straight-from-the-bay seafood. Top it all with a stay at one of Oxford’s charming inns or vacation rentals!
