If your family is craving a getaway that blends outdoor adventure with restful retreat, the Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Resort in Cambridge, Maryland, delivers on all fronts. Located along the Choptank River, the resort is a haven for parents and kids alike — offering everything from waterfront activities and lawn games to spa treatments and golf. And when you’re ready to explore beyond the property, the charming town of Cambridge is packed with family-friendly gems, from cozy cafés to interactive museums and riverside views.
Start the Day at the Resort
On-site amenities cater to both parents and children, with outdoor activities like tennis, basketball and lawn games. For families drawn to the water, the resort also offers water attractions like paddleboarding, kayaking and guided boat tours.
Younger children can participate in Camp Hyatt, which is a supervised kids camp filled with crafts and games, giving parents a chance to relax at the spa, or enjoy a round on the championship golf course. Additionally, the hotel rooms at Hyatt Regency are quite spacious, which is ideal for larger families.
Brunch in Downtown Cambridge
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To start a day outside of the resort, the Black Water Bakery + Eats in downtown Cambridge is a great location for brunch. Their menu features house made baked goods like cinnamon rolls and muffins, as well as hearty breakfast options like pancakes and omelets. The welcoming, community-centered atmosphere makes it an extremely kid-friendly spot.
For parents, the bakery serves both hot and iced coffee, made with the signature Chesapeake Bay Roasting Co. beans. Open daily from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., it’s an affordable and delicious stop for the entire family.
Midday Shopping and Exploring
Just a short walk from the bakery is the Butterfly Boutique — an adorable gift shop that sells locally made treasures and souvenirs. This charming shop carries everything from children’s clothing to unique keepsakes, making it easy for kids to bring home a special reminder of the trip. With its vibrant environment and cheerful products, there is sure to be something in the boutique for everyone.
After the boutique, drive to the Choptank River Lighthouse for an entertaining and educational experience. Inside the lighthouse is a mini-museum that provides information through historical exhibits and artifacts. On weekends, volunteers and lighthouse keepers are present to share stories. In addition to learning history, visitors can climb the spiral staircase to reach the top of the lighthouse for a beautiful, panoramic view of the river and downtown skyline. However, this attraction is only open from May 1 through Oct. 31.
Choptank Bowling & Billiards is just a 7-minute drive from the lighthouse. Here, you will find welcoming staff, food and refreshments, as well as a spacious facility. Beyond the bowling lanes, parents and kids can also enjoy the dedicated arcade and billiards area, complete with pool tables and various games. It’s an excellent option for a casual and inexpensive indoor activity.
A Weekend to Remember
To end off the day, the Cambridge Diner provides comforting, budget-friendly meals with attentive service. The menu features classic American comfort food with generous portions and has a kids menu that includes crowd-pleasers like chicken tenders, burgers and fries. Open until 9 p.m., it’s a reliable choice for a satisfying dinner.
With its inviting mix of resort relaxation and small-town exploration, the Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Resort offers families an ideal setting to recharge, reconnect and make lasting memories. Whether you’re paddleboarding at sunrise, shopping for souvenirs downtown, or sharing milkshakes at a local diner, this Cambridge escape proves you don’t need to travel far to enjoy something truly special together.
Allison Chan is a Washington Parent intern and a rising senior at Winston Churchill High School in Potomac, Maryland. She is passionate about writing and community engagement.
Allison Chan is a Washington Parent intern and a rising senior at Winston Churchill High School in Potomac, Maryland. She is passionate about writing and community engagement.
