Smithsonian Environmental Research Center

Explore the Smithsonian’s home on Chesapeake Bay! The Smithsonian Environmental Research Center offers hiking trails, a launching point for canoes and kayaks, and a glimpse of history inside the 1735 Woodlawn house. Guided tours offered in summer.

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Location

647 Contees Wharf Rd

EdgewaterMD21037

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Central Maryland

	ADA Accessible Family-Friendly Free Admission Free Parking Self-Guides Tours

July 14, 2025

RunwiththisMama

Forest trails are for hiking/foot traffic only

Looks like there are some good trails with some water views for those on foot. Despite what the website says, biking is not allowed on the woodland trails. Wheels are limited to paved roads. Keep in...

July 18, 2023

399jenniferp

Something for everyone

Shout out to a hidden Smithsonian gem. Don't be deterred by the gate guard, the campus is open to the public and security is there to answer any of your questions. There's the Woodlawn House for...

December 07, 2020

1000mL

Historic government-owned limited-access property

Historic entrance fee-free water-front property. The bullet-proof vested armed guard out front is not welcoming, so make no mistake that SERC is a government facility opened to just a very limited...

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