The Capital Region sees three main activities outside the capital itself: hiking and biking along the the C&O Canal, doing the same in Rock Creek Park, and rooting on the Terrapins at the big University of Maryland sporting events.
Also consider hiking up Sugarloaf Mountain, located in Dickerson. It's a popular local destination for hiking and picnicking. Although the land is privately owned, it is open to the public and no entrance fee is charged.
