It’s official! Budget travel has named Sykesville, Maryland the coolest small town in America for 2016. With 44.3 percent of votes, Sykesville won in a landslide when compared to other towns in the running, including the not too distant Abingdon, Virginia. You can check out the poll results and further details here.

While Sykesville is not the first Maryland small town to receive this honor (Berlin also earned the title in 2014), it is certainly unique in its own right. This charming, family-friendly town is like no other. Here are a few reasons why Sykeville’s newfound notoriety is well earned.

Sykesville is a historic small town that is home to around 4,500 people.

SykesvilleMainStreet.Com

The downtown area is lined with charming storefronts. Taking a stroll here is like taking a step back in time.

Jamie Alvarenga / Only In Your State

The residents of Sykesville embrace the local railroad history.

SykesvilleMainStreet.com

In fact, the unique Baldwin’s Station restaurant is located in the town’s original railroad station.

Flickr / Jon Dawson

And even children can get into the action by taking a free ride on this 1949 twelve-gauge train, at the Little Sykes Railway.

SykesvilleMainStreet.com

There are other notable sites to be seen, including the Sykesville Historic Colored Schoolhouse. It was originally built in 1904 and is now a popular spot for field trips and tours.

Flickr / Preservation Maryland

Even the post office has history behind it, as it used to be the former B&P Junction.

SykesvilleMainStreet.com

If you prefer a bit of natural scenery, head to the area parks or Patapsco River. Here you can go river tubing, which is perfectly relaxing in the summer months.

Flickr / Jon Dawson

Or if you’re ready to mingle, Sykesville hosts several fun events throughout the year, including adult-focused fests like the Art & Wine Festival…

SykesvilleMainStreet.Com

Or family-friendly events where you can bring the little ones for a day of playing.

SykesvilleMainStreet.com

Not ready to move to Sykesville quite yet? Then just stay for a few days at the Inn At Norwood. This 1906 Inn is full of historic character.

Flickr / Jon Dawson

Full of historical landmarks, a thriving arts scene, unique eateries, picturesque parks, charming shops, festivals and family-friendly events, it’s no wonder that Sykesville is America’s coolest small town. How they fit all of these amazing attributes into 1.58 square miles is an impressive feat, indeed.

Jamie Alvarenga / Only In Your State

For more information about Sykesville, you can visit their Main Street website here.

SykesvilleMainStreet.Com

Jamie Alvarenga / Only In Your State

SykesvilleMainStreet.com

Flickr / Jon Dawson

Flickr / Preservation Maryland

Flickr / Jon Dawson

Do you live in Sykesville? What are other amazing parts of this little town? Feel free to share your thoughts on why you think it’s the coolest in America.

 

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