Fruitland

Question

First time visitors. Traveling from Michigan for a soccer tournament with a 9 and 12 year old for weekend of April 5th. Looking for kid friendly places to stay and do. Tournament is in fruitland but we don't mind staying further away.

Answer

Fruitland, Maryland, is a small town located near the Eastern Shore of Maryland, and while it may not be as bustling as some larger cities, there are plenty of kid-friendly activities and places to stay in the area that would be perfect for a soccer tournament weekend with your 9- and 12-year-olds.

1. Where to Stay:

While Fruitland itself may not have a wide variety of family-focused accommodations, there are several options nearby that would be convenient for your trip:

Holiday Inn Express Salisbury – Delmar (approx. 15-20 minutes from Fruitland): This hotel offers comfortable rooms, free breakfast, and an indoor pool, making it perfect for a family stay. It’s close to Salisbury, a larger town with more dining and shopping options.
Residence Inn by Marriott Salisbury (approx. 15 minutes from Fruitland): This hotel offers suites with kitchenettes, making it ideal for longer stays or families who prefer the option to cook. It’s also close to Salisbury University and has an indoor pool.
Comfort Inn Salisbury (approx. 10 minutes from Fruitland): A budget-friendly option with convenient amenities like free breakfast and an outdoor pool. It’s centrally located to get to the soccer tournament and other attractions in the area.

2. Kid-Friendly Things to Do:

If you have some free time outside of the tournament, here are a few fun and kid-friendly things to do in and around Fruitland and Salisbury:

Salisbury Zoo (approx. 15 minutes from Fruitland): This small but well-maintained zoo is free to enter and is perfect for younger kids. The zoo has a variety of animals including bears, tigers, and more. There’s also a nice walking trail and a picnic area for a relaxing afternoon.
Ward Museum of Wildfowl Art (approx. 20 minutes from Fruitland): Located in Salisbury, this museum showcases beautiful art depicting wildfowl. It’s a unique place to visit and offers an interesting experience for older kids who might appreciate the artwork and the educational value.
Ben's Red Swings Community Playground (approx. 15 minutes from Fruitland): This is a fantastic outdoor play area for younger kids, with slides, swings, and plenty of space for them to run around and burn off energy after a day at the soccer fields.
Poplar Hill Mansion (approx. 15 minutes from Fruitland): If your family enjoys history, this beautifully preserved mansion in Salisbury offers guided tours that explain the history of the area. It’s an interesting spot for a short visit and great for a little educational outing.

3. Fun Day Trip to the Beach:

If you have time for a day trip and want to explore more of the Eastern Shore, consider heading to Ocean City, which is about a 40-minute drive from Fruitland. This beach town offers tons of family-friendly activities like:

Ocean City Beach: Spend time on the sandy shores or enjoy the boardwalk. There are arcade games, fun rides, and great places for ice cream.
Jolly Roger Amusement Park: A family-friendly amusement park located in Ocean City with rides, water attractions, and a fun atmosphere.
Assateague Island National Seashore: If your kids love nature and wildlife, take a trip to this beautiful barrier island known for its wild horses and scenic views. It’s a peaceful and fun place to explore with family.

4. Dining with Kids:

For family-friendly restaurants that your kids will love, here are some great options in Salisbury and Fruitland:

Market Street Inn (Salisbury): A charming spot with a variety of American comfort food. They have a kids' menu and a great atmosphere for families.
The Greene Turtle (Salisbury): A casual restaurant that offers a variety of pub food, including burgers, pizza, and kid-friendly options.
Shore Gourmet Pizza (Fruitland): If you're craving pizza, Shore Gourmet offers delicious, customizable pizza with lots of toppings for picky eaters.

5. Tips for Enjoying Your Time:

Make sure to plan some downtime in between tournament games, so the kids don't get too tired or overstimulated.
If you're staying in Salisbury, it’s worth exploring the downtown area, which has a mix of shops, cafes, and parks to enjoy with the family.
Don’t forget to check out the local events calendar in case any fun festivals, fairs, or community events are happening while you’re in town.

Fruitland and the nearby areas offer a mix of small-town charm, nature, and family-friendly attractions. You’ll be able to balance your time between the soccer tournament and exploring the beautiful surroundings. Enjoy your trip!

Fruitland

More Maryland (MD) Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions