Many Marylanders Planning 'Staycation' Over Fourth Of July

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- With the Fourth of July falling on a Wednesday, more Marylanders are expected to travel somewhere this week.

But, as Jessica Kartalija reports, the high price of plane tickets has more people planning a Maryland staycation this year.

A holiday road trip could literally put you in a pickle.

"It's a great place to eat," said one customer.

Celebrating its one year anniversary, the Big Pickle is a tourist hot spot and they're expecting to draw big crowds this week.

"We're happy to be in St. Michaels. We've created a menu that fits the Eastern Shore," said Jorge Alvarez.

Restaurants throughout the Eastern Shore town are taking advantage of the holiday falling on a Wednesday.

"There's always something to do here, whether you like being out on a cruise or you like white tablecloth dining or you want to kayak, canoe," said Debbie Dodson, Talbot County Tourism.

This year, 725,000 Marylanders are expected to drive to their destination, a 4.5 percent increase from last Fourth of July. The Eastern Shore is a top Maryland staycation travel destination.

"We are definitely a great getaway for folks coming from D.C., from Baltimore," said Joann Jacobs.

Jacobs is with the Inn at Perry Cabin, an exclusive resort right on the Chesapeake Bay.

"They can really get the feeling they are having a unique experience without driving far and without spending the money they would flying to a destination resort," Jacobs said.

As for those leaving the state, almost 65,000 Marylanders will fly to their destination this week.