CHESAPEAKE BEACH, Md. (April 28, 2026) – Following a multi-phase transformation, Rod ’N’ Reel Resort today announced it is entering its next chapter as a fully revitalized waterfront destination on the Chesapeake Bay, ahead of the summer season. Blending more than 80 years of history with modern amenities and new experiences, the family-owned resort now offers a reimagined guest experience across dining, marina, events, and accommodations.
Originally established in 1946 as a restaurant, marina, and charter fishing hub, Rod ’N’ Reel has long been a cornerstone of Chesapeake Beach. Today, the completed renovations mark a significant milestone for the property, enhancing aspects of the guest experience while preserving its legacy as a welcoming, community-rooted destination.
“Rod ’N’ Reel has always been about bringing people together on the waterfront,” said Mary Lanham, CEO of Rod ’N’ Reel Resort. “With these renovations, we’ve honored our history while creating a more elevated, seamless experience for today’s guests, from the marina to our restaurants and event spaces. We’re excited to welcome everyone this summer and beyond.”
A Waterfront Resort without crossing the Bay Bridge
Conveniently located within an hour’s drive of both Washington, D.C. and Baltimore, the resort offers an easy waterfront escape without the need to cross the Bay Bridge, making it an ideal destination for day trips, weekend getaways and extended stays.
At the heart of the transformation is the reimagined Rod ’N’ Reel Restaurant, a longtime Chesapeake Bay gathering place now refreshed with a modern aesthetic, waterfront views, and a menu highlighting locally sourced seafood and seasonal flavors. The resort’s revitalization also marks the return of full marina access, with dredging complete, new slips available, private fishing charters, and transient docking, reestablishing Rod ’N’ Reel as a destination for both boaters and overnight guests.
Resort Amenities
The transformation of Rod ’N’ Reel has introduced a wide range of new and enhanced offerings, including:
- Five Distinct Dining Concepts: Guests can explore a variety of culinary experiences across the resort, including 1936 Bar & Grill, CBQ, The Dock, Otto’s Brew Bar, and the signature Rod ’N’ Reel Restaurant.
- Versatile Event & Wedding Venues: With spaces such as the Chesapeake Ballroom, The Wedding Dome, Bayview Terrace, South Beach ceremony site, and The Overlook, the resort offers the ability to host multi-day weddings, corporate retreats, and private events in one waterfront location.
- Hotel & Wellness Amenities: Indoor and outdoor pools, including a rooftop pool and pool house, a fitness center and sauna, spa and barber services and comfortable accommodations with convenient on-site dining.
- Gaming & Entertainment: Dedicated gaming areas, bingo, and a year-round calendar of live entertainment and events.
Rod ’N’ Reel Resort is positioned to serve as a hub of activity along the Chesapeake Bay during the summer season and beyond. Guests can enjoy charter fishing excursions, marina access, waterfront dining and a lineup of seasonal events and live music, including the popular Rock the Dock concert series starting Memorial Day Weekend on May 21.
80 years of entertainment and community
As the resort approaches its 80th anniversary, the revitalization reflects both a milestone and a forward-looking vision for the property. Future enhancements, including expanded event spaces, additional guest rooms, and a waterfront atrium, will continue to build on its legacy as a year-round destination.
“While so much has evolved, our commitment to this community and to creating memorable guest experiences remains the same,” Lanham added. “We’re proud of where we’ve been and excited for what’s ahead.”
Rod ’N’ Reel Resort is now open and welcoming guests for dining, overnight stays, marina access, and private events. For more information or to book, visit https://www.rnrresortmd.com
About Rod ‘N’ Reel Resort: Rod ’N’ Reel Resort is a family-owned waterfront destination located in Chesapeake Beach, Maryland. Established in 1946, the resort has grown from a restaurant, marina, and charter fishing operation into a full-service property offering accommodation, multiple dining concepts, event and wedding venues, marina access, and year-round entertainment. Amenities include indoor and outdoor pools, a fitness center, spa and barber services, gaming areas, and a full-service marina with charter fishing and transient slips.
Conveniently located within an hour of Washington, D.C. and Baltimore, Rod ’N’ Reel Resort serves as a regional destination for leisure travel, dining, boating, and private events. https://www.rnrresortmd.com/
