For years, the initial entrance into Chestertown for thousands of travelers has begun the exact same way: stepping off North Cross Street and being greeted by Robin Sesplankis. Now, following years of frontline dedication to the region's tourism operations, Sesplankis has been named Manager of the Kent County Visitors Center.

To regular visitors, the appointment is a natural evolution. Sesplankis has long served as a steady fixture at the Center, transforming what could easily be a routine stop for maps into a genuine sanctuary for road-weary drivers. Her tailored travel tips and deep knowledge of the Eastern Shore have earned her a distinct reputation and it is not uncommon for returning travelers to make a point of stopping back in simply to reconnect with her.

"The Visitors Center serves as the front porch for Chestertown and all of Kent County," says Main Street Chestertown Executive Director Dominique Ellis Falcon. "Robin sets the standard for how we welcome the world. Her presence ensures that every person who walks through our doors receives a thoughtful, high-caliber introduction to our community."

A Growing Gateway

Sesplankis takes the reins during a period of sustained growth for the Center. Far from a quiet roadside office, the facility functions as a high-traffic hub connecting global travelers to local businesses:

• Summer Surge: In June alone, 758 visitors passed through the doors, nearly 200 more than June of 2025. 
• On Track for Records: With over 2,000 visitors hosted so far this year, the Center is on track to meet and surpass its total 2025 foot-traffic figures.
• Across the Map: Domestic travelers from as far as Hawaii, Oregon, Arizona, Florida, and Tennessee have registered at the desk over the past two months.
• International Footprint: In the last 90 days, the Center has provided guidance to guests arriving from Canada, the Philippines, and Poland.

A Civic Anchor for the Community

Open 7 days a week, the facility's first floor boasts a gift shop and provides visitor information on Kent County, Chestertown, Rock Hall, Galena, Millington, Betterton, and the broader region. Public restrooms are also conveniently located on this level. Beyond guiding out-of-towners, the Visitors Center plays a critical role as a public asset for local organizations. Under Sesplankis' leadership, the space continues to expand its mission as an accessible venue for community partners to share their work with a broader audience—demonstrated recently when the Center hosted artwork for a Juneteenth Exhibition from Chestertown RiverArts, Washington College’s Starr Center for the Study of the American Experience, Chesapeake Heartland Project and Spiralis Gallery.

Whether welcoming an international guest arriving in Maryland for the first time or hosting a showcase for a local non-profit, the Kent County Visitors Center remains open, active, and ready to serve.

Local organizations interested in partnering with the Visitors Center for displays or community programming are invited to stop by 122 North Cross Street to connect with Robin or email director@mainstreetchestertown.org.