Annapolis, Maryland, is a historic city on the Chesapeake Bay. It was founded in 1695 as the capital of the Maryland Colony and served as the temporary capital of the United States from 1783 to 1784. Annapolis is home to the United States Naval Academy and many other historic sites.
1. Visit the United States Naval Academy
The United States Naval Academy is one of the most prestigious military academies in the world. It was founded in 1845 and has trained many of the nation’s top military leaders. The academy campus is located on the banks of the Severn River and offers stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay.
Take a Guided Tour
Guided tours of the Naval Academy are available to the public. The tours last about an hour and a half and cover the history of the academy, its traditions, and its current operations.
Visit the Museum
The Naval Academy Museum is home to a large collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the academy and the United States Navy. The museum is open to the public daily.
2. Explore Historic Annapolis
Annapolis is home to many historic buildings and sites. The city’s historic district is a National Historic Landmark and includes over 1,000 buildings that date back to the 18th and 19th centuries.
Walk the Streets
The best way to explore Historic Annapolis is to walk the streets and admire the architecture. The city’s historic district is compact and easy to navigate.
Visit the William Paca House and Garden
The William Paca House and Garden is one of the best examples of Georgian architecture in the United States. The house was built in 1765 and was home to William Paca, a signer of the Declaration of Independence.
3. Take a Sailing Trip
The Chesapeake Bay is a popular destination for sailing. There are many sailing charters available in Annapolis that can take you on a trip of the bay.
Go on a Sunset Cruise
Sunset cruises are a popular way to experience the beauty of the Chesapeake Bay. The cruises typically last about two hours and offer stunning views of the sunset over the water.
Learn to Sail
If you’ve always wanted to learn to sail, Annapolis is a great place to do it. There are many sailing schools in the city that offer classes for beginners.
4. Visit the Maryland State House
The Maryland State House is the oldest state capitol building in continuous use in the United States. The building was built in 1772 and has housed the Maryland General Assembly since 1783.
Take a Guided Tour
Guided tours of the Maryland State House are available to the public. The tours last about an hour and cover the history of the building and its role in Maryland’s government.
Visit the Museum
The Maryland State House Museum is home to a collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the Maryland State House and the history of Maryland. The museum is open to the public daily.
5. Visit the Banneker-Douglass Museum
The Banneker-Douglass Museum is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the history and culture of African Americans in Maryland. The museum is home to a collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the stories of African Americans from the colonial era to the present day.
Take a Guided Tour
Guided tours of the Banneker-Douglass Museum are available to the public. The tours last about an hour and cover the history of the museum and its collections.
Attend a Program
The Banneker-Douglass Museum offers a variety of programs and events throughout the year. These programs include lectures, workshops, and performances.
6. Visit the Annapolis Maritime Museum
The Annapolis Maritime Museum is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the maritime history of Annapolis and the Chesapeake Bay. The museum is home to a collection of boats, artifacts, and exhibits that tell the story of Annapolis’s maritime heritage.
Take a Guided Tour
Guided tours of the Annapolis Maritime Museum are available to the public. The tours last about an hour and cover the history of the museum and its collections.
Visit the Park
The Annapolis Maritime Museum is located in a park that offers stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay. The park is a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of the waterfront.
7. Visit the Hammond-Harwood House
The Hammond-Harwood House is one of the finest examples of Georgian architecture in the United States. The house was built in 1774 and was home to Matthias Hammond, a wealthy merchant and Revolutionary War patriot.
Take a Guided Tour
Guided tours of the Hammond-Harwood House are available to the public. The tours last about an hour and cover the history of the house and its occupants.
Visit the Gardens
The Hammond-Harwood House is surrounded by beautiful gardens. The gardens are home to a variety of plants and flowers, and they offer stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay.
8. Visit the National Cryptologic Museum
The National Cryptologic Museum is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the history of cryptology, the science of secret writing. The museum is home to a collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of cryptology from ancient times to the present day.
Take a Guided Tour
Guided tours of the National Cryptologic Museum are available to the public. The tours last about an hour and cover the history of cryptology and its role in national security.
Visit the Gift Shop
The National Cryptologic Museum has a gift shop that sells a variety of items related to cryptology. The gift shop is a great place to find unique souvenirs and gifts.
Culture, Best Months to Visit, Nearby Transportation, Local Food, and Best Hotels
Annapolis is a vibrant city with a rich culture. The city is home to a variety of museums, theaters, and art galleries. Annapolis also has a thriving music scene, with many live music venues throughout the city.
The best time to visit Annapolis is during the spring or fall, when the weather is mild. The city is also beautiful during the summer, but it can be hot and humid. Annapolis is easily accessible by car, train, or bus. The city is also served by Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI).
Annapolis is home to a variety of restaurants that serve a variety of cuisines. The city is particularly known for its seafood dishes. Some of the best local restaurants include:
* Carrol’s Creek Cafe
* Level
* Stan and Joe’s Saloon
* Pussers Caribbean Grille
* Harry Browne’s Restaurant
Annapolis has a variety of hotels to choose from, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury hotels. Some of the best hotels in the city include:
* The Graduate Annapolis
* The Westin Annapolis
* The Historic Inns of Annapolis
* The Annapolis Waterfront Hotel
* The Hilton Garden Inn Annapolis
Conclusion
Annapolis is a beautiful and historic city with something to offer everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or outdoor activities, you’re sure to find something to enjoy in Annapolis. So come on down and explore this charming city for yourself!
