Annapolis MarylandATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Annapolis, Maryland.
1. U.S. Naval Academy
HISTORIC MILITARY CAMPUS
The U.S. Naval Academy is a premier training ground for officers in the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps, featuring impressive Beaux-Arts architecture and scenic grounds. Visitors can explore the campus via guided tours, which include highlights such as the museum, chapel, and the crypt of John Paul Jones. The Academy's traditions and history make it a must-see for those interested in military heritage.
2. Annapolis Historic District
COLONIAL CHARM CENTER
The Annapolis Historic District is known for its cobbled streets, colonial-era homes, and vibrant blend of shops and restaurants. This central area is ideal for walking tours, providing a glimpse into the city's past as well as its lively present. The district includes landmarks like the Maryland State House and several noted museums.
3. William Paca House & Garden
COLONIAL MANSION AND GARDENS
The William Paca House & Garden is an 18th-century Georgian mansion once owned by a signer of the Declaration of Independence. Guided tours reveal the estate's architecture, period furnishings, and lush English-style gardens. The site educates visitors about both the Paca legacy and the lives of those who lived and worked there.
4. Maryland State House
NATION'S OLDEST CAPITOL
The Maryland State House is the oldest state capitol still in legislative use and briefly served as the U.S. Capitol in the 1780s. Its iconic wooden dome and historic chambers are open for public tours, offering insight into Maryland's political and architectural history. The building's significance is highlighted by its role in the ratification of the Treaty of Paris.
5. Main Street
LIVELY SHOPPING AND DINING
Main Street is Annapolis's bustling thoroughfare lined with boutique shops, popular restaurants, and art galleries. Its well-preserved buildings reflect the city's historic character while offering contemporary shopping and dining experiences. The street is a gathering place for locals and visitors, particularly during festivals and events.
6. Ego Alley
WATERFRONT PROMENADE
Ego Alley is a lively stretch of Annapolis's waterfront where boaters parade their vessels and pedestrians enjoy the vibrant marina scene. The area is ideal for people-watching, waterfront dining, and enjoying street performances. It's a quintessential Annapolis experience, reflecting the city's nautical spirit.
7. Sandy Point State Park
BEACH AND NATURE ESCAPE
Sandy Point State Park offers scenic views of the Chesapeake Bay, sandy beaches for swimming, and numerous picnic areas. The park is popular for outdoor recreation including fishing, hiking, and boating, as well as seasonal events. Its location near the Chesapeake Bay Bridge provides iconic vistas and photo opportunities.
8. Quiet Waters Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION OASIS
Quiet Waters Park is a sprawling city park featuring walking and cycling trails, water access for kayaking, and beautifully landscaped gardens. The park also hosts an outdoor ice rink in winter and a summer concert series. It's a favorite spot for families, picnics, and enjoying Annapolis's natural beauty.
9. Annapolis Maritime Museum & Park
CHESAPEAKE BAY HERITAGE
Annapolis Maritime Museum & Park is located in the Eastport neighborhood and celebrates the maritime heritage of the Chesapeake Bay. The museum features interactive exhibits, waterfront views, and educational programs about the region's ecology and boatbuilding traditions. It is a key site for understanding Annapolis's connection to the water.
10. Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse
ICONIC BAY LIGHTHOUSE
The Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse is one of the last surviving screw-pile lighthouses on the Chesapeake Bay, accessible via boat tours. The lighthouse offers educational tours focused on its history and restoration efforts. Its unique design and dramatic setting make it a favorite subject for photographers and maritime enthusiasts.
11. Pennsylvania Dutch Farmer's Market
AMISH MARKET EXPERIENCE
The Pennsylvania Dutch Farmer's Market brings Amish-made foods, baked goods, meats, and crafts to Annapolis. Visitors enjoy sampling fresh pretzels, homemade pies, and other Pennsylvania Dutch specialties in a welcoming market atmosphere. The market is a local favorite for both grocery shopping and casual meals.
12. Hammond-Harwood House
ARCHITECTURAL LANDMARK
The Hammond-Harwood House, built in 1774, is a National Historic Landmark renowned for its exquisite colonial architecture and decorative arts collection. Guided tours reveal the lifestyle of its 18th-century inhabitants and showcase period furniture and art. The home's preservation offers a unique window into Annapolis's affluent past.
13. Banneker-Douglass Museum
AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY
Banneker-Douglass Museum serves as Maryland's official museum of African American heritage. Exhibits and programs celebrate the achievements and history of African Americans in Maryland, with special attention to local stories and civil rights leaders. The museum is housed in a historic former church and welcomes visitors year-round.
14. Kunta Kinte - Alex Haley Memorial
ROOTS STORY LANDMARK
The Kunta Kinte - Alex Haley Memorial is a striking waterfront sculpture that commemorates the arrival of Alex Haley's ancestor in Annapolis as told in the novel 'Roots.' The monument is a tribute to African American heritage and the stories of those brought to America through the slave trade. The memorial is a site for reflection and community events.
15. Historic London Town and Gardens
COLONIAL VILLAGE & GARDENS
Historic London Town and Gardens, located just outside Annapolis, combines recreated colonial buildings, archaeological sites, and beautiful gardens along the South River. Interactive exhibits and costumed interpreters bring history to life, making it ideal for family visits and school groups. The site also features scenic woodland and ornamental gardens for leisurely exploration.