Things to Do in Annapolis
Why you are seeing these recommendations
The capital of Maryland, Annapolis is a small, charming city with history and culture to spare. Take in the colonial architecture as you stroll the city’s Historic District, sample fresh seafood from the Chesapeake Bay waterfront, and learn about Annapolis’ role in the American Revolution and Civil War.
The Basics
Located near both Baltimore and Washington DC, Annapolis makes an easy day-trip destination for East Coast travelers. The state capital is celebrated for its many museums, such as the U.S. Naval Academy Museum, and historic homes like Hammond Harwood House, which dates to 1774. Other major landmarks include the Maryland State House and the Banneker-Douglass Museum, which focuses on preserving Maryland’s African American heritage.
The city is also a popular destination for sailing tours and chartered cruises and offers lively shopping and dining options. Join an Annapolis sightseeing tour to learn more about the history and culture of the city as you go. Trolley bus tours offer speedy ways to explore the city’s top sights, while dining tours allow you to sample a variety of local cuisine.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Annapolis Visitor Center, located on West Street in the City’s Art District, is a perfect place to begin your explorations.
- Annapolis is known as the Sailing Capital of the United States; the city hosts The National Sailing Hall of Fame and holds regular boat shows.
- The Annapolis City Dock is a popular destination for shopping and sightseeing and is frequented by students studying at the U.S. Naval Academy.
- The Kunta Kinte-Alex Haley Memorial is one of the city’s most powerful memorials and is dedicated to anti-slavery and Civil Rights figures.
How to Get There
Annapolis is located just 27 miles (44 kilometers) from Washington DC and 23 miles (36 kilometers) from Baltimore; both cities are less than an hour’s drive from the Maryland capital. Various buses and trains run between Annapolis and nearby hubs.
When to Get There
Annapolis is a popular destination throughout the year, but particularly so during the summer months, when visitors embark on sailing tours, enjoy crab boils, and attend a range of festivals and other annual events.
Popular Events in Annapolis
Annapolis hosts many events throughout the year. In the winter and spring, join locals in taking advantage of Annapolis Restaurant Week and the Annapolis Film Festival. The summer brings Fourth of July celebrations, the Annapolis Crab Feast, and the Maryland Renaissance Festival. And, boat enthusiasts won’t want to miss the U.S. Powerboat Show and U.S. Sailboat Show in the fall.