bigtravelbuzzAnnapolis is the capital city of the U.S. state of Maryland, located on the Chesapeake Bay. It is also the county seat of Anne Arundel County. The city has a population of approximately 40,000 people and is known for its historic district, which includes the Maryland State House (the oldest state capitol still in continuous legislative use), the United States Naval Academy, and numerous 18th-century buildings. Annapolis is also known for its sailing and boating activities, as well as its seafood restaurants and shops.
Places to Visit in Annapolis
Annapolis, the capital city of Maryland, is a beautiful and historic city that offers many interesting places to visit. Here are some of the top attractions to explore in Annapolis:
United States Naval Academy: The Naval Academy is a prestigious institution that trains officers for the Navy and the Marine Corps. Visitors can tour the campus and learn about the history of the Academy.
Maryland State House: This historic building is the oldest state capitol still in continuous legislative use. Visitors can take guided tours of the building and learn about the state’s history.
Historic District: The Historic District is a charming area of Annapolis that features 18th-century architecture, quaint streets, and unique shops and restaurants.
City Dock: City Dock is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. It offers beautiful views of the Chesapeake Bay and is home to many restaurants, shops, and historic sites.
Annapolis Maritime Museum: The Annapolis Maritime Museum offers exhibits and educational programs on the Chesapeake Bay and its rich maritime heritage.
William Paca House and Garden: This 18th-century mansion and garden offers a glimpse into the lives of Maryland’s colonial elite. Visitors can take guided tours of the house and explore the gardens.
Quiet Waters Park: This beautiful park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and a dog park. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Annapolis.
St. Anne’s Church: This historic church is one of the oldest in Annapolis, dating back to the 18th century. Visitors can take guided tours of the church and its beautiful gardens.
Annapolis Arts District: The Arts District is a vibrant neighborhood that features galleries, theaters, and live music venues. It’s a great place to experience Annapolis’s creative side.
Annapolis City Hall: This historic building is home to the city government and features beautiful architecture and interesting exhibits. Visitors can take guided tours of the building and learn about the city’s history.
Best Time To Visit Annapolis
The best time to visit Annapolis depends on your interests and preferences. Here are some factors to consider when planning your trip:
Weather: Annapolis has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. The best time to visit for pleasant weather is during the spring (April to May) or fall (September to November), when temperatures are mild and comfortable.
Events: Annapolis hosts several events throughout the year, including the Annapolis Film Festival in March, the Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show in April, the Annapolis Arts Week in June, and the U.S. Sailboat Show in October. If you’re interested in attending one of these events, plan your visit accordingly.
Crowds: Annapolis is a popular tourist destination, especially during the summer months (June to August) when crowds can be heavy. If you prefer fewer crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder season (April to May, September to November).
Boating and Water Activities: If you’re interested in boating or water activities, the best time to visit is during the summer months when temperatures are warm and the water is comfortable for swimming.
Overall, the best time to visit Annapolis is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild and comfortable, and the crowds are thinner. However, if you’re interested in specific events or activities, plan your visit accordingly.
Things to Do in Annapolis
Annapolis is a beautiful and historic city with many things to do and see. Here are some top activities and attractions to consider:
Visit the U.S. Naval Academy: Take a guided tour of the Naval Academy campus, which includes historic buildings, monuments, and the Navy’s world-class museum.
Explore the Historic District: Stroll through the streets of the historic district, which is home to many beautiful 18th-century homes, shops, restaurants, and historic sites.
Take a Boat Tour: Explore Annapolis by boat and learn about the city’s history and architecture from the water.
Go Shopping: Annapolis has many unique shops and boutiques, including clothing stores, antique shops, and specialty food stores.
Visit the Maryland State House: Take a guided tour of the Maryland State House, which is the oldest state capitol still in continuous legislative use in the United States.
See the City Dock: Visit City Dock, a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The dock offers beautiful views of the Chesapeake Bay and is home to many restaurants, shops, and historic sites.
Attend a Concert or Show: Annapolis is home to many venues that offer live music, theater, and comedy performances.
Go Hiking or Biking: Explore the city’s many parks and trails on foot or by bike, including Quiet Waters Park, Jonas Green Park, and the B&A Trail.
Visit the Annapolis Maritime Museum: Learn about the rich maritime heritage of the Chesapeake Bay through exhibits, programs, and events.
Tour the William Paca House and Garden: Visit the 18th-century mansion and garden, which offers a glimpse into the lives of Maryland’s colonial elite.
These are just a few of the many things to do and see in Annapolis. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and beautiful scenery, there’s something for everyone in this charming city.
How to get around in Annapolis
Annapolis is a small city that is easy to navigate, with many attractions within walking distance of each other. Here are some transportation options for getting around Annapolis:
Walking: The best way to explore Annapolis is on foot. The city’s historic district is compact, and many attractions are within walking distance of each other.
Biking: Annapolis has several bike rental options, including Capital Bikeshare and Annapolis Electric Bike Rentals. Biking is a great way to explore the city’s parks and trails.
Public Transportation: Annapolis has a bus system called the Annapolis Transit that serves the city and surrounding areas. The buses run on fixed routes, and fares are affordable.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services: Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Annapolis. They are a convenient way to get around the city if you don’t want to walk or take public transportation.
Water Taxis: Annapolis has several water taxi services that offer transportation on the water. Water taxis are a fun and unique way to get around the city and see the sights from a different perspective.
Car Rental: If you plan to explore outside of the city, renting a car is a good option. Several car rental companies operate in Annapolis, including Avis, Budget, and Enterprise.
Overall, getting around Annapolis is easy and convenient. Whether you prefer to walk, bike, take public transportation, or use a taxi or ride-sharing service, there are many transportation options to choose from.
Where to eat in Annapolis
Annapolis, Maryland offers a variety of dining options, ranging from seafood restaurants to casual cafes. Here are some suggestions for places to eat in Annapolis:
Iron Rooster – a casual restaurant that specializes in breakfast and brunch dishes, but also serves lunch and dinner.
Boatyard Bar & Grill – a popular seafood restaurant with a casual atmosphere and outdoor seating.
Carpaccio Tuscan Kitchen & Wine Bar – an Italian restaurant that offers homemade pasta and an extensive wine list.
Preserve – a farm-to-table restaurant that sources ingredients from local farms and serves a rotating seasonal menu.
Vin 909 Winecafe – a cozy restaurant with a focus on natural and organic wines and locally-sourced ingredients.
The Chop House – a steakhouse located in the heart of downtown Annapolis that serves high-quality beef and seafood dishes.
Middleton Tavern – a historic restaurant that has been serving seafood and other American dishes since 1750.
Cafe Normandie – a French restaurant that offers classic French dishes and an extensive wine list.
Grumps Cafe – a casual cafe that serves breakfast and lunch dishes, including sandwiches and salads.
Harry Browne’s – an upscale American restaurant with a focus on fresh seafood and locally-sourced ingredients.
These are just a few of the many great dining options in Annapolis, and there are plenty more to discover in this charming town.
Famous street stalls in Annapolis
Annapolis, the capital of Maryland, is known for its historic charm, maritime heritage, and delicious cuisine. Here are some famous street stalls in Annapolis where you can find tasty food:
Stan and Joe’s Saloon – Although it’s primarily known as a sports bar, Stan and Joe’s Saloon also has a food truck serving up some delicious eats, such as crab cakes, tacos, and pulled pork sandwiches.
Greek on the Street – This street stall offers authentic Greek food, including gyros, souvlaki, and spanakopita. The food is made fresh daily and is a favorite of locals and tourists alike.
Jeno’s Steaks – Jeno’s Steaks is a Philadelphia-style cheesesteak truck that serves up mouthwatering sandwiches made with juicy steak, melted cheese, and grilled onions.
Crabtown Curbs Cuisine – As the name suggests, Crabtown Curbs Cuisine specializes in Maryland-style seafood, including crab cakes, soft-shell crab sandwiches, and lobster rolls.
Kona Ice of Annapolis – Kona Ice of Annapolis is a food truck that serves up delicious shaved ice treats in a variety of flavors. It’s the perfect way to cool down on a hot summer day.
Dizzy Cow Pizzeria – This mobile pizzeria offers wood-fired pizzas made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The crust is crispy, the cheese is melty, and the toppings are delicious.
These are just a few of the many street stalls you can find in Annapolis. Whether you’re in the mood for seafood, pizza, or something else entirely, you’re sure to find something delicious on the streets of Annapolis.
Where to stay in Annapolis
Luxury accommodation
Annapolis has several luxurious accommodation options for visitors looking for a comfortable and elegant stay. Here are some of the top luxury accommodation choices in Annapolis:
The Inn at Perry Cabin – This luxurious waterfront hotel is located in nearby St. Michaels, Maryland, and offers elegant rooms and suites with stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay. The hotel also has a spa, outdoor pool, and award-winning restaurant.
The Loews Annapolis Hotel – This luxurious hotel is located in the heart of downtown Annapolis and offers beautifully decorated rooms and suites with marble bathrooms, plush bedding, and modern amenities. The hotel also features a fitness center, restaurant, and bar.
The Westin Annapolis – This upscale hotel is located just steps away from the historic district of Annapolis and offers spacious rooms and suites with modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, iPod docks, and ergonomic workstations. The hotel also features an indoor pool, fitness center, and restaurant.
The Maryland Inn – This historic boutique hotel is located in the heart of the Annapolis historic district and offers luxurious rooms and suites with traditional decor and modern amenities. The hotel also features a restaurant, bar, and rooftop terrace with stunning views of the city.
The Annapolis Waterfront Hotel – This luxurious hotel is located on the waterfront in downtown Annapolis and offers elegant rooms and suites with stunning views of the harbor. The hotel also features a fitness center, restaurant, and bar.
These are just a few of the many luxurious accommodation options in Annapolis. Whether you prefer waterfront views, historic charm, or modern amenities, there’s a luxury hotel in Annapolis that will meet your needs.
Where to stay in Annapolis
Budget accommodation
If you’re looking for budget accommodations in Annapolis, there are several options to consider:
Motel 6 Annapolis: This budget hotel is located just a few miles from downtown Annapolis and offers affordable rooms with basic amenities such as free Wi-Fi and cable TV.
Rodeway Inn Annapolis: Another budget-friendly option, this hotel is located just off Route 50 and offers simple rooms with free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs.
Annapolis Yacht Club: If you’re willing to forego traditional hotel amenities, the Annapolis Yacht Club offers affordable bunk accommodations for sailors and other guests. This option is only available for members or sponsored guests.
Airbnb: Annapolis has many Airbnb options available, including private rooms and entire apartments, which can be a great option for those looking for a budget-friendly and authentic experience in the city.
Regardless of your budget, be sure to book your accommodations well in advance, as Annapolis can be a popular destination and rooms can fill up quickly.
Travel Tips Annapolis
Here are some travel tips for visiting Annapolis:
Wear comfortable shoes: Annapolis is a historic city with cobblestone streets and many sidewalks that can be uneven. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes to explore the city and avoid blisters or sore feet.
Check the weather: Annapolis experiences all four seasons, so make sure to check the weather before you go and pack accordingly. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters can be cold and snowy.
Explore by foot: Annapolis is a walkable city, and many of the top attractions are located in the downtown area. Consider taking a walking tour to see the city’s historic sites and learn more about its history.
Visit the Naval Academy: The United States Naval Academy is located in Annapolis and offers guided tours of the campus. Be sure to check the tour schedule in advance and bring a valid photo ID to enter the campus.
Try the seafood: Annapolis is located on the Chesapeake Bay, and the city is known for its seafood. Be sure to try the crab cakes, oysters, and other local specialties while you’re in town.
Take a boat tour: Annapolis is surrounded by water, and taking a boat tour is a great way to see the city from a different perspective. Consider a sailboat or powerboat tour to explore the Chesapeake Bay and see the city skyline.
Plan ahead for parking: Parking can be limited in Annapolis, especially in the downtown area. Consider taking public transportation or finding a parking garage before you go to avoid circling for a spot.