Summary of Annapolis Attractions and Dining
Annapolis, the state capital of Maryland, is a beautiful historical seaport situated along the Chesapeake Bay. It is an easy day trip from Washington, DC, located in Anne Arundel County, approximately 32 miles from Washington and 26 miles from Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. Annapolis boasts more 18th-century buildings than anywhere else in the United States, including the homes of all four Maryland signers of the Declaration of Independence. This charming city is a delightful place to explore, featuring numerous museums, shopping opportunities, and restaurants.
Top Annapolis Attractions
Annapolis City Dock: Stroll along the Annapolis City Dock and enjoy the beautiful scenery. This waterfront area is known to local boaters as “Ego Alley,” attracting visitors with a steady parade of luxurious yachts. It serves as a hub for shopping, dining, and boat-watching, making it a must-see for most visitors.
United States Naval Academy: Located at 121 Blake Road, Annapolis, MD, the United States Naval Academy offers tours that begin at the Armet-Leftwich Visitors Center. Highlights include the Ship-building Museum, Chapel, Herndon Monument, and the Crypt of John Paul Jones.
Annapolis Cruises: Enjoy a picturesque sightseeing cruise on the Chesapeake Bay. Various options such as one or two-hour rides, half or full-day excursions, and multi-day trips allow you to experience the bay’s beauty aboard different sailboats.
Annapolis Maritime Museum: Situated at 723 Second Street, Eastport, Annapolis, MD, this museum explores the rich maritime heritage of Annapolis and the Chesapeake Bay with exhibits and live entertainment. Visitors can learn about the life of watermen and the seafood industry in the Bay Experience Center, located within a historic oyster packing plant. Additionally, you can board a boat for a trip to Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse.
Chesapeake Children’s Museum: Located at 25 Silopanna Road, Annapolis, MD, this hands-on museum features a ten-foot aquarium, an interactive turtle tub, and habitats for various native species. Weather permitting, guests can also enjoy nature hikes along the headwaters of Spa Creek.
Market House: Since 1788, Market House at 25 Market Place, Annapolis, MD, has offered a diverse selection of foods, from crab cakes to homemade fudge and Italian pastries.
William Paca House and Garden: Visit the restored home of William Paca, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, located at 186 Prince George Street, Annapolis, MD. The beautiful garden is available for special events, and guided tours provide insight into the historical significance of the property.
Banneker-Douglass Museum: Found at 84 Franklin Street, Annapolis, MD, this museum showcases African American history and recently expanded to include the Annapolis Underground exhibit, which explores archaeological findings related to African American life in Maryland’s capital.
Maryland State House: The Maryland State House at 100 State Circle, Annapolis, MD, is the oldest state house still in legislative use and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1960. Its Visitors’ Center is open daily for self-guided tours.
National Sailing Hall of Fame: Located at 67-69 Prince George St, Annapolis, MD, this museum highlights the history of sailing, honoring significant contributions to the sport with various exhibits and artifacts.
Charles Carroll House: This national historic landmark at 107 Duke of Gloucester Street, Annapolis, MD, is the former residence of Charles Carroll, the first Attorney General of Maryland. Tours may be arranged by request, and visits are available on weekends during the summer months.
Kunta Kinte-Alex Haley Memorial: Situated at the Annapolis City Dock, this memorial honors Alex Haley’s ancestor, Kunta Kinte, upon his arrival in the New World. The sculpture represents Haley reading to children of diverse ethnic backgrounds.
Hammond-Harwood House: An architectural gem at 19 Maryland Avenue, Annapolis, MD, this circa 1774 masterpiece showcases 18th-century decorative arts. Visitors can learn about life during the Golden Age of Annapolis, including exploring the colonial kitchen and herb garden.
Annapolis Restaurants: Dining by the Chesapeake Bay
Annapolis boasts a plethora of restaurants offering a variety of cuisines. Steamed crabs and crab cakes, local specialties, are key highlights for visitors. Here are some local favorites:
- Mike’s Restaurant and Crab House – 3030 Old Riva Rd., Riva, MD (410) 956-2784.
- Cantler’s Riverside Inn – 458 Forest Beach Road, Annapolis, MD (410) 757-1311.
- Buddy’s Crabs & Ribs – 100 Main St. Annapolis, MD (410) 626-1100.
- Rams Head Tavern – 33 West St. Annapolis, MD (410) 626-1044.
- Carrol’s Creek Café – 410 Severn Ave., Annapolis, MD (410) 263-8102.
- Chart House – 300 Second St., Annapolis, MD (410) 268-7166.
