Attractions and Places To See around Annapolis - Top 20

Annapolis is rich in history. You can explore the Maryland State House, the oldest state capitol still in continuous legislative use, known for its large wooden dome built without nails. Other significant sites include the William Paca House & Garden, the Hammond-Harwood House, and the United States Naval Academy, which offers tours and a museum.

To delve into Annapolis's maritime heritage, visit the Annapolis City Dock, a vibrant waterfront area that has been a central point for boats for over 350 years. You can also explore the Annapolis Maritime Museum & Park, housed in a former oyster packing plant, which showcases life on the Chesapeake Bay and the city's boatbuilding past.

Yes, Annapolis offers several important sites. The Kunta Kinte–Alex Haley Memorial at City Dock commemorates the arrival of enslaved African Kunta Kinte. Additionally, the Banneker-Douglass Museum, housed in a historic church, is Maryland's official museum dedicated to African-American history and culture. The Thurgood Marshall Memorial also honors the first African American Supreme Court Justice.

Absolutely. The Baltimore & Annapolis Trail is a popular choice, running 21.4 km from Arnold to Baltimore. This paved trail follows a former railway line, offering scenic views and historical context. A particularly smooth, paved section suitable for cycling with minimal grades can be found near Belleview Estates HOA. For more cycling options, check out the Road Cycling Routes around Annapolis guide.

Annapolis and its surroundings offer several hiking opportunities. Quiet Waters Park features paved paths for walking and jogging. For more dedicated hiking, consider trails like Ellen Moyer Nature Park Trail or Spa Creek Trail. You can find detailed routes and more options in the Hiking around Annapolis guide. While further afield, Annapolis Rocks on the Appalachian Trail near Boonsboro offers panoramic views for a more challenging hike.

Annapolis, known as the 'Sailing Capital of the U.S.', offers numerous water activities on the Chesapeake Bay. You can enjoy sailing, kayaking, fishing, and crabbing. Day cruises and sailboat rentals are popular, often departing from Annapolis City Dock. Sandy Point State Park also provides sandy beaches for swimming and boating with views of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge.

Yes, Annapolis boasts excellent parks for outdoor recreation. Quiet Waters Park is a large 340-acre recreational park with paved paths for biking and jogging, formal gardens, and opportunities to rent canoes and kayaks. Sandy Point State Park, located at the western end of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, offers beaches, picnic areas, and water access for swimming and fishing.

Families will enjoy the vibrant Annapolis City Dock, where you can watch boats and enjoy the waterfront. Quiet Waters Park is perfect for families with its paved paths, playground, and rental options for canoes and kayaks. The United States Naval Academy also offers guided tours that can be engaging for older children.

Yes, several attractions and paths in Annapolis are wheelchair-accessible. The Baltimore & Annapolis Trail is paved throughout, making it suitable for wheelchairs. The Kunta Kinte–Alex Haley Memorial and the section of the trail near Belleview Estates HOA are also noted for their accessibility.

The spring and fall months generally offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities in Annapolis. The region experiences warm summers, with Wednesday Night Sailboat Races being a popular attraction on Chesapeake Bay from late April through August. These seasons provide comfortable temperatures for exploring historical sites, enjoying parks, and engaging in water sports.

Beyond the main attractions, consider visiting the meticulously restored William Paca House & Garden, an 18th-century Georgian mansion with a two-acre garden. Historic London Town and Gardens, located on the South River, offers a glimpse into a former colonial seaport with restored homes and woodland gardens. Strolling through the brick-lined streets of the Colonial Historic District also reveals charming shops and architecture.

Annapolis offers several great options for runners. Quiet Waters Park has paved paths ideal for a run, and you can find various routes around the city. For specific running trails and distances, consult the Running Trails around Annapolis guide, which includes routes like the Annapolis City Dock – Severn River views loop.