Looking for some fun things to do in Annapolis?
Annapolis is known for being the capital city of Maryland and the home of the US Naval Academy, but there are so many other fun things to do in Annapolis MD!
I live about an hour and a half from this charming nautical city, and the cute streets, rich history, and waterfront views of the Chesapeake Bay make it one of my favorite cities to visit in Maryland. In this post, I’ll cover my top 10 must-do activities in Annapolis!
Short on time?
If you’re just skimming, here are my top 5 favorite things to do in Annapolis:
- Explore the U.S. Naval Academy on this awesome guided tour
- Visit the Maryland State House and take in some state history
- Stroll through historic downtown and join this delicious Annapolis food tour
- Try a fun ghost tour through Annapolis’s haunted streets
- Dine at a waterfront restaurant with beautiful Chesapeake Bay views
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10 TOP Things to Do in Annapolis (2024)
Here are some must-see sights and experiences in Annapolis, MD!
1. Tour the United States Naval Academy
Of course, a visit to the United States Naval Academy is a must when in Annapolis. Founded in 1845, the United States Naval Academy is the birthplace of many naval leaders and a symbol of American military history.
There are plenty of guided tours available to help you fully explore the stunning campus. There are so many iconic spots to see, including the Chapel and the memorials that honor U.S. naval heroes. If you’re into military history, definitely stop by the US Naval Academy!
This tour is great because you can book for all of your group members right away, customize it on request, and see other top sights in Annapolis. You get to see the Georgian mansions, the iconic Maryland State House, and historic spots like where the Treaty of Paris was signed (bringing to a conclusion the Revolutionary War) and where General Washington resigned as general.
You also get to walk along the city dock and harbor, and see the view of the Chesapeake Bay! It’s a great tour to see the most historic spots in the city, in just 2 hours.
➡️ Click here for the best Annapolis guided tour!
2. Visit the Maryland State House
The Maryland State House, located in the heart of Annapolis, is the oldest state capitol still in continuous legislative use.
This historic building has served as the temporary U.S. Capitol and was the site where George Washington famously resigned his commission, and became the “greatest general of all time”.
It’s definitely worth a visit if you’re visiting Annapolis, and it makes for a beautiful photo-op! It looks very different from other state capitols too, like the DC Capitol and Virginia Capitol buildings.
3. Stroll Along the City Dock
The City Dock is the heart of downtown Annapolis, and it’s a great place for a relaxing stroll. This area offers beautiful views of the harbor, historical sites, and lots of charming shops and cafes so you can enjoy the delicious seafood in this city!
If you’re looking for a good place to eat, you’re sure to find something on the City Dock. Almost every restaurant serves some kind of crab dish (after all, that’s what Maryland is known for)! I recommend a visit to the Dock Street Bar and Grill. Formerly a city jail, it’s now a local favorite serving up SO much crab in their crab dip!
4. Cruise the Chesapeake Bay
Annapolis is known for its scenic waterfront, and the best way to see it is from the water. For a truly unforgettable experience, take a cruise on the Chesapeake Bay like the ones offered by Watermark Journey Tours.
You can choose from relaxing boat tours, sailing adventures, or taking a sunset cruise to enjoy the views of the bay and surrounding areas. It’s a great way to see the city!
5. Walk Through Historic Downtown Annapolis
Annapolis is known for its charming, cobblestone streets and historic buildings, many of which date back to the 1700s.
Walking through downtown Annapolis feels like stepping back in time, with beautifully preserved architecture, art galleries, boutique shops, and cozy restaurants lining the streets.
There are also lots of unique places to eat in Downtown Annapolis! If you don’t want to miss out on all of the tasty bites in Annapolis, I recommend doing this historic food tour. The food stops are amazing, and you get to learn about the history of Annapolis in a fun, delicious way!
The tour combines history with food – you get to visit historic sites and hear fascinating stories while enjoying a series of dishes from downtown restaurants, which includes a tavern that was a favorite among Washington, Jefferson, and Franklin, and a local lobbyists’ favorite lunch spot.
➡️ Click here for the best Annapolis historic food tour!
6. Visit the Hammond-Harwood House
The Hammond-Harwood House is a stunning museum that offers a glimpse into the colonial past. It’s one of the best examples of Georgian architecture in the U.S. and is a beautiful photo spot with its elegant rooms, manicured gardens, and rich history.
It’s one of the main colonial houses remaining in America from the British colonial period. The house dates back to 1774, and you can see a detailed representation of a colonial kitchen and beautiful ornate rooms. If you like historic homes, the Hammond-Harwood House is definitely worth a visit!
7. Explore the Annapolis Maritime Museum
The Annapolis Maritime Museum is a great place to learn about the history of Annapolis.
Located on the waterfront, this museum features exhibits on the history of the local oyster industry, the Chesapeake Bay’s ecosystem, and the town’s deep ties to the sea. It’s an educational and fun way to learn about Annapolis’ coastal life!
8. Try a Ghost Tour
If you’re looking for more things to do in Annapolis, my friend and I recently did this ghost tour in Annapolis, and we had a blast! You can explore haunted sites like the Middleton Tavern and the James Brice House, and learn all about the alleged hauntings of the city in a way that most tourists never get to see.
I think Annapolis ghost tours are a great way to learn more about the history of these old towns. They make for unique travel experiences!
This tour is about an hour long, and recently won a Viator award of excellence! Sometimes the subject matter can get dark, but your tour guide does a good job of helping you find the balance between staying creeped out and having fun.
➡️ Explore this scary, but fun Annapolis ghost tour!
9. Have a Picnic at Quiet Waters Park
If you’re looking to escape the city, Quiet Waters Park is the place to go. The park has 200 acres of woods, trails, and open fields, and it’s a peaceful spot to enjoy a crab cake sandwich, away from the water.
The park also features art galleries and outdoor sculptures, which adds to the charm!
10. Dine at a Waterfront Restaurant
As I’m sure you’ve heard, Annapolis is famous for its seafood, and dining at a waterfront restaurant offers not only delicious food but also incredible views of the harbor.
Some incredible dishes that you should try: Maryland crab soup, crab cakes, and fresh oysters. One of my favorite restaurants on the waterfront is Boatyard Bar & Grill – their crab cakes are phenomenal, and I recommend it to anyone visiting Annapolis!
Getting Around Annapolis
Getting around Annapolis is relatively easy because of its walkable streets and small size. Most of the city’s attractions are within walking distance of each other, especially in the downtown area.
If you prefer not to walk, there are plenty of options like bike rentals, shuttle services, or even water taxis that can take you around the harbor.
And if you’re staying in the historic district, you might not even need a car, but if you plan on exploring surrounding areas like the Annapolis suburbs or nearby parks like the Quiet Waters Park, it’s best to have one.
Just be sure to check for parking before you head out, especially in busy areas like City Dock.
➡️ Visiting from out of town? I recommend this car rental to help you see more of Annapolis!
Where to Stay
Some of the best places to stay in Annapolis. Keep in mind that prices for these places may change depending on the season (summertime can be an expensive time to visit).
Budget option
For those looking to keep costs down, Graduate by Hilton Annapolis offers great value with a cozy, quirky vibe that’s right in the heart of downtown, near the US Naval Academy. It’s a stylish and affordable choice with easy access to all the main attractions.
Mid Range option
The Annapolis Waterfront Hotel, a Marriott property, is a good mid-range option. It has beautiful harbor views and comfortable rooms, and you’ll be just steps away from City Dock and plenty of restaurants.
Luxury option
If you’re looking for something more luxurious, the Historic Inns of Annapolis is it. The hotel is split up into 3 elegant inns, each in historic buildings dating from the 18th and 19th centuries.
This collection of restored historic buildings features upscale amenities and an unbeatable location, perfect for those seeking a unique luxury experience.
FAQs: Visiting Annapolis
Some commonly asked questions about visiting Annapolis!
Is Annapolis worth seeing?
Absolutely! Annapolis is worth visiting and offers a beautiful blend of history, culture, and waterfront views. You can explore historic sites, enjoy a waterfront meal, or relax by the bay.
Why is Annapolis so popular?
Annapolis is famous for its rich colonial history, its role as the U.S. naval capital, and its picturesque waterfront. Annapolis’ small-town charm, and proximity to major cities, like Washington D.C. and Baltimore, makes it a popular spot for tourists.
Does Annapolis have a downtown?
Yes, Annapolis has a vibrant downtown area that’s rich in history and culture. The charming streets are lined with restaurants, shops, museums, and historical landmarks!
Does Annapolis, Maryland have a beach?
Annapolis doesn’t have traditional beaches, but it does offer plenty of waterfront areas where you can enjoy the Chesapeake Bay. If you’re craving sand, nearby Sandy Point State Park is a great option for a beach day.
Summary: Things to Do in Annapolis
There are a lot of fun ways you can enjoy your time in Annapolis, from ghost tours to historic food tours. You’re sure to have a good time!
With its cozy atmosphere, rich maritime heritage, and scenic views, Annapolis remains one of the best spots to visit on the East Coast. I will gladly drive 1.5 hours for an incredible crab cake sandwich in Annapolis – that’s how good it is here!
Have a great time in Annapolis, and happy travels!
About the Author
Sasha is the founder of Little Happy Travels, a blog with tips and inspiration for combining work + travel and living the digital nomad lifestyle. As a business coach and remote worker, she’s spent the last few years traveling the world while helping others do the same. Follow for guides, tips, and personal stories on working from anywhere!
