Annapolis has everything from the clear waters of Chesapeake Bay to the lush landscape beyond. What was once a political hub is now a popular tourist destination without losing its historic charms. Annapolis is a city full of colonial heritage. Europeans founded Annapolis in the mid-1600s when Puritans from neighboring Virginia arrived. By the 18th century, during and after the American Revolutionary War, it had become an important political center and port. Also crucial in the War of 1812 due to its function as a harbor.
The United States Naval Academy, a stunning Beaux-Arts masterpiece and one of the city's numerous historic landmarks, is still here. Due to its long association with the sea, the town of Annapolis is a central hub for the sailing industry, and its numerous ports are home to ships of every kind. There's a lot to do in Annapolis, whether you're interested in history, the outdoors, or just taking it easy.
Top 5 Motives For Visiting Annapolis
The History
Several historical structures are still standing in this colonial capital city, including the Maryland State House and St. John's Institution, a private arts college founded in 1696. Museums like the William H. Butler House and the Maynard-Burgess House are also great places to learn about African-American history.
Fun On The Water
Many consider Annapolis to be the world's sailing capital due to the abundance of luxurious vessels and top-notch amenities. However, there are other ways to take in the beauty of the Chesapeake Bay and its environs. There is a wide variety of water-based activities, including fishing, kayaking, beautiful cruises, excursions, and more.
Natural Beauty
Truxtun Park, which encompasses 70 acres of walkways and greenery and has a boat launch and swimming pool during the warmer months, is just one of Annapolis' more than 200 parks. The 340-acre Quiet Waters Park, which parallels the picturesque Harness Creek, is just one of numerous parks and hiking paths in the area.
Wining And Dining
The fertile region around Annapolis yields some excellent sauvignon Blancs as well as other vintages, itself, and farmers supply the city's thriving dining scene. Blue crabs collected in the Chesapeake Bay are delicious in various preparations, including steamed, soft shells and the world-famous Maryland crab cake. Another popular dish is the lobster roll, which is similar to a submarine sandwich but is filled with lobster meat and other toppings.
Day Trips
Annapolis, Maryland's capital, is located about 30 miles east of Washington, D.C., approximately 25 miles south of Baltimore, making it a handy base to see the city's rich history, culture, and landmarks.
Activities In Annapolis
United States Naval Academy: You Want You
Those interested in learning more about what it takes to become a Naval Agency of the United States Army may get valuable information via guided tours of the United States Naval Academy. The nation's top students are educated at this prestigious institution with a stunning waterfront campus and a curriculum built on exemplary discipline. Go to the Naval Academy Museum to learn about the rich history of one of the most outstanding universities in the United States and catch the students' uniforms during the daily Noon Formation.
Pre-Revolutionary Politics in Maryland's State House
Annapolis, located on the Chesapeake Bay, is the location of the oldest continuously operating State Capitol in the United States and was one of the earliest European settlements in North America. The stately structure is located in the heart of the city, and it is open all year for tours that are sure to be educational and entertaining. Look around at the antique paintings that line the walls and marvel at the massive wooden dome that soars over the city. Outdoors, you'll find the Kunta Kinte-Alex Haley Memorial.
Founding Father William Paca House
The home of William Paca, one of the few people to sign the Declaration of Independence, is a perfect example of Colonial American architecture. This meticulous recreation is so accurate that it has been designated a National Historic Landmark. It reveals a wealth of information about life in the American upper class during nationhood. The gardens provide a beautiful respite from the bustle of the city and invite leisurely exploration of the well-planned environment.
Family-friendly Quiet Waters Park
Beautiful formal gardens and an intriguing sculpture park add to the appeal of this park, which is situated on a tranquil bay and offers a wide variety of fun activities for visitors of all ages. In the summer, the city of Annapolis comes out to enjoy the city's many recreational opportunities, including miles of waterside jogging pathways, the chance to canoe or kayak the coves, and numerous dog parks for kings. The South River Scenic Outlook is an excellent spot for a picnic because of the scenic views it offers of the river and the surrounding area. Also, in the winter, a giant ice skating rink appears.
Ego Alley at Annapolis City Dock
This bay's moniker comes from the frequent passage of luxury watercraft, including sailboats and yachts. To the joy of landlubbers out for evening strolls, these shining examples of the affluent cruise back and forth down Dock Street. Visitors visiting the waterfront will find the Storm Brothers Ice Cream Factory, a popular local hangout known for its inventive handcrafted flavors, a delightful addition to their day.
Conclusion
Since there are so many exciting things to do in Annapolis, it attracts many visitors yearly. The United States Naval Academy, the Annapolis City Dock, and the Maryland State House are all must-sees. Take a walk around the city's historic area and stop at some of the museums, such as the Hammond-Harwood House and the Kunta Kinte-Alex Haley Memorial.
