Annapolis, Maryland
Time Needed: full-day
Experience Type: historic landmark, small-town charm
Steeped in history and maritime tradition, Annapolis is Maryland’s charming capital city. Known as “America’s Sailing Capital,” enjoy a lively mix of historic landmarks, museums, and cultural attractions alongside modern shops, restaurants, and sailing adventures.
MUST-DO CHECKLIST
- Sample World-Famous Blue Crabs – Savor sweet, succulent Chesapeake Bay blue crabs at local crab houses. This signature seafood is best enjoyed steamed with Old Bay seasoning.
- Get Out on the Water – It’s an absolute must to explore Annapolis by boat. Join a harbor cruise, take a sailing lesson, attend a boat show, or hop on a water taxi.
- Stroll the Historic District – Explore 18th-century brick homes and landmarks where the Treaty of Paris was ratified in 1784, ending the Revolutionary War.
- Tour the Maryland State House – Walk the halls of America’s oldest state capitol and see where George Washington resigned as commander-in-chief of the Continental Army in 1783.
- Visit the Banneker-Douglass-Tubman Museum – Discover African American history and heritage in Maryland. Exhibits highlight such figures as Frederick Douglass and Harriet Tubman.
Itinerary Idea: See Annapolis from the water on a relaxed 40-minute cruise that glides past the U.S. Naval Academy and along the city’s historic harbor. Book your spot to enjoy recorded narration highlighting local history and waterfront life.
Photo Credit: Maryland GovPics/Flickr