Annapolis Travel Guide

Your all-in-one guide to Annapolis.
Last Updated
:
September 8, 2024
Aerial view of Chesapeake Bay of Annapolis, Maryland at sunrise
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Let’s face it – beach resorts and glitzy vacations are overrated. All that sunscreen reapplying, lounging by crowded pools, and paying $25 for a so-so mai tai eventually makes you wonder: is this it? But the charming coastal town of Annapolis, Maryland whispers: come find out what a vacation is meant to be.

Nestled on the Chesapeake Bay, Annapolis is like a love letter to American history that you can walk through. Every cobblestoned street, 18th century building, and lapping wave hearkens back to the colonial days while lively shops and restaurants add just enough modern spirit. So leave the resort boredom behind and prepare for a weekend getaway that will have you feeling positively patriotic!

Frankly, finding amusement shouldn’t be hard in a place that’s seen the likes of George Washington pace its streets. Let your inner history nerd run wild at the Naval Academy and State House where you’ll learn things they definitely left out of your high school textbooks. And if you happen upon reenactors in the historic district, go ahead and ask them about their Revolutionary War uniform but don’t get miffed if they stay ominously in character.

Beyond the old haunts, downtown Annapolis serves up endless opportunities for relaxation, entertainment, and oh yes…seafood dinners that will have you questioning every other coastal city you’ve ever visited. Dip your toes in the bay before drinks at a dockside bar, shop till you drop on Main Street, or simply meander blissfully from one end of City Dock to the other. By the end, you’ll wonder why you ever wasted money on those tourist trap vacations.

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About Annapolis

Aerial Panoramic View Annapolis Maryland State House Capital City
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Visit the state’s capital city in Annapolis, Maryland, located on the Chesapeake Bay. This city features beautiful historic districts, including the stately 17th-century Maryland State House. The historic cemetery at St. Anne’s Episcopal Church is a must-see. Also in Annapolis is the United States Naval Academy, which has beautiful beaux-arts architecture and monuments. It also has a naval history museum.

The city has a vibrant academic community. The United States Naval Academy, founded in 1845, educates future officers of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. The city’s two colleges have long held influential positions in the community. Each participates in an annual croquet match. It is easy to see why Annapolis is a top destination for academics.

The state capital is located thirty miles from Baltimore, Maryland. It is part of the Baltimore-Washington metropolitan area, which is one of the most important economic and political regions in the country. This area has nearly three million residents. During the Revolutionary War, Annapolis played a pivotal role in the formation of the United States. It served as the temporary capital of the country after General George Washington’s resignation as commander-in-chief of the Continental Army in 1783.

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Why Go to Annapolis

Government House and St Anne's Parish Episcopal church in Annapolis MA with old tree branches at spring, Maryland USA
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Annapolis, Maryland, is a city with a mix of historic sites and water-fueled activities. Among the many things to do in Annapolis are taking sailing lessons, touring the 19th-century St. Anne’s Church, and comparing yachts on “Ego Alley.” There are plenty of places to eat steamed crabs as well.

The city also has a lot of arts and cultural opportunities. The Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts, a thriving arts center with an 800-seat auditorium, showcases many artists and hosts arts classes. The city also has a large number of theaters and performing arts companies. Whether you are a history buff or just want to experience a live performance, Annapolis will not disappoint.

If you’re staying in a hotel or motel, the town of Annapolis offers a variety of amenities and activities. You can enjoy the waterfront views, try yoga or art classes, or shop for the perfect gift. A tour of Annapolis’ historic district is a great way to get to know the city better.

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Best Time to Go

Church Circle, Annapolis, Maryland
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Summer is a great time to visit Annapolis. The weather is warm and sunny, and you can enjoy outdoor activities like boating or fishing. You can also visit the museums and explore the harbor. The city has plenty of places to party, too. The most popular tourist attractions are located near the waterfront.

There are a few seasons in Annapolis, but between March and May, the weather is pleasant and comfortable. High temperatures hover around 13°C in March and April, while temperatures rise to 20-25°C in May. The weather is a bit hotter during the summer months, when many people come to enjoy the sailing season. Temperatures in June and August are around 30°C, with lows of 21°C at night. However, be prepared for a couple of days of rain.

You can find out the best time to go to Annapolis by looking at the weather chart. This chart displays the average temperature, rainfall, and sunshine hours in Annapolis. By viewing the weather chart, you can determine whether the weather in Annapolis is favorable for swimming or other hot-weather activities.

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How to Get Around

Annapolis pinned on a map of USA
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If you’re planning to visit Annapolis, there are a number of options available. Using public transportation is the most convenient way to explore the city. Annapolis offers free trolley service from 7:30 AM to 11:00 PM, Monday through Friday. You can also catch a ride on the free Magenta Shuttle. While these options are convenient, they are also limited in their hours.

You can also take the bus system, which runs throughout the city. There are six routes, which are available at different times of the day. Day passes are available for $4. Taxis are also available and cost $2.50 per mile. Uber also runs in the area. If you’re unsure of how to get around Annapolis, you can use these quick links to get an idea of how to get around.

Another option is to use the Annapolis GO, a flexible on-demand micro-transit system that allows riders to change routes whenever they want. This system eliminates traffic and parking headaches, while promoting economic development. Historically, Annapolis was a horse and human-scaled city. While this may have worked well 400 years ago, it can be problematic today. As a result, nearly 90 percent of residents travel by automobile.

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Best Restaurants

Restaurant view of Boatyard Bar and Grill
Boatyard Bar & Grill

There are some great restaurants to choose from in Annapolis. You’ll find everything from traditional American fare to international cuisine here. In addition, you can find a selection of local craft beer. In addition, the atmosphere is inviting, and you’ll enjoy the hospitable service. If you’re looking for a local dining experience, consider Latitude 38, which offers both indoor and outdoor seating. This place has great character, and the food is delicious. The menu features local ingredients and fresh, seasonal dishes.

Preserve is another great Annapolis restaurant. Owned by Jeremy and Michelle Hoffman, this restaurant has a unique take on classic dishes. Chef Jeremy Hoffman uses fresh local ingredients for the menu, and his wife Michelle pickles many of the ingredients. There are also plenty of great service options and happy hours for members.

The Boatyard Bar and Grill is another excellent dining option. This eccentric and picturesque restaurant has been popular with Annapolis locals for many years. It has a small seating area, which is great for smaller parties. While it doesn’t have a great view of the bay, the ambiance is still very charming.

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Things to Do

Francis Street, and the Maryland State House, in Annapolis, Mary
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There are many things to do in Annapolis, Maryland. First of all, you can visit the State House, where George Washington signed the treaty of Paris, ending the Revolutionary War and surrendering Washington’s authority as commander-in-chief. Secondly, you can check out the Banneker-Douglass Museum, which is one of Maryland’s premier art museums.

Annapolis is one of the most beautiful places in Maryland, making it a wonderful location for extravagant events. You can also visit the famous City Dock, also known as “Ego Alley,” where you can see some amazing boats and attractions. During spring, you can also catch the spring sailboat show at the City Dock.

One of the most popular attractions in Annapolis is the Amish Market. Located near the Harbor Center on Solomon’s Island Road, this place has a variety of local vendors selling everything from clothing to food. It is also home to a full restaurant that serves lunch, dinner, and dessert. You can also check out the Millwood Furniture Store, which sells beautiful handmade hardwood furniture.

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Neighborhoods to Know

Downtown Annapolis, Maryland With street and neighborhood
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When choosing a place to live in Annapolis, Maryland, there are several neighborhoods to consider. The Eastport neighborhood is a nautically themed neighborhood, while the Annapolis Arts District is a diverse area with many fine restaurants, art galleries, and artist studios. The Annapolis Maritime Museum is located at the tip of the peninsula.

The Historic District is a popular residential neighborhood in Annapolis, Maryland, where large homes with high values were built. The area was originally a town of only 10,000 people, but by the early 20th century, Annapolis had outgrown its boundaries. As a result, it was one of the fastest-growing towns in the state and now boasted many modern conveniences. However, it was important to note that many historic homes in this neighborhood were destroyed or replaced by newer structures.

While Annapolis’ historic neighborhoods are charming, many residents consider some of the city’s other neighborhoods better. While they may lack the lofty infrastructure of other cities, these neighborhoods are full of charm and character. There are numerous parks, festivals, and waterfront views in the city. There are also plenty of affordable options for residents looking for a place to live. If you love history, nature, or outdoor activities, Annapolis is an excellent choice. It’s located close to Washington, D.C., so you can easily commute to the city from here.

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Weather

Aerial drone of Downtown Annapolis, Maryland With city
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The weather in Annapolis varies greatly throughout the year. The clearest months are from July to September, and the cloudiest months are from November to January. During the clearest months, the sun will be out 63% of the day. On the other hand, the cloudiest months are November and January, when the sky will be overcast 51% of the time. The following table shows the average weather for Annapolis by season.

The warm season in Annapolis lasts for 3.7 months, and the cold season lasts for 3.2 months. The average daily high temperature in Annapolis is around 76°F. The cold season, from January to September, lasts for three months, and the average daily low temperature is around 50°F. This climate means that the best time to visit Annapolis is during the warm months. The best time to visit is from mid-August to early October.

The temperature in Annapolis will be in the mid to low 60s. There is a chance of rain after 5 pm, but this will be limited to scattered showers of varying intensity. During this time, the wind will be at 13 mph (21 km/h).

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