Annapolis, Maryland’s capital city, is a lesser known destination in the area, but worth a day’s visit. It’s known mainly for seafood due to its location along the Chesapeake Bay, its colonial history, and the U.S. Naval Academy, which makes for a pretty interesting trio. I’ve included these attractions and more in my list of five things to do in Annapolis.

Eat seafood

Plate of sea scallops with asparagus and risotto in an Annapolis Maryland restaurant

You can’t go to Annapolis without having any seafood. There are plenty of options, especially for crabs which is not just a meal, but a social activity. Try Buddy’s Crabs & Ribs, Sam’s on the Waterfront, Carrol’s Creek Cafe, McGarvey’s Saloon and Oyster Bar, Boatyard Bar & Grill, or many others.

Although they’re not a seafood restaurant, Reynolds Tavern is also worth a visit. They offer afternoon tea service and regular dining in a historic building from the 18th century.

Experience history

Annapolis is a great place for history nerds. History is all around in Annapolis, but a good place to start is Hogshead, an area that features wood-framed homes common in the 18th century and colonial-dressed guides to make it an interactive experience. You can also visit historic homes like the William Paca House, a mansion built by one of Maryland’s signers of the Declaration of Independence, or the Chase-Lloyd House, home of another signer of the Declaration of Independence.

Two colonial-style buildings in downtown Annapolis Maryland

Enjoy the water

There are many places where you can take a dip or just sit or walk by the water. Some include the Annapolis Harbor, Quiet Waters Park, Sandy Point State Park, George Washington Davis Memorial Park in the Eastpoint neighborhood, Sparrows Beach, and the Beverly Triton Nature Park in Edgewater.

Visit museums and galleries

Annapolis has plenty of opportunities to experience art or learn about history in a museum. The Banneker-Douglass Museum traces African-American history from slavery until today and honors Benjamin Banneker and Frederick Douglass, both born in Maryland. You can also take a tour of the U.S. Naval Academy, visit the Annapolis Maritime Museum & Park, or stop into one of the art galleries you can find along the street in the shopping areas.

An art gallery sign on a brick building with a historic state capitol house in the background in Annapolis Maryland

Go shopping

Main Street is the place you want to be for shopping and dining. The street is lined with tons of boutiques, shops, and restaurants and is visually charming with its historic colonial-style brick architecture and water views.

A display of clothing and jewelry in a shopping boutique in downtown Annapolis Maryland

Anything else I missed to do in Annapolis? Would you consider a day trip to the city? Leave it in the comments!


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2 Comments

  1. avatar

    It’s great to know that Annapolis has lots of opportunities to visit museums and galleries. My husband and I are going to Maryland to visit his brother and his wife. I think it would be fun to find some summer activities to do while we’re there.

    1. avatar

      Great, I hope you enjoy the trip!

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