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Annapolis

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State capital
—°19
Annapolis (United States)
ℹ️

Practical info — Annapolis

🌤 Weather — 5 days

📍 Nearby

Sights nearby

💡 Tips

  • Explore the historic downtown on foot, as street parking is notoriously difficult and narrow.
  • A water taxi ride features great views of the Naval Academy and is a fun way to get around.
  • Remember to bring government-issued ID if you plan to walk onto the U.S. Naval Academy grounds.
  • Summers are hot and humid; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.

🍽 Food

🍽
Maryland Crab Cakes

A must-try in Annapolis. Find excellent versions at seafood restaurants around the City Dock.

🍽
Oysters on the half shell

Enjoy fresh, local Chesapeake Bay oysters at traditional raw bars downtown.

🍽
Homemade ice cream

Grab a cone from one of the popular parlors on Main Street while strolling the docks.

🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots

🛍
Main Street Boutiques

Browse upscale clothing and nautical-themed gifts along this photogenic brick-lined street.

🛍
Maryland Avenue

Explore this quieter street for antique shops, rare bookstores, and local art galleries.

🛍
Ego Alley

While mostly for watching yachts, the immediate area has great shops selling sailing gear and apparel.

🧘
Quiet Waters Park

A beautiful, serene park offering walking trails, a dog beach, and kayak rentals away from downtown crowds.

🧘
St. John's College Campus

Walk the tranquil grounds of this historic college to escape the bustle of the nearby docks.

🧘
William Paca House Garden

Pay a small fee to wander this meticulously restored 18th-century English-style garden right in the city center.

Annapolis, the capital city of Maryland, is beautifully positioned on the Chesapeake Bay, at the mouth of the Severn River. Established in 1649, it briefly served as the capital of the United States from 1783 to 1784, making it one of the most historically significant cities in North America. Annapolis is globally recognized as the 'Sailing Capital of the World,' a title it earns through its deep-rooted maritime traditions and world-class boat shows. The centerpiece of the city's historic district is the Maryland State House, the oldest state capitol in continuous legislative use, topped by the largest wooden dome in the country built without nails. It was within these walls that George Washington resigned his commission as commander-in-chief and the Treaty of Paris was ratified. Another defining feature of Annapolis is the United States Naval Academy, founded in 1845, whose sprawling campus is a masterpiece of Beaux-Arts architecture and a training ground for the nation's naval officers. The city's economy is anchored by government administration, the defense industry, and tourism, with the easy on the eye City Dock serving as the social heart of the waterfront. Architecturally, Annapolis is home to a higher concentration of 18th-century buildings than any other U.S. city, including the magnificent Hammond-Harwood House and the William Paca House and Garden. St. John's College, one of the oldest institutions of higher learning in the country, contributes to the city's intellectual atmosphere with its famous 'Great Books' program. Geographically, its proximity to Baltimore and Washington, D.C., makes it a key part of the Atlantic megalopolis, yet it retains a distinct colonial seaside charm. The local culture is intimately tied to the Chesapeake Bay, celebrated through events like the Maryland Seafood Festival and a culinary scene dominated by the iconic Maryland blue crab. With its brick-lined streets, historic taverns, and bustling waterfront, Annapolis gives a unique blend of American heritage and modern maritime lifestyle.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C1261218232625221594
Rain mm687086911011161151181071078197

Live webcam – Annapolis

See what it looks like near Annapolis right now.

Annapolis › East: Eastport Yacht Club · 1.2 km · Open webcam on Windy · Webcams provided by Windy.com

Geography

Population
40,812 (2026)
Coordinates
38.97840, -76.49220

Facts

  • Annapolis hosted the Annapolis Convention in 1786 to discuss interstate trade.
  • The Maryland State House dome is 113 feet high and made of wood.
  • The city's nickname 'Naptown' is popular among locals and sailors.
  • Annapolis is the seat of Anne Arundel County.
  • The United States Naval Academy Museum houses a world-class collection of ship models.
  • William Paca, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, was a mayor of Annapolis.
  • The city experiences four distinct seasons with significant humidity from the Bay.
  • Kunta Kinte-Alex Haley Memorial is located at the City Dock, marking an original slave port.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

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Sights in the town Annapolis (19)

Naval Academy Museum🏛 museum

Museum at the U.S. Naval Academy displaying ship models and naval artifacts.

Naval Academy Chapel⛪ religious

Chapel with a striking dome at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis.

Naval Academy Bridge📍 landmark

Bridge over the Severn River providing access to the U.S. Naval Academy.

Severn River Bridge📍 landmark

The Severn River Bridge in Annapolis was built in 1953.

Maryland Renaissance Festival🎡 recreation

Renaissance fair with jousting and artisan shops in a replica medieval village near Annapolis.

Corcoran Environmental Study Area🌿 nature

A protected woodland in Annapolis used for environmental education.

Banneker-Douglass Museum🏛 museum

A museum in Annapolis dedicated to African American history.

Saint Margaret's Episcopal Church⛪ religious

A historic Episcopal church in the Annapolis Historic District.

Circle Theatre🎭 culture

A historic movie theater in Annapolis, now a live performance venue.

Goose Pond📍 landmark

A small pond in Annapolis near the Naval Academy.

Generals Highway Corridor Park🌿 nature

A linear park along Generals Highway in Annapolis.

Quiet Waters Park🌳 park

A waterfront park along the South River in Annapolis.

Nancy Hammond Editions🏛 museum

Gallery in Annapolis featuring original prints by artist Nancy Hammond.

Mexican War Midshipmen's Monument🏺 historical

Monument on the grounds of the US Naval Academy in Annapolis honoring midshipmen killed in the Mexican-American War.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial🏺 historical

Memorial to Martin Luther King Jr. in Annapolis's Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Park.

Kimwood Farm House🏺 historical

Historic farmhouse in Annapolis with original 18th-century furnishings.

Concert Stage🎭 culture

Outdoor stage on the Annapolis waterfront with views of the harbor.

Frequently asked questions

What is Annapolis known for?
Annapolis is famous for the US Naval Academy and its beautiful waterfront.
What is the vibe?
Historic, maritime and very relaxed, good for a weekend trip.
Is there seafood?
Yes, Maryland blue crabs are a local specialty that you must try.
Is a car required?
In the center no, but for exploring the surroundings a car is very useful.
When should I visit Annapolis?
Spring and summer are best to enjoy sailing and waterfront life.
Annapolis: where is it located?
Annapolis is located in United States.
Annapolis: what is there to see?
Highlights include Naval Academy Museum, Naval Academy Chapel, Naval Academy Bridge.
Annapolis: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
Annapolis: why is it worth visiting?
Annapolis, the capital city of Maryland, is beautifully positioned on the Chesapeake Bay, at the mouth of the Severn River.
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