AEBR’S TOP 9 THINGS TO DO IN ANNAPOLIS, MD
Our wonderful city of Annapolis, Maryland is situated right on the Chesapeake Bay and there are tons of exciting things to do and beautiful sights to see. Known as one of the most scenic towns in the Mid-Atlantic region, Annapolis is home to a variety of museums, historic sites, great shopping, restaurants and fun events. We’ve put together a list of 9 must-see and must-do places and activities that are sure to make your next trip to Annapolis unforgettable!|
1. Visit the U.S. Naval Academy
Home of around 4,000 midshipmen, the Naval Academy is Annapolis, Maryland’s claim to fame. This Academy trains officers of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps all year round. Guided tours are available and don’t miss the newly renovated chapel and its massive pipe organ! The Naval Academy Museum houses more than 50,000 artifacts and is home to the famous Gallery of Ships. The U.S. Naval Academy is definitely a must see and that’s why it has a place on our list!
2. Visit the Annapolis Maritime Museum
Located right on the waterfront, the Annapolis Maritime Museum explores Annapolis’ deep heritage with exhibits about the city itself as well as the Chesapeake Bay. The museum often features live entertainment on occasion. Explore exhibits about the life of watermen and the seafood industry of times gone by in the museum’s Bay Experience Center that is housed within the area’s last remaining oyster packing plant. The Museum also offers a 1.5 mile boat trip out to the Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse. Here, you can tour the last remaining screw-pile lighthouse in it’s original location!
3. Feast on Steamed Crabs
No “must-do” list is complete without that locations most popular food or beverage! That’s why we’ve included what Maryland is most known for – fresh crab! You won’t have to look for long in order to find a restaurant that serves great steamed crabs – they dot the 400 miles of shoreline all throughout Anne Arundel County. Favorites include Mike’s Restaurant and Crab House, Canter’s Riverside Inn, Skipper’s Pier and plenty of others. All of these restaurants contribute to the 3.9 million crabs are cracked here in Annapolis each year. Also worth noting is the Annapolis Rotary Crab Feast held at the Navy-Marine Corps Stadium. It takes place on the first Friday of August each year and is considered to be the largest crab feast in the world!
4. Tour the Maryland State House
The History of Annapolis is what makes us who we are, so the Maryland State House is a must see location. You can request a guided tour which begins at the State House Visitors’ Center. Learn about the rich and historic past of the oldest state capitol that is still in use by the legislation.
5. Attend an Event or Festival
If your visit takes place on a weekend, be sure to catch the Summer at City Dock performances, bringing street performers and musicians to the Annapolis waterfront. Annapolis is also home to several arts festivals where craft vendors, artists, musical acts and street performers gather to celebrate the arts. Not to mention, right by our dock – every Thursday night until August 16th. Visit the Annapolis Tourism website to learn more about the events held throughout the year in Annapolis.
6. Watch Wednesday Night Sailboat Races
Every Wednesday night from the beginning of April to the second Wednesday in September, over 125 sailboats race through the glistening water around several markers in the Chesapeake Bay and then head to Spa Creek to finish up the race in from of the Annapolis Yacht Club (who organizes the event). Make sure you get out to see one of these awesome races, the first gun is at 6:05 pm!
7. Attend a Sporting Event at the Navy-Marine Corps Stadium
There are year round sporting events at the state-of-the-art sports facility that serves as a home field of the Navy Midshipmen football team, their men’s lacrosse team and the Chesapeake Bayhawks lacrosse team. Enjoy a variety of events such as the Annapolis 10 Miler, The Rotary Crab Feats, Annapolis Arts & Crafts Festival and the list goes on!
8. Ride an Electric Bike
While boats are definitely a staple mode of transportation in Annapolis, our city also offers other ways to get around. Rent a high-efficiency electric bike and cycle throughout the historic district. These state of the art cycles are easy to ride and require only as much effort as you want to put forth!
9. Rent a Boat From Annapolis Electric Boat Rentals
We saved the best for last! At Annapolis Electric Boat Rentals, we firmly believe that the most authentic and relaxing way to tour Annapolis is through the water in one of our eco-friendly electric boats. Perfect for a day trip, corporate events, bridesmaid parties, birthdays, and much more each of our boats are equipped with a full roof and side panels, iPhone and auxiliary cords so you can play your favorite music – and the best part – they’re virtually silent! We’ve also partnered with our neighbor (and one of Annapolis’ most popular restaurants) to offer fresh and delicious catering while you’re on your sunset cruise! Make your reservation quickly and easily online or give us a call at (443) 433-2129!