Things to Do in Annapolis

Start Planning Your Stay

There are so many things to do in Annapolis, and our inviting property is your gateway to the best of the region. Whether you enjoy getting out on the water, exploring colonial history, shopping, dining, gambling, or all of the above, you’ve come to the right place.

Spend some time on the water

Salt water on your face and the bay breeze in your hair can be experienced in a variety of ways. An authentic sailing experience can be shared aboard the Schooner Woodwind. Or, learn to sail with the capable instructors of Annapolis School of SeamanshipAnnapolis Sailing School, or J World Performance Sailing School.  Paddle boards, kayaks, and small crafts can be rented from Capital SUPAnnapolis Canoe and Kayak, or South River Boat Rentals. No visit would be complete without watching the billowing sails of the sailboats and the impressive luxury yachts as they maneuver their way through the famed Ego Alley of Annapolis Harbor.

Visit the United States Naval Academy

Founded in 1845, the 238-acre campus is home to Bancroft Hall, the country's largest dormitory, and King Hall, one of the world's largest dining halls — serving 12,000 meals a day. Be sure to visit the copper-domed Cathedral of the Navy, the Athletic Hall of Fame, the sarcophagus of John Paul Jones, and the bronze statue of Bill the Goat — the original Navy mascot.

Immerse yourself in history

Many of Annapolis' historic homes, including the Charles Carroll HouseChase-Lloyd HouseHammond-Harwood House, and William Paca House and Gardens, can be enjoyed first-hand. The Maryland State House, the oldest state capital building in continuous use, and the Government House have played significant roles in the country's history. Chartered in 1784, four of St. John's College's founders signed the Declaration of Independence.

Take a tour

Local experts provide engaging overviews of Annapolis on Discover Annapolis Tours/Minibus Tours' trolleys, as well as on foot with Watermark and Annapolis Food Tours.

Shop

Relish in the search for that one-of-a-kind item in the charming shops of downtown Annapolis, visit the storefronts of your favorite designers at Arundel Mills and Queenstown Premium Outlets, and browse popular retailers at Annapolis Towne Center and Westfield Annapolis.  

Savor a great meal 

The possibilities are endless here — whether you're craving locally harvested seafood, your favorite ethnic dishes, or simple comfort food, Annapolis will never leave you hungry — or thirsty. Try Pusser's Caribbean Grille, just steps from your room, or one of the city's other eateries.

Enjoy a little fresh air 

Enjoy a little downtime at one of the area's beautiful parks: Quiet Waters Park or Sandy Point State Park. Get your heart racing at Terrapin Adventures or test your skills at Renditions Golf CourseQueenstown Harbor, or South River courses.

Catch an exciting game

Spectator sports are plentiful in the Annapolis area. Baseball season brings the Baltimore Orioles, the Washington Nationals, and the Bowie Baysox to the plate. In the fall, watch the pigskins fly as the Baltimore Ravens, the Washington Redskins, and Navy take the field.

Visit a museum 

Delve into Annapolis history at the Banneker-Douglass Museum, the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, or the Annapolis Maritime Museum.

Gamble a little 

Try your luck at Maryland Live! and Horseshoe Baltimore casinos.

Relax and unwind

No travel experience is complete without a little time wrapped in a plush robe, indulging in room service and enjoying the magnificent views from your guest room.

Take a day trip

Extend your stay an extra day or two to take advantage of our close proximity to Baltimore (26 miles) and Washington, D.C. (30 miles). For additional area information, check out the Annapolis visitor website, Anne Arundel County Conference and Visitors Bureau, Maryland Office of Tourism, and What's Up Annapolis.