Annapolis Travel Guide

Annapolis is sort of like the 4th of July on the Eastern Seaboard, a place where patriotism, watersports and fun coexist year-round. Things to do for visitors here tilt toward the historic and the authentic. You can take a tour and admire the 17th, 18th and 19th century buildings, such as the Maryland State House and the Hammond-Harwood House. You can recite the Pledge of Allegiance every single day at Chick and Ruth's Delly, where the menu consists of such modern-American staples as obscenely large milkshakes and a Super Duper Colossal Burger. If you want to get active, you can charter a sailboat and enjoy a relaxing day of fresh air on the waters of Chesapeake Bay.

Sights

Annapolisis home to the United States Naval Academy and, if you're a fan of military history, you ought to spend a few hours at the Naval Academy Museum enjoying the 50,000 artifacts and the popular Gallery of Ships. A couple of other interesting stops in town are the Colonial-era William Paca House & Garden and the charming Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse. If you have kids along and you want to burn off some of their energy, take them for a day of swimming at Sandy Point State Park or explore City Dock in the lovely historic district. It's known by locals as Ego Alley for its many high-end luxury yachts.

Things to Do

Annapolis is home to myriad activities for visitors. You can explore the nooks and crannies of the historic district on a walking tour or try a Green Pedals electric bike. In spring you can admire the milelong path of vibrant flowers in the woodland garden at beautiful Historic London Town and Gardens. If you enjoy the water but sailing is not your forte, try renting a Duffy Electric Boat -- you can take as many as 10 and be your own captain. The many modes of transportation on land and water make getting to places in Annapolis quite easy. Flag down an eCruiser along the streets of the historic district of Eastport or take a water taxi to get to one of the many waterfront restaurants and tourist sites.

Shopping and Dining

Don't leave Annapolis without sampling some of the delicious seafood -- especially the steamed crabs -- that is the specialty of the restaurants that fill Restaurant Row. Gastronomic delights are also to be found in abundance on Main Street. The focus for shopping is among the many stores, galleries and boutiques in downtown Annapolis, although they can be pricey. Baragin buys can be found in Westfield Annapolis Mall, so be sure to drop anchor here for a couple hours before heading home.

Where to Go in Annapolis