What to do in Annapolis, MD

Activities, attractions and tours
Annapolis

Annapolis Attractions

If you are looking for a vacation option among the historical cities of America's eastern shores, you should consider a sojourn in Annapolis. Known as the country's "Sailing Capital," things to do in Annapolis include attending the Wednesday night sailing races that take place on a regular basis on Chesapeake Bay from the end of April through August.

You can see the races best by going to Annapolis Harbor and grabbing a dockside chair.

If you enjoy the water, Annapolis excursions you might enjoy include day cruises on the bay as well as renting sailboats on the docks. If you are a Renaissance Fair aficionado, the Maryland Renaissance Fair begins in late August and continues through October. Other attractions in Annapolis include the Maryland State House, which was built in 1772 and played a significant part in the early beginnings of the United States. The United States Naval Academy is located along the shores of the Chesapeake Bay and is among the favorite choices of the average tourist for Annapolis tours. One of the must see places in the Naval Academy is Preble Hall, which houses the Academy's museum.

Because the Chesapeake Bay region of MD is renowned for its seafood, you won't want to miss the spots that specialize in the preparations of the bay's regional cuisine. The top places to eat are likely to be local restaurants a little off the beaten path. It is recommended you get a map of the city and look for side streets close to Chesapeake Bay's main harbor. However, if you love classic, picturesque Americana, you can't beat Main Street in downtown Annapolis. Its brick buildings, tall-steepled churches and old-fashioned lamp posts will make you think that you have gone back to another time.

For more information on Annapolis activities as well as the latest news on lodging and dining, contact our offices here at Expedia. Whether you are seeking art and culture, heritage tours or outdoor water-based fun, we can help you put together the Chesapeake Bay vacation of your dreams.


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Discover the most popular places to visit in Annapolis

Explore areas of Annapolis

Annapolis which includes street scenes and a city as well as a small group of people

Historic District

While visiting Historic District, you might make a stop by sights like Thurgood Marshall Memorial and Maryland State House.

Historic District
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Eastport

While visiting Eastport, you might make a stop by sights like Annapolis Maritime Museum and Spa Creek.

Eastport
The BEST farm to table restaurant in downtown Annapolis.  The liquor bar and specialty cocktails can't be beat. Hometown fave, for sure!

Murray Hill

While visiting Murray Hill, you might make a stop by sights like Ballet Theater of Maryland and Spa Creek.

Murray Hill
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Cape Saint Claire

While Cape Saint Claire might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Sandy Point State Park and Chesapeake Bay Bridge.

Cape Saint Claire
Maryland Quiet Waters Park featuring a garden and a house

Hillsmere

If you're spending some time in Hillsmere, Maryland Quiet Waters Park and Great Frogs Winery are top sights worth seeing.

Hillsmere
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Homewood

While Homewood might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Maryland Hall for Creative Arts and Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium.

Homewood

Day trip destinations from Annapolis