Things to do in Annapolis, Maryland
- Annapolis served briefly as the temporary capital of the United States from 1783 to 1784, during which time George Washington resigned his commission as commander-in-chief of the Continental Army.
- The city's street layout is unique among colonial capitals, featuring a radial design inspired by Baroque city planning rather than a standard grid system.
- Annapolis has the highest concentration of 18th-century brick buildings still standing in the United States.
- It is officially designated as the 'Sailing Capital of the World' due to its status as a premier center for collegiate and competitive sailing.
About Annapolis, Maryland
Annapolis serves as both the capital of Maryland and a pivotal nautical hub located on the Severn River near the Chesapeake Bay. The city functions as the home of the U.S. Naval Academy, which integrates deep maritime traditions with a well-preserved historic district dating back to the colonial era. Visitors can experience this history firsthand at the William Paca House & Garden or explore the naval legacy at the U.S. Naval Academy Museum. The waterfront is anchored by the Annapolis City Dock, which remains the central artery for maritime commerce and public leisure.
Highlights of Annapolis, Maryland
The places our editors single out — and why they're worth your time.
Parks
This historic waterfront hub offers the best vantage point for watching boat traffic enter and exit the Severn River.
Venues
This stadium serves as the primary home for Navy football and major midshipmen athletic events.
Parks
The park features extensive paved trails that wind through wooded areas and open spaces along the South River.
Museums
The museum showcases the technical history of the U.S. Navy and the evolution of the adjacent Academy campus.
Historical places
The site includes a meticulously restored 18th-century home and a two-acre pleasure garden showcasing period-accurate flora.
Museums
Visitors can explore the ruins of an 18th-century colonial town and take guided walking tours through historic gardens.
Parks
This park provides public access to the shoreline and iconic views of the historic lighthouse.
Venues
This venue hosts professional stage productions in an intimate setting within the heart of the city.
Top things to do in Annapolis, Maryland
The 74 highest-rated places in Annapolis, Maryland, ranked by travellers.
1
Parks
Sandy Point State Park serves as the primary public beach and recreation area on the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay...
2
Parks
Annapolis City Dock, known locally as Ego Alley, serves as the historic maritime center of Maryland's capital. It acts a...
3
Venues
4
Parks
5
Parks
6
Places of interest
7
Museums
8
Parks
9
Places of interest
10
Parks
11
Parks
12
Historical places
13
Parks
14
Venues
15
Museums
16
Parks
17
Parks
18
Parks
19
Parks
20
Venues
21
Museums
22
Historical places
23
Parks
24
Venues
25
Parks
26
Museums
27
Venues
28
Beaches and ponds
29
Museums
30
Parks
Explore by category
Jump straight to what you're into.
Annapolis, Maryland on the map
Top attractions plotted across the city.
Plan your visit to Annapolis, Maryland
Late spring (May-June) or early autumn (September-October) offers the most temperate weather for walking tours and harbor activities.
2-3 days, providing sufficient time to tour the historic district, the Naval Academy, and one of the surrounding parks.
The historic district is highly walkable, though driving or rideshares are necessary to reach outlying parks like Quiet Waters or Thomas Point.
Stay in or near the Historic District to be within walking distance of the City Dock and major landmarks, or choose a hotel near the waterfront for better views.
Mid-to-high range; accommodation and dining in the historic core command a premium, especially during graduation weeks or boating events.
Frequently asked
Aventuro lists 74 curated attractions in and around Annapolis, Maryland, ranked by traveller ratings.
Sandy Point State Park is the highest-rated place to visit in Annapolis, Maryland right now.
The largest category is parks, with 28 places to explore.
Travellers also explore Bayonne, New Jersey, Downtown Los Angeles, Washington, D.C..
Explore more of United States of America
Other cities ranked by number of curated places.
