"ANNAPOLIS, MARYLAND--Historic Chesapeake Bay area" Top 5 Page for this destination Annapolis by VeronicaG

Annapolis Travel Guide: 223 reviews and 537 photos

Historic Annapolis

We've visited Annapolis several times, finding its history alluring.

The Annapolis area was first settled by Puritans. The town was officially established in the late 1600's and named for Princess Anne, future Queen of England. In 1694 Annapolis became the capital of all the colony and held its importance as a seaport village until the American Revolution. Later it became the capital of Maryland.

The restored town has hundreds of colonial style buildings which add to its character. A pretty park surrounding the waterfront is a meeting place for many. Boat cruises on the Chesapeake can be scheduled, too. It's wonderful being able to walk through the streets and imagine so well what life must have been like in the 1700-1800's. There are parts of town that haven't changed much since that time.

Candlelight tours of the town and buildings highlight historic Annapolis at certain times of the year. These events take place at the William Paca house on 18 Prince George Street. There are also events at which re-enactors tell what its like to live in colonial times. Event information:410-267-8146. See www.hometownannapolis.com or call 800-603-4020.

National historic landmark, Annapolis Naval Academy (1845) is situated here. The Maryland State House where Senate and House of Representatives meet is open for self-guided tours. Look further to see my TIPS on Annapolis!

Enjoying the Waterfront

Our son and the kids with author Alex Haley

The waterfront is the place to be on a nice day. The boats come and go, the water laps at the wall and a good part of historic Annapolis can be seen from this point.

Interesting note: the Chesapeake Bay is 623 square miles of inland water, 185 miles long, up to 175 feet deep and as wide as 30 miles. Blue crabs are an important industry in this area.

At the waterfront looking towards town

View of the town and city dock from our boat tour

Historic Annapolis--just ready for exploring!

Pros and Cons

Pros:Historic buildings; pretty waterfront area; walkable
Cons:One way streets can seem a little confusing at first
In a nutshell:A town overflowing with history!

Last visit to Annapolis: Jul 2004
Intro Updated Sep 20, 2006
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Reviews (7)

Annapolis What to Pack (1)

The town of Annapolis, Maryland comprises 6.7 miles and is located in Anne Arundel County. As of 2004, the estimated... more travel advice

Oldest State House Things to Do (3)

The Maryland State Capital Building (circa 1772-1779) is the oldest state house still in legislative use. It was the... more travel advice

Boat Tour of the Chesapeake Bay Things to Do (3)

While in Annapolis consider taking a boat ride! We cruised Chesapeake Bay while in Annapolis our last visit and thought... more travel advice

Antique calling card from my collection - Annapolis

Great food in an 18th century setting Restaurants (1)

The Middleton Tavern offers delicious meals in an 18th century setting. It is known for its seafood, but we've enjoyed... more travel advice

Shopping (1)
SHOPPING AROUND ANNAPOLIS

Hotels (1)
A hotel with a view!

Comments (11)

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Gillybob Sep 22, 2012 at 6:12 AM

I really like Annapolis - it's a lovely place! Gillybob greetings
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ViajesdelMundo Feb 28, 2010 at 3:29 PM

Nice page; it's such a special place and lots of early memories for me.
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Nemorino Aug 12, 2009 at 1:57 AM

All I ever associated with Annapolis was the Naval Academy. Didn't know there was so much (also earlier) history.
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junecorlett Apr 23, 2009 at 5:50 AM

I enjoyed reading your Annapolis tips, thanks for the postcard you sent. Best wishes, June
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matcrazy1 Dec 10, 2006 at 6:44 AM

Maritime Museum, boat tour and especially the State Capital Building are a must for me now! Thanks for sharing :-)
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Jim_Eliason Nov 17, 2006 at 6:27 AM

Thanks Veronica! You have a very nice Annapolis page also!
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deecat Jul 12, 2006 at 10:36 AM

Although I've never visited Annapolis, I always wanted to; for now, visiting your lovely pages has filled the gap. Thanks ever so much.
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catalysta Jun 23, 2006 at 10:22 AM

Nicely done, excellent information! Funny, for all I visit Annapolis, I really know so little about it...Wendy
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LoriPori Mar 20, 2006 at 3:36 AM

Thank you for stopping by my Prague page. That is one beautiful city worth seeing. Enjoyed your Annapolis page. That is one area we have not been to -- yet!
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kyoub Jan 5, 2006 at 8:38 AM

Nice page, Veronica. A great place to spend a week-end.