At City Dock, Annapolis connects the city with the waters of the Chesapeake Bay. Several historical perspectives come together here: political history, the legacy of enslavement and architecture, as well as maritime themes and outdoor activities. This makes Annapolis appealing to travelers who want to explore culture beyond a single building. Each site highlights different aspects, so you can choose based on your interests.
History in Buildings and Institutions
The Maryland State House is the first peacetime capitol of the United States. Annapolis is also home to some of the most significant 17th- and 18th-century buildings in the United States. The historic buildings include the homes of all four Maryland signers of the Declaration of Independence. The United States Naval Academy, founded in 1845, adds another dimension. These sites cover different themes: the State House and Academy reflect political and institutional history, respectively; the homes connect Annapolis with the signers of Maryland’s declaration. National and state-level connections thus stand side by side.
Memorial Sites and Historic Building Types
The Kunta Kinte–Alex Haley Memorial commemorates the name and place of arrival of an enslaved African. Its Story Wall consists of ten markers topped with bronze plaques. The Compass Rose is a 14-foot-high granite and bronze installation. The markers, plaques, and installation give the memorial its distinctive form. Its subject differs from that of the State House and Naval Academy: the focus is on enslavement, a name, and a place of arrival.
Historic building types also tell the story of Annapolis. The Hogshead Trades Museum is a rare surviving example of a building type that was common in 18th-century Annapolis. In this interactive experience, visitors can learn what life was like for the “lower and middle classes” in early Maryland, with guides in colonial clothing and authentic and reproduction artifacts. This adds a social perspective alongside the building’s architectural form. A small waterfront warehouse in Annapolis is also a rare surviving example of an 18th-century building type.
Chesapeake Bay and Outdoor Activities
The permanent exhibition at the Annapolis Maritime Museum & Park covers the ecology of the Chesapeake Bay and local maritime heritage. Nature and maritime history thus stand alongside historic buildings as a distinct theme. Exhibition details may change over time; if you have a specific interest, check the latest information before your visit.
Public cruises aboard the historic vessel Wilma Lee offer views of the Chesapeake Bay and operate seasonally. Sightseeing cruises and walking tours are also ways to explore Annapolis. The Wilma Lee offers views from the water, while a walking tour lets you explore on foot. Operators and schedules may change, so check the latest information for your planned travel dates.
Annapolis has 40 parks and trails across more than 200 acres of parkland. They offer another focus alongside architecture, memorial sites, and the museum. Park conditions and access rules may change; if you are planning a specific visit, check the current requirements of the site.
Discover more destinations: Deale, Annapolis Junction, Glen Burnie, Arnold, Millersville, Odenton, Linthicum.
Return to the regional travel guide: Anne Arundel.
