subject: A weekend in historic and picturesque Annapolis, Maryland [print this page] The capital of Maryland, Annapolis, is the first peacetime capital of the United States of America, after the civil war ended. Sitting along the picturesque Chesapeake Bay, it enjoys a wealth of history that is quite amazing. You can enjoy a self-guided audio walking tour of the Annapolis downtown area at Annapolis.org or visit HistoryQuest at 99 Main Street for more information. The tour covers all four sections of downtown and will take you step by step through the streets, indicating historic and noteworthy buildings in the area. Spread the tours over several days allowing time in-between to dine in the excellent restaurants along Main Street, shop in the many quaint stores, enjoy the waterfront, or even drive to a nearby fishing village as a side trip. One restaurant, Reynolds Tavern, on the corner of West Street and Church Circle, serves an authentic English Afternoon Tea, which is a true indulgence.
In the warmer months, you can take a guided tour conducted by people in historical dress. Some of the tours take you inside the historic mansions in the area. There are several homes of the signers of the Declaration of Independence open to the public. To find out about free things to do in the area visit discover-annapolis.com/visitplanning/freestuff. You can also tour the inside of the State House, which also has a tourist information counter, where you can get information on other local attractions. See where the boat that carried Kunta Kinte docked and read more about his fascinating story on plaques nearby. Also in the vicinity, is a statue of Alex Haley author of Roots. There is also plenty of shopping in the area, including the stores along Main Street, in the villages and plenty of outlets along the nearby highways.
Another top attraction is the US Naval Academy, which is immediately off Main Street, making it easily accessible by foot. Remember, you need a photo ID to enter as only a few of the buildings are open to outside visitors. Just head for the information center where you can get a map and see a video of the Academy that will tell you everything you need to know. One of the many highlights is the Cathedral, where you might be lucky enough to enjoy the organist playing the most inspiring pieces of music. When played, it brings a truly magical air to the Cathedral, and coupled with the glorious stained glass, brings a regal and surreal atmosphere to the structure. Visit the Olympic sized swimming pool, ice skating rink, tennis courts, the naval museum and walk along streets lined with majestic homes of top commanders. You can even walk along the Bay and picnic on the expanse of grass.
Another must see in the area and one of the best side trips, is a lovely fishing village on the other side of the Chesapeake Bay called St Michael's. Approximately one hour drive from Annapolis downtown, it is well worth the time to get there. You will enjoy postcard scenes of boats, waterfronts and even a lighthouse. The long Main Street is lined with many shops, bars and restaurants. Visit the Maritime Museum just off Main Street which gives an in depth history of the area. You can easily spend a day or more there. Being a very popular town in the summer months, the side streets are lined with Bed and Breakfasts. Other nearby fishing villages of note are Oxford, Easton and Tilghman Island. They all offer picture perfect scenes, a quaint Main Street, and many Bed and Breakfasts and other accommodations.
Finally, another great local attraction is Englishtown, which offers a look at how life must have been for the first settlers of the area. It is a recreated village complete with guides in historical costume.
So take a weekend or more to immerse yourself in the history, beauty and variety of Annapolis, Maryland and its surroundings. You won't regret it.
A weekend in historic and picturesque Annapolis, Maryland
