Annapolis

Annapolis

The sailing capital of the world, where brick-lined streets meet the shimmering Chesapeake Bay.

Best time
April – June, September – October
Duration
2–3 days
Avg. budget
$240 / day
Scenic score
7 / 10
Camping score
4 / 10

Reservations · Low

Maritime History and Naval Academy Access Requirements

Access to the United States Naval Academy grounds requires valid government-issued photo identification for all adults. While the historic district is open public land, specific guided tours of the State House and maritime museums may require advance ticketing. Consult official Navy and State House websites for visiting hours and restricted dates.

Check official reservation info

Fly in · nearest airport

BWIAnnapolis

Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport · 33 min drive

Find flights to BWI

Partner link · Aviasales

Where you'll want to sleep

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Checks availability with the partner directly — not a confirmed booking on our end.

Camping en Busa.jpg, illustrative accommodation photoIllustrative · Domenicaachig · CC0Outside the park · easier to book

Campsites near Annapolis on Campspot

Campground

Best for: Tent camping

Private campgrounds, cabins and glamping just outside the park, often with availability when park sites sell out.

Est. from $35/night · estimateCheck availabilityPartner link · Campspot

Vrbo

Cabins & vacation rentals near Annapolis

  • Whole-home cabins and mountain lodges
  • Kitchens, fire pits and room for the crew
  • Pick dates on Vrbo for live prices
See cabins on Vrbo

Expedia

Hotels & lodges near Annapolis

  • Hotels in nearby gateway towns
  • Resorts, inns and last-minute rooms
  • Easy to pair with flights and cars
See hotels on Expedia

Photos are illustrative, not actual listings. Opens Vrbo's or Expedia's own search. Minialife may earn a commission on bookings, at no extra cost to you.

Traveling by RV near Annapolis?

Stay overnight free at wineries, farms & breweries

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Partner link · Harvest Hosts

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RVs, campervans & cars near BWI

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Checks availability with the partner directly — not a confirmed booking on our end.

A little structure. Plenty of freedom.

3 days in Annapolis

  1. 01

    Maritime Roots and City Dock

    Suggested: 9 AM from the Annapolis City Dock

    • Ego Alley

      Observe the waterway where yachts dock in the heart of the historic district, surrounded by 18th-century architecture.

    • Annapolis Maritime Museum & Park

      Learn about the ecology of the Chesapeake Bay and the history of the local oyster industry.

    Walking suggested; local transfers are limited to short distances.

    The historic center is very walkable, but cobblestones may require sturdy footwear.

  2. 02

    Colonial Governance and Education

    Suggested: 8:30 AM from the Maryland State House

    • Maryland State House

      Tour the oldest state capitol in continuous legislative use, which briefly served as the nation's capital.

    • United States Naval Academy

      Walk the grounds to see the Chapel and the tomb of John Paul Jones, adhering to all security protocols.

    Walking suggested; allow 15 minutes between major sites.

    Official security screenings are mandatory for entry to the Naval Academy.

  3. 03

    Chesapeake Views and Cross-Bay History

    Suggested: 9:30 AM from Sandy Point State Park

    • Sandy Point State Park

      Enjoy views of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge and explore the coastal environment of the Western Shore.

    • William Paca House and Garden

      Explore the restored 18th-century mansion and its two-acre wilderness garden in the city center.

    Allow 45 to 60 minutes; bridge traffic varies significantly by time of day.

    Sandy Point can reach capacity early on summer weekends.

Your first two hours

Arrive via BWI Airport, secure a rental or transit, and head 30 minutes south to Annapolis for check-in near the waterfront.

The right vehicle

Compact cars are highly recommended due to narrow historic streets and tight parking garage dimensions.

Chase the light

The City Dock at sunset for views of the harbor and the Spa Creek Bridge.

Plan your road trip

From Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport

33 min

about 23 miles by car · times vary with traffic and road closures

Get directions

Airport-to-destination drive; sightseeing stops are separate markers.

Stays near the end of your drive

Know before you go

Historic District Garages

Parking in the historic core is heavily restricted; use the Hillman or Gott's Court garages for longer stays. Avoid residential zones where permits are strictly enforced.

Urban Connectivity

Cellular and GPS signals are excellent throughout the city and surrounding suburbs. Public Wi-Fi is available near the City Dock area.

Suburban Supply Points

Fuel stations are abundant on West Street and along the major highways leading toward Washington D.C. and Baltimore. No fuel is available within the immediate historic waterfront.

Naval Academy Events

Check the Academy calendar for graduation week or football games, as these events lead to extreme congestion and closures. Aim for midweek visits to the State House.

Maritime Accessibility

Water taxis provide access between Eastport and the City Dock. Many historic buildings have steep stairs, though modern upgrades exist in public facilities.

Check current conditions:Visit Annapolis & Anne Arundel County

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