Annapolis, MD
- About the City
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks and Attractions
- Transportation
- Local Cuisine & Culinary Traditions
- Museums
- Sport and Sporting Legends
- Universities and Academic Institutions
- Healthcare Institutions
Annapolis is the capital of Maryland and home to the U.S. Naval Academy, known as "America's Sailing Capital" for its deep connection to the Chesapeake Bay.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
- Official Name: City of Annapolis.
- Status: Annapolis is the capital city of the U.S. state of Maryland. It also serves as the county seat of Anne Arundel County and is the county's only incorporated city .
- Location: It is located in the state of Maryland, which is known for its critical role in American history, from its colonial foundations to its position as a major hub for the U.S. federal government. Annapolis itself forms part of the Baltimore–Washington metropolitan area .
Historical Names and Nicknames
- Historical Names: The area was first settled by Puritan exiles from Virginia in 1649 and named "Providence" . Over the years, it was also known as the "Town at Proctor's," "Town at the Severn," and "Anne Arundel's Towne" (after Lady Anne Arundell, the wife of Cecilus Calvert, second Lord Baltimore) before receiving its current name .
- Official Nicknames: Annapolis is widely known as "America's Sailing Capital" or the "Sailing Capital of the World," a title earned from its deep connection to the Chesapeake Bay and its vibrant boating culture . Less formally, it is sometimes called "Naptown" or "Crabtown on the Bay" .
- Origin of Name: The city was renamed "Annapolis" in 1694 in honor of Princess Anne of Denmark and Norway, who soon after became Queen Anne of Great Britain .
Date of Foundation and Age
- Foundation: The first settlement at this location was founded in 1649 by Puritan exiles from Virginia .
- City Status: It was chartered as a city in 1708 .
- Age: Based on its 1649 founding, the city is currently 377 years old.
Geographic Location and Coordinates
- Coordinates: 38°58′23″N 76°30′04″W .
- Setting: Annapolis is uniquely situated on the Chesapeake Bay at the mouth of the Severn River. This prime location places it approximately 25 miles (40 km) south of Baltimore and about 30 miles (50 km) east of Washington, D.C. .
- Elevation: The city's elevation is around 39 to 43 feet (12-13 meters) above sea level .
City Type and Economic Specialization
Annapolis is a multifaceted city with several key functions:
- Administrative Center: As the state capital, government and politics are central to its identity .
- Tourist and Educational Destination: The city is a major tourist draw, primarily for its rich colonial history and as the home of the United States Naval Academy and St. John's College (one of the oldest institutions of higher learning in the U.S., founded in 1696) .
- Nautical Hub: True to its nickname, its economy is deeply tied to the Chesapeake Bay, with industries including recreational boating, sailmaking, and maritime tourism .
Population and Demographics
- Population: According to the 2020 census, the city has a population of 40,812 .
- City Class: Based on its population, Annapolis is classified as a small city.
- Demographics: A resident of Annapolis is known as an "Annapolitan" . The city's character is shaped by a mix of long-term residents, government officials, students, and naval personnel .
City's "Calling Card" (In Brief)
Annapolis is a living museum of colonial America, where 18th-century brick streets lead to the nation's oldest state capitol in continuous use, all within sight of the modern masts of the U.S. Naval Academy and the vast Chesapeake Bay. Visitors come to walk in the footsteps of the nation's founders, witness the traditions of future naval officers, and experience the timeless allure of "America's Sailing Capital" .
Geography
Water Features (Rivers, Bays, and Waterways)
Annapolis's geography is defined by its intimate connection to the water.
- Chesapeake Bay: The city is situated directly on the Chesapeake Bay, the largest inland tidal estuary in the world . This massive body of water is central to the region's ecology, history, and culture. It was formed over 35 million years ago and has supported human habitation for over 11,000 years .
- Severn River: The city lies at the mouth of the Severn River, where it flows into the Chesapeake Bay. The U.S. Naval Academy is located immediately on its shore .
- Spa Creek and "Ego Alley": This narrow waterway cuts through the heart of the historic downtown. A portion of it, known as "Ego Alley" (officially part of City Dock), is a famous spot where boat owners parade their vessels past onlookers . Spa Creek also connects the historic district to the Eastport neighborhood.
Islands
- While Annapolis itself is on the mainland, its location on the Chesapeake Bay provides access to numerous islands in the bay. The most visible is Kent Island across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, a major gateway to Maryland's Eastern Shore .
Beaches and Shoreline
- The city's shoreline is predominantly a working waterfront and historic harbor rather than a sandy beach destination. However, the entire downtown area is lined with waterfront parks, docks, and promenades. City Dock is the focal point of this waterfront, bustling with activity and boat tours . The neighborhood of Eastport, bounded by water on three sides, features boatyards and marinas .
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
Annapolis has a temperate climate, specifically a humid subtropical climate (Cfa) under the Köppen climate classification, characterized by hot summers and mild to cool winters, with consistent rainfall throughout the year .
Average Temperatures by Month
The table below shows the average maximum (daytime) and minimum (night-time) temperatures in degrees Celsius .
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Max °C | 5 | 7 | 13 | 18 | 24 | 28 | 31 | 30 | 26 | 20 | 14 | 8 |
| Min °C | -4 | -3 | 2 | 6 | 12 | 17 | 20 | 19 | 15 | 8 | 4 | -1 |
The hottest month is July, with average highs around 31°C (88°F). The coldest month is January, with average lows of -4°C (25°F) .
Rainfall and Humidity
Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year.
- Average Annual Rainfall: Approximately 1093 mm (43 inches) .
- Wettest Months: August is typically the wettest, with an average of 108 mm of rain over about 10 days. May and July also see significant rainfall .
- Driest Months: October is the driest month, with an average of 80 mm of rain over about 7 days .
Sunshine and UV Index
Annapolis enjoys a good amount of sunshine, especially from late spring through early fall.
- Daily Sunshine: The city averages between 5 and 9 hours of sunshine per day. The sunniest months are June through August, with about 9 hours of sunshine per day .
- UV Index: The UV index is highest during the summer months (June-August), reaching a maximum level of 9, which is considered "Very High." Sun protection is essential during this time .
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
The best times to visit Annapolis are in the spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) .
- Spring (March-May): Temperatures are mild and pleasant, ranging from 13°C to 24°C (55°F-75°F). This is a beautiful time to walk the historic streets as flowers begin to bloom.
- Summer (June-August): Summers are hot and humid, with highs often reaching 30°C (86°F) or more. This is peak tourist season, especially for boating and water-related activities. Be prepared for heat, humidity, and larger crowds.
- Fall (September-November): Fall is arguably the most comfortable time to visit, with warm days and cool evenings (26°C to 8°C / 79°F-46°F). The weather is ideal for sailing and walking tours. The United States Sailboat Show in October draws huge crowds .
- Winter (December-February): Winters are cold, with average highs between 5°C and 8°C (41°F-46°F) and lows below freezing. While cold, the city can be charming and less crowded, though some outdoor activities may be limited.
Water Temperature (Chesapeake Bay)
For those planning to be on or in the water :
- Warmest Month: August, with an average sea temperature of 25°C (77°F).
- Swimming Season: The water is generally comfortable for swimming from late June through September.
- Coldest Months: February, with an average sea temperature of 2°C (36°F).
Landmarks and Attractions
Maryland State House
- Original Name: Maryland State House.
- Architect/Year: Construction began in 1772 and was completed in 1797. It is the oldest state capitol in continuous legislative use in the United States .
- Historical Significance: This building holds immense national importance. It served as the nation's first peacetime capital, housing the Continental Congress from November 26, 1783, to August 19, 1784 . It was within these walls that General George Washington famously resigned his commission as commander-in-chief of the Continental Army on December 23, 1783, establishing the fundamental democratic principle of civilian control of the military . Later, the Treaty of Paris of 1783, which officially ended the Revolutionary War, was ratified here by Congress .
- Unique Features: The building's most distinctive feature is its large wooden dome, which is assembled with wooden pegs and is the largest of its kind in the United States. Visitors can also find ancient snail fossils embedded in the stone floor, a nod to Maryland's ancient coastal geology .
United States Naval Academy
- Original Name: United States Naval Academy (USNA).
- Established: The academy was founded in 1845 by Secretary of the Navy George Bancroft on the site of a previous Army post, Fort Severn .
- Significance: The Naval Academy is the undergraduate college of the United States Navy and Marine Corps, training future officers. Its campus is a major attraction, featuring a mix of Beaux-Arts and modern architecture.
- Key Sights: Visitors can tour the campus, see the Bancroft Hall (the largest college dormitory in the world), and visit the crypt of the famous Revolutionary War naval hero John Paul Jones .
William Paca House & Garden
- Original Name: William Paca House & Garden.
- Architect/Owner: Built for William Paca, a signer of the Declaration of Independence and a three-term governor of Maryland .
- Year/Style: Completed in 1765, this five-part Georgian style mansion is one of the finest examples of colonial architecture in America.
- Significance: This beautifully restored historic house and its two-acre pleasure garden offer a vivid glimpse into the life of Maryland's elite in the 18th century. It is a key property within the Colonial Annapolis Historic District .
The Kunta Kinte-Alex Haley Memorial
- Location: This memorial is located at the city dock, the very spot where Alex Haley's ancestor, Kunta Kinte, is believed to have been brought to America as a captive in 1767 .
- Description: The memorial features a striking sculpture of the author Alex Haley reading a book to three children of different ethnic backgrounds. It is the only memorial in the U.S. that commemorates the specific location where enslaved Africans landed. The memorial, while celebratory of Haley's work and legacy, serves as a powerful acknowledgment of the nation's dark history with the slave trade, in which Annapolis was a major center .
Colonial Annapolis Historic District
This entire district is itself a landmark. The National Park Service notes that more brick buildings from the pre-Revolutionary War era are preserved in Annapolis than in any other U.S. city . The district features a unique modified radial street plan centered on two circles, State Circle and Church Circle, and is filled with important 18th-century buildings . Other notable homes and buildings in this district include the Hammond-Harwood House, the Chase-Lloyd House, and the Old Treasury Building .
Transportation
Rail
Annapolis is unique among state capitals east of the Mississippi River in that it has no rail passenger service .
Major Airports
Annapolis is strategically located between two major metropolitan areas, making several large airports accessible.
- Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) is the closest and most convenient airport, located about 15-20 miles north of Annapolis. Its IATA code is BWI .
- Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) is located approximately 30-35 miles southwest, across the Potomac in Virginia. Its IATA code is DCA .
- Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) is the farthest, located about 50-55 miles west in Virginia. Its IATA code is IAD .
Road Access
Annapolis is well-connected by several major highways :
- U.S. Route 50 / U.S. Route 301: These are the primary east-west arteries, connecting Annapolis directly to Washington, D.C., to the west and the Chesapeake Bay Bridge to the east, which leads to Maryland's Eastern Shore.
- Interstate 97: This highway begins in Annapolis and runs north, providing a direct link to the Baltimore Beltway (I-695) and the Baltimore metropolitan area.
Local Transportation
Given its compact and walkable nature, getting around historic Annapolis is easy without a car.
- Walking: The downtown historic district, including the State House, City Dock, and many shops and restaurants, is highly walkable .
- Water Taxi: A private water taxi operates, connecting City Dock with the Eastport neighborhood and other points on the waterfront. It's a scenic and fun way to travel .
- Shuttle Bus: The city operates a free shuttle bus with a distinctive pink-purple color scheme, running between downtown and outlying areas, including the Parole neighborhood .
- Ride-Sharing: Uber and Lyft are readily available, as taxis can be harder to find .
Local Cuisine & Culinary Traditions
Maryland Blue Crab in Every Form
The undisputed king of Annapolis cuisine is the Maryland Blue Crab, celebrated in countless preparations that define the region's culinary identity . The most iconic way to enjoy it is by participating in a traditional crab feast: a table covered in brown paper, a mallet in hand, and a dozen steamed blue crabs generously dusted with Old Bay seasoning, the iconic local spice blend . Beyond the hands-on feast, you'll find the crab transformed into the legendary Maryland crab cake. The local creed, upheld at spots like the Boatyard Bar & Grill, is "no filler, all crab," featuring sweet, jumbo lump crab meat kissed with minimal seasoning . This staple of Chesapeake cuisine is a must-try for any visitor. Other local favorites include creamy crab dip, rich cream of crab soup, and tangy Maryland-style tomato crab soup .
Oysters from the Chesapeake Bay
Fresh from the Chesapeake Bay, oysters are another cornerstone of Annapolis's seafood scene . They are enjoyed in a variety of ways, from simply slurping them raw on the half shell to savoring them fried, steamed, or baked with creative toppings . For a quintessential experience, visit a modern seafood joint like The Choptank, which offers a rotating selection of local oysters, showcasing the bay's distinct briny flavors . The historic Middleton Tavern, serving patrons since 1750, is another excellent spot to enjoy fresh oysters alongside its famous, creamy crab dip .
Signature Local Dishes & Drinks
- Roos-tarts at Iron Rooster: These house-made, frosted pop-tarts have become a unique and popular treat in Annapolis, offering a nostalgic and delicious pastry experience .
- The Orange Crush: Considered Maryland's signature cocktail, the Orange Crush is a refreshing mix of vodka, fresh orange juice, triple sec, and a splash of lemon-lime soda, a perfect accompaniment to a day by the water .
- Blue Catfish: Once an invasive species in the Bay, blue catfish has been embraced by local chefs as a sustainable and delicious menu star, representing the city's innovative approach to its natural resources .
- Old Bay Wings: A true Maryland classic, chicken wings generously seasoned with Old Bay are a staple on menus across Annapolis, offering a spicy and flavorful twist on a game-day favorite .
- Milkshakes at Chick & Ruth's Delly: This iconic Annapolis dely is famous for its over-the-top, "Instagrammable" milkshakes that draw visitors from all over the state, perfectly complementing its retro charm and legendary crab cakes .
Museums
Historic & Artistic Treasures
Annapolis boasts a rich collection of art and history, much of it displayed within its historic buildings. A true masterpiece of American art, the life-sized portrait "Washington, Lafayette, and Tilghman at Yorktown" (c. 1784) by the renowned artist Charles Willson Peale hangs in the Old Senate Chamber of the Maryland State House . Commissioned by the state in 1781, it is a cornerstone of the state art collection and a must-see for history enthusiasts . The State House also displays original furniture from renowned Annapolis cabinetmaker John Shaw (1745-1829) and the impressive U.S.S. Maryland Silver Service .
Galleries and Art Spaces
For a deeper dive into the visual arts, Annapolis offers several notable galleries. The Elizabeth Myers Mitchell Art Gallery on the campus of St. John's College is a superbly equipped space that has featured exhibitions ranging from Rembrandt etchings to Picasso ceramics . The Maryland Federation of Art's Circle Gallery, housed in a historic general store at 18 State Circle, showcases paintings and sculptures from artists across the country . For those focused on maritime themes, the Annapolis Marine Art Gallery on Dock Street features exquisite images of ships, lighthouses, and the local waterfront . Nearby, the McBride Gallery on Main Street has been a fixture of the Annapolis art scene for decades, regularly featuring celebrated artists . History buffs should also visit the Banneker-Douglass Museum, dedicated to preserving Maryland's African American heritage with powerful and detailed exhibitions .
Sport and Sporting Legends
Navy–Marine Corps Memorial Stadium
This open-air stadium, located just off the campus of the United States Naval Academy, is the epicenter of major sporting events in Annapolis . Opened in 1959 and renovated in 2004, it has a capacity of 34,000, with a record attendance of over 38,000 . It is the home field for the Navy Midshipmen college football and lacrosse teams and has been the host of the annual Military Bowl since 2013 . The stadium has also hosted significant events like the 1984 Summer Olympics soccer matches and an NHL Stadium Series game in 2018 between the Washington Capitals and the Toronto Maple Leafs .
Annapolis Blues FC
Annapolis is home to a passionate soccer community, embodied by the Annapolis Blues FC . Founded in 2022, the team quickly became a local phenomenon. Playing at the Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium, they set National Premier Soccer League (NPSL) attendance records in their inaugural 2023 season, drawing crowds of over 8,000 . The team is partly owned by former Major League Soccer player Kyle Beckerman . As of 2025, the Blues compete in the USL League Two . The atmosphere at their games is a vibrant celebration of community and sport, making it a popular summer activity .
The Naval Academy and Olympic History
The United States Naval Academy is deeply intertwined with the city's sporting identity. Beyond its own NCAA teams, the Academy's facilities have hosted world-class competitions. In addition to soccer at the 1984 Olympics, the Naval Academy's Halsey Field House was a venue for basketball and boxing during those same Games. Furthermore, the Annapolis area has a strong connection to sailing, with many Naval Academy graduates and local residents competing successfully in the Olympics over the years, reflecting the city's identity as "America's Sailing Capital."
Universities and Academic Institutions
United States Naval Academy
Founded in 1845, the United States Naval Academy (USNA) is one of the five premier service academies in the United States and a landmark institution in Annapolis . It is a highly selective undergraduate college that prepares midshipmen to become commissioned officers in the U.S. Navy or Marine Corps. Students receive a full scholarship, including tuition, room, and board, in exchange for a commitment to serve . The Academy's stunning campus on the Severn River is itself a historic attraction, and its graduates include numerous distinguished military leaders, astronauts, members of Congress, and corporate executives. Its architecture, traditions, and museum are integral to the city's character.
St. John's College
Chartered in 1784, St. John's College is one of the oldest institutions of higher learning in the United States . It is world-renowned for its unique "Great Books" curriculum, where students engage in a four-year interdisciplinary program of reading and discussing the foundational works of Western philosophy, literature, political science, mathematics, and science. With an intimate enrollment of around 1,000 students, the college fosters a close-knit academic community on its picturesque campus in the heart of the Historic District . The college also houses the Elizabeth Myers Mitchell Art Gallery, making it a cultural hub for the city .
Anne Arundel Community College
Located just outside the city limits in Arnold, Anne Arundel Community College (AACC) is a large, public, two-year college that serves as a vital educational resource for the region . AACC offers over 100 degree and certificate programs, as well as extensive workforce development training and continuing education courses . It provides an accessible and affordable pathway for students, with strong transfer agreements to four-year institutions throughout Maryland. The college also has several off-campus centers, including locations in the Annapolis area, making higher education accessible to a wide range of students .
The Key School
For pre-collegiate education, The Key School is a notable private institution in Annapolis. Founded in 1958, it was the first coeducational, college-preparatory country day school in the area. The school is recognized for its commitment to educating the whole student through a rigorous academic program combined with strong arts and athletics. Its campus in the Hillsmere Shores area and its reputation for excellence make it a significant educational landmark in the community .
Healthcare Institutions
Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center (LHAAMC)
Located at 2001 Medical Parkway, Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center (LHAAMC) is the leading healthcare provider for Annapolis and the surrounding region, serving over one million people . It is the third busiest hospital in Maryland, with over 400 beds on its 57-acre campus . LHAAMC is widely recognized for clinical excellence and has earned numerous prestigious awards. It holds the distinguished Magnet® Recognition for nursing excellence, an honor achieved by fewer than 10% of hospitals nationwide . The hospital is also designated as an "A" hospital by The Leapfrog Group and is ranked among the top five hospitals in Maryland by U.S. News & World Report .
The medical center is a regional leader in several key specialties:
- Orthopedics: LHAAMC performs the highest number of joint replacement procedures in the state of Maryland .
- Maternity Care: It ranks second in the state for the number of births each year and houses a Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) .
- Cardiac & Cancer Care: It is recognized for its rapid emergency response to heart attacks and its comprehensive cancer care, which includes the DeCesaris Cancer Institute and the Fortney Breast Center .
- Research & Education: LHAAMC functions as a research institute and a teaching hospital where medical residents continue their training .
The facility also offers patient and family amenities, including several on-site cafes and gift shops featuring goods from high-end and local designers, with all proceeds supporting the hospital . For families of patients, the low-cost Hackerman-Patz House provides a "home away from home" right on the campus .