Annapolis, MD

I can't believe it's August already. Summer has flown by so quickly! Pre-session starts tomorrow (!!!), and I'm trying anything to not think about it for fear I'll fall into a bout of depression. Thankfully, my last rendezvous for the summer happened to be to Annapolis. I love, love, love this town. Even though it's the capital city of Maryland, it holds a tight-knit vibe for me. Maybe it's because I've only visited in the summer when school isn't in session, or maybe it's the location on the water, but I love it. Have I said that enough? I love this town.

Anyway, my family and I went, and we visited the Naval Academy (this was my first time inside - unbelievable!), the State House, and of course walked up and down Main Street for its stretch of shops and restaurants. We also stopped by the Navy-Marine Corps Stadium (but they were having a crab feast), and the Westfield Annapolis Mall. Here are some tips, details, and ideas for places to go and things to do while you're there!

Chapel at the USNA

• Set Sail. If you're in for an aquatic journey, Annapolis is your place. With guided tours, boat charters, sailing schools, fishing excursions and kayak rentals, there is literally something available for every type of nautical adventurer.
• Maryland State House. We Marylanders have a lot of pride in many things: our flag, our crabbing industry, our football and baseball teams, and our beer to name a few. However, the Maryland State House is truly a state treasure. It's the oldest state capital in continuous legislative use and the only state capitol to ever serve as the U.S. capitol. The first legislative meeting was held in 1779, and it features the largest wooden dome in the country. So, of course, it only makes sense that it's a National Historic Landmark :) Make sure you have your ID handy for a security check-in.
• City Dock. It's amazing to walk along the city dock. You can lust after the yachts, sailboats and fishing boats parked there, or just take in the Bay Bridge in the distance. There is also a bit of history to learn about too. With its Alex Haley memorial, a commemoration to the 1767 arrival of Kunta Kinte, and its replica Skipjack that John Smith used when exploring the area in the early 1600s, boat and people watching doesn't have to be your only option.
• U.S. Naval Academy. If you're anything like me, there's a deep respect that is felt when in the presence of men and women who decide to give their lives (even if it is for a minimum of 4 years) to serve their country. Visiting the US Naval Academy was a truly incredible experience. It was something I wanted to do at one point in my life. There are so many cool things to see. At noon, you get to hear the students read the menu in front of Bancroft Hall. You can tour their decadent chapel and visit the crypt of John Paul Jones. You can also take a walk around their training complexes and peruse the scenery along College Creek where the rowing teams train. If you want an official tour, that costs $10, and can be purchased (along with your Navy gear) at the visitor's center. Check out the museum they have there as well. Just remember to bring an officially issued ID (aka. a driver's license, etc).
• Main Street. From souvenir shops to candy stores to great restaurants, there is a little of everything for everyone. All along the dock, there are also places to shop and eat. If you're into Man vs. Food from the Discovery Channel, Chick and Ruth's Delly on Main is where host Adam Richman defeated their Colossal Challenge - you have one hour to eat a 1lb. burger and a 6lb. milkshake. It's a fast-paced joint with deli-style food. There is also Kilwin's, a chain candy place that makes fresh fudge, caramel apples, truffles, and any other decadent dessert you could think of. I got a Sea Salt Caramel Chocolate Apple that was to diiiie for. Another favorite of mine that sits on the corner of Cornhill and Fleet streets is Capital Teas - it has a great selection of, you guessed it, teas from all over the world, unique tea pots, and other nifty gadgets for a tea lover. Along with blown glass, hats, pottery and clothes, Main Street and its surrounding area shops are a fun place to browse.
• For more information, visit the city of Annapolis's website!

the Crypt of John Paul Jones

Kilwin's Sea Salt Caramel Chocolate Apple 10/10

From the USNA Visitor's Center Museum

Easy Street Gallery on Francis Street

Bancroft Hall - USNA

The surrounding areas of Annapolis are also really nice too. You can visit Baltimore, DC, or just peruse around Anne Arundel County. There are a lot of significant places dealing with colonial and Civil War history, great shopping, and quaint towns that are ready to be explored.

Chapel at the USNA

In the Senate Chambers at the State House!

Happy Traveling, folks! xoxo