There are many attractions in Annapolis that will appeal to history buffs. Listed below are some of the best. You can spend a whole day or just a couple of hours exploring the town. Some of the most popular attractions include St. Mary’s Church, the Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse, and the Annapolis Maritime Museum.
St. Mary’s Church
Located on a hill overlooking the St. Mary’s River, St. Mary’s Church is one of the best places to visit in Annapolis. It dates back to 1634 but was largely abandoned after the Maryland colony moved its capital to Annapolis in 1695. The church features a Tiffany stained-glass window, detailed carvings, and ribbed vaulting.
Located on the waterfront, Annapolis offers many opportunities for sightseeing. From historic buildings to museums, the city is rich in attractions. Visitors can visit the Maryland State House, the oldest U.S. state capitol still in use. The building is open to the public daily from 8:30am to 5pm.
One of the oldest churches in America, St. Anne’s Church is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its courtyard is home to the graves of many Maryland colonists. Some gravestones are even unique! While you’re there, you can also check out St. Mary’s Church. It was originally a female seminary, but has since become a state-run institution. You can even catch a live concert there!
The Gothic-style St. Mary’s Church is a beautiful church. Its interior features include a stunning reredos, the font, and the altar. The church also features a Parish Library where you can access materials to further your spiritual growth. If you’re a Catholic, you can attend the daily services.
If you’re looking for a historical place to visit in Annapolis, don’t miss St. Mary’s Church. Charles Carroll, the last of the 56 signers of the Declaration of Independence, lived here. A tour of his home is possible, but you’ll need to make arrangements in advance.
The church was built by French colonists in 1640. After a Protestant raid, St. Mary’s City was seized by Protestant forces. This attack drove many of the settlers away, burned many buildings, and took control of the city. Later, the state legislature proclaimed Annapolis the new capital.
Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse
Located in Annapolis, Maryland, the Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse is one of America’s most photographed lighthouses. The lighthouse dates back to 1875 and is considered a National Historic Landmark. The lighthouse is open to the public for tours and donations go directly to its upkeep. Tours leave from the water behind the Annapolis Maritime Museum. The tours start at 9am and last for approximately an hour and a half.
Visitors can tour the lighthouse by boat or from the deck of a cruise ship. Tours of the lighthouse are conducted by a docent. The station is open three months a year. Tours are available for ages six and older.
The lighthouse was the last lighthouse on the Bay to be manned. Until 1986, it was operated by Coast Guard keepers who stayed on land and watched over the light. Today, the Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse is one of Annapolis’ most unique attractions.
Annapolis has a large selection of shops, art galleries, and restaurants. There are also several museums. And for those who want to experience the waterfront, Annapolis boasts more than 400 miles of shoreline. The area is home to the Chesapeake Bay and four rivers.
The William Paca House is a National Historic Landmark and home to Maryland’s fourth signer of the Declaration of Independence, William Paca. The house has a five-part Georgian mansion and a two-acre colonial William Paca Garden. There are daily guided tours.
Annapolis Maritime Museum
One of the best places to visit in Annapolis is the African American Heritage Memorial, which aims to educate people of different ethnic backgrounds on their own history. The museum is housed in a former slave ship and was designed by architect William Buckland. It takes 20 years to complete and is visited by more than 1 million people annually. Another historical site that is worth a visit is the Hammond-Harwood House, which was constructed in 1774. It is an example of colonial-style architecture and was designed by architect William Buckland for a wealthy farmer Matthias Hammond.
The Annapolis Maritime Museum is another place worth a visit. It features a collection of historic vessels, artifacts, and documents. It also has an 850-gallon aquarium where visitors can learn about the oyster reef ecosystem. The museum’s exhibits also include an open section of an oyster boat, the Miss Lonesome. Another interesting location to visit is the Wilma Lee, which is one of the last remaining skipjacks.
Another historical attraction in Annapolis is the Maryland State House. Located on St. Anne’s Street, this historic site is a place to learn about Maryland’s history. It also houses the only statehouse in the country that was the capitol. It is a must-see place for history buffs, as it features many important events in Maryland history.
The Annapolis Maritime Museum also offers guided tours for groups. For $5 per person, groups of ten to fifteen people can take a tour of the museum. Tours are subject to availability and may not be available on certain days. The museum also offers tours of the city by boat. The tours allow visitors to get an unobstructed view of the city skyline.
While visiting Annapolis, make sure you also visit the Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse. It was built in 1875 and is considered a National Historic Landmark. Tour guides will explain the history of the lighthouse and how it was restored. In addition, they will tell you about the other lighthouses in the Bay. The tours depart from a dock right behind the Annapolis Maritime Museum.
Eastport
Eastport is a small town that blends nautical and historical elements to create a unique atmosphere. The area has a relaxed atmosphere, a rich nautical culture, and thriving marine businesses. Located on the waterfront, it offers great views of the bay and is home to many high-performance sailing retailers and services.
For visitors who want a little more culture, try the Annapolis Maritime Museum, located at 723 Second Street. You’ll find educational exhibits and benches outside by the water. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try fishing or kayaking from the docks. Alternatively, you can check out the Annapolis Canoe and Kayak store on Third Street.
If you’re planning a vacation in Annapolis, you can’t miss the Colonial Players, the historic theater company that has been a part of the city for 70 years. The company produces community productions and has a historic headquarters in a former mechanic’s shop.
During the American Revolution, Eastport played an important role as an encampment for Lafayette’s troops. Additionally, the area was the site of Fort Horn, which protected the city harbor from British ships. Later, the United States Naval Academy was established in Annapolis, and many workers migrated here. Today, it is the maritime district of the Sailing Capital of America.
The historic buildings are home to many unique shops and boutiques. In addition, there are art galleries and restaurants in the area. It’s easy to spend a day wandering around, eating, shopping, and admiring the architecture. Don’t forget to stop for brunch at the Iron Rooster!
There are many activities to enjoy in Annapolis. The city has everything from world-class restaurants and bars to boutique shops and historical attractions. There’s also plenty of outdoor activities to keep your active. So, whether you’re a history buff or a nature lover, Annapolis has something for everyone.
Annapolis is a city of diverse neighborhoods. The neighborhoods are ranked by local residents as superior. Choosing the best one for you will help you build a comfortable lifestyle.
