The First-Timer's Guide to Annapolis: What Locals Actually Recommend

Why Annapolis?

Annapolis is the sailing capital of the US and home to the Naval Academy. Its historic downtown has more 18th-century buildings than any other US city, plus world-class crab houses and waterfront dining.

Whether you're visiting for a weekend or planning a longer stay, Annapolis rewards the curious traveler. Here's how to make the most of your first visit.

Where to Stay

For first-timers, staying near Downtown Historic District puts you in the heart of the action.

Use the Stay22 map widget on our Annapolis city page to compare hotel rates across Booking.com, Hotels.com, and Expedia — it's the easiest way to find the best deal.

Best Neighborhoods to Explore

Downtown, City Dock, West Street, Eastport, Historic District — each has its own personality.

Downtown is all Colonial-era brick buildings and the State House. City Dock is the waterfront action. West Street has restaurants and nightlife. Eastport across the bridge is the local neighborhood with great dining.

What to Do

Tour the Naval Academy campus. Walk the historic downtown — more 18th-century buildings than any US city. Eat crabs at a crab house. Go sailing (this is America's sailing capital). Visit the State House, the oldest in continuous use.

Check our Things to Do page for curated tours and activities bookable through Viator and Klook, with reviews and transparent pricing.

Where to Eat

Crab is king — crab cakes, crab dip, steamed crabs with Old Bay. Cantler's Riverside Inn is the quintessential crab house. West Street has excellent restaurant variety. Eastport has underrated waterfront dining.

Getting Around

Downtown Annapolis is extremely walkable — it's compact. Parking can be challenging, especially on weekends. The Circulator trolley runs through downtown. Water taxis cross to Eastport. A car helps for day trips to the Chesapeake Bay area.

Recommended Travel Gear

A few items that'll make your Annapolis trip smoother. A portable charger (about $25-35 on Amazon — amazon.com/s?k=anker+portable+charger&tag=recommendedapp-20) keeps your phone alive through a full day of exploring. A good pair of walking shoes is essential — you'll cover more ground than you expect. And a packable daypack (amazon.com/s?k=packable+daypack&tag=recommendedapp-20) is perfect for carrying water, sunscreen, and souvenirs without checking a bag.