An Afternoon in Annapolis

While in the Shenandoah area, we opted to venture out and explore Annapolis. Growing up in New Jersey, I definitely need to refuel with water views whenever I have the opportunity. So, I was excited to take some time walking along the Chesapeake Bay. We quickly fell in love with Annapolis' harbor and its colonial charm. So, I am now eager to go back and scratch more under the surface!

Maryland State House

We began our visit by stopping at the Visitors Center which I highly recommend. The facility is not far from the state capitol building and located near various colonial sites, shopping, restaurants and the harbor. There were plenty of staff members ready to assist wayward tourists. Also, a number of walking tours begin at the Visitors Center if that is of interest. There is a parking deck next to the center making it an easy spot to find parking.

Annapolis' colonial charm on the Chesapeake Bay

Annapolis was originally settled in 1649. So, Maryland's capitol is certainly full of colonial charm. We did take some time to walk around and admire some of the historic homes of Annapolis. Unfortunately, the tour times did not work for our brief trip. So, I know we have to return!

Paca House and Gardens 

One of the first homes we visited was the Paca House and Gardens -- home to William Pace who was a signer of the Declaration of Independence and a three term governor of Maryland. The Georgian mansion was built between 1763 and 1765.

**On a subsequent visit to Annapolis, we toured the William Paca House and Gardens so take a peek!

Within walking distance of the Paca House is the home of another Declaration of Independence signatory, Samuel Chase.

Not too far from the Chase House is the Hammond-Harwood House which was built in 1774. Historic Annapolis is truly a beautiful place for a stroll and perfect for learning history.

After, we strolled around the Maryland State House. Constructed in 1772, Maryland's State House is the state house in the longest consecutive legislative use in the country. The Old Senate Chamber inside the state house is where George Washington resigned his commission as commander in chief of the Continental Army after the American Revolution.

Thurgood Marshall Memorial

There are several spots of interest around the state house including this incredible memorial to Thurgood Marshall.The grounds are a wonderful place to explore and spend time admiring our history.

Chesapeake Bay

We also spent time strolling along the harbor. We were gifted with a beautiful day and enjoyed stunning views. There are boat tours of the Chesapeake Bay -- something I definitely would like to do in the future.

Check out more Annapolis, Maryland discoveries from our spring road trip in Road Trip to Annapolis, Maryland.

We also glanced a bit at the Naval Academy. The Naval Academy is not far from the state house and is an easy add on to a walking tour of the area.

Of course, we had to grab a bite to eat. Since we were in Maryland, I had to have something with crab in it. We popped into the The Federal House Bar & Grill in the harbor area. I settled on a cream of crab soup with a vibrant salad. The soup was just amazing!

Although our stay was brief, we really enjoyed Annapolis. I look forward to returning and exploring more of this colonial city.