How to spend one day in Annapolis with kids
We visited Annapolis, Maryland on a day trip from DC and were pleasantly surprised by its charming vibe and rich history. Annapolis, one of the oldest cities in the U.S., used to be the nation’s capital before Washington, D.C.
It’s such a quaint little town, full of history and a relaxed vibe with its location by the Chesapeake Bay. On the blog, I’ve highlighted the top things to do in one day in Annapolis with kids for anyone planning a getaway to this charming town in Maryland.
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Top things to do in Annapolis with kids
Check out the Visitors Center in Annapolis
On your day trip to Annapolis make sure to stop at the Visitors Center. Here, you can gather more information about things to do and see in Annapolis.
You can also sign up for the Annapolis Trolley tour, a one-hour tour that takes you to all the top attractions in the city!
- Tickets cost $18 for adults, $9 for Active Military and children aged 4-13, children 3 and under ride for free.
If you are driving into Annapolis, you can find parking at the Gotts Court Garage located just behind the Visitors Center. From here the Historic Center is just a short walk away.
There are also limited metered parking spaces on Main Street and a few other parking garages around the city.
Best time to visit Annapolis
I’m sure Annapolis is beautiful in any season. But springtime is the start of all the city’s great festivals and events, plus Annapolis looks so much more beautiful when all the spring flowers are in bloom!
We happened to visit during the annual Sailboat Show and Earth Day & Spring Festivities and it was so much fun.
- The Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show is held each year at the City Dock. You will find sailboats on display in the water and on land. If you are in the market for a new boat, you can even purchase one on the spot!
- When: April 25-27, 2025
- Location: City Dock, Annapolis, MD
- Spring and Earth Day festival is an annual event held on the historic streets of Maryland Ave. This event celebrates Earth Day, and the spring season with some live music, a farmers market and food, as well as some kid-friendly crafts and activities.
Christmas in Annapolis
Another wonderful time to visit Annapolis is during the holidays. Annapolis becomes especially enchanting during the holiday season, with the city adorned in festive lights and decorations.
There are numerous holiday events to look forward to including the Eastport Yacht Club Lights Parade, where boats are decked out in holiday lights as they sail along the Chesapeake.
Additionally, you can look forward to the Chocolate Binge Festival and the city’s Tree Lighting Festival.
READ NEXT: Christmas Getaways from Washington DC
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Go on a Chesapeake Bay Cruise
When planning a day trip to Annapolis, one of the most enjoyable activities is embarking on a scenic boat cruise along the Chesapeake Bay.
Navigating the waters surrounding Annapolis provides a unique perspective of the city’s maritime heritage, picturesque coastline, and historic landmarks.
- Schooner Woodwind: Set sail on a wooden, 74-foot schooner for a true sailing experience in Annapolis, Maryland.
- Sailing times vary check website here
- Prices: Weekday Daytime- $71.95 per person
- Sunday & Sunset- $75.25 per person
- Sat. & Holidays– $79.65
- Location: Schooner Woodwinds are docked at the Annapolis Waterfront Hotel. 80 Compromise Street, Annapolis, MD 21401
- Pirate Adventures on the Chesapeake. This is one of the best family attractions in Annapolis.Let the kids live out their pirate fantasies as they go on a sailing adventure. They will love firing water cannons and go in search of sunken treasures. It’s a fun day out for the whole family!
- Hours: Check website here for sailing times
- Tickets: $32 per person, $16 for kids 2 and under.
- Location: 311 Third Street Annapolis, MD
Take a stroll through Main Street
On your day trip to Annapolis, make sure to take some time to explore Main Street. This historic street is lined with charming storefronts, inviting eateries, and unique art galleries.
Take a leisurely stroll, enjoy the local shops, and vibrant atmosphere. Consider dining at one of the top-notch restaurants along the bustling thoroughfare.
Some of our favorite shops and cafes here are:
- The Red Bean Coffee house
- Annapolis Ice Cream Company
- Kilwins Chocolate Shop
- Chick & Ruths Delly
Explore the history of Annapolis
Maryland State House
When visiting Annapolis with kids, one of the best things to do is to explore the Maryland State House. You can take a free, self-guided tour and learn about the history of the State House by downloading the brochure or picking one up at the entrance.
The Maryland State House is the oldest state Capitol in continuous legislative use in the United States, dating back to 1772. It once served as the capital of the United States of America before it moved to DC.
This is also where the Continental Congress met from November 1783 to August 1784, where the Treaty of Paris was ratified, and where George Washington resigned as Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army.
- Hours: Open daily from 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., except Christmas and New Year’s Day
- Location: 100 State Cir, Annapolis, MD 21401
Tour the US Naval Academy
Annapolis is also home to the United States Naval Academy. You can take a guided tour of the “Yard” as they call it, and explore the grounds and learn more about the U.S. Navy’s history in Annapolis.
- Hours: Monday – Friday 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Sat & Sun till 5pm
- Tickets:
- GEM–RIDING TOUR: ($35 All ages) See the Yard in style with the GEM tour in a comfortable, five-passenger electric vehicle, which highlights the “gems” of the Naval Academy.
- WALKING TOUR: $14(AGES 18-62) / $12 (Students K-12) / $13 (Seniors 62+) / $10 (Active-Retired Military). Visit all the historical and monumental highlights, get the inside scoop on admissions, and learn about the midshipmen experience
- Location: United States Naval Academy Armel-Leftwich Visitor Center 52 King George Street Annapolis, MD 21402
- Purchase tickets here
Stroll through the historic streets of Annapolis
Another must-do on your one-day visit to Annapolis is taking a leisurely stroll through the historic streets. The area is rich in history, with 18th-century brick houses adding to the charm.
Not only did Annapolis serve as our nation’s first peacetime capital, but it was also home to Maryland’s four signers of the Declaration of Independence.
You can visit their homes, which are just a few minutes walk from each other. One in particular is the William Paca house and gardens.
You can go on a guided tour of this 18th-century Georgian mansion and experience what life was like back then!
- William Paca House Hours: Summer Hours (April/Maryland Day Weekend – August):
Monday – Thursday: 10 am – 5 pm
Friday: 9 am – 5 pm
Saturday: 10 am – 3 pm
Sunday: 10 am – 4 pm - Tickets: Purchase tickets here
- Self-Guided Garden Tour Admission Fees:
- General Admission (3 and up) – $5
- Historic Annapolis Members – Free
- Children under 3 – Free
- SNAP/WIC* – Free
- Guided House Tour Admission Fees:
- (includes garden entry)
- General Admission** – $12
- Child (3-17) – $7
- Historic Annapolis Members – Free
- Children under 3 – Free
- SNAP/WIC* – Free
- Location: 186 Prince George Street Annapolis, MD 21401
Fun things to do in Annapolis with kids
Visit Hogshead House
At the nearby Pinkney Street, you can visit Hogshead House, which is the perfect example of a building type that was common in 18th-century Annapolis.
Admission is free and you can learn more about how the “everyday people” lived back then, with guides dressed in colonial attire, and the opportunity to see and handle authentic and reproduction artifacts.
- Hours: Hogshead is currently only open for special programs approximately one day each weekend. Please call 410.990.4543 to check hours.
- Location: 43 Pinkney Street Annapolis, MD 21401
Visit the Old Fox Books and Coffeehouse
Don’t miss a visit to the Old Fox Book and Coffeehouse when visiting Annapolis with kids.
It’s one of the coolest bookstores we’ve come across, and the kids will love the outdoor garden complete with a fairytale cottage!
Grab a cup of coffee and enjoy the outdoor seating, while the kids enjoy the outdoor play area.
- Hours: Monday-Friday: 7:00AM-5:00PM / Saturday-Sunday: 8:00AM-5:00PM
- Location: 35 Maryland Ave. Annapolis
Visit Sandy Point State Park
On your visit to Annapolis, make sure to visit Sandy Point State Park for some fun in the sun.
This 786-acre park has a beach with breathtaking scenic water views that overlook the Chesapeake Bay and bridge.
The park also offers accessible food and beverage concessions, fishing, picnic areas, shelters, bathhouses, and playgrounds. It’s a great place to add to your itinerary when planning a visit to Annapolis.
- More ideas in Annapolis for kids:
- Annapolis Maritime Museum-Learn about the Annapolis area’s maritime heritage and the ecology of the Chesapeake Bay through programs, exhibits, and community events.
- The Chesapeake Children’s Museum
- Quiet Waters Park
Visit the World War 2 Memorial
Visit the Maryland World War 2 Memorial that honors the brave men and women who sacrificed for our nation’s freedom.
The memorial is located just a short drive from Annapolis, along Route 450 overlooking the Severn River.
The Memorial consists of a rectangular amphitheater surrounded by columns and granite slabs inscribed with the names of 6,454 Marylanders who died in World War II. Stone panels and mosaic circles further depict Maryland’s role in the War.
Where to eat in Annapolis
Annapolis has a great food scene, serving some of the most delicious food we’ve tasted! Here are a few of our favorite places to grab a bite!
- Iron Rooster– If you’re a breakfast lover, then head over to the Iron Rooster. They serve some of the most unique and amazing breakfast choices in the area.
- We especially loved the Crab hash and French toast. For a lighter option, the strawberry avocado toast was to die for! Make sure to ask for their homemade pop tarts. They aren’t listed on the menu, but taste so amazing and come in a few different flavors.
- The Red Bean: Best ice cream/coffee shop in the city. You can create your own custom ice cream, with many flavors and toppings to choose from. One of my faves was the affogato, which consisted of vanilla ice cream topped with espresso, so yummy!
- Chick and Ruth’s Delly: Chick and Ruth’s Delly serves breakfast all day long as well, but is known for their famous crab cakes. The crab cakes here are some of the most delicious we’ve ever tasted and they’re huge!
- Annapolis Market Square: This is the best place to eat if you’re indecisive about what to eat! They have everything here, from the freshest seafood to burgers, pasta, and fresh salads.
More Restaurant options
- Galway Bay Irish Restaurant
- Preserve
- Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls
- Cafe Normandie
- Buddy’s Crab and Ribs
- Vida Taco Bar
Where to stay in Annapolis
There are so many options for places to stay when visiting Annapolis. There are a few hotels in the area, including bed and breakfasts and historic inns. Make sure to reserve in advance as they’re usually sold out.
- Graduate Annapolis Hotel– This is one of our favorite hotels in Annapolis. It’s located just a short walk away from the historic center, and it’s such a beautiful hotel.
- Hilton Garden Inn Annapolis– Another great hotel option when visiting Annapolis. It’s located further from the historic center, but it’s just a short drive away.
- Annapolis Waterfront Hotel– Stay in this waterfront property, located in the historic district and close to all the main attractions.
Recommended Annapolis Hotel:
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