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| Exploring Annapolis |
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It’s not by chance that Maryland’s state capitol is perched on the edge of busy Chesapeake Bay. For more than 350 years, sailors have made their way to this sheltered Colonial harbor, which looks much the same as it did in the 18th century. Colonial brick and wood buildings crowd the harbor front; narrow brick and stone-paved streets form a web leading away from two center circles: the Maryland State House and St. Anne’s Episcopal Church. On the highest hill overlooking the harbor, The State House is the oldest legislature in the country, established in 1779 as the colonial capitol. George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, and many of the founders of our country once walked its halls. In continuous use for more than 200 years, it’s a treasure trove of early Americana. Free guided tours are given every hour. Annapolis provides a beautiful marriage of architecture and maritime culture. Stroll the grounds of the United States Naval Academy, boasting the longest accessible waterfront in Annapolis. Watch the plebes step through their paces, or lean over a rail and enjoy the broad canvas of sailboats plying the waters of Chesapeake Bay. There are hidden niches to discover, like the Sea Gate, the mast of the Maine, the grand chapel and the small naval museum. The grounds are open during the day; the gates are barred in the evenings. Guided tours leave hourly from the visitor’s center, or savor the campus on your own. The city’s charm comes from its many historic buildings, some still serving as private homes, others converted to living museums, shops, and bed and breakfast. Two “must see” museums are the William Paca House (circa 1765, with a beautiful formal garden) and the Hammond-Harwood House (a Palladian villa built in 1774, noted for its intricate woodwork). Wander along Prince George Street and King George Street (both just outside the Naval Academy) to discover these and other museum treasures. An intriguing shopping district, with galleries housing sculptors, fiber artists, and painters, stretches between the harborside parking lot and the Naval Academy. Wander down the back alleys, and look for eclectic vendors. Upscale mall-style shopping lines Main Street. Dock Street, Market Street, and Main Street form a horseshoe around the harbor, providing plenty of places to sit, savor a brew, and see or be seen. If you love crabs – Maryland is known for them! – visit Buddy’s Crabs and Ribs, a second-floor eatery near the corner of Main and Market. Other seafood bargains can be found at Riordans, McGarvey’s (Market Street, with lobster specials, microbrews, and decadent chocolate deserts) and Olde Towne Seafood (Main Street). For Colonial elegance, try the Middletown Tavern (Dock Street), a landmark since 1750; for waterfront dining, The Pussers (a lively import from the British Virgin Islands) south of Main, on Compromise. And if you wish to sail into history yourself, check in at the harbor for any of many small operators who take tours out on the bay, or wander across Spa Creek to Eastport and look up a sailing school. Sea breezes will tempt you, as will the glittering waters of the bay. It’s a wonderful place to spend a summer weekend. IF YOU GO Annapolis is an easy drive from Pittsburgh, about five hours. Follow the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-70) east to Breezewood; continue on I-70 into Maryland. Exit Reprint rights available |
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