THE CENTER OF MARYLAND CULTURE In Annapolis—once the nation’s capital, now the “Sailing Capital of the U.S.”— you’ll walk the beautiful brick streets of this unforgettable waterfront town. Get up close to the harbor’s famous “Ego Alley” to see the city’s iconic yachts on display, or come take to the water yourself on a sunset sail. History is alive in Annapolis from the beautiful 18th-century capitol dome—where George Washington resigned his commission from military service and the statues of two of the nation’s freedom fighters, Harriet Tubman and Frederick Douglass, showcase Maryland’s role in history—to the sparkling waterfront grounds of the United States Naval Academy, offering public tours, monuments, and a U.S. Naval Academy history museum. Outside Annapolis you’ll find Historic London Town and Gardens. In 1683, London Town was a significant Colonial seaport. Today, the area is home to a 23-acre park dedicated to showing you its rich past through museums, reconstructed buildings, and an archaeology lab. The gardens are no afterthought either, maintaining blooming flowers and diverse native plants throughout the year. Another must-visit is charming Old Ellicott City. It’s gotten through major flooding events with a renewed sense of community and commitment to its small businesses, meaning the historic downtown has as much energy as ever. Take a walk through the winding, cobbled streets and experience its unique offerings, from fine furniture and fashion boutiques to elevated second-hand clothing and antique stores to sweet bakeries and candy shops. Take a break and sip some craft beer brewed at Manor Hill Tavern while you’re at it. In Baltimore, celebrate the lives and legacies of African-American Marylanders at the Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African-American History & Culture. The museum houses exhibits covering more than 400 years of history with collections dedicated to sports, politics, art—and everything in between. Baltimore’s Fells Point was once home to Frederick Douglass. Learn more about the life of this American hero at the Frederick Douglass-Isaac Myers Maritime Park. Travel one hour up I-95 North and you’ll find Havre de Grace at the mouth of the Susquehanna River. Explore the past at fantastic museums including the Maritime Museum, the Havre de Grace Decoy Museum, and Steppingstone Farm Museum, to get a picture of how the town evolved. Visit the Concord Point Lighthouse for a sweeping view over the water, then check out the downtown stores to get some souvenirs and food on the waterfront. Photos: (clockwise from top left) Downtown Annapolis (Sean Pavone), Spa Creek and St. Mary’s Church in Annapolis (Jon Bilous), Sailboats in Annapolis (Nicole Nierenberg) US Naval Academy @benoit0844 86 / VISITMARYLAND.ORG
Maryland Official Visitors Guide 2021 Maryland Official Visitors Guide: Page 86
