Car Hire Annapolis - Mini guide to Annapolis

Beautifully situated on picturesque Chesapeake Bay, Annapolis is the capital of the state of Maryland, and is full of old English charm, magnificent architecture, scenic areas and lively entertainment.

Nowhere is the city’s maritime history more evident than at the US Naval Academy, one of the most popular stops for tourists. Guided tours leave the Armel-Leftwich Visitor Center in Halsey Field House every 30 minutes, taking in the huge dormitory, magnificent chapel and the museum.

The museum houses models of various British and US warships and other naval memorabilia, including an early submarine and a Mark XIV torpedo WWII memorial. The academy was opened in 1845 and, if you time your visit well, you may be able to witness one of its frequent parades or sporting events.

There is not much left of the historic Chesapeake Bay waterfront architecture, although a few colonial sites survive. The rebuilt 1850s dockside city Market House is an early 19th century replacement of a colonial warehouse used by the revolutionary army. Today, with its sidewalk cafés and stalls, it's a good spot for people-watching.

The rest of the waterfront, locally known as ‘City Dock’, is pleasant enough for an afternoon's wandering, especially on summer weekends when the harbour and bay are full of clanging halyards and billowing sails. This area also features some of the city’s best dining and entertainment options, from numerous restaurants and bars to opera, symphony, ballet and theatre performances.

At the centre of Annapolis, overlooking the town's web of streets, stands the 18th century Maryland State House. Completed in 1779, it remains the oldest state house still in use. Be sure to visit the Old Senate Chamber and Old Treasury Building. Elsewhere in the city are some stunning examples of late 18th century architecture.

The magnificent Hammond-Harwood House is a red-brick Palladian villa which consists of two symmetrical wings connected by a central hall. Dating from 1774, it is most notable for its beautifully carved decorative woodwork, especially evident in the intricate front doorway. Other superb historic buildings include: William Paca House, St John’s College, Tobacco Prise House and Shiplap House.

The major suburbs in Annapolis are: Bestgate, Eastport, Highland Beach, Homewood, Loretta Heights, Primrose Acres, Truxton Heights, Tyler Heights, Victor Haven and Wardour.