20 Free Things to do in Annapolis, Maryland

Annapolis is an underrated city, often overlooked for its sister, Baltimore. It’s a great weekend getaway on the east coast. There is so much history in Annapolis without being overwhelming. Our weekend getaway to Annapolis a few years ago really started an appreciation for the city I didn’t expect to have. The city is a bit slower paced which is perfect for travelers looking to really embrace the charm. 

Some will say that Annapolis isn’t worth visiting – it’s not a huge city, what is there to do? I truly believe that Annapolis, Maryland is worth visiting. From walking around downtown to enjoying fresh seafood, there is truly something for everyone visiting Annapolis.

When traveling, I always try to find some free things in each city. Sometimes it’s to make my budget stretch, but often it’s because (as they say) the best things in life are free. So here are some amazing free things to do in Annapolis, Maryland. 

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1. United States Naval Academy

You can’t visit Annapolis and not see the US Naval Academy. Founded in 1845, the Academy’s purpose is to develop leaders to lead our nation in military or civilian life. There are guided walking tours available to the public year-round. You can see the midshipmen marching in formation to lunch during the Noon Formation. Check the music department’s calendar of events for musical and theatrical events in the Yard. Even if you’re not a military history buff, you can walk through the grounds and pay respects to the military personnel who have passed through. 

Address: 52 King George Street, Annapolis, MD 21402. Phone: 410-293-8687

2. See The Naval Academy Chapel & Tidal Basin Monument

While you’re walking around the Naval Academy, don’t miss the chapel. The iconic chapel bell tower hovers above hundreds of midshipmen saluting each morning as they march down Stribling, walk past Tecumseh Court towards Bancroft Hall where they reside throughout their tenure as students/cadets. In addition to amazing historical architecture, visit the nearby Tidal Basin Monument which commemorates WW II naval battles!

Address: 52 King George Street, Annapolis, MD 21402. Phone: 410-293-8687

3. Take a stroll through Annapolis’ Historic District

Annapolis is known as the world’s sailing capital and walking around this historic district will get you in touch with its maritime roots. With beautiful 18th and 19th-century mansions, cobblestone streets, quaint restaurants, and shops you can explore for free every day! Annapolis is a very walkable city, but be sure to put on some comfortable walking shoes for the cobblestone streets. 

4. Visit the Maryland State House

The Maryland State House has been in operation since 1779, making it one of the oldest working capitol buildings in the US. It’s also the only state house still served by an active legislature since it was first built! They have information near the Archives for a free self-guided tour. You will learn about its long history, and find out some fascinating facts about the majority figures that made their legislative imprint here. Even if you don’t go in, the building is quite impressive! 

Address: 100 State Circle, Annapolis, MD 21401 Phone: 800-235

5. Explore Sandy Point State Park

This park has 786 acres of land right along Chesapeake Bay’s banks which welcome hundreds of visitors each year who participate in activities such as fishing, bird watching, swimming, boating, and more! There is a part of the beach that has lifeguards and changing rooms – perfect if you want to get int he water in the summer. The historic Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse is also nearby so be sure to take a look while you are there! Admission to the lighthouse is not free, so enjoy the lighthouse from afar. 

Address: 1100 E. College Parkway, Annapolis, MD 21409 

6. Visit Quiet Waters Park

Another great park to visit in Annapolis is Quiet Waters Park. It offers 370 acres with something for everyone – picnicking areas complete with grills and pavilions, walking trails connecting meadows and forests serving up an array of wildlife sightings to wildflowers while cycling paths allow visitors to explore all sides of this hidden gem! Not to mention playgrounds full of swings and slides perfect for kids. Best part? All these activities are free to enjoy!

Address: 600 Quiet Waters Park Road, Annapolis, MD 21403 Phone: 410-222-1777

7. Enjoy First Sunday Arts Festival

On first Sundays from May – October rain or shine, First Sunday Arts Festivals fills West Street with art galleries, live music performances, delicious food vendors, and creative workshops for adults & children alike! If that’s not enough feel free to join in on craft classes like pottery painting, mosaics & much more. You can easily spend money here, but you don’t have to. The atmosphere is enough to captivate visitors – making it one of the best free things to do in Annapolis. 

Address: On the first blocks of West St. between the Graduate Annapolis Hotel & Church Circle. Check their Facebook page for weather updates.

8. Shop at Market House City Dock

If browsing unique stores is your kind of thing then Market House City Dock downstairs at Annapolis Maritime Museum would be an ideal place to visit because they host over 30+ locally owned shops where you can take a peek into notable artists’ work featuring handmade jewelry & paintings as well interesting antiques! Free admission too! You might be able to see the artists at work as you walk around.

Address: 25 Market Space, Annapolis, MD 21401 Phone: 443-949-0024

9. Spend a night at Susan Campbell Park

The best free thing to do in Annapolis may just be camping at Susan Campbell park located perfectly by the city dockside! Located directly by main attractions such as Annapolis Maritime Museum & U.S. Naval Academy bridge, tourists can have everything from kayaking sightseeing tours -all within reach in a single day! Even if you don’t stay overnight, you can get an incredible sunset view over the water! 

Address: Dock Street, Annapolis, MD 21401

10. Explore the Annapolis City Dock

Right near Susan Campbell Park is another free gem in Annapolis. The Annapolis City Dock, also known as Ego Alley, is a great spot for getting some fresh air and checking out the scenery. It offers outdoor activities like kayaking and paddle boats or relaxing at the local restaurants and pubs. It’s a great place to stroll along the boardwalk for views of sailboats cruising by.

Address: Dock Street, Annapolis, MD 21401

11. Kunta Kinte – Alex Haley Memorial

The Kunta Kinte – Alex Haley Memorial in Annapolis, Maryland is a site of remembrance for Kunta Kinte, an African brought to the United States against his will, and the author and Pulitzer Prize-winning storyteller Alex Haley. Located at City Dock, the memorial celebrates Kunta’s spirit of freedom and determination as well as Haley’s contributions to literature and culture. The site features a life-sized bronze statue of Kunta Kinte, a plaque commemorating his arrival in America, and a circle of stones indicating his homeland of Africa. The memorial serves as both a touching homage to those who have been affected by slavery and racism throughout history and a reminder of how much progress still needs to be made.

Address: Annapolis City Dock, Annapolis, MD 21401

12. Check out Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium

Home to all things Naval Academy sports, Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium is another great free attraction in Annapolis! You can take part in pre-game festivities or watch fans cheer on their latest rival! If you’re visiting during football season don’t miss out on post-game fireworks! 

Address: 550 Taylor Ave, Annapolis, MD 21401 Phone: 410-263-4783

13. Enjoy Hands-On History Days

This activity is only free for children 17 and under (but it’s only $5 for adults). It’s also free for SNAP/WIC members through the Museums for All program. The second Sunday of every month is Hands-On History Day at the Museum of Historic Annapolis. Drop in between 10 am and 2 pm. Each month is a different theme so check out their website for event information & registration. 

Address: 99 Main Street, Annapolis, MD 21401 Phone: 410-990-4754

14. William Paca House & Garden

Full disclosure, if you want to go in for a guided tour, there is a small fee. It’s free to walk outside though! William Paca was a signer of the Declaration of Independence and the third Governor of Maryland. This is a Georgian manor house built in the 1760s and has been recognized as one of the finest 18th-century homes. Historic Annapolis and the State of Maryland bought it in 1965 and restored it to its original appearance. The house is a beautiful example of America’s past and is a great free thing to do in Annapolis.

Address: 186 Prince George Street, Annapolis, MD 21401 Phone: 410-990-4543

15. Maryland World War II Memorial

This open-air memorial is a dramatic and powerful memorial to those who lost their lives during World War II. There are 48 granite pillars representing the 48 states at the time of the war. The names are all of the Marylanders who lost their lives in WWII.

Address: 1919 Governor Ritchie Highway, Annapolis, MD 21409 Phone: 800-446-4926

16. Elizabeth Myers Mitchell Gallery – St. John’s College

Any art lover will love this gallery – and it’s one of the best free things to do in Annapolis! The Elizabeth Myers Mitchell Gallery at St. John’s College is dedicated to bringing creative works to the community and providing visitors with an art experience like no other. The gallery offers a variety of exhibitions throughout the year, from selections from the college’s own artwork collection to nationally-recognized featured works from local and international artists.  The gallery’s mission is to use art as a source of joy and knowledge while building meaningful connections in our diverse campus community. Admission is always free. 

Address: 60 College Avenue, Mellon Hall Annapolis, MD 21401 Phone: 410-626-2556

17. Helen Avalynne Tawes Garden 

Take a break from the city and wander through 5 acres of greenery! Make a reservation and you can get a guided tour for free. The park is open daily from dawn until dusk. It’s a great way to relax and unwind in Annapolis. 

Address: 580 Taylor Avenue, Annapolis, MD 21401 Phone: 410-260-8189

18. St. Anne’s Church

It’s hard to walk around Annapolis and not run into St. Anne’s Church. It’s in the heart of the city, in Church Circle. If you’re religious they have evening services Mon-Fri and Sunday services at 8 am and 10 am. The church dates back to 1692. The church has beautiful architecture and stained glass windows. 

Address: 199 Duke of Glouster St., Annapolis, MD, 21401

19. Hogshead

While this sounds like a bar, it’s one of the most unique free things to do in Annapolis, Maryland. Get a glimpse into 19th century middle-class life in Annapolis at Hogshead. In April 1777, recruits of the Continental Army lived in these rentals for a few short weeks (or days!). Hogshead is open on weekends from March to December. Admission is free, but donations are welcome and appreciated.

Address: 43 Pinkney Street, Annapolis, MD 21401 Phone: 410-267-7619

20. Banneker-Douglass Museum 

The Banneker-Douglass Museum is the state’s official museum of African American heritage. The exhibitions and programs are designed to increase understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures. While admission is free, donations are encouraged and appreciated.

Address: 84 Franklin Street, Annapolis, MD 21401 Phone: 410-216-6180

What are your favorite free things to do in Maryland? Let me know in the comments and I’ll add it as a reader favorite!

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