Last year I went to Annapolis with two of my best DC blogger babes, Laura and Kristyn, to take a quick getaway out of the city. I had visited Annapolis before but every time I go I find some new little gem hiding around the corner. It's pretty much perfect to visit any time of the year... but maybe I feel that way because I love any little town that sits on the water. The city is always alive with people walking around, sailing, exploring, and taking in the historic charm. Annapolis is the capital of Maryland, home to the US Naval Academy, an awesome spot to grab some MD Blue Crabs, and a great place to grab a drink because there are bars so old that George Washington drank in them (seriously). I meant to write this travel guide post last year but the holidays picked up and it slipped my mind (reality got in the way basically). I had a craving for crabs last weekend and Kyle and I began talking about planning for a weekend getaway to Annapolis! While we were planning it I figured it was better late than never to share my guide with y'all - fall is gorgeous on the shore too!
HOW TO GET THERE
WHERE TO STAY
WHERE TO EAT & DRINK
Cantler's - If you're craving crabs then look no further. A quick 10 min drive from downtown and you can have the best MD blue crabs in the area.
Red Red Wine Bar - Right on Main Street and a perfect stop to grab a wine flight and cheese board.
Dry 85 - The sign outside says it all... "bourbon beer provisions". A modern industrial take on a Prohibition-era speakeasy.
Harvest - I've been here for lunch, brunch, and dinner and it doesn't disappoint. They emphasize locally sourced food and seafood. I can't recommend the catfish enough! I know it's not everyone's favorite fish but it was fried to perfection. For brunch I love the chicken and waffles. Yum!
Iron Rooster - Reservations are hard to come by so prepare in advance. The seating outside is always packed but I've heard this place is well worth the wait, especially because they serve breakfast all day.
Preserve - Another gorgeous restaurant right on Main Street. This place is all about comfort and, you guessed it, some fabulous preserves.
Fox's Den - Gourmet pizzas and craft beer. Hello, perfection. This is a true hidden gem... it's only marked by a hanging fox sign outside and the number 179B above the door. It's nestled in between LouLou and Tangerine. The atmosphere downstairs is really neat and I love how you can sit at the bar and watch the pizza's in the brick oven.
Joss - Fresh sushi, sake bombs, kid friendly, date friendly, lots of seating. You can't go wrong with Japanese in my mind and this place is always great to catch up with friends and have fresh seafood.
WHAT TO DO & SEE
Navy Football games - Even if you're just tailgating this is a classic Annapolis pastime.
Sailboat Ride - I personally haven't done this but one of my best friends recommended it to me. Whenever her family comes to visit they take a sailboat cruise with Schooner Woodwin. They offer lots of different options and I'm dying to take a trip! The sunset cruise looks incredible and they'll even let you help hoist the sails (all 4!) and take a turn at the wheel.
Paddle Boarding - During the hot summer months the water is just asking for you to get in. Capital SUP is the best place to get a great exercise in while being able to enjoy all of the boats and gorgeous weather. They have a spot in DC as well!
WHAT TO WEAR
Anything casual... the town is full of nautical charm (how many times can I say I'm obsessed with that haha) so throw on your Sperry's and striped shirts! During the fall you're good to go with jeans and booties. Winter time calls for a heavier jacket and scarves along with flat, warm boots. In the summer it's all about the sunglasses and a cute dress - I recommend always bringing a hat and light sweater to toss on in case the wind picks up and you're sitting on the water!
*My stay last Fall was provided by Annapolis Waterfront Hotel but all thoughts and opinions are 100% my own. I can't wait to stay at the AWH again in the future!*
Love Always,
It's so hard to believe this was last year, OMG!! Can't wait for our fall trip round II to Richmond next weekend :) xo
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