From theme parks to pirate adventures at sea, there is quite a range of activities and adventures families can participate in near Annapolis, Maryland. Within a short drive from downtown Annapolis, families can also step into the past to explore a 17th-century settlement and working archaeological dig, or enjoy a beach-side picnic on the shores of the Chesapeake Bay.
Six Flags America is the only theme park in Maryland, approximately 20 miles west of Annapolis. The park features more than 100 rides, shows, and attractions, including Thomas Town, a family entertainment area that opened in 2010 and is based on the Thomas and Friends brand. A new attraction for 2011, Survivor Live is an interactive stage show based on the CBS reality program Survivor. Six Flags America also includes the Hurricane Harbor water park, and is open from late May to early September,
Established in 1683 and once an important tobacco port in the colonial trans-Atlantic trade network, London Town overlooks the South River. The Historic London Town and Gardens is approximately a 20-minute drive south of Annapolis and retains a quarter of the original 100-acre town. Families visiting the park can volunteer to assist in on-site archaeological digs, and learn about London Town's history. The site includes the original William Brown House, the reconstructed Lord Mayor's Tenement, and woodworking demonstrations at the carpenter shop.
The 786-acre Sandy Point State Park is located along the northwestern shore of the Chesapeake Bay, and is open year round. Approximately a 15-minute drive east of downtown Annapolis, the park features a marina with 22 launching ramps, a marine store and boat rentals. Families can visit expansive beaches and picnic areas overlooking the bay. Activities at the park include fishing, boating, hiking and bird watching. Visitors can also see the red brick Sandy Point Lighthouse, which has stood off the shores of the park since 1883.
Children can experience the thrill of sailing in search of sunken treasure with Pirate Adventures on the Chesapeake. Young pirates and their families learn about their ship, the Sea Gypsy, and read a treasure map to find the treasure as they sail in the Chesapeake Bay. In operation since 2003, ships set sail from Annapolis Harbor between mid-April and Halloween. As of March 2011, admission was $19 per person and $12 for children 2 and under.
