Visit at least one of the many historic homes in the city open to the public. A particular pleasure is the Hammond-Harwood House on Maryland Avenue, an Anglo-Palladian mansion showcasing exquisite decorative arts and authentic furnishings.
Another historic offering is the William Paca House on Prince George Street, a fantastic home from the mid-late 1700s. The house itself is almost overshadowed by the terraced formal gardens featuring a fish-shaped pond.
For a taste of the city's military and seafaring history, spend some time on the Naval Academy, adjoining the historic downtown area. Among the highlights are an extensive visitor center with interactive exhibits and a guided tour that includes a look at John Paul Jones' gravesite and a marvelous chapel. Make sure to have a photo ID as security is expectedly high here.
Get out on beautiful Chesapeake Bay, with numerous jaunts offered at the downtown harbor. Watermark Cruises is a solid choice, with a number of themed cruises that include 'Casino Night' and 'Riverboat Jazz.'
Have a night out by the City Dock, where a handful of boisterous bars come alive every weekend. Riordan's is a quintessential Irish saloon and restaurant that sports fans will particularly enjoy, with several televisions strategically placed throughout.
Take in some culture at the Maryland Hall for the Performing Arts, the hub of the city's performing arts scene. Its status as home to Annapolis' Chorale Group, Opera, Symphony Orchestra and the Ballet Theatre of Maryland means there's almost always a high-caliber performance on stage.
Stop by the State House, a regal structure offering an elevated view of the city and bay. The building has an intriguing history, including serving a brief spell as the U.S. Capitol building in the late 18th Century.
