Attractions and Places To See around Naval Academy - Top 19

The area around the Naval Academy is rich in history. You can explore the Maryland State House, the oldest U.S. legislative building still in active use, where George Washington resigned his commission. Within the Naval Academy grounds, notable historical sites include the USNA Main Chapel, which houses the crypt of John Paul Jones, the U.S. Naval Academy Museum in Preble Hall with its extensive collection of naval artifacts, and the Tripoli Monument, the oldest military monument in the U.S. dating back to 1806.

Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Maryland State House offers an educational experience about U.S. history. The Annapolis City Dock is a lively waterfront area with shops and eateries, perfect for a stroll. Within the Naval Academy, families can visit the U.S. Naval Academy Museum, observe the Noon Formation of midshipmen, or explore the various monuments. The Baltimore & Annapolis Trail is also great for family bike rides.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Baltimore & Annapolis Trail is a popular choice, offering 13.3 miles of paved path for cycling and walking through scenic and historical areas. You can also find numerous routes for jogging and cycling. For example, there are several running routes around the Annapolis City Dock and the Maryland State House. For more detailed route information, you can explore the Running Trails around Naval Academy or Cycling around Naval Academy guides.

Yes, several attractions and trails are wheelchair-accessible. The Baltimore & Annapolis Trail is paved throughout, making it accessible for wheelchairs. The Belleview Estates HOA section of this trail also offers a smooth, paved path. Additionally, the Kunta Kinte–Alex Haley Memorial is designed to be accessible.

Beyond the well-known sites, you can discover several unique monuments. The Kunta Kinte–Alex Haley Memorial is a significant site commemorating the arrival of an enslaved African. Within the Naval Academy, look for the Herndon Monument, famous for its annual climb tradition, the Triton Light dedicated to submariners, and the Mexican-American War Monument, the longest-standing monument on Academy grounds. The Tamanend (Tecumseh) Figurehead is also a unique symbol of good luck for midshipmen.

The Naval Academy and Annapolis are enjoyable year-round, but spring and fall offer pleasant weather for exploring. Commissioning Week, held annually before Memorial Day, is a particularly vibrant time to visit, featuring events like the Herndon Monument climb and the Blue Angels Air Show. Observing the midshipmen's Noon Formation is also a unique daily experience.

The Annapolis City Dock is a historical waterfront area known for its vibrant atmosphere. Historic buildings line the Chesapeake Bay, and the harbor is bustling with boats. It has been a hub for merchant activity for over 350 years and offers numerous eateries and shops to explore.

While not entirely hidden, the U.S. Naval Academy Cemetery and Columbarium offers a serene and reflective experience with views of the Severn River. It's the resting place for notable figures, including Senator John S. McCain III. The Santee Yacht Basin, tucked into the northeast corner of the Academy, is also a quieter spot where you can see the Academy's sail training craft.

To experience the main attractions within the Naval Academy, such as the USNA Main Chapel, the U.S. Naval Academy Museum, and Bancroft Hall, you should allocate at least 2-3 hours. If you plan to include a guided tour or explore additional monuments and the surrounding Annapolis City Dock, a half-day or full-day visit would be more appropriate.

The USNA Visitors Center, located just inside the Main Gate, is an ideal starting point and can provide information on parking options both within and around the Academy grounds. For specific attractions in Annapolis, such as the Annapolis City Dock or Maryland State House, public parking garages and street parking are available nearby.

The U.S. Naval Academy Museum, located in Preble Hall, is a significant cultural site offering two floors of exhibits detailing the history of sea power, the U.S. Navy's development, and the Academy's role in training officers. It houses hundreds of thousands of artifacts, including the Surrender Table from the USS Missouri and the world's largest collection of shipyard models. Admission is free.