NEW KDHamptons Travel Diary: The Kots Explore Amazing Annapolis

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Kelli Delaney Kot

 

 

 

Annapolis, Maryland is now officially on my list of favorite U.S. cities after a recent visit to this bucolic seaside destination with my husband, Mark. Set against the backdrop of the Chesapeake Bay, Annapolis features three regions of distinct personalities: Annapolis City, the State Capital of Maryland, which is world-renowned as America’s Sailing Capital, the Annapolis Countryside, offering hundreds of miles of shoreline and a wide array of American history, and Annapolis-Baltimore. Strolling around the quaint side streets of Annapolis City, popping into great galleries, restaurants, antique stores and pubs will keep you smiling along with the friendly people who inhabit the picture perfect town — an Instagram photo opp at every turn. Learn more about amazing Annapolis in my NEW KDHamptons Travel Diary below:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Governor Calvert House

 

 

 

Where To Stay: The Historic Inns of Annapolis is the best place to stay, offering boutique hotel lodging with 18th century charm in the heart of the historic downtown district. Conveniently located in the center of Maryland’s famous capital city, the Historic Inns of Annapolis is comprised of three hotels: The Maryland Inn, Governor Calvert House, and the Robert Johnson House which are all located within easy walking distance to sites including the United States Naval Academy, Maryland State House, and St. John’s College.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Each of the three inns provide a cozy setting that combines the character of Colonial America with modern luxury hotel comforts. The storied past of the Maryland Inn, Governor Calvert House, and Robert Johnson House dates back to the 17th and 18th centuries. Elegantly appointed rooms accompany stunning views of the state capital building, and period details like decorative fireplaces and one-of-a-kind antiques add a historic feel.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Touring the stunning campus [aka “The Yard”] of the United States Naval Academy blew me away. Serving as the undergrad college of our country’s naval service, Naval Academy students attend the prestigious school for four years, graduating with Bachelor of Science degrees and then commissioning as Ensigns in the Navy or Second Lieutenants in the Marine Corps; graduates serve at least five years in the Navy or Marine Corps. The campus boasts grand scale Beaux Arts architecture and is located where the Severn River flows into the Chesapeake Bay.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Don’t miss a trip to explore the Naval Academy museum, and the crypt of Revolutionary War naval hero John Paul Jones, whose words, “I have not yet begun to fight,” have inspired generations of naval officers. The crypt is located beneath the Academy Chapel, whose stunning stained glass windows feature Jesus walking on water.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The restaurant and bar scene in Annapolis will satisfy hungry foodies looking to chow down on everything from classic Biscuits with Sausage Gravy, to Waffle Cheeseburgers, and chocolate shops filled with trays filled with homemade treats and candy apples. At night, there’s a great “college town” energy in Annapolis. Pubs are filled with people watching the game, or indulging in innovative menus and spirits like the curated whiskeys Brian Bolter [former Fox 5 news anchor turned Annapolis bar owner] serves at his modern speakeasy, Dry 85. Here’s three spots you won’t want to miss a meal at:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Simply walking around the charming streets of Annapolis is fun to do. The architecture of the majestic Capitol, Governor’s Mansion, school buildings, and old homes boasting ornate columns, staircases, and mill work will leave a lasting impression on all visitors.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Be sure to find “Snowflake Alley”. As soon as a local hears you are a visitor they will whisper this secret to you. It’s a charming photo opp :)