Although the seafaring town of Annapolis, Maryland – a bustling oasis brimming with boat shows and crabs by the bushel – is more often thought of as a summer haven, it is also a quite charming seaside destination throughout the winter months.
During the winter, instead of dining happily in one of many local crab shacks, you might duck into a cozy, local tavern or pub for a pint or get a taste of Annapolis by choosing from an eclectic sampling of restaurants…You can pamper yourself with fine dining at Harry Browne’s or belly up to a waterfront table offering great views of the Chesapeake Bay (which can still be majestic in the winter) and your favorite football team on TV at 1936 Bar & Grill. Or walk along the historic, brick streets of downtown Annapolis to O’Brien’s Oyster Bar & Seafood Tavern for a quick bite.
Whatever month you visit, Annapolis is a dream come true for history buffs. Historic Downtown Annapolis is an interesting mix of nautical architecture and brick mansions and row homes that date back hundreds of years. Winter also begs a visit to the Maryland State House, the oldest state capital building in contiguous legislative use; and when in Annapolis, who would be without a visit to one of America’s most revered institutions – the Naval Academy, which has produced brave military officers since 1845?
Shop ‘til you drop in the Annapolis Town Center and at the Westfield Annapolis Mall. Head just a little south to SoFo for an amazing array of retail shops or to the Arundel Mall, Maryland’s largest outlet with over 200 stores.
Maybe you prefer the cultural scene provided by the Annapolis Arts District, which is bursting with art studios, galleries and performing arts centers. Nightlife in Annapolis is vibrant too, with live entertainment, pub crawls and comedy shows throughout the year.