Maryland, USA
A visit to Annapolis Known by locals as the “museum without walls,” Annapolis, Maryland, is the state capital and just minutes away from BWI Airport. Located at the confluence of the Severn River, and Spa and College Creeks as they pour into the Chesapeake Bay, Annapolis is the self-proclaimed Sailing Capital of the World. by Judy Colbert Photos: iStockphoto.com
Annapolis offers excellent regio nal and international cuisine, architecture, politics, public art, the United States Naval Academy, gardens, boutique and mall shopping, boat shows, festivals, a lively performance and music scene, and history. And, everything’s packed into an area that’s only about seven square miles. GET AN EARLY START You can begin the morning on a patri otic note by having breakfast at Chick and Ruth’s on Main Street, where they sing the National Anthem every weekday morning at 8:30, and at 9:30 on weekends. You can also try a six-pound milkshake or a superb crab cake, and frequently catch sight of local and state politicians and other prominent figures. When owner Ted Levitt is on the premises (and that’s most of the time), call him over for a
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WOW Power to the people
Annapolis is home to an almost endless list of festivals that celebrate chocolate, a Light House GumboFest, Greeks, Italians, the Irish (complete with St. Patrick’s Parade), spring (with the Annapolis Oyster Roast & Sock Burning), chicken wings, films, books, Rockfish (the state fish), and the list continues.
demonstration of his skill with close-up magic. Another breakfast (and lunch) favorite is Miss Shirley’s where the outrageous menu selections include coconut cream-stuffed French toast and the crab Benedict. SAILING CAPITAL Most of the city’s activities and attractions are located around City Dock. It’s where you can watch yachts and other gorgeous (read expensive) boats slowly parading up and down Ego Alley. Sharplydressed midshipmen stroll the area around City Dock, and while they always look sharp, they’re spectacular in their crisp white summer uniforms. Check the Alex Haley Memorial that notes the arrival of Haley’s ancestor, Kunta Kinte. Kinte was brought to Annapolis as a slave aboard the Lord Ligonier in 1767. But before you venture forth into the city’s history and attractions, stop by the Iron Rooster for their famous homemade pop-tart which just barely resembles the store-bought pastries of your childhood. On a hot day or any day, a scoop of Storm Brothers Ice Cream hits the spot.