Colonial Annapolis, State House & U.S. Naval Academy Tour

Discover the charm and history of Annapolis with a comprehensive guided walking tour that lasts around 135 minutes. For $32 per person, this tour offers a rich exploration of the historic district, the Maryland State House, and the U.S. Naval Academy. Led by a knowledgeable guide in period attire, the experience is perfect for travelers interested in U.S. history, maritime culture, and colonial architecture. While the U.S. Naval Academy visit is a highlight, access restrictions mean international travelers need a U.S.-issued Real ID or passport. This tour provides an engaging, well-rounded look at Annapolis’ most significant sites, making it an excellent choice for those wanting to see the city on foot with expert narration.

Key Points

• Affordable and informative: At $32, the tour covers a lot of ground, including key historic sites in 135 minutes.
• Guided walking experience: A period-attired guide leads you through charming streets and historic landmarks with engaging storytelling.
• Visit the Maryland State House: Explore the grounds and interior of the oldest state capitol still in legislative use.
• U.S. Naval Academy highlight: Enjoy a 45-minute highlight tour of the Naval Academy, with access dependent on U.S. identification requirements.
• Family-friendly and accessible: The tour is wheelchair accessible but not suitable for those with mobility impairments.
• Flexible cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, with options to reserve now and pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point at 188 Main Street Next to Mason’s Lobster Rolls

This tour begins at 188 Main Street, right next to Mason’s Lobster Rolls—a central spot easily reachable within Annapolis. The tour guide appears in period attire, adding an authentic touch to the experience. The meeting point encourages a straightforward start to a well-organized exploration of Annapolis’ storied streets.

Exploring Annapolis’ Historic District on Foot

The core of this tour is a guided walk through the historic district, where the guide shares stories spanning four centuries of Annapolis and Maryland history. Travelers walk past middling homes and gentry mansions, each with stories about the famous figures who built them. The charming streets are perfect for appreciating colonial architecture and 19th-century homes.

The guide’s storytelling emphasizes 18th-century history, providing context for Annapolis’ significance during colonial times. This part of the tour suits visitors eager to learn about the founding and development of Maryland’s capital in a relaxed, walking environment, with plenty of opportunities for photos and questions.

Maryland State House: Grounds and Interior Highlights

A major stop on the tour is the Maryland State House, the oldest state capitol still in legislative use today. Visitors explore the grounds and step inside the building interior, where the guide shares stories of the building’s history and its role in American independence. The State House is notable for its stately architecture and its connection to American founding history.

During this visit, expect to learn about famous Maryland statesmen and the building’s architectural features. The tour emphasizes stories of Maryland’s political history, making it particularly interesting for history enthusiasts and those curious about state governance.

45-Minute U.S. Naval Academy Highlight Tour

The tour continues with a dedicated 45-minute visit to the U.S. Naval Academy. This highlight includes a guided overview of the grounds and key structures, emphasizing the academy’s history and military significance. The highlight tour provides a snapshot of the prestigious institution and its role in American naval history.

Access to the Naval Academy is subject to federal guidelines. Guests must have a U.S.-issued Real ID or a U.S. passport for entry; international IDs are not accepted. This restriction is important for international travelers to note ahead of time.

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Practical Details: Group Size, Accessibility, and Meeting Spot

The tour is designed for small groups, enhancing the experience with more personal interaction. The group size typically allows for an engaging, conversational atmosphere. The tour is wheelchair accessible, but it is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments.

The meeting point is conveniently located at 188 Main Street, making it easy to find and connect with the guide in period attire. The tour’s duration of about 2 hours and 15 minutes generally includes both the walking components and the various site visits, making it manageable for most visitors.

Cost-Effective and Flexible Booking Options

The tour price of $32 makes it a budget-friendly way to experience Annapolis’ highlights. Visitors can reserve their spot without immediate payment, thanks to the “reserve now & pay later” option, which helps keep travel plans flexible. Cancellation is simple, with full refunds available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

What’s Not Included and Additional Considerations

The tour fee does not include food, drinks, parking fees, or gratuities—though gratuities are not expected but appreciated. Participants should bring a passport or ID card for security and access purposes, especially if planning to visit the Naval Academy.

The tour does not include access to the Academy’s interior beyond the highlight tour, and no video or audio recording is permitted during the site visits. Travelers should also note the no pets policy, except for assistance animals.

Highly Praised Guides and Overall Experience

Reviews highlight knowledgeable, personable guides who bring history to life, often dressed in authentic period clothing. The guides are praised for their storytelling style, entertaining approach, and willingness to answer questions. The overall feedback describes the tour as informative, engaging, and well-paced.

Comparing Similar Tours in Annapolis

For those considering other options, similar experiences include harbor cruises, ghost tours, or additional State House visits. However, this tour’s focus on walking through the historic district combined with the inside tour of the State House and Naval Academy makes it a well-rounded choice.

Final Thoughts: A Well-Rounded Annapolis Experience

This guided tour offers a comprehensive look at Annapolis’ historic sites, ideal for visitors wanting an educational and visually appealing exploration. The small-group format and enthusiastic guides make it a personalized experience. While access to the Naval Academy is limited to those with specific IDs, the highlight tour provides a significant and informative glimpse into the military and colonial history.

For anyone interested in American history, architecture, or naval tradition, this tour strikes a great balance of stories, scenery, and insider insights—all for an accessible price and manageable length. Its flexibility and personalized approach set it apart from larger, less interactive options, making it a memorable way to experience Annapolis.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is family-friendly, children should be able to walk comfortably for about 2 hours and 15 minutes. No specific age restrictions are noted, but children under 18 need photo ID unless accompanied by an adult.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking in advance is recommended to secure a spot. The tour can be reserved with flexible payment options and cancelled up to 24 hours before the scheduled time.

What should I bring on the tour?
It is advised to bring a passport or ID card for security and potential access to the Naval Academy. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and a camera is encouraged for photos.

Are the tours wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is designed to be wheelchair accessible, but travelers with mobility impairments should consider the walking distances and terrain.

Can I visit the Naval Academy if I don’t have a U.S. ID or passport?
Access to the Naval Academy grounds during the tour is restricted to guests with a U.S.-issued Real ID or passport. However, you can still enjoy the historic district and State House portions of the tour without these documents.

Is gratuity included?
No, gratuities are not included but are always appreciated for guides who provide an engaging and informative experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby