Visitors > Welcome to Annapolis!

Whether you come for the history, the education, the water, or the hospitality, there is always something to enjoy in Annapolis. Experience the colonial capital city, known since its earliest days as the "Athens of America," where one could find a wealth of cultural activities, a glittering social season, gracious hospitality and intellectual stimulation. The small seaport brought visitors from around the world who shared the news of the day while enjoying the ambiance and tidewater cuisine.

You will find the same atmosphere today, drawing more than four million people a year to our shores. Annapolis has been welcoming visitors for more than 300 years.

For many, Annapolis is synonymous with the United States Naval Academy. However, this world famous institution isn't even the oldest college in town. That distinction belongs to St.. John's College, founded in 1696 as King William's School. It is the third oldest college in the United States, after Harvard and William and Mary.

The capital of Maryland was the capital of the United States when the Treaty of Paris, ending the Revolutionary War, was signed here. All four Maryland signers of the Declaration of Independence had impressive homes, still standing, in Annapolis.

Today, Annapolis is a very popular port of call for international sailors. Its anchorage features transoms from all over the world. In the fall, the largest in the water boat shows in the world are held on successive weekends for sail and power enthusiasts.

Take time to walk in our city and peer over the garden gates. Visit our many shops or relax on a water taxi in our harbor. Beneath our waters lie the hull of the Peggy Stewart, burned during a tax revolt, and the great yacht "America" of America's Cup fame. The same harbor where Kunte Kinte was sold into slavery is where the proud Selima, top class thoroughbred whose bloodline gave us Man O'War and other champions, disembarked. The working-class dock, where PT boats and mine sweepers for two world wars were built, now supports the technologies used by Olympic sailors who train here and consider Annapolis "America's Sailing Capital."

This is our city. Enjoy!

Sincerely,
Joshua J. Cohen
Mayor