Annapolis Maryland...Sights and Sounds of a Grand Town

The docks located in downtown Annapolis

Annapolis is the capital of Maryland. The State House sits atop the hill, right up West Street from the city docks. On a fall afternoon the historic homes in the area are accented by beautiful foliage for the old Oaks and Maples in the area. It is safe to say that the views in Annapolis are breath taking year round.

Sure, Annapolis is a tourist target destination and street festivals find participants arriving from near and far, but Annapolis is also home to many. The town is located reasonably close to Route 50. Route 50 begins in Ocean City, Maryland and ends in Sacramento, California. There is a sign that east coast residents see leaving Ocean City ...

few people realize that those on the West Coast heading out of Sacramento have a similar sign ...

Long before route 50 reaches Sacramento, it passes through Washington, DC. The highway provides those that work in the District of Columbia an easy access commuter route to work. Of course, local traffic is heavy and those commuting have to be up early. The reward is coming home to Annapolis. Waterfront homes and communities surrounding the downtown area offer a wide variety of styles and prices to potential residents. Home prices range from the low $200,000's to over $3,000,000. There are condo's, townhomes and single family homes to cover a wide spectrum of pricing. They all share one thing ... they are in and around Annapolis and every person has the same access to the attractions located there.

Quiet Waters Park

A little known fact is that the number one tourist attraction in Annapolis is Quiet Waters Park. Nestled between the South River and Harness Creek, Quiet Waters Park in Annapolis offers a wide variety of family activities. Visitors can walk, jog, or bike on over 6 miles of scenic paved trails, play at the large multi-level children’s playground, enjoy the South River promenade and scenic overlook, or picnic among 336 acres of beautiful park land. Boat rental and ice-skating are available seasonally, and the park’s Visitor Center includes formal gardens, art galleries, and a café. (travel america)

Of course, the United States Naval Academy is located here and the traditions surrounding the Academy do influence the town, but Annapolis has so much more to offer. In addition to the unique shops found downtown, one can get lost in the dining choices available. The menu's run the gamut from Maryland Blue Crabs to Prime Rib to a multitude of sandwiches available at Chick & Ruth's Deli. Waterfront dining is available at several restaurants located around the docks. A local favorite past time is to grab an ice cream cone and stroll the waterside admiring the boats anchored there.

Annapolis is not mired in the past. Just a few minutes from the city docks are upscale malls and nationally known chain stores. You can by your favorite Irish friend an authentic Celtic tie by the docks or treat them to a copy of Riverdance at the local Best Buy. Personally, I went to Jared's to buy her that ring.

Annapolis is as historic as an oil painting and as fresh as a plein air watercolor. The seasons change vibrantly from the soft hues of summer's flowers to the intense blue of a summer's sky to the golden leaves of fall to the pristine crystal clear stars of a winters night reflecting off the water. Annapolis is alive. Newcomers mingle with locals that are interspersed with midshipmen from the Academy. Nightlife begins with extended Happy Hours and features several venues offering live music. The local mall has a multiplex movie theater showing current films.

Annapolis is more than a tourist attraction. It certainly features landmarks and historical neighborhoods but it also is home to butchers, bakers and candlestick makers. Local shop owners and commuters are all comfortable living here. The schools, public under Anne Arundel County Schools and private from pre-school to Saint John's College, are some of the best in the nation. Annapolis is a wonderful place for singles just starting out, young families and "empty nesters" as well. There is something here for everyone.

If you are considering moving to the area and would like to know more about Annapolis and homes that are available there, feel free to CONTACT ME. I will be glad to share my knowledge of the area and help you in your move.