Discover the Best Things to Do in Anne Arundel County, MD

Whether you’re a new homeowner in this beautiful area or planning to visit, get ready to discover some of the best things to do in Anne Arundel County, MD, with our guide. The county offers a wonderfully unique mix of outdoor adventure, serene waterways, beautiful landscapes, and a rich history—all within convenient proximity of the nation’s capital and Baltimore. Let’s explore some of our top recommendations for Anne Arundel County destinations! 

Summary:

• Best Things to Do in Anne Arundel County, MD, Overall

• Top Anne Arundel County Attractions

• Conclusion

Best Things to Do in Anne Arundel County, MD, Overall

Whether you want to head into the city of Annapolis for festivals, events, and shopping and dining, or you’d like to explore the towns and attractions around the county, you’ll have plenty of Anne Arundel County attractions to choose from for all ages to enjoy.

Outdoor Activities in Anne Arundel County

Some of the most popular Anne Arundel County destinations are outside, including over 140 parks and sanctuaries. Of course, there’s also the beauty of the Chesapeake Bay and the rivers surrounding this beautiful Maryland area, along with two popular public beaches. Here are a few ways to enjoy the outdoors and stunning Ann Arundel scenery: 

• Cruise the Chesapeake: Experience Chesapeake Bay from the water with a sunset cruise or book a private tour for a special event or a day out with loved ones.  

• Sandy Point State Park: This scenic park spans almost 800 acres, overlooks the Chesapeake Bay, and offers trails, beaches, boating and fishing spots, a playground, and more. 

• Helen Avalynne Tawes Garden: Stroll the five acres of this public garden in Annapolis that showcase the diversity of Maryland’s natural ecosystems. 

• Anne Arundel County Trails: Explore this remarkable trail system that not only winds around the county but also connects to national pathways like the East Coast Greenway. Some even offer equestrian access.

Historical Attractions in Anne Arundel County 

History buffs will enjoy the abundant opportunities to step back in time here. With Maryland being one of the original 13 colonies, Anne Arundel County is full of historical sites, each covering a unique piece of the state’s (and country’s) history. The county is also full of historic homes decorated with period pieces. Here are a few local favorites among historical Anne Arundel destinations: 

• Museum of Historic Annapolis: This 3-story museum is packed with exhibits that share the stories of the area’s influence and impact on American history. 

• Banneker-Douglass-Tubman Museum: This museum features events and exhibitions on African-American history and is named for three renowned Maryland residents: Benjamin Banneker, Frederick Douglass, and Harriet Tubman. 

• Chase-Lloyd House: Originally home to Samuel Chase, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, this house was built in 1769. You can visit the first level of the home, which reflects life in the 1800s, while the rest of the building is a nonprofit, established by one of Chase’s relatives, for women facing housing insecurity.

• Charles Caroll House: The birthplace of Charles Carroll, another signer of the Declaration of Independence, the house and gardens are open to the public from June to October, with private tours available. 

• Hammond-Harwood House: Built in 1774, this colonial building in downtown Annapolis is now a museum showcasing early American architecture and fine art, plus the history of those who lived and worked at the house.

• William Paca House and Garden: Now a National Historic Landmark, this home has been restored to its original state and features a peaceful two-acre garden that boasts native and heirloom plantings.

Fun Family Activities in Anne Arundel County

For a great time indoors and out, these fun family things to do in Anne Arundel County are ideal for all ages: 

• Navy Sports: Sports fans can cheer on elite Navy athletes in baseball, football, gymnastics, and much more.

• Pirate Adventures on the Chesapeake: Go on an adventure through the Chesapeake Bay on a pirate ship, search for treasure, and even fire a water cannon.

• Annapolis Ice Cream Company: The best days end with a scoop of ice cream! Enjoy award-winning frozen treats from the company voted “Best Ice Cream in Annapolis” for 20 years. 

• North Arundel Aquatic Center: Here, you’ll find a competition pool, an indoor water park, and a poolside spa, as well as swimming programs and lessons. The center is about 12 miles from our new construction homes in Laurel, MD.

• Play Street Museum in Severna Park: Perfect for a rainy day, the Play Street Museum has toys and educational activities for children up to eight years old.

Fun Things to Do in Annapolis, MD

Annapolis is the largest city in Anne Arundel County and the capital of Maryland. Situated on the Chesapeake Bay, this city offers stunning water views, shopping, dining, and history. In addition to numerous landmarks and distinct neighborhoods, here are some of the most fun things to do in Annapolis: 

• Annapolis Towne Transport: Hop on a trolley tour to learn about and view the city’s old buildings and beautiful views in a 60-minute tour. Anne Arundel County residents ride for free per the company’s website as of February 2025.

• Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse: Built in and operating since 1875, you can take a boat to the lighthouse and tour the interior.

• Annapolis Symphony Orchestra: Entertaining Annapolis for decades, this symphony orchestra performs year-round and hosts an outdoor concert in the summer.

• Reynolds Tavern: Perhaps one of the most unique things to do in Annapolis, Reynolds Tavern was built in 1737 and now serves guests English afternoon tea, lunch, and dinner. They also have a beer garden.

• Annapolis Maritime Museum & Park: Learn about the Chesapeake Bay’s ecology and maritime history through hands-on educational events and visits to spots in the bay that offer an understanding of natural life in and around local waters. 

Top Anne Arundel County Attractions

Anne Arundel County is rich with activities due to its location on the water and remarkable history, but some sites truly stand out. Here are three of the top Anne Arundel attractions. 

City Dock

Perhaps the heart of Anne Arundel County, City Dock is a stretch of streets along the waterway that appeals to tourists and locals. From boutiques and art galleries to pubs, restaurants, and historic inns, City Dock has plenty to discover. It’s a hub of activity year-round, as it hosts many events, like the Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show, fireworks on New Year’s Eve and the Fourth of July, and the Military Bowl Parade. You can also just sit by the water and watch the boats come and go in Ego Alley.

Maryland State House

The Maryland State House is among the top Anne Arundel County attractions due to its prominent history in the U.S. political scene. The original state house was built in the 1600s, but after Maryland’s capital moved to Annapolis, construction on the current structure began in 1772 and took more than 20 years to complete. Today, the Maryland State House is the “oldest state capitol in continuous legislative use and the only state house ever to have served as the nation’s capitol,” according to the Maryland.gov website. Located roughly 22 miles from our new construction homes in Laurel, MD, the Maryland State House is open daily to visitors and offers easy access to the Annapolis Harbor.

U.S. Naval Academy 

Conveniently close to the Maryland State House is the sprawling campus of the U.S. Naval Academy, which educates and trains future Navy and Marine Corps service members. Visitors can tour “The Yard,” as the Naval Academy calls its campus. You can also stop by the U.S. Naval Academy Museum.

Conclusion

Anne Arundel County offers homeowners a mixture of beautiful water scenes, quaint downtown areas, lots of outdoor adventure, and a rich history to explore. You’ll have no trouble finding Anne Arundel destinations to enjoy!

Explore new construction homes in Baltimore, MD, today or browse more Pulte blogs. 

Written By: Alexandra Shimalla, Freelance Journalist