Visit Anne Arundel County in Maryland if you want to explore nature and history.
Dubbed the “land of pleasant living,” the county boasts that it is home to diverse communities, vast educational and economical opportunities, as well as unique and historic attractions.
The county is where you will find Annapolis, Maryland’s capital city.
It is also bounded to the east by Chesapeake Bay, giving it great access to water and all the activities related to it.
The county was named after Lady Ann Arrundell, the wife of Cecilius Calvert, the first proprietor of what was once the province of Maryland.
In the late 1880s, the county became a popular recreational spot, with resort businesses flourishing especially during the summer.
It was home to the well-known Victorian summer resort called Bay Ridge or “The Queen Resort of the Chesapeake.”
Today, the county has a population of 593,286 people as of the 2022 census.
The area attracts both residents and visitors for its peaceful atmosphere and recreational opportunities.
From live to play, I can guarantee that Anne Arundel has something amazing to offer.
If you want to know more about what you can explore in the area, read this list of the best things to do in Anne Arundel County, Maryland.
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Tour the William Paca House and Garden if you’re interested in history, architecture, and nature.
It is located at 186 Prince George Street in the city of Annapolis.
The place was once the home of William Paca, former governor of Maryland and signee of the Declaration of Independence.
If you’re a history enthusiast, do not miss out on this National Historic Landmark.
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I would suggest booking a tour with a docent before heading out to make sure that you can have a satisfying learning experience during your visit.
You won’t just learn about textbook history but also stories from those who once lived in the William Paca House and Garden.
While here, you may roam the 18th century English garden and appreciate its restored beauty.
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Learn why archery is so much fun when you visit DodgeBow.
You may find it at 7476 New Ridge Road Suite F in the unincorporated community of Hanover.
The archery center offers bows and arrows as well as protective equipment for you to safely try the sport.
Even if you’re new to archery, you shouldn’t worry because DodgeBow offers sessions to orient you before starting the activity.
Players of all levels are welcome to have fun here.
Shooting arrows is truly a fun and one-of-a-kind experience that I enjoy doing myself.
Add DodgeBow to your list of stops when you find yourself in Arundel County, Maryland.
If you wanna try water-based tours, then you should consider sailing with Annapolis Sailing Cruises: Schooner Woodwind.
You may access the business at 80 Compromise Street in the city of Annapolis.
When you’re in the city known as “America’s Sailing Capital,” you can’t pass up on the opportunity to sail its waters.
You may choose to ride one of the two 74-foot schooners called Woodwind & Woodwind II.
The crew and captain of the schooners promise to give you a great experience, depending on what you want—you may experience steering the boat yourself or just sit back and enjoy the ride.
If you’re sailing for the first time, try inquiring with Annapolis Sailing Cruises: Schooner Woodwind.
Try something new during your travels and visit Chill Axes.
It is located at 2101 Concord Boulevard, Ste. G in the census designated place of Crofton.
The center is a premier venue for ax throwing.
People of all skill levels are welcome to try this activity that’s perfect for family and friends!
Chill Axes may also serve as a party venue.
So if you want to try a unique activity for your next party, you should consider Chill Axes.
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Live! Casino & Hotel is one of the county’s finest offerings.
It is located at 7002 Arundel Mills Circle in Hanover.
If you want days and nights filled with entertainment and games, then you should stay at this place.
It features several kinds of gaming opportunities, including slots and table games.
The casino even hosts tournaments with action leaderboards that are sure to excite you!
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For dining and drinking, you’d be glad to know that Live! has several restaurants and bars to choose from.
While here, be sure to check out the scheduled live performances and catch them if you’re interested.
Live! Casino & Hotel is for the travelers who want endless luxury and entertainment.
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If you want to meet animals and explore farming, check out Wild Kid Acres.
It is located at 731 Central Ave East in the census-designated place of Edgewater.
The five-acre grounds is owned by farmer Gerardo Martinez who, with his family, transformed the place into a thriving farm.
The farm may also serve as a venue for different events, including parties, classes, or summer camps.
While here, you may learn all about farming and gardening.
If you’re interested in starting your own farm, it would be a great opportunity to tour Wild Kid Acres and learn from the experts.
You are sure to have a fulfilling experience when you visit Chesapeake Arts Center.
It is located at 194 Hammonds Lane in the census-designated area of Brooklyn Park.
The 58,000-square foot facility is a multi-disciplinary hub, being home to a theater, a gallery space, and several studios.
All kinds of creatives will have something to appreciate when they visit the center.
If you’re into fine arts, you should check if there are scheduled exhibits at the gallery spaces or ceramics lab.
Meanwhile, you may catch local productions at the theater.
For a more long-term commitment, the Chesapeake Arts Center also offers art-related programs and workshops.
If you’d like to explore the local art scene, then it is worth visiting this corner of Chesapeake.
Taste world-class food when you dine at Harvest Thyme Tavern.
It is situated at 1251 West Central Avenue in the unincorporated community of Davidsonville.
The restaurant is run by Chef Rik Squillari, a third-generation Italian immigrant who grew up in a cooking family.
With its sophisticated and cozy interiors, it is the perfect place for friends and family to gather.
Harvest Thyme Tavern serves a variety of Italian food and boasts using only fresh produce in every dish.
Whether you’re looking for a fancy meal or a comfort snack, you may find something from this restaurant’s menu.
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The Historic London Town and Gardens is one of Anne Arundel County’s distinctive parks.
You may find it at 839 Londontown Road in the census-designated area of Edgewater.
If you’re planning to spend some time outdoors, do it here and also learn about history, horticulture, and archaeology in the process.
You won’t just be able to appreciate its beauty but also develop a better understanding of the environment.
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It features the 1760 William Brown House, the only remaining structure from what was once the London Town, Anne Arundel’s former county seat.
While touring the place, you will discover the “lost town” that was designated by UNESCO Slave Route Project as a Site of Memory.
If you’re a history buff, make sure to add the Historic London Town and Gardens to your list of places to visit in the area.
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Stay at Herrington Harbour North if you want to try boating during your travels.
It is located at 389 Deale Road in the unincorporated community of Tracys Landing.
The marina resort offers relaxation in its accommodations and boat-related recreations.
The place has about 600 boat slips as well as a yacht center that offers full services.
Herrington Harbour North was even regarded as one of the best marina resorts in Chesapeake Bay.
Bring your family and friends to this resort and you are sure to have the most relaxing stay while surrounded by nature.
Dine by the beachfront at Rams Head Dockside.
You may find it at 1702 Furnace Drive in the unincorporated town of Glen Burnie.
The family-owned group that owns the restaurant has been making food since 1989.
If you want to have an amazing view of the region’s waterfront while trying local food, then I suggest that you add Rams Head Dockside to your list of restaurants to visit in the county.
The place serves all kinds of comfort food and its bar has both classic drinks and refreshing cocktails!
I recommend trying dishes from the Chef’s Selections, especially the Cast Iron Crab Cake and Steakhouse Ribeye.
The Point Crab House & Grill is an award-winning restaurant that offers waterfront dining experience.
It is located at 700 Mill Creek Road in the census-designated place of Arnold.
The menu of the restaurant changes seasonally, so you will get a unique experience during your visit.
While here, you should ask recommendations from the friendly staff and let them surprise you with fantastic food from the menu.
If you’re a foodie, you shouldn;t miss out on the refreshing food of Point Crab House & Grill!
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If you want to experience peace within nature, visit the Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary.
You may access it at 1361 Wrighton Road in the unincorporated community of Lothian.
The sanctuary is a part of Patuxent River, located south of Anne Arundel.
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Established in 1985, it protects and preserves about 1,700 acres of tidal freshwater marshes, upland and riparian forest, forested wetlands, creeks, meadows, and more.
It is also home to diverse wildlife and flora.
You may enjoy walking the boardwalks along the marshes or observe the surrounding ecosystem of Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary.
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Learn a piece of Chesapeake Bay’s history when you visit Captain Avery Museum.
It is located at 1418 East West Shady Side Road in the census-designated place of Shady Side.
The place is the historic home of local waterman, Captain Salem Avery, from the 1800s.
Aside from educating about the history of the place, the two-story building also hosts programs, art exhibits, and even festival-related events.
Be sure to check out the museum’s schedule in advance to anticipate whatever event is happening during your visit.
I would recommend adding Captain Avery Museum to your itinerary if you want to explore more of local history.
Don’t miss out on trying local wine and visit Great Frogs Winery.
It is located at 3218 Harness Creek Road in Annapolis.
The award-winning winery boasts high quality products that go through a rigorous process—from growing grapes to winemaking.
The winery has a vineyard where varietals are grown and pruned with utmost care.
Here you won’t just taste the wine but also witness the fascinating process that goes to making a drink.
Try the wine tasting packages offered by Great Frogs Winery while enjoying the beautiful sceneries of the region.
Anne Arundel County provides only the most unique experiences in the region.
From water-based excursions to various learning opportunities, the county has something to offer all kinds of visitors.
If you’re planning a trip to Maryland, you should consider this corner of the state.
Before heading out, bookmark this list of the best things to do in Anne Arundel County, Maryland!
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