Annapolis, MD Meeting Planning Overview
A majestic and colonial city along 500 miles of Chesapeake Bay shoreline, Maryland's capital, Annapolis, is a vibrant town that is rich with sightseeing, waterfront activities and American heritage. Many Annapolis venues play up these strengths with stunning views and signature Maryland steamed crabs and crabcakes.
Attendees destined for Annapolis by plane will fly most conveniently into Baltimore/Washington's Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI). BWI is 22 miles from Annapolis, compared to nearby Washington, DC's Reagan National Airport, which is 36 miles away. Maryland's Eastern Shore lies just across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge from Annapolis and offers a wealth of waterfront activities, sightseeing and event venues of its own. Bound by route 50 to the south is the metropolitan area of Washington, DC. Many visitors to Washington, DC enjoy day trips to Annapolis in addition to overnight excursions, a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Home to the U.S. Naval Academy, Annapolis is known as the "sailing capital" of America. What you see now of Annapolis' famous City Dock is surprisingly similar to what you would have seen in the 1700s. A multitude of charters, yachts, sailboats and fishing boats grace the bay waters, ready for work or hire. Host your guests for an elegant affair aboard a Pintail Yacht or a private lecture for up to 30 people in the Annapolis Maritime Museum as they enjoy unobstructed views of the harbor. With over 36 hotels to choose from in Annapolis, 53 wedding venues, 34 banquet halls, 4 resorts and 65 restaurants, this city is your meeting oyster.
Some of the DC area's finest 17th- and 18th-century buildings are among Annapolis meeting venues. Groups can enjoy non-traditional meeting venues in Annapolis that embrace American heritage, such as St. John's College with its beautifully landscaped grounds, the William Paca House and Garden with its intimate banquet space or the Kent Manor Inn, with its four function spaces and seating for up to 150.
Beginning in early spring and well into the fall months, Annapolis is a water- and seafood-lover's paradise. Strap on your boat shoes and stroll the cobblestone streets to get a bite to eat as you watch the boats glide in at sundown. Entertaining a golfing crowd? Tee them off at Annapolis Country Club or the U.S. Naval Academy Golf Club.
