Plan a romantic weekend getaway to Annapolis, Maryland, and sample the city's culinary delights by dining at one of these excellent restaurants. Choices include New American cuisine, fresh local seafood, American favorites, French, Japanese, Thai, Indian, Mexican and Latin cuisine. Here are top Annapolis restaurants. CDC information for travelers. Hours/availability may have changed.
1. Vin 909
Vin 909 is a wine bar and restaurant that serves fantastic farm-to-table New American cuisine. You can’t go wrong with delicious, passionately prepared dishes, such as the Clams & Butternut Squash Curry, Seared Monkfish (in a bacon, mango, and habanero reduction), or the Italian Boar Sandwich.
Or try one of their extremely popular brick-oven pizzas like the Pinnapolis. Hospitality expert Alex Manfredonia and Executive Chef Justin Moore are the owners of Vin 909. You will love the ever-changing, seasonal menu at this charming eatery, situated in a classic Sears Roebuck house in the eclectic Eastport neighborhood of Annapolis.
909 Bay Ridge Avenue, Annapolis, MD 21403, 410-990-1846
2.Boatyard Bar & Grill
For some of the freshest local seafood and regional classics, you will want to check out Annapolis’s tasty Boatyard Bar & Grill. Dive into to their delicious, signature dishes such as Antione’s Stuffed Oysters, Cream of Crab Soup, Finley’s Fantabulous Fish Tacos, or “The Best Crab Sandwich You’ll Ever Eat.” Wash it all down with an ice-cold beer.
Owner Dick Franyo opened Boatyard Bar & Grill in 2001 after retiring from his thriving, 30-year business career. A favorite of local sailors, fishermen, and Chesapeake enthusiasts, this friendly eatery is located on Restaurant Row in Annapolis’s historic maritime district of Eastport.
400 Fourth Street, Annapolis, MD 21403, 410-216-6206
3. Iron Rooster
The popular Iron Rooster restaurant serves a new twist on traditional Southern comfort foods for breakfast (available all day), lunch, supper, or drinks. Treat yourself to scrumptious grub such as the Smoked Brisket Benedict, Chicken & Waffles, Bacon & Egg Ramen (with sliced pork belly), or the Dixie Pot Roast.
Wash it all down with a refreshing selection or signature cocktail from the bar such as the Cock-A-Doodle-Doo. Hospitality expert Kyle Algaze first opened Iron Rooster in 2014, pouring all of his passion into the restaurant. Enjoy views of Ego Alley at this outstanding eatery located on downtown Annapolis’s City Dock.
12 Market Space, Annapolis, MD 21401, 410-990-1600
4.Carpaccio Tuscan Kitchen and Wine Bar
Carpaccio Tuscan Kitchen and Wine Bar is a sophisticated upscale Italian restaurant in Annapolis' vibrant downtown district, originally opened in 2008 as part of the MONTE restaurant group. The charming restaurant serves up a full menu of authentic Tuscan specialties, including high-quality brick-oven pizzas in flavors ranging from traditional margherita to meat lovers' pizzas prepared with pepperoni, ham, sausage, and bacon. Refined land and sea entree options include seafood fettuccine Mediterraneo, chicken scarpariello, veal porcini, and linguine alle vongole, served up with elegant sides such as roasted brussels sprouts and sauteed broccolini. Fine Italian-style pasta options include pappardelle bolognese, fettuccine carbonara, and penne pasticcio. A full wine bar offers high-quality imported selections, with discounted pricing offered at happy hour.
1 Park Pl, Annapolis, MD 21401, Phone: 410-268-6569
5. Galway Bay Irish Pub
Galway Bay Irish Pub is a convivial place where you can eat and drink merrily, enjoying their menu options of Gaelic grub and American standards. You can’t go wrong with delicious Irish Classics like Oysters O’Leary, Shepherd’s Pie, Corned Beef & Cabbage, or Murphy’s Roast. Many gluten-free options are also available.
Save room for a spectacular dessert like their Irish Egg Nog Spiced Pumpkin Pie! Friends Anthony Clarke and Michael Galoway first opened Galway Bay Irish Pub in 1998. You will find this charming eatery in a beautiful historic building downtown, situated very close to the Naval Academy.
63 Maryland Avenue, Annapolis, MD 21401, 410-263-8333
6. Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls
If you’re in the mood for lobster, you simply must visit the quaint yet incredible Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls. Whether you order the Lobstah BLT, Connecticut Roll, Lobstah Bisque, or the Maine Lobster Salad Roll, your taste buds are sure to thank you! All of Mason’s lobsters are directly from Maine after being exclusively caught by a small fleet of ships.
Restaurateur Dan Beck and his wife open this charming eatery, which has been open since 2015. They named the place after their son. Enjoy the friendly atmosphere at Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls, located across the street from the Maryland State House.
180 Main Street, Annapolis, MD 21401, 410-280-2254
7.Jimmy Cantler’s Riverside Inn
Maryland’s iconic, waterfront Jimmy Cantler’s Riverside Inn serves incredible, fresh seafood, and they specialize in crabs. Savor delicious, passionately prepared dishes such as Jimmy’s Steamed Snow Crab, Spicy Oyster Po’Boy, Crab Mac ‘N Cheese, or the breaded Clam Strips. You simply can’t leave until you try their famous Maryland blue crabs.
Former Chesapeake Bay waterman Jimmy Cantler opened this renowned restaurant in 1974 with the help of his lovely wife Linda. Grab yourself a little slice of heaven in the form of some amazing seafood at Jimmy Cantler’s Riverside Inn, located in Mill Creek – just minutes from the Annapolis City Dock.
458 Forest Beach Road, Annapolis, MD 21409, 410-757-1311
, From LA8.Red Red Wine Bar
Red Red Wine Ba doesn’t only offer a great wine program, but they also serve delicious New American cuisine. Savor incredible, boldly flavored dishes like Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Shrimp, Manchego Chicken Panini, Braised Lamb Shank, or Maryland Crab Soup.
Or stop in for the New Orleans Sunday Brunch & Champagne Bar and try the Shrimp Creole Omelette. Restaurateur power couple Brian (a former DC news anchor) and Lisa Bolter are the owners of Red Red Wine Bar, which has been open since 2011. Come for the wine and stay for the food at this hip hangout located across the street from the Maryland State House.
189B Main Street, Annapolis, MD 21401, 410-990-1144
9.Miss Shirley’s
Miss Shirley’s Cafe serves delicious American classics with Southern influences. Dive into tasty dishes like Fried Green Tomatoes, S’mores Baked Banana Skillet, Down on the Bayou Benedict, or Bubba’s Slider Trio.
Delicious craft cocktails are also available. Baltimore native Eddie Dopkin opened the original Miss Shirley’s in Baltimore in 2005. He named it after an amazing cook, Miss Shirley Mc Dowell, a staple in the Baltimore culinary community. You will find this upscale-casual eatery nestled between College Creek and Old Woman’s Cove.
1 Park Place, Annapolis, MD 21401, 410-268-5171
10.Lemongrass
Lemongrass restaurant serves modern Thai cuisine. Enjoy the electric atmosphere, as you treat yourself to tasty, boldly flavored dishes, such as the Duck Curry, Pad Pik Khing Spicy Eggplant, or the Spice-Ghetti Mahi Mahi.
Vegetarian options are also available. Lemongrass, owned by entrepreneurial and visionary restaurateur owners Gavin Buckley and Jody Danek (and their wives, Julie and Kristen) and Stanley Hsu, has been open since 2005. You will find this popular eatery in a little yellow house, nestled between the Naval Academy and Old Woman’s Cove.
167 West Street, Annapolis, MD 21401, 410-280-0086
11.Carrol’s Creek Cafe
Enjoy a fabulous waterfront dining experience overlooking Spa Creek at the upscale Carrol’s Creek Cafe, which serves incredible seafood and classic Chesapeake fare. Savor unbelievable, expertly prepared dishes such as the Pepper Crusted Beef Tenderloin Carpaccio, Lobster & Black Truffle Pot Pie, or Seasonal Vegetable & Mushroom Risotto.
Or pop in for breakfast and try the Tortilla Casserole! They also have a splendid wine program with plenty of options to accompany your meal. The iconic Carrol’s Creek Café has been open since 1983 and is owned and run by Jeffrey Jacobs and his beautiful family. You will find this classy restaurant in Annapolis’s Eastport neighborhood.
410 Severn Avenue, Annapolis, MD 21403, 410-263-8102
12.Jalapeno’s
If you’re in the mood for something fun and exotic, try Jalapeno’s Restaurant, which serves fantastic, authentic Spanish and Mexican cuisine. Dive into tasty, boldly flavored dishes such as the Hongo a la Parilla Tacos, Chuleta de Cerdo, Paella Valenciana, or Pesto Quesadilla.
Try the delicious sangria or another selection from the full bar to quench your thirst. Mexico native Alberto Serrano and Spain native Gonzalo Frenandez opened Jalapeno’s together in 1999. They’ve brought in Executive Chef Obed Serrano to take charge of the culinary creations. You will find this spicy eatery at the Annapolis Towne Center.
85 Forest Drive, Annapolis, MD 21401, 410-266-7580
13.Osteria 177
Enjoy a beautiful, intimate night at Annapolis’s elegant and renowned Osteria 177, which specializes in Italian coastal cuisine and spectacular wine. Savor unbelievable, passionately prepared dishes like Penne Con Polpa di Granchio e Arugola, Scampi alla Pescarese, Pollo al Marsala, or a Gypsy Chicken Panini.
Be sure to try something delicious from their extraordinary wine list! The Italian-born owner and chef Arturo Ottaviano first opened Osteria 177 in 2006, and it has since become a local favorite thanks to his tasty culinary creations. This sophisticated restaurant is located downtown close to Maryland State House and the Naval Academy. Things to Do in Annapolis, Places to Visit in Maryland
177 Main Street, Annapolis, MD 21401, 410-267-7700
14.Sin Fronteras Cafe
Sin Fronteras Cafe serves excellent Mexican and Latin cuisine with a Miami flare. Treat yourself to extraordinary, boldly flavored dishes like the Peruvian Lomo Saltado, Margarita Salmon, Pork Chop a la Mamajuana, or Chicharron en Salsa Verde.
Be sure to try one of their signature margaritas – they’re said to be the best in town! Restaurateur friends Walter Vasquez and Wilmer Romero opened Sin Fronteras in 2014. Enjoy the fun and friendly atmosphere at this spectacular restaurant located close to the Annapolis Towne Center.
2129 Forest Drive, Annapolis, MD 21401, 410-266-0013
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15.Dry 85
Dry 85 restaurant specializes in extraordinary drinks and delicious, modern twists on American comfort food. Treat yourself to amazing dishes like the Blue Cheese and Fig Burger, Fried Oyster Po Boy Sliders, or Slow-Roasted Pork Ribs with Housemade Blueberry Sauce. Wash it all down with a fine bourbon or a refreshing craft beer.
Stop in for brunch and try the Hogs ‘n Hops! News anchor-turned-restaurateur Brian Bolter and his wife Lisa opened Dry 85 in 2014. The restaurant is modeled after a Prohibition-era speakeasy, and you will find this fine establishment in a back alley garage near State Circle and the Naval Academy.
193B Main Street, Annapolis, MD 21401, 443-214-5171
16.Cafe Normandie
Café Normandie specializes in phenomenal French Country Cuisine with Maryland seafood specialties. Savor unbelievable and passionately prepared dishes such as the Apple Cheddar Crepe, Salmon with Blueberries, or Angus Steak with Bordelaise Sauce. Or stop in for breakfast and try the tasty Eggs Florentine.
Everything is made from locally sourced, sustainable ingredients, meaning you can enjoy your meal and support the community at the same time. An impressive wine list is also available. Best Chefs America Award-winning Chef Jean Louis Evennou (a native of France) first opened Café Normandie in 1986. He pours his heart into every dish he makes. Enjoy the cozy atmosphere at this charming eatery located in the heart of downtown Annapolis.
185 Main Street, Annapolis, MD 21401, 410-263-3382
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17.O’Leary’s Seafood
O’Leary’s Seafood serves some of the best seafood the city has to offer – it is freshly caught and prepared to perfection. You can’t go wrong with incredible, expertly prepared dishes such as Bronzino Tripoli, Jamaican Salmon, Pork Frites, or Sopa de Mariscos. Or stop in for brunch and try the Blue Ridge Benny.
Choose something cold and refreshing from the tempting wine and cocktail program to complete your meal. Owner Wil Peterson first opened O’Leary's Seafood in 1983, and it has since become a popular local eatery. You will find it in a charming old house near Horn Point.
310 Third Street, Annapolis, MD 21403, 410-263-0884
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18.Federal House Bar & Grille
Annapolis’s landmark Federal House Bar & Grille serves up incredible, award-winning New American cuisine. Savor delicious, expertly prepared dishes like their famous Cream of Crab Soup, Baked Stuffed Flounder, Chicken Diablo, or Guinness Braised Pot Roast. In addition to a nice wine list, they also have 25 beers on tap, a full bar, and occasional live music and DJs.
Bring Fido with you to enjoy a nice meal on the pet-friendly patio – they even have a Doggie Menu! This iconic restaurant is located inside the Federal House, established in 1830. You will find it on Market Space in the Annapolis Harbor.
22 Market Place, Annapolis, MD 21401, 410-268-2576
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19.Davis’s Pub
Davis' Pub is a popular hangout that serves creative pub fare and has been featured on The Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives” with Guy Fieri. Treat yourself to fantastic foods like the Crab Cake Sandwich, Pulled Pork Barbeque Sandwich, Chesapeake Bay Retriever Sandwich, or Chicken Tostadas.
Don’t miss the Fried Pickles! Wash it all down with a refreshing draft beer. Originally founded as a general store in the 1920s (and later a lounge in the 1940s), it later became Davis’s Pub in the 1980s. Today, Lee and Michaela Troutman are the happy owners of the pub, which you will find in the Eastport community.
400 Chester Avenue, Annapolis, MD 21403, 410-268-7432
20.McGarvey’s Saloon & Oyster Bar
For the best night out, you will want to check out Annapolis’s popular McGarvey's Saloon & Oyster Bar, which serves scrumptious pub fare in addition to selections from its raw bar menu. Start your meal off with the Crab Balls appetizer before diving into incredible dishes like Sesame Seed Fried Flounder, Fresh New England Sea Scallop, or a Bacon & French Roquefort Burger.
Grab a refreshing craft beer and enjoy the live music (every Friday and Saturday night). Local hero Mike Ashford first opened McGarvey’s in 1975. Check out this hip hangout downtown, very close to the Annapolis City Dock.
8 Market Space, Annapolis, MD 21401, 410-263-5700
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21.Royal Karma
Royal Karma restaurant specializes in North Indian cuisine. Savor extraordinary flavors in amazing dishes such as the Malai Kofta, Chicken Mazedar, Lamb Seekh Kabob, or Salmon Tikka Masala. Save room for tasty dessert like Gulab Jamun. Enjoy the intimate setting at Royal Karma restaurant, located at Technology Park in Technology Park.
302 Harry S. Truman Parkway, Suite K, Annapolis, MD 21401, 410-266-5006
22.Chick and Ruth’s
Chick and Ruth’s Delly serves incredible sandwiches, old-fashioned milkshakes, ice cream, and baked goods. Get your grub on with delicious treats like the Super Duper Colossal three-pound burger, Corned Beef Sandwich, or the Jumbo Lump Crab Cake Wrap.
Or stop in early and try the Homemade Sausage Biscuits & Gravy. Open for decades, the Delly was originally founded by Chick and Ruth Levitt and sits in a historic building that also houses the owners’ Scotlauer Inn Bed & Breakfast. You will find Chick and Ruth’s downtown close to the Maryland State House.
165 Main Street, Annapolis, MD 21401, 410-269-6737
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23.Joss Cafe & Sushi Bar
The popular Joss Café and Sushi Bar offers incredible Japanese eats. Savor a tasty selection from the sushi bar such as the Maguro Poke or the Mediterranean Sashimi.
Or try something from their other menu like Chili Scallop Wontons or Pan Fried Dumplings. Joss Café and Sushi Bar has been open since 1991. Enjoy this warm and friendly eatery located right across the street from the Maryland State House and State Circle.
195 Main Street, Annapolis, MD 21401, 410-263-4688
22 Perfect Restaurants in Annapolis, Maryland
- Vin 909, Photo: Vin 909
- Boatyard Bar & Grill, Photo: Boatyard Bar & Grill
- Iron Rooster, Photo: Iron Rooster
- Carpaccio Tuscan Kitchen and Wine Bar, Photo: Carpaccio Tuscan Kitchen and Wine Bar
- Galway Bay Irish Pub, Photo: Galway Bay Irish Pub
- Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls, Photo: Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls
- Jimmy Cantler’s Riverside Inn, Photo: Jimmy Cantler’s Riverside Inn
- Red Red Wine Bar, Photo: Red Red Wine Bar
- Miss Shirley’s, Photo: Miss Shirley’s
- Lemongrass, Photo: Lemongrass
- Carrol’s Creek Cafe, Photo: Carrol’s Creek Cafe
- Jalapeno’s, Photo: Jalapeno’s
- Osteria 177, Photo: Osteria 177
- Sin Fronteras Cafe, Photo: Sin Fronteras Cafe
- Dry 85, Photo: Dry 85
- Cafe Normandie, Photo: Cafe Normandie
- O’Leary’s Seafood , Photo: O’Leary’s Seafood
- Federal House Bar & Grille, Photo: Federal House Bar & Grille
- Davis’s Pub, Photo: Davis’s Pub
- McGarvey’s Saloon & Oyster Bar, Photo: McGarvey’s Saloon & Oyster Bar
- Royal Karma, Photo: Royal Karma
- Chick and Ruth’s, Photo: Chick and Ruth’s
- Joss Cafe & Sushi Bar, Photo: Joss Cafe & Sushi Bar
- Cover Photo: Courtesy of kuosumo - Fotolia.com
Attraction Spotlight: Paca House
Paca House in Annapolis, a Georgian mansion comprised of five parts, was constructed by William Paca in the 1760's. Paca was the third governor of Maryland and one of the state's Signers of the Declaration of Independence. Beginning in 1965, Historic Annapolis carefully restored the house, and it is considered today to be one of the country's finest eighteenth century homes. It was designated in 1971 as a National Historic Landmark. Guided tours that reveal the inner workings life in an upper-class household during colonial and revolutionary Annapolis are offered to visitors.
Using details taken from archeological excavations and historic artwork, the William Paca Garden was also carefully restored to its original grandeur. The two-acre picturesque oasis provides a welcomed retreat from the busy city. Within the garden, guests can see heirloom and native plants while strolling through the formal parterres of the terraced landscape, the useful Kitchen Garden, and the naturalistic Wilderness. The garden's Summerhouse charmingly beckons visitors to cross over a latticework bridge above a fish-shaped pond.
After being intrigued by details of the William Paca Garden in the background of a 1772 portrait of Paca by Charles Willson Peale, researchers reconstructed the garden from a number of archeological digs. Brick walls enclose a terrace series commonly found in colonial gardens throughout the Chesapeake region. The highest terrace acts as a viewing platform and a space for entertainment. Below this terrace are several parterres. The Boxwood and Holly Parterres offer structure year-round with their painstakingly shaped evergreen plants. Three seasons of colorful flowers are provided in the Flower Parterre, while heirloom varieties fill the Rose Parterre.
Reconstructed from the portrait of Paca, the Summerhouse is the garden's focal point. The latticework, Chinese-style bridge serves as a path over the pond to the beckoning garden retreat. Situated in the Wilderness, the setting around the Summerhouse reflects a picturesque gardening style that was popular in England after the year 1740. Meandering between mixed beds are serpentine pathways for guests to leisurely walk. Today, the emphasis in the garden is on native North American plants that by Paca's time, had been brought into cultivation.
William Paca constructed water features into his garden to channel and contain the property's natural runoff. Once again, a small brick canal carries the water away like it did during Paca's time. A several-centuries old natural spring feeds the pond and is sheltered by a springhouse. Plants used during the eighteenth century are known from letters and books. Annuals, perennials, and roses in the garden's parterres represent what would have been available during the colonial period.
The Kitchen Garden at Paca House and Garden provides a variety of fresh produce, such as melons, peas, and salad greens. Heirloom varieties of figs, cherries, plums, pears, and apples can be found in the fruit garden, and have been meticulously trained into cordons and espaliers to best utilize the limited space of an urban garden. The garden is often used to celebrate holidays, special events, and weddings, as well as educational programming.
186 Prince George Street, Annapolis, Maryland, Phone: 410-990-4543
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Attraction Spotlight: Maryland State House
Visiting the Maryland State House in Annapolis allows guests to take a look at a building where some of the most important documents in history were forged.
History
The first cornerstone was laid in 1772, although the state house took many years to complete, due to financial hardships as well as architectural issues. It was finally completed in 1797.
Permanent Exhibits
Self guided Tours - Below is a selection of what to make sure to see during a tour:
Archives Room - It is recommended that guests start here when they begin a tour of the state house, as the self guided tour brochures are located here. There are also exhibits about the actual state house building itself, the State Circle, and how they have evolved since they were built. The Archives Room is itself a fireproof room (with a brick floor) to insure the preservation of the state records held inside.
The Rotunda - From the Archives Room, guests should into the rotunda. This is the very center of the original state house and the wooden dome that was added around 1785 is still the biggest of its kind in North America. Make sure to check out the personal copy of George Washington’s speech that he gave when he resigned command of the Continental Army as Commander in Chief, which is located directly below the wooden dome in a glass case. This document is considered the fourth most important American historical document by leading historians.
The Old Senate Chamber - Restored to its 1783 appearance, the chamber is arranged in the historically accurate way that it looked during Congressional events at this time. The statute of George Washington faces the dais where the Congressional President (Thomas Mifflin) would have sat. Molly Ridout watches from above in the “Ladies Balcony,” as women could not be present on the floor.
Senate Committee/Stairwell Rooms - Both rooms feature brand new and interactive exhibits that focus on the events in Congress from 1783 to 1784. They also discuss some of the important people in Annapolis during the 18th century and the role they played in Congress at that time. Make sure to check out the portraits of William Pitt (over the Old Senate Chamber fireplace) and Washington, Lafayette, and Tilghman (Committee Room), both painted by Charles Peale.
Old House of Delegates Chamber - Directly across the hall is the Delegates Chamber, which has been recreated to late 19th century historical accuracy (guided by documents and photographs from the Archives). The room focuses on the important historical changes that happened at that time - like the Jews being given the right to serve in public office, slavery’s abolition, and the state Constitution being written.
The state house is open from 9am to 5pm.
Special Events
Due to the nature of the building, special events may be held on site only if they are state functions. All requests must be made through the State House Trust and events will be approved only if they meet a certain set of criteria. Contact the Trust with the following information for consideration (all information must be provided): nature/theme of event, number of people expected, who is invited/criteria for invitation, date/time, floor plan, menu/name/address/phone number of caterer and statement that commits to paying for any damages. No hot food can be prepared on the premises, and smoking and alcohol are strictly prohibited. Attendance can be no more than 300 people and clean up is the responsibility of whoever is throwing the event. There must also be a prepared guest list provided to the Secretary at least one week in advance. Photography must also be approved.
Educational Opportunities
For teachers who are considering using the state house for a teaching opportunity, the first recommendation is to spend some time at the Teaching American History (in Maryland) website that is linked through the official state house website. The website provides information to help educators teach history from kindergarten through senior year. For teachers looking to reserve a tour of the state house, they should contact the Legislative Tour department through either their website or their office phone. Due to the new occupancy restrictions on the state house, all tours and field trips must be reserved in advance to ensure access to all the exhibits as well as the ability for all students to tour at the same time. In certain circumstances, classes may even be able to witness a live session. Come prepared with a lesson plan to make sure all state standards are being met by the visit.
Maryland State House, 100 State Circle, Annapolis, MD, 21401, Phone: 410-260-6445
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Attraction Spotlight: The Hammond-Harwood House Museum
The Hammond–Harwood House is an acclaimed house museum and one of the premier colonial houses from the British colonial period (1607-1776) remaining in the United States. Located at 19 Maryland Avenue in Annapolis, the House is the only existing work of Anglo-Palladian style of architecture, a style derived from the acclaimed 16th-century Italian architect Andrea Palladio’s I Quattro Libri dell’Architetttura (The Four Books of Architecture) (1570). Designed by architect William Buckland in 1773-4, the five-part Anglo-Palladian mansion features some of the best plasterwork and woodcarving and plasterwork in the country and is a designated National Historic Landmark.
Mission
The Hammond-Harwood House Association’s mission is to preserve the architecturally famous Hammond-Harwood House Museum and its collection of fine and decorative arts for public education and enjoyment.
The Hammond–Harwood House was built in 1774 and completed a year later. Designed by architect William Buckland for Matthias Hammond, the elegant house was the crowning jewel in Buckland’s illustrious career. Patron Matthias Hammond died in 1786 after renting the house for many years, which then changed hands several times before being sold to St. John’s College in 1926. The house was used as a teaching tool for one of the first courses in decorative arts taught by the college. Due to financial problems, the College sold the house to the non-profit organization Hammond–Harwood House Association in 1940, which continues to own the house and use it as a museum that is open to the public.
Architecture
The Hammond-Harwood House is designed and built in the Anglo-Palladian style of architecture, a style derived from the acclaimed 16th-century Italian architect Andrea Palladio’s I Quattro Libri dell’Architetttura (The Four Books of Architecture). The five-part Anglo-Palladian mansion maintains a system of proportions and symmetry rarely seen in buildings of this period and features some of the best plasterwork and woodcarvings in America.
The Hammond-Harwood House features a remarkable collection of colonial furniture that showcases work from a wide range of 18th-century artists from around the world, as well as crafts from Annapolis, with particular emphasis on cabinetmaker John Shaw. Pieces in the collection include an elegant dining room sideboard, a gaming table, a tall case clock and a variety of authentic colonial pieces such as a delicate sewing kit, a period medicine chest, a child’s furniture set, and an 18th-century watercolor set. The Hammond-Harwood House also features an outstanding collection of fine arts and portraiture with significant works by portrait painter Charles Willson Peale.
Education
The Hammond-Harwood House offers a variety of educational programs ranging from lectures and workshops to field trips. The ‘Then and Now Program’ is designed to teach young children the difference between colonial and modern day life and features tours of the herb garden, colonial
The ‘Colonial Adventure Tour’ is designed for students to learn more about life in Maryland during the 1770s and includes a tour of the mansion and open dialogue with expert guides about the history and heritage surrounding the house. Students enjoy interactive games and activities such as writing with quill pens, painting a portrait, building a replica brick wall and playing with colonial toys to experience life as it was hundreds of years ago.
‘To Be Colonial’ is designed for students in grades 6 through 8 and focuses on the lives of four individuals who played a role in the House’s history, ranging from patron, Matthias Hammond and Pre-Revolutionary War architect, William Buckland, to Frances Loockerman and Juliette, a slave. The program includes a tour of the house with a particular focus on the daily lives of four colonial characters, along with in-depth examinations of documents, clothing, and inventory in the house.
The ‘Reading and Writing History’ program gives high school students an interactive lesson about Colonial American history with a colonial house tour, an introduction to historical resources, and a group study session.
The Hammond-Harwood House is located at 19 Maryland Avenue in Annapolis and is open to the public Tuesday through Sunday from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm, as well as select Thursday from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Visitors can enjoy guided tours of the house that last approximately one hour and include an overview of the history of the house; it's beautiful architecturally design and architect who created it, the families who lived at the site, and the museum’s collections of fine and decorative arts. Group tours for 10 or more people are available and can be booked in advance, and unique Architecture Tours offer an in-depth, two-hour tour of the Hammond-Harwood House. The Hammond-Harwood House Museum Square Gift Shop sells a variety of gifts, candles, lotions, and soaps, books, and other museum-related items.
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19 Maryland Avenue, Annapolis, Maryland 21401, Phone: 410-263-4683
