10 Things To Do In Anne Arundel County

Anne Arundel County is located in central Maryland between the Baltimore and Washington, D.C. metropolitan areas. It is home to Annapolis, which is the state capital of Maryland, as well as many other beautiful waterfront towns on the Chesapeake Bay. Anne Arundel County is rich in history and is full of fun things to do for people of all ages. Here are 10 fun things to do in Anne Arundel County, MD. 

10 Things To Do In Anne Arundel County

1. Sandy Point State Park

This state park is known for its beautiful beaches along the Chesapeake Bay, which attract thousands of visitors each year. While the beach is particularly popular for swimming and sunbathing, visitors can also go boating and fishing here. Sandy Point also has views of the Bay Bridge, which connects Anne Arundel County with eastern Maryland. Scenic, relaxing, family-friendly and low-cost, Sandy Point is often referenced as one of the top things to do in Anne Arundel County. 

2. Smithsonian Environmental Research Center

Anne Arundel County is known for its thriving natural ecosystems, so it makes sense that the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center is located here. This research center hosts a variety of educational activities and events throughout the year. There’s also a network of trails that run through the research center from which visitors can take in local scenery and wildlife. 

3. Historic London Town

Due to its location on the Chesapeake Bay, many colonial towns were established in Anne Arundel County during the 17th and 18th centuries. Historic London Town & Gardens is located in Edgewater and includes an open-air museum with buildings and structures dating back to this era. Here you’ll find tours and historic re-enactments, as well as beautiful outdoor gardens. The park also hosts regular social events, making it a great place to immerse yourself in some of Maryland’s rich history. 

4. Downtown Annapolis

Maryland’s capital city has a charming downtown area that is full of great places to explore. There are many historic mansions in Annapolis that date back to the Revolutionary War era. There are also a number of charming shops, restaurants and taverns to visit. And if you want to take in gorgeous views of the Chesapeake Bay, the Annapolis City Dock is the perfect place. 

5. Live! Casino & Hotel

Looking for several things to do in Anne Arundel County all in one spot? This new entertainment complex recently opened in Hanover, and there’s plenty to experience beyond just exploring the casino. The hotel contains a massive music venue that has attracted top performers from all over the world and there is an excellent selection of restaurants on the property. The Arundel Mills mall is also located nearby, with hundreds of shops, a movie theater and a Dave & Buster’s inside. 

6. National Cryptologic Museum

This fascinating museum is located on the Fort Meade military base and is run by the National Security Agency. The National Cryptologic Museum takes a deep dive into cryptology and the ways it has affected our country’s history. These include exhibits on the evolution of cryptology, as well as rare cryptology machines and artifacts. 

7. Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse

The Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse was built in 1875 and is one of the oldest lighthouses of its kind. It has a beautiful red and white exterior that is highly Instagrammable, especially at sunset. While the lighthouse is located off the shore in the Chesapeake Bay, you can take a boat tour to see it up close. 

8. US Naval Academy Museum

The U.S. Naval Academy is based in Annapolis, and this museum takes visitors through the rich history of the U.S. Navy and naval technology. The museum is situated in a historic building on the water, with two floors of naval exhibits that showcase hundreds of years of naval history. 

9. Wineries Galore

Maryland isn’t typically known as a wine region, but there are plenty of excellent wineries and wine bars located here. Visitors can tour the wineries, enjoy tastings or just pick up a bottle of wine to take home. Some of the most popular wineries in the area include Great Frogs Winery and Thanksgiving Farm Winery. 

10. Quiet Waters Park

This beautiful park is situated on the South River just outside of Annapolis. The peaceful setting makes it one of the best free things to do in Anne Arundel County, whether you’re looking for an outing with family, friends or even on your own. The park has six miles of paved trails, a playground, a dog park and dog beach, a boat launch and a concert stage. Quiet Waters Park hosts a variety of concerts and other events throughout the summer. 

Make Anne Arundel Your New Home

Whether you love to spend time outdoors, want to take in some local culture or connect with friends and family, finding fun things to do in Anne Arundel County is easy. If you’re looking to move to the area, Southern Management is here to help. We have apartments nearby, all throughout the Baltimore and Washington, D.C. metro areas with great locations and amazing amenities. Explore all of our apartment communities to learn more—we can’t wait to welcome you home!