Historic Walking Tours with Colonial Tours of Annapolis - Baltimore

Historic Walking Tours with Colonial Tours of Annapolis

Baltimoreeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; requires comfortable walking for roughly 2 miles on historic streets.

Overview

Trace the footsteps of America’s earliest leaders with Colonial Tours of Annapolis, a two-hour walk that brings the city’s colonial past vividly to life through local stories and landmarks.

Details

Annapolis, Maryland, carries a unique blend of waterfront charm and deep-rooted American history, offering visitors a living classroom of colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and vibrant local stories. Colonial Tours of Annapolis leads a compelling 2-hour historic walking tour through the heart of Old Town, guiding guests through the rich network of sites where America’s early chapters were written.

The tour moves at a comfortable pace, covering iconic spots like the Maryland State House—the oldest state capitol in continuous legislative use—as well as the surrounding historic district where the city’s maritime legacy and colonial past are on full display. With guide William, a lifelong Annapolitan steeped in local lore, the walk transcends a typical sightseeing jaunt. He shares surprising historical facts, such as the existence of 14 presidents who served before George Washington, and personal anecdotes that bring the city’s past to life.

Rather than just ticking off dates and placards, William’s narration paints a vivid picture of the people, politics, and pivotal events that shaped Annapolis. Guests appreciate the tour’s honest yet engaging delivery, which makes the founding era accessible without gloss or myth.

This experience appeals to both history buffs and casual visitors seeking to enrich their visit with local perspective. Colonial Tours of Annapolis is more than a guide service; it’s a community ambassador fostering appreciation for Annapolis’s legacy within the contemporary coastal city. The company’s responsiveness and friendliness reflect the warm hospitality the city is known for.

Visitors should come prepared to walk on uneven brick and pavement in variable weather, making the tour both an educational and mild physical activity. For anyone hoping to uncover the layers of colonial America while breathing in the salty air of Chesapeake Bay, this tour is a standout introduction to the city’s heart and soul.

Adventure Tips

Wear comfortable shoes

Expect walking on brick and uneven pavement for about two hours.

Bring a water bottle

Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months as the tour lasts a couple of hours.

Arrive early for parking

Downtown parking can fill up quickly; arrive 15-20 minutes before your tour start.

Prepare for variable weather

Tours operate rain or shine, so dress accordingly with layers or rain gear.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Small, lesser-known colonial-era churches tucked away from main streets
  • Quiet alleys lined with centuries-old brickwork not usually on the main route

Wildlife

  • Ospreys near the waterfront
  • Blue herons in nearby creeks

History

Annapolis served as the temporary U.S. capital from 1783 to 1784 and remains home to the oldest state capitol still in continuous use.

Conservation

Efforts in Annapolis focus on maintaining the historic integrity of Old Town while managing Chesapeake Bay runoff to protect local waterways.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Early morning
Late afternoon

Best Viewpoints

  • Maryland State House steps
  • Dock Street Pier at sunset
  • Quiet courtyard gardens in Old Town

What to Photograph

Historic architecture
Street scenes with period details
Waterfront reflections

Recommended Gear

Comfortable walking shoes

Essential

Essential for navigating brick and uneven sidewalks comfortably.

Water bottle

Essential

Keeps you hydrated during warmer months on the walking tour.

summer specific

Layered clothing

Essential

Allows you to adjust for changing temperatures during the day.

fall specific

Rain jacket

Essential

Useful for sudden spring showers to keep you dry on the tour.

spring specific