Spend 90 minutes painting Annapolis’ historic streets with a local watercolorist—supplies provided, skills taught, and a one-of-a-kind souvenir to take home. Ideal for beginners and travelers age 12 and up, this outdoor class turns brick sidewalks and harbor light into a portable memory.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A late-morning breeze off the Severn tugs at the edges of your paper as you set up outside Old Fox Books, the teacher’s hot-pink bag a bright punctuation on the brick sidewalk. Around you, colonial facades tilt toward the sky, their windows catching shards of sunlight that slide across sills and cobbles. For 90 minutes, the town slows into a study of line and color: gulls wheel above the City Dock, a bicyclist rings a bell, and a local watercolorist named Em Campbell guides a small group through washes, perspective and the quick decisions that make a scene sing.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours (90 minutes)
Fitness Level
Light—able to stand or sit for short periods and walk short distances on flat, cobbled streets.
Wildlife
History
Annapolis served as a colonial capital and early U.S. capital; many facades date to the 18th century and reflect maritime prosperity.
Conservation
The Chesapeake Bay’s health matters here—treat shorelines respectfully, pack out waste and use environmentally friendly art supplies when possible.
Reserve your spot on the Urban Sketching and Painting Activity in Old Town Annapolis today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring a refillable water bottle
Sessions are outdoors and you’ll want to stay hydrated during the 90-minute class.
Dress in layers
Coastal light and wind change quickly—light jacket and hat help you stay comfortable.
Secure your paper on windy days
A small clip or paperweight keeps your sheet from lifting while you paint.
Arrive 10 minutes early
Meet at Old Fox Books and look for the instructor’s hot-pink bag to get settled and choose a spot.
Wide-brim sun hat
Protects your face and eyes while you work outdoors in summer sun.
summer
Refillable water bottle
Staying hydrated keeps your focus sharp during the session.
Light windbreaker or shell
Blocks bay breeze and light drizzle common in coastal Maryland.
spring
Small paper clips or paperweights
Handy for keeping watercolor paper flat on breezy days.