CNN has released its “America’s Best Towns to Visit 2025” list of ten cities across the country. CNN considered hundreds of candidates and winnowed the list to 10 by evaluating the finalists’ attractions, food and beverage offerings, cultural and nightlife scenes, diversity, sense of identity, proximity to other interesting spots and wow factor. Annapolis, our state capital, came in ranked #5 overall.
CNN writes, “But Annapolis, Maryland’s capital and a 45-minute drive from Washington, D.C., offers visitors much more than historic charm. A key port on the Chesapeake, it provides numerous ways to explore the Bay, from sunset cruises to outings aboard a historic skipjack, a working sailboat once used for dredging oysters.”
Annapolis is a captivating destination renowned for its rich history, vibrant maritime culture, and undeniable charm. As one of the earliest planned cities in America, its historic district, a National Historic Landmark, boasts beautifully preserved 17th and 18th-century buildings, inviting visitors to stroll along cobblestone streets that once hosted the likes of George Washington and Thomas Jefferson.
Beyond its colonial allure, Annapolis offers a wealth of activities for visitors: explore the prestigious U.S. Naval Academy, delve into the past at the Maryland State House, or immerse yourself in the city’s seafaring heritage with boat tours on the Chesapeake Bay, earning its moniker as “America’s Sailing Capital.” With an abundance of unique shops, acclaimed restaurants, and year-round festivals, Annapolis seamlessly blends its storied past with a lively present, making it a truly exceptional place to visit.