From the first time I visited Washington, D.C., as a college student, I fell in love with the DMV — the friendliness, the busyness, and the natural and historical beauty. I visited whenever I could, and I always left feeling fulfilled but longing for more. So, when I had the chance to move to Laurel, Maryland, I grabbed it. I spent my free time exploring D.C. and the small towns in Northern Virginia and Maryland. Annapolis, a walkable town in Maryland , quickly leaped to the top of my favorite places to visit for a day of exploring or a meal by the water.

Annapolis is one of those enchanting small towns in Maryland where you’ll immediately feel right at home among the locals and visitors strolling on the historic brick streets, browsing the eclectic shops, and dining at one of the restaurants, some with outdoor seating and many with breathtaking views of the water.

Like most small towns, parking is a consideration when visiting. Paid parking is available on commercial and residential streets and downtown parking lots. However, street parking is limited to two hours or less, while you can park all day at local lots, including Hillman Parking Garage, Calvert Street Parking Garage, and Whitmore Parking Garage. Some garages offer free or discounted parking in the evenings and on the weekends.

The five-block Main Street, which runs from Church Circle to City Dock and where historic and modern architecture combine to create one of the most beautiful downtowns in Maryland, is the best place to start, especially if it’s your first visit. On a warm day, I’ll get a treat from one of the ice cream parlors, like Annapolis Ice Cream Company, and relax on a bench overlooking the water at City Dock, enjoy my ice cream, and people-watch.

If you’re a history buff, delve into Annapolis’ rich past at the Naval Academy, the Museum of Historic Annapolis, and the Annapolis Maritime Museum & Park. Or, find inspiration at one of the downtown art galleries. You might want to sign up for a walking tour of the historic town before indulging in a delicious meal.

With so many dining options downtown, you might want to plan where you’ll eat ahead of time. One of my favorites, the Chart House, promises beautiful views of Spa Creek and an impressive menu of dinner classics, including steak and seafood. If you’re a vegetarian like me, you’ll find delicious options, too, including roasted cauliflower steak and roasted wild mushrooms. Chart House also hosts brunch on Saturdays and Sundays, featuring menu items for meat eaters and vegetarians.

If you’re craving a juicy burger or breakfast in the afternoon, head over to the Iron House , dig into authentic Italian cuisine at Luna Blu Ristorante Italiano , or treat yourself to a classic hot dog at Pip’s Dock Street Dogs .

A day exploring Annapolis goes so fast that you’ll probably want to turn your day trip into an overnight or weekend getaway. Book a stay at Historic Inns of Annapolis in the Historic District, a short walk from the Maryland State House, the Thurgood Marshall Memorial, and St. John’s College.

Do you have a favorite walkable town in Maryland? Please tell us about it .

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