What are the best free things to do in Maryland?

Maryland's best free activities include the Smithsonian National Zoo (always free giant pandas, elephants, lions), Assateague Island National Seashore (free beach with wild horses), the Walters Art Museum in Baltimore (Egyptian mummies, medieval armor always free), Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge (free wildlife drive with bald eagles), Artscape in Baltimore (July 17-19, 2026 America's largest free arts festival drawing 300,000+), and dozens of free weekly food truck series.

Are there free activities for kids in Maryland year-round?

Yes! Maryland has free family activities throughout the year. Year-round free options include the Smithsonian Zoo, the Walters Art Museum, all Maryland public libraries (free programs and events year-round), Carroll Creek Linear Park in Frederick, and the Havre de Grace Waterfront. Summer adds dozens of free outdoor concerts, free food truck series, and free festivals across all 24 counties.

Day Trips 📅 May 2026 · ⏱ 8 min read

Best Things To Do in Annapolis MD with Kids 2026

Annapolis is one of America's most beautiful and historic small cities and it's one of the very best day trip destinations for Maryland families. The Chesapeake Bay waterfront, the historic State House, the US Naval Academy, world-class seafood, and a lovely walkable downtown make Annapolis a place families can visit over and over and always find something new.

🏛️ Historic Annapolis

Maryland State House The oldest state capitol building in continuous legislative use in the US and the only state house to have served as the national capitol. Free tours. Older kids love the history it's where George Washington resigned his commission.
Historic District Walking Tour The area around Church Circle and State Circle is one of the best-preserved 18th-century streetscapes in America. Walk it for free any time.
City Dock & Ego Alley The heart of Annapolis waterfront where boats parade in and out. Free to watch, beautiful on summer evenings.
Kunta Kinte-Alex Haley Memorial Powerful free memorial at City Dock commemorating the arrival of enslaved Africans in Annapolis and honoring author Alex Haley.

⚓ US Naval Academy

One of the most impressive college campuses in America and completely open to visitors. The US Naval Academy in Annapolis offers free public tours and a fascinating look at one of the nation's elite military institutions.

Free self-guided walking tours of the Yard
The USNA Museum free, fascinating collection of naval history
Noon formation watch the entire Brigade of Midshipmen march to lunch (weather permitting) free and impressive
The Chapel with the crypt of John Paul Jones beneath it

🦀 Best Family Seafood in Annapolis

Eating steamed crabs in Annapolis is a non-negotiable Maryland rite of passage. Best family spots:

Jimmy Cantler's Riverside Inn The legendary Annapolis crab house. Picnic tables, brown paper on the tables, steamed crabs by the dozen. The authentic experience.
Buddy's Crabs & Ribs on Main Street Right in the historic district. Great for families with a view of Main Street.
Annapolis Farmers Market Several market locations including the year-round Anne Arundel County Farmers Market for fresh local produce and prepared foods.

⛵ On the Water

Sailing tours Multiple companies offer family sailing trips on the Chesapeake Bay from Annapolis City Dock. Unforgettable experience.
Kayak rentals Paddle around Annapolis harbor and the Severn River with rental kayaks from several waterfront outfitters.
Sandy Point State Park 15 minutes from downtown Annapolis; 786-acre beach park on the Chesapeake Bay with swimming, fishing, and Bay Bridge views.