In December 1649, the first European settlers supplanted the Susquehannocks and formed a new settlement north of the Severn River. They named it Providence. Now, almost 375 years later, Anne Arundel County encompasses 376,000 acres and sits at the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay, enticing visitors from around the world to explore its diverse history and heritage.
Discover
As a companion to our Annapolis list of 35 Sights to See in our Visitor Guide, which takes you on a walkable journey through historic downtown, we have curated a list to include Anne Arundel County sites that take you on an epic county 'Road Trip.' The aptly named 25 Sights to See takes you from northern Anne Arundel County just outside of Baltimore and winds you south toward rolling hills and farmland as you meander through charming Chesapeake towns, wineries, and horse country. Along the way, you will encounter historic homes, parks, trails, and more as you explore and enjoy all our scenic bayside county has to offer.
1. National Cryptologic Museum
8290 Colony Seven Rd.
Annapolis Junction, MD 20701
The National Cryptologic Museum is the NSA's gateway to the public and educates visitors about the role of cryptology in shaping history. The NCM collects, preserves, and showcases unique cryptologic artifacts and shares the stories of the people, technology, and methods that have defined cryptologic history. Open Monday - Friday: 9 am to 4 pm. Saturdays (1st and 3rd of the month): 10 am to 2 pm. Closed Sundays and Federal Holidays.
1. Hancock's Resolution
2795 Bayside Beach Road
Pasadena, MD 21122
Once a 410-acre tobacco farm owned by Stephen Hancock Jr., Hancock's Resolution is one of the few remaining eighteenth-century stone dwellings in Anne Arundel County still in use to this day. The historic farm and park are open on Sundays, 1—4 pm, April – October.
2. Odenton Heritage Society
1367 Odenton Rd,
Odenton, MD 21113
Once a sparsely settled farming community, Odenton blossomed with the construction of railroads through the area due to its proximity to Annapolis, Washington D. C., and Baltimore 170 years ago. The Society also protects the historic architecture of the site, which has been named an official landmark district by Anne Arundel County. Download a walking map of the historic district on their website at www.odentonheritage.org. The Odenton Heritage Society is open Sundays 1 – 4 p.m. and by appointment.
3. Benson-Hammond House
7101 Aviation Blvd.
Linthicum, MD 21090
Built circa 1820, the Benson Hammond House is on the National Registry of Historic Places and is the last standing farmhouse on the large tract of land that became the Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall (BWI) airport. The house is open on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of each month from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
4. Linthicum Walks
2295 Davidsonville Rd.
Gambrills, MD 21054
Linthicum Walks is a 200-year-old house in western Anne Arundel County built by Thomas Linthicum. Anne Arundel County owns the home, which is operated by the Department of Recreation & Parks. The property is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, and closed Saturday through Sunday.
5. Kinder Farm Park
1001 Kinder Farm Park Rd,
Millersville, MD 21108
Kinder Farm Park in Millersville is a 288-acre park that offers a variety of natural and recreational activities, including walking, biking, bird watching, fishing, and picnicking. Picnic tables and grills for picnicking are located throughout the park. Kinder Farm Park has a large playground and tot-lot ideal for children of all ages. Grounds are open seven days a week, from 7 a.m. to dusk. There is a daily fee of $6/vehicle; annual and senior citizen lifetime passes are available from the County Recreation & Parks Department. Park fees must be paid in cash or check.
6. B&A Trail
51 W Earleigh Heights Rd.
Severna Park, MD 21146
The B&A Trail stretches from Boulters Way in Annapolis to Dorsey Road in Glen Burnie, Maryland. It is open from dawn to dusk. The Earleigh Heights Ranger Station (ca. 1889) is in Severna Park, with parking available on the premises. The Hatton-Regester Green property in Severna Park has a gazebo, horticultural gardens, and park benches.
7. Hancock's Resolution
2795 Bayside Beach Road
Pasadena, MD 21122
Once a 410-acre tobacco farm owned by Stephen Hancock Jr., Hancock's Resolution is one of the few remaining eighteenth-century stone dwellings in Anne Arundel County still in use to this day. The historic farm and park are open on Sundays, 1—4 pm, April – October.
8. Fort Smallwood Park
9500 Fort Smallwood Road
Pasadena, MD 21122
Fort Smallwood Park is a delightful destination packed with recreational treasures! Cast a line or take in the stunning views from the 380-foot Bill Burton Fishing Pier, a favorite spot for anglers, birdwatchers, and nature lovers alike. Kids will have a blast at the accessible playground, designed for endless fun. History buffs can explore the remnants of Fort Smallwood, a coastal defense site active from 1890 to 1927. Stroll along scenic walking trails, relax by the pond, or soak up the sun on the beach.
9. Downs Park
8311 John Downs Loop
Pasadena, MD 21122
Downs Park is a nature lover’s haven, tucked away at the tip of the Pasadena peninsula along the breathtaking shores of the Chesapeake Bay. Whether you're an avid birdwatcher, a hiking enthusiast, or simply looking to unwind with stunning waterfront views, this park has something for everyone. Wander through miles of scenic wooded trails, enjoy a peaceful picnic with loved ones, or soak in the beauty of the Bay. Dog owners will especially love the dedicated dog beach, where furry friends can splash, swim, and play to their heart’s content. Come explore the natural charm of Downs Park!
10. Historic Goshen Farm & Educational Center
1420 Cape St Claire Rd,
Annapolis, MD 21409
Historic Goshen Farm, built in the late 1780s, is under the ownership of the Anne Arundel County Board of Education and consists of open space, open meadows, walking trails in the woods, and educational and community uses. It was originally a 290-acre farm that relied on enslaved labor; the living quarters of servants and the enslaved can be explored on the property. The farm is open to members, their guests, and the public for certain special events. Visit their website at www.goshenfarm.org for hours of operation.
11. Sandy Point State Park
1100 East College Parkway
Annapolis, MD 21409
This scenic 786-acre Maryland State Park is located along the northwestern shore of the majestic Chesapeake Bay. The park's one-mile sandy beach provides plenty of room for enjoying various beach activities. A portion of South Beach is protected by lifeguards from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. on weekdays, weekends, and holidays, from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Day-use Admission Fee, May 1- September 30 - Weekends and holidays: $5/person, Weekdays: $4/person. October 1 - April 30 - $3 per vehicle.
12. Elktonia Beach Heritage Park
7300 Bembe Beach Road
Annapolis, MD 21403
The newest addition to the City of Annapolis parks, Elktonia Beach Heritage Park, is a hidden gem in the making—already open for visitors to enjoy. Nestled on Bembe Beach Road, just across from the Annapolis Maritime Museum’s Park campus, this special site holds a deep historical significance. Once part of the lively Carr’s and Sparrow’s Beach, a beloved 180-acre resort, it was a cherished retreat for the Black community during segregation.
13. Frederick Douglass Museum & Cultural Center
3200 Wayman Avenue
Highland Beach, MD 21403
The Frederick Douglass Museum and Cultural Center is housed in Twin Oaks, the summer cottage built in 1895 by Major Charles Douglass, the youngest son of Frederick Douglass. Highland Beach was incorporated in 1922 and became Maryland's first African American municipality. The Bay Side town became a haven for black families who were turned away from Chesapeake Bay beaches and amusement parks of their race. The Museum and Cultural Center is open by appointment. Email FDMCCHB@gmail.com for reservations.
14. Chesapeake Children's Musuem
25 Silopanna Rd.
Annapolis, MD 21403
At the Chesapeake Children’s Museum, curiosity knows no bounds! Our mission is to spark discovery—about ourselves, our communities, innovative technologies, and the rich ecology of the Chesapeake Bay. Whether you're young or simply young at heart, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Meet friendly animals, unleash your creativity with hands-on art projects, step into a world of imagination with props and costumes, or venture along a scenic creekside nature trail.
15. Bacon Ridge Trail
1801 Hawkins Rd.
Annapolis, MD 21401
Bacon Ridge is a 5.5-mile figure-eight loop with moderate hills suitable for all skill levels. Although foot and bike traffic can be heavy, the trail is well-groomed and provides a sturdy path for walking, jogging, and dirt biking. Connect with the Annapolis Water Works Trail for an additional 11 miles of trails. Open daily, 6:30 a.m.–9 p.m.
16. Rising Sun Inn
1090 Generals Hwy,
Crownsville, MD 21032
The Rising Sun Inn has been a farmhouse, an Inn and Tavern, a Stagecoach stop, and an important meeting place on the crossroads of American History. Located in central Anne Arundel County, Maryland, on the famed Washington Rochambeau Revolutionary Route, the Rising Sun Inn is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
17. Annearrundell County Free School Museum
1298 Lavall Dr,
Davidsonville, MD 21035
The Annearrundell County Free School is a historic one-room schoolhouse built in 1723. It is owned by Anne Arundel County Public Schools and is open by appointment for school field trips and group tours. The museum is open from 1 to 4 p.m. on the second Saturday and Sunday of each month from April to August.
18. William Brown House
839 Londontown Road
Edgewater, MD
Between 1758 and 1764, William Brown, carpenter, ferry master, tavern keeper, and enslaver, built this sizeable Georgian house to be a tavern. Today, you can tour the home as part of the lost colonial port town of London Town at Historic London Town & Gardens on the South River. Open April through early December, Wednesday through Sunday from 10 am to 4:30 pm.
19. Woodlawn History Center at Smithsonian Environmental Research Center (SERC)
E 647 Contees Wharf Rd.
Edgewater, MD 21037
Woodlawn House is the oldest building in the Smithsonian's collection still standing in its original location. It was built in 1735 by William Sellman, one of Maryland's earliest founding families. Woodlawn House is open on Saturdays from 10 am to 12:30 pm.
20. Beverly Triton Nature Park
1202 Triton Beach Road
Edgewater, MD 21037
Beverly Triton Nature Park in Edgewater, Maryland, is a waterfront retreat where adventure meets tranquility! Nestled along the Chesapeake Bay, the park boasts a mile of pristine shoreline, a fun-filled playground, five miles of scenic hiking trails, and four peaceful ponds—including a designated fishing area. Water lovers can launch canoes, kayaks, and wind sports equipment from the convenient cartop launch. Leashed dogs are welcome, but please note that alcohol, fires, and grills are not allowed.
21. Galesville Heritage Society
988 Main St.
Galesville, MD 20765
The Galesville Heritage Society & Museum seeks to preserve the rich and diverse maritime history of Galesville and its residents. The museum is open by appointment and on Sundays, April through November 1 – 4 p.m. The town is also part of Anne Arundel County's African American Heritage Trail.
22. Hot Sox Field
862 Galesville Road
Galesville, MD 20765
Hot Sox Field at Wilson Park is a beautiful community space where nature and sports come together! Open from dawn to dusk, the park offers scenic natural trails, a well-maintained baseball field, and the Michael E. Bush Memorial Pavilion—a great spot for gatherings.
23. Captain Avery Museum
1418 E. West Shady Side Rd.
Shady Side, MD 20764
Sitting on the banks of the West River and overlooking the Chesapeake Bay is the 19th-century home and land of Captain Salem Avery. Purchased by a group of Jewish Masons from Washington D.C. in the 1920s, the property became a respite where the families could enjoy the Chesapeake without discrimination. The property & museum provides a variety of educational programming, community and private events, exhibits, and resources to preserve and improve life on the Chesapeake Bay. Open Sundays, 1 – 4 pm and select weekends throughout the year.
24. Franklin Point State Park
Dent Rd
Churchton, MD 20733
Franklin Point State Park is a beautiful 477-acre peninsula nestled among the Chesapeake Bay, Deep Creek, and Flag Pond in scenic southern Anne Arundel County. Passive enjoyment, including wildlife viewing and hiking, is available at Anne Arundel County's newest state park. Before venturing to this park, you must submit a request for the access code on their webpage. Currently, parking is limited and restricted to the lot off Dent Road.
25. Deale Museum & Herrington Harbour North Historic Village
389 Deale Rd.,
Tracys Landing, MD 20779
The Deale Museum is in the old Nutwell School House circa 1885. The schoolhouse and remaining outbuildings are part of a historic village that has been saved from development and aims to provide a glimpse into Maryland life from the 1700s and through the 1900s. Open daily for self-guided tours. Interactive tours and demonstrations by the Deale Area Historical Society are available from 1 – 4 pm on Sundays from May to October and at other times by appointment.