Aberdeen B&O Train Station

• Step into Chesapeake Bay transportation history at the restored Aberdeen B&O Train Station. Explore railroading’s role in industry, military history, and community life while watching trains on active tracks. Discover a living link to the Bay’s economic and cultural evolution through engaging interpretation and historic architecture.

Annapolis City Dock

• Annapolis City Dock is a bustling hub in the historic heart of Annapolis, MD. City Dock has served as an important port within Annapolis and the Chesapeake Bay region for at least 350 years. Today, City Dock continues to connect its residents with the waters of the Chesapeake Bay and businesses of the region.

Annapolis Hospital

• In 1902, the first hospital in Annapolis opened on Cathedral Street. Its medical staff included Dr. William Bishop, the town’s leading African American physician. However, after Dr. Bishop’s death in 1904, the hospital no longer accepted Black physicians on staff. In 1910, a new hospital, built on the corner of Franklin and Cathedral, was open to all residents, but it had segregated wards and did not admit Black women for maternity care.

Asbury Methodist Church

• In 1803, seven free Black men bought land on West Street to establish the First African Methodist Episcopal Church in Annapolis. This current brick Gothic-style church, built in 1888 and expanded in 1976, is known now as Asbury United Methodist Church.

BLISS Meadows

• Discover BLISS Meadows, a 10-acre urban farm and land reclamation project in Northeast Baltimore. This unique space offers walking trails, farm animal interactions, and hands-on gardening workshops. Learn about sustainability, food justice, and the contributions of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color communities while enjoying fresh produce, honey, and community events. Experience nature, education, and social change in the heart of the Chesapeake Bay watershed.

Baltimore National Heritage Area

• Baltimore’s concentration of historic, cultural, and natural resources makes the city a truly unique place. The city has been witness to events that have dramatically altered the course of the nation’s history. Over the centuries it has also been witness to more subtle changes in the way Americans work, play, and live. With heritage area designation, both the state of Maryland and the U.S. Congress have acknowledged Baltimore for its capacity to tell these important stories.

Banneker-Douglass-Tubman Museum

• The Banneker-Douglass-Tubman Museum is the State of Maryland’s official museum of African American history and culture. Housed in the historic Mt. Moriah African Methodist Episcopal Church, the Museum features exhibits on history, art and Black life in Maryland.

Battle Acre Park

Butler and Maynard Burgess Homes

• 163 Duke of Gloucester is the home John Maynard an African American community leader and a founding trustee of the Stanton School in 1865, which was the first free school for African American children in Annapolis. 148 Duke of Gloucester Street was the home of William Butler, Sr., an African American builder and prosperous landowner who was one of the wealthiest people in the city at the time of the US Civil War. He served on the Annapolis City Council from 1873 to 1875.

Caledon State Park

• Hike through old growth forest along the Potomac River. 11617 Caledon Rd, King George, VA 22485 540-663-3861

Calvert Cliffs State Park

• Calvert Cliffs State Park is a day-use park featuring a sandy beach, unique fossils, recycled tire playground, a freshwater and tidal marshland and 13 miles of hiking trails located in Calvert County.

Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum

• Experience the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum and discover historic boats, engaging exhibits, and all-ages programming that celebrate the Bay's history, environment, & culture. Watch skilled craftsmen in the working shipyard and enjoy scenic waterfront views. Located in St. Michael’s, this captivating destination invites you to explore the Chesapeake story through hands-on learning, world-class exhibitions, & on-the-water experiences. Your Chesapeake adventure begins here.

Chippokes State Park

• Chippokes State Park is one of the oldest continually farmed plantations in the US and explores and shares the history of its enslaved population on the site through programs, exhibits and a memorial.

Columbia Crossing River Trails Center

• Need a map of paddling and hiking trails along the Susquehanna River? The Columbia Crossing River Trails Center has you covered. 41 Walnut Street, Columbia,PA 17512 717-449-5607

Corner of East Street and Prince George Street

• History is all around you where East Street and Prince George Street meet. The James Brice House is an example of 18th century Georgian architecture. The church across the street, now modern housing, was built as a mission chapel for St. Anne’s Episcopal Church and then served as a synagogue from 1919 through 1962. To the church’s right, this small home, the Creagh-Smith House, was built by colonial craftsman Patrick Creagh and later owned by two free African Americans.

Deltaville Maritime Museum

• Explore Chesapeake Bay history at the Deltaville Maritime Museum through exhibits on wooden boatbuilding, oyster restoration, living shorelines, and hands-on boatbuilding experiences. Connect with the Bay’s maritime culture and environmental heritage along the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail.

Essex County Museum & Historical Society

• The Essex County Museum tells the story of the Rappahannock River and Essex County’s rich history. Explore exhibits on early American exploration, the Revolutionary War, local river traditions, and the Pirates of the Chesapeake. See a scale model of Fort Lowry, boat models, and a 16-foot pictorial map of the river. Visitors can also enjoy the charming courtyard with a NASA Moon Tree and find unique artifacts from the steamboat era.

First Landing State Park

• English colonists who crossed the Atlantic Ocean in 1607 arrived at the spot now commemorated as First Landing State Park. They would travel further upriver before choosing to build the settlement they called Jamestown. First Landing State Park is in Virginia Beach, VA and is the state’s most visited park. The 2,888-acre park offers camping, picnicking, swimming, boating and more along the Chesapeake Bay. 2500 Shore Dr, Virginia Beach, VA 23451 757-412-2300

Guardians of the First Amendment Memorial

• The Guardians of the First Amendment Memorial honors those who lost their lives in the 2018 Capital Gazette mass shooting and represents the journalism community’s commitment to uphold the basic rights enshrined in the U.S. Constitution.

Historic Sotterley

• Historic Sotterley, a National Historic Landmark and UNESCO Site of Memory, preserves over 300 years of history, offering powerful stories of the past alongside scenic trails, gardens, and views of the Patuxent River.

Holly Point Nature Park

• Experience gardens, trails, and waterfront recreation at Holly Point Nature Park. Enjoy kayak access, wildflower meadows, wildlife sculptures, and community events celebrating Chesapeake Bay traditions. Contact the Deltaville Maritime Museum or visit the website for event details and schedules.

John Shaw House

• The John Shaw House is one of the oldest standing houses in Annapolis, and was the home of notable cabinetmaker John Shaw after the Revolutionary War. This craftsman, more than any single person, was responsible for the appearance of the exterior and interior of the State House from the 1770s to the early nineteenth century. He cared for the grounds, illuminated the State House for festive occasions, supplied furnishings, made emergency repairs, and undertook maintenance.

Jonas and Anne Catharine Green House

• Site of the home and printing shop of Jonas Green and his Dutch immigrant wife Anne Catharine Hoof Green who arrived in Annapolis in 1738. Both were ardent leaders of the movement for independence and served as printers and editors of The Maryland Gazette. With only two brief interruptions, in 1765 and during the Revolution, The Maryland Gazette ran under three generations of the Green family from 1745 until its ceased publication in 1839.

Lawyer's Mall

• Lawyer’s Mall, at the base of the steps of the Maryland State House, can be considered as the gateway to Annapolis. This civic plaza serves as a public gathering space today, and features a memorial honoring the accomplishments of Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall.

Machicomoco State Park

• Machicomoco State Park, located on the York River, is dedicated to telling the story of Virginia's Indigenous peoples. Its name, Machicomoco, means "a special meeting place" in the Virginia Algonquian language. At the park, miles of trails, a fishing pier, a paddle craft launch, and campground sites offer many ways to recreate at the park. Visit the interpretive area to learn more about Native American culture and history.

Maryland Avenue

• Maryland Avenue is home to a quaint and quiet shopping district, featuring eclectic businesses and restaurants. The Maryland State House stands at one end, with the walls of the Naval Academy at the other. On this street you will find two significant historic homes, the Chase-Lloyd House and the Hammond-Harwood House.

Maryland State House

• The Maryland State House has been the site of several nationally important events, including George Washington's resignation as commander-in-chief of the Continental Army after the American Revolution, and the ratification of the Treaty of Paris. The rich architecture and history of the building was recognized in 1960 when the State House was designated as a National Historic Landmark.

Menokin

• Explore Menokin, a National Historic Landmark where history, architecture, and conservation meet. See the 1769 home of Francis Lightfoot Lee, witness innovative preservation in action, and walk trails through a protected Chesapeake Bay watershed landscape. Engage with exhibits, hands-on activities, and the powerful stories of those who shaped this place. Paddle Cat Point Creek, connect with nature, and uncover the past in a truly unique setting.

Museum of Historic Annapolis

• The Museum of Historic Annapolis offers an immersive experience to explore the diverse history of Annapolis across more than 400 years. Engaging, interactive exhibits, an inspiring film, and a meaningful collection of objects that reveal of the community’s remarkable connections to our larger national story.

Northern Neck National Heritage Area

• Just a short drive from many Mid-Atlantic cities, the Northern Neck National Heritage Area offers a journey back in time. Whether for a day, weekend, or week, you’ll find endless opportunities to explore history, enjoy coastal charm, and experience natural beauty. From historic sites to scenic byways, there’s always something new to discover in this unique corner of Virginia.

Old Fourth Ward and People’s Park

• The People’s Park stands in what was formerly the Old Fourth Ward and honors those displaced by urban renewal. The neighborhood earned the nickname “Annapolis Harlem” and was the home to an impressive music scene in the early 1900s.

Piney Point Lighthouse Museum and Historic Park

• Explore the Piney Point Lighthouse Museum, the first built on the Potomac River. Discover captivating exhibits on local maritime history, WWII naval presence, and the iconic lighthouse itself. Climb to the top for breathtaking views of the Potomac and its rich ecosystem. Immerse yourself in the beauty and heritage of the Chesapeake Bay watershed while uncovering the stories that shaped this remarkable area.

Pinkney Street

• Pinkney Street, one of the most photographed locations in Annapolis, provides the unique historic charm for which Annapolis is so well-known. Historic row homes in a variety of colors line this narrow street that runs from East Street down towards City Dock. See one of the oldest surviving houses in Annapolis, the Shiplap House, and explore the city’s maritime history at the Waterfront Warehouse.

Point Lookout State Park

• Point Lookout State Park, in St. Mary’s County, Maryland, sits on a peninsula bordered by the Chesapeake Bay and the Potomac River. The well-known park offers many recreational opportunities including swimming, fishing, boating, and camping. 11175 Point Lookout Rd, Scotland, MD 20687 301-872-5688

Pride of Baltimore II

• Step aboard Pride II, a reproduction Baltimore Clipper, and sail into the Chesapeake’s maritime past. Explore its history from privateering in the War of 1812 to life on the Bay today. Tour the deck or set sail for a hands-on adventure! As part of the NPS Chesapeake Gateways, Pride II offers a unique way to experience the Bay’s seafaring heritage.

Sail Selina II

• Sail aboard a restored 1926 catboat and explore the Chesapeake Bay’s rich maritime heritage. Discover local wildlife, hands-on sailing, and stories of St. Michaels’ past while learning about the Bay’s ecology and conservation.

Seaford Museum

• Discover the Seaford Museum, a hidden gem in downtown Seaford, Delaware. Just steps from the Nanticoke River, this award-winning museum showcases the region’s rich history, from Harriet Tubman’s Underground Railroad connections to its maritime legacy. Explore interactive exhibits on shipbuilding and oyster shucking. After your visit, enjoy a scenic stroll along the River Walk, where Seaford’s waterfront industry stories come to life!

Smallwood State Park

• Smallwood State Park, along a tributary of the Potomac River, offers a unique mix of historical significance and modern-day boating conveniences.

St. Anne's Church

• The first church in Annapolis, St. Anne’s Church was founded in 1692. The current church, the third structure for the congregation, was built on the Church Circle site in 1859.

St. Clement’s Island Museum

• Discover the St Clement’s Island Museum where Maryland's founding story comes to life. Explore exhibits that highlight the rich history of the Piscataway People and early settlers. Stand on the historic island where the first English settlers landed in 1634, accessible by water taxi. Experience the beauty of the Potomac River and immerse yourself in the culture that shaped the Chesapeake Bay. Don’t miss the chance to learn and explore this unique site in St. Mary’s County.

St. John's College

• St. John’s College is one of the oldest educational institutions in our country. Founded in 1696, the school today boasts small class sizes, seminar-style teaching, and discussion-based learning. Wander the brick sidewalks, explore the variety of architecture, and enjoy great works of art at the Mitchell Art Museum, located on campus.

St. Mary’s Church and the Carroll House

• In 1822, Saint Mary’s, the first Roman Catholic church in Annapolis, was built on this Carroll property. The current Gothic Revival church was built around 1860. The brick home on Spa Creek is the birthplace of Charles Carroll of Carrollton, the only Roman Catholic signer of the Declaration of Independence.

Susquehanna Museum at the Lock House

• Explore the Lock House Museum, a historic gem on the National Register of Historic Places, where the Susquehanna & Tidewater Canal’s story unfolds. Discover exhibits, including a working lock model and period-furnished rooms that bring 19th-century life to life. Step outside to walk the scenic Joe K Trail or cross the replica swing bridge, connecting you to the beautiful waterfront. Visit today and uncover the rich heritage of the Chesapeake Bay region.

Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse

• Discover the historic Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse, a National Historic Landmark in the Chesapeake Bay. This restored offshore beacon offers engaging exhibits, interactive displays, and stunning views. Travel by boat to explore its maritime history and the vital role of lighthouses in navigation. Don’t miss the chance to experience the Bay’s rich stories and enjoy the beautiful surrounding area!

United States Naval Academy: John Barry Gate

• The United States Naval Academy was founded in 1845. The Naval School was created to provide a place for the proper education of naval officers, and with an initial class of 50 midshipmen. In 1850, the school was officially renamed the United States Naval Academy. Today, the Naval Academy is home to more than 4,000 midshipmen preparing to become professional officers in the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. Visitors can explore the grounds, visitor’s center, chapel, and museum.

Watermark Annapolis

• Cruise from Annapolis Harbor and walk historic streets with Watermark. Discover Chesapeake Bay traditions, colonial history, and environmental stewardship through expert-guided tours by land and water.

Watermark Baltimore

• Explore Baltimore’s waterfront history with Watermark. Cruise the Inner Harbor, and learn how the Chesapeake Bay shaped Baltimore’s commerce, shipbuilding, immigration, and environmental renewal.

William Paca House and Garden

• Home to one of Maryland’s four signers of the Declaration of Independence, the William Paca House and Garden is a National Historic Landmark. Perfect for history buffs, garden enthusiasts, and families, this historic house museum is open to the public and offers guided tours and educational programs.

Woodend Nature Sanctuary

• Woodend Nature Sanctuary offers 40 acres of restored forests, meadows, and streams in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it features nature trails, interactive exhibits, a nature playground and an historic mansion. Visitors can explore diverse habitats, learn about conservation efforts, and experience the connections between people and nature. Engaging signage and hands-on programs make it a welcoming destination for all ages.

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