We might be locals, but we spent one of the last days of summer in Annapolis doing what tourists do best: Visiting the beach for some relaxation, the brewery for some beer and taking a ton of photos along the way. 

Sometimes the best way to provoke artistic inspiration is to act like a visitor in your own home, to see your city through a fresh lens, literally and figuratively, and go from there. Then reward yourself with a craft beer, with a name like “Beat Army” golden lager or the “Waterman’s Soul” IPA. Nothing like enjoying the world class beauty with some world class beer to go along with it.  

Sandy Point State Park

Sandy Point Beach

Did you know that 786 acres of land make up Sandy Point State Park? It first opened to the public in June of 1952. 

Sandy Point Beach

Ever since, it’s been enjoyed by fishermen, sunbathers and nature lovers alike. Even in late September beachgoers sit in the sand and wade in the water, enjoying unparalleled views of the Bay Bridge. (For those who find bridge architecture particularly beautiful, this is a great spot to be). 

Sandy Point Beach

Only a portion of the South Beach is manned by lifeguards from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Swimmers should take caution.

Bay Bridge

Like the State Park, the original span of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge also opened in 1952. It’s 4.3 miles long and is known as the gateway to the Eastern Shore. 

Sandy Point Beach

Sandy Point Beach

Chesapeake Brewing Company

Chesapeake Brewing

What was once Annapolis’ first fire station is now Chesapeake Brewing Company, located on West St. in the Arts District.

Chesapeake Brewing

The taproom is Navy-themed, which explains the Beat Army golden lager. Their old location in Crisfield, MD was Shore-themed, hence the Waterman’s Soul IPA and Tangier Red Seas. 

Chesapeake Brewing

The winding staircase to nowhere. 

Chesapeake Brewing

The old brick brewery in the last light of the day.