As a resident of Annapolis, I often take for granted how beautiful and historic this town really is. But, on a recent visit to Maryland Avenue, I remembered why Annapolis is so special. Walking down this historic street, I could easily imagine myself in 1776, walking along this same venue, carrying a parasol and watching a horse and buggy go by. Of course, I would have had to be a very well-dressed woman, because according to The Maryland Avenue website, www.marylandavenue.com, this street was actually considered to be the most fashionable residential street in the city in the 18th century.
It seems that not that much has changed on The Avenue. From a delicious meal at the Irish restaurant, Galway Bay, to shopping and other activities, it still is one of the best streets in Annapolis. Starting at where Maryland Avenue intersects with Church Circle, you are greeted with Annabeth’s, a video store and more. Filled with videos to rent, gourmet food, wine and more, Annabeth’s is worth checking out. Across the street, Gina Fitz’s, a women’s clothing store, is also a gem.
For your home décor needs, there are three shops that you should check out. Be…Home and Garden, Peake House and Annapolis Interiors Sur L’Avenue. After all this shopping, stopping for an iced or hot coffee, beverage and a snack is probably what’s in order. The City Dock Café is there to meet your needs. It’s always been a local favorite and hang-out for the students at St. John’s college, which is just a few short blocks from Maryland Avenue. If you’re bored stiff by all the shopping and eating, head across the street to The Smoke Shop and take a look. Or, for an intellectual break, stop in to The Annapolis Bookstore.
Of course, in keeping with Maryland Avenue’s good taste, there are three art galleries to browse. They include Aurora Gallery, La Petite Gallerie and Maria’s Picture Palace. By now, I wouldn’t blame you if you’re ready to take up residence in this charming town. Luckily, Annapolis Accomodations, www.stayannapolis.com, has listings of temporary housing, extended stay rentals, military housing and corporate housing.
Make sure to take a look in the Annapolis Country Store, a delightful shop. For your jewelry needs, check out Augustine’s Diamond Boutique, Huerosam and Niland & Co. Jewelers. The Karen James Studio is another local favorite salon and you can count on a getting a great new haircut or style after a visit.
But Maryland Avenue is more than just delightful shops and restaurants. There are also family-friendly festivals and more. This year, the yearly Irish Festival is happening on 6/20/10 and The Fall Festival is on 9/19/10. Both feature art and craft vendors, food, live music, children’s activities and area merchants. The entire street is closed down to traffic during these festivals and The Avenue becomes a pedestrian-friendly walkway.
Speaking of kid-friendly activities, Maryland Avenue boasts two studios for children. On Pointe, www.annapolisonpointe.com, 410-268-0075, offers a variety of dance classes for children and adults, ages 3 and up. Classes include: Jazz, Ballet, Lyrical, Hip Hop, Zumba and yoga. Then there’s Already Artists, an art studio featuring classes for children. You can contact them at: 410-268-1686. And don’t forget about The Hammond Harwood House, www.hammondharwoodhouse.com, located at 19 Maryland Avenue. It is one of the premier colonial houses that remain in the country today. Stop by for a tour of the house and gardens.
So, for a perfect day in Annapolis, make Maryland Avenue your first stop and plan to stay for a while. After all, what could be better than a day on The Avenue?
By Ruth Shock
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