Annapolis is only about eight square miles; giving visitors tons of options without having to travel too far between experiences once they arrive, making it the perfect destination for a day-trip or long weekend.

For the history buffs, Annapolis served as the country's national capital of the United States from 1783-1784 is filled with 18th-century brick homes, and offers self-guided tours of the 1700s-era State House as well as other historical destinations of significance.

This city is also a boaters dream, and many sail into port and dock to discover the town, taking advantage of the water taxis and meeting friends for dinner in Ego Alley, a popular stretch of the inner harbor that allows boats to dock and explore.

With breezy boutiques, artisan shops, a city market with fresh local produce, pubs featuring locally sourced seafood, wine, and beer, there's something for everyone in Annapolis.

Visit the oldest U.S. state capitol in the continuous legislative use, dating back to 1772, which houses the Maryland General Assembly as well as the Governor's office. This history-rich building is the site where George Washington resigned from serving as the commander of the military and changing the course of history by establishing civilian rule over the American government and the location where the Treaty of Paris was ratified, marking the end of the Revolutionary War.

Take a tour of this 18th-century Georgian mansion, now a National Historic Landmark designed by William Paca on a 2-acre piece of land. The house was converted into a hotel and was previously known as Carvel Hall, but now allows visitors to discover history with guided tours of the rooms that feature original woodwork and an expansive garden with outdoor seating for taking it all in while you relax.

Stop in to see vintage books alongside New York Times bestselling authors while sipping a latte and taking in the art and unique charm of this bookstore in historic Annapolis. The name of the store came from a tale about Charles Lord Cornwallis, who stopped in Annapolis in 1777, thinking that he and his troops had cornered George Washington in New Jersey and planned for an attack, when in reality, Washington had already left, and so Revolutionary War wasn't over yet.

The U.S. Naval Academy is filled with the history of seamen and women who've trained and sharpened their skills on the campus, which is located on 388 acres. The visitor center is located inside Gate 1 at the Annapolis harbor. Pedestrian entrances are on Prince George and Randall Streets. The Visitor Center provides guided walking and riding tours for the public. The most notable architectural building is the academy's chapel, which opened in 1908.

Stop into this caf¨¦ for French country cuisine with Maryland Seafood specialties at when you visit Annapolis. Its cozy atmosphere will keep you warm if you venture during the fall, and it's entertaining wine and spirits will comfort you after a long day in the bay. Award-winning Chef Jean-Louis will prepare dishes with fresh-locally sourced sustainable and eco-friendly ingredients and they offer gluten-free options.

Enjoy sailing at sea on the Harbor Queen while learning about the various attractions that Annapolis has to offer. The 40-minute cruise offers seating in an air-conditioned cabin as well as above with an open view of the bay.

Explore shops on Main Street in Annapolis! Local By Design features local artisan work in a charming space and features artwork, embroidery, jewelry, home d¨¦cor, painted furniture, gifts, and souvenirs. The shop also offers workshops and artists studios at one of their several other locations.

Fashionistas will find that Annapolis has many retailers to pick up your favorite styles from an evening maxi dress to a hat and shades to keep the sun at bay. Located on Main and Conduit streets, Lou Lou offers kind and courteous staff who will make sure you have everything you need to enjoy the weather no matter the season.

No trip is complete without a treat and the best place in Annapolis is, without a doubt, Storm Bros. Ice Cream. Bring cash, because they don't accept credit cards, but dig in for a delicious and unlimited tasting selection. It's standing room only in the parlor that's been scooping ice cream since 1976. Line up and dig in!

More than 280 historic homes in Annapolis a be identified with octagonal markers informing visitors of their architectural periods and brass insets display the building names, date of construction, and architectural style including; Georgian Architecture (1715-1800); Georgian Buildings of National Importance (1730-1800); Federal Architecture (1784-1840); Greek Revival Architecture (1820-1860); Victorian Era Architecture (1869-1901) and the 19th-20th Century Annapolis Vernacular Architecture (1837-1921).