From its earliest days as a colonial capital, Annapolis was known as the "Athens of America." This thriving seaport welcomed visitors from around the world, while its prosperous shipping industry generated great wealth for the city. Affluent merchants and planters sought to recreate the elegance of their homeland by building grand mansions that rivaled those found in England. These impressive homes, many of which hosted America's Founding Fathers, featured elegant ballrooms and formal gardens designed for lavish social gatherings. Along the way, pass by the preserved homes of four of Maryland's signers of the Declaration of Independence—more than in any other city in the United States.

The Historic Maryland State House is the oldest state capitol in continuous legislative use in the United States. It was here that the Treaty of Paris was ratified and where General George Washington resigned his commission as Commander of the Continental Army, establishing the precedent for more than 200 years of the peaceful transfer of democratic power. Photo ID required for all guests ages 18 and older. This must be a physical U.S. government-issued photo ID or original passport, no scans or pictures.