Annapolis Maritime Museum | Annapolis

The Annapolis Maritime Museum is a museum dedicated to the maritime history of Annapolis, Maryland. It is situated on the Chesapeake Bay.

Visual Characteristics

The museum is housed in a former oyster-packing plant. The building is constructed of red brick and features a prominent white cupola. Its dimensions are approximately 100 feet long by 50 feet wide, with a single main floor and a basement level. The architectural style is utilitarian industrial, reflecting its original purpose.

Location & Access Logistics

The museum is located at 726 Second Street, Annapolis, MD 21403. It is approximately 1.5 miles (2.4 km) east of the Annapolis city center. Access is via Maryland Route 70 (East College Avenue) which becomes Second Street. Limited on-site parking is available, with additional street parking in the surrounding residential area. The Annapolis Circulator bus, Green Route, stops within a 0.2-mile (0.3 km) walk of the museum.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The building was originally constructed in 1910 as the McNasby Oyster Company plant, a facility for processing and packing oysters harvested from the Chesapeake Bay. It operated as such until the 1960s. The museum was established in this repurposed building in 1996 to preserve and interpret the region's maritime heritage.

Key Highlights & Activities

Exhibits focus on the Chesapeake Bay's ecology, the history of oyster harvesting, and Annapolis's role as a maritime center. Visitors can observe live marine specimens in the aquarium. Educational programs and workshops are offered. The museum grounds provide waterfront access for observing local boat traffic.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on the main floor. Limited shaded areas are present on the exterior grounds. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available. No on-site food vendors are present, but several restaurants are located within a 0.5-mile (0.8 km) radius in the Eastport neighborhood.

Best Time to Visit

The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. For optimal natural light within the exhibits, visiting during midday hours (11:00 AM to 2:00 PM) is recommended. The best months for comfortable outdoor exploration of the grounds are April through October.

Facts & Legends

A specific historical oddity is the museum's location on a pier that extends into the Spa Creek. The building itself has been subject to minor flooding during significant storm surges, a testament to its proximity to the water and the historical challenges faced by waterfront industries.

Nearby Landmarks

• Annapolis Harbor (0.8km West)
• U.S. Naval Academy (1.8km West)
• Maryland State House (2.0km West)
• Historic Annapolis (2.2km West)
• City Dock (2.3km West)