Annapolis is Maryland’s charming capital, home to the United States Naval Academy and a picturesque waterfront along the Severn River. With colonial architecture, historic sites, and local dining, Annapolis offers a quintessential East Coast experience – even during a short layover. Whether you have 3 hours or an overnight connection, this guide will help you make the most of your time.
Before You Leave the Airport
Essential Information
- Visa Requirements: Check IATA Travel Centre for your nationality and destination
- Language: English is spoken throughout Annapolis
- Currency: US Dollar (USD). Use ATMs for the best exchange rates – avoid airport currency counters
- Time Zone: Eastern Time (ET)
- Mobile Data: Download offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me) before landing for navigation without WiFi
Getting to Annapolis from the Airport
ANP is a regional airport with limited commercial service. For detailed transit options, ground transportation, and current schedules, visit the Annapolis airport website or contact the airport directly for the most up-to-date information on shuttle services, rental cars, and ride-sharing availability.
Pro Tip: Always factor in immigration and security time when calculating if you can leave the airport. For international connections, budget at least 1 hour for immigration plus 2-3 hours to return to the airport and clear security before departure.
What to Do During Your Layover
Short Layover (2-4 Hours)
With a short connection, stay near the airport or explore immediate surroundings. Use this time to:
- Grab a meal or coffee at airport dining options
- Stretch your legs and rest before your next flight
- Use airport WiFi to catch up on emails or download entertainment for your next flight
- Visit a nearby convenience store or shop if time permits
Medium Layover (4-8 Hours)
A medium layover gives you time to explore Annapolis’s historic downtown. Consider:
- United States Naval Academy: Tour the historic campus (visitor passes required; check ahead for availability)
- Historic Annapolis Walking Tour: Stroll colonial-era streets, visit the Maryland State House, and explore waterfront shops
- Waterfront Dining: Enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants along the Severn River
- Shopping: Browse Main Street boutiques and galleries
Important: Budget 1 hour for immigration (if international), 2-3 hours to return to the airport and clear security, plus travel time. This typically leaves 2-3 hours for city exploration on a 4-8 hour layover.
Long Layover or Overnight (8+ Hours)
With an overnight layover, you can experience Annapolis more fully:
- Naval Academy Tour: Book a guided tour of the campus and visitor center
- Historic Sites: Visit the Maryland State House, William Paca House, or Hammond-Harwood House
- Waterfront Activities: Walk along the City Dock, visit local museums, or enjoy sunset views
- Dining: Experience local restaurants and seafood specialties
- Lodging: Book a hotel near downtown Annapolis for comfort and convenience
Luggage Storage & Sleeping
Luggage Storage
If you’re leaving the airport, store your luggage affordably using:
- Bounce, Stasher, or LuggageHero: Partner with local businesses near airports for luggage storage at $5-10 per bag per day – much cheaper than airport lockers
- Group Discounts: If traveling with others, book all luggage together for multi-bag discounts
Sleeping at the Airport
If you need rest during your layover, check SleepingInAirports.net for airport sleeping conditions and amenities. For overnight layovers, consider booking a hotel near downtown Annapolis for a more comfortable rest.
Airport Lounges & Amenities
ANP is a regional airport with limited lounge access. If you have lounge access through your airline or a premium credit card, check with your airline at the gate. For solo travelers, one-time lounge day passes are available through major carriers (typically $39-$59), though availability may be limited at regional airports.
Priority Pass: If you hold Priority Pass through a premium credit card, you may have access to lounges worldwide – check your membership benefits before traveling.
Food & Dining Tips
| Option | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Airport Food Court | 2-3x city prices | Quick meals, short layovers |
| Annapolis Downtown Restaurants | Standard pricing | Better value, local cuisine |
| Waterfront Seafood | Moderate to high | Special meals, local specialties |
| Cafés & Casual Spots | Budget-friendly | Quick bites, groups |
Money-Saving Tip: If leaving the airport, eat in the city instead of at airport restaurants. Airport food is 2-3x more expensive. For groups, food courts work better than sit-down restaurants – everyone can choose what they want.
Quick Layover Tips
- Pack a Layover Bag: Keep snacks, entertainment, a change of clothes, and basic toiletries in your carry-on for easy access without unpacking everything
- Download Offline Maps: Use Google Maps or Maps.me offline to navigate Annapolis without relying on airport WiFi
- Stay Hydrated: Bring an empty water bottle to fill after security – staying hydrated helps manage jet lag
- Use Wise or Revolut Cards: Get the best exchange rates with zero markup instead of using airport currency counters
- Share Your Location: If exploring solo, share your location with a trusted contact for safety
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I leave ANP airport during a layover?
Yes, you can leave ANP airport during a layover. However, always factor in immigration time (1 hour for international flights), 2-3 hours to return to the airport and clear security, plus travel time to the city. For international connections, a 6+ hour layover is recommended to safely explore Annapolis.
What is there to do at ANP during a layover?
At the airport, you can dine, rest, and use WiFi. If leaving the airport, explore Annapolis’s historic downtown, visit the United States Naval Academy, walk the waterfront, enjoy local seafood, and browse Main Street shops. For overnight layovers, consider booking a hotel and experiencing more of the city.
How long of a layover do I need at ANP?
For domestic connections, budget 60 minutes before departure. For international connections, budget 2.5-3 hours before departure. If leaving the airport to explore Annapolis, add 1 hour for immigration (if international), 2-3 hours to return and clear security, plus travel time. A 4-8 hour layover allows brief city exploration; 8+ hours is ideal for a fuller experience.
Are there lounges at ANP?
ANP is a regional airport with limited lounge access. Check with your airline at the gate if you have lounge access through your airline or premium credit card. One-time day passes may be available through major carriers, though availability is limited at regional airports.
Is there luggage storage at ANP?
For luggage storage, use Bounce, Stasher, or LuggageHero to partner with local businesses near the airport. Storage costs $5-10 per bag per day – much cheaper than airport lockers. If traveling with a group, book all luggage together for multi-bag discounts.
Plan Your Perfect Layover
Whether you have a few hours or an overnight connection, Annapolis offers something for every traveler. Use the Yopki layover calculator to determine exactly how much time you have to explore, and start planning your Annapolis adventure today.