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How to Get to Annapolis

How to Get to Annapolis

Annapolis Maryland, USA Travel Guide

Air Travel

Major Airports & Airlines

Annapolis lacks its own major commercial airport. Travelers typically fly into one of three major airports situated within reasonable driving distance.

Airport Options & Airlines

  • BWI (Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport): Closest (25 miles/40 km north). Major hub for Southwest Airlines, with numerous domestic and international flights.
  • DCA (Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport): 35 miles (56 km) west. Mainly domestic flights, good connectivity to major U.S. cities.
  • IAD (Washington Dulles International Airport): 60 miles (96 km) west. Major hub for United Airlines, handles a very large volume of international flights.

Transfers & Facilities

All three airports offer complete facilities. Transfer options vary by convenience and cost.

Airport Services & Transfers

  • Facilities: All airports (BWI, DCA, IAD) hold car rentals, dining, shopping, free Wi-Fi, and lounges.
  • Transfers (BWI to Annapolis): Taxi/Ride-Share (Uber/Lyft) is most direct (30-40 min, $50-$70). Private shuttle services available. Public transit is less direct.
  • Transfers (DCA/IAD to Annapolis): Taxi/Ride-Share is more expensive ($80-$150+). Travel time 1-1.5+ hours. Rental car options available.

Price Fluctuations

Flight prices generally elevate during peak travel seasons, major U.S. Holidays, and Annapolis events. Booking several months ahead often leads to better fares.

Flight Deals

Tools like Dollar Flight Club and Skyscanner help locate good flight deals by tracking price drops and comparing airlines. Setting up price alerts for desired routes is a good strategy.

Car Rental

Renting a car directly from DCA or IAD presents a good choice for exploration beyond Annapolis, providing flexibility for day trips. DiscoverCars.com offers competitive rates.

Land Transportation

Train & Bus Connections

  • Amtrak: No direct service to Annapolis. Closest stations at BWI Airport or New Carrollton. Onward transport (taxi/ride-share/bus) needed.
  • MARC Train: Commuter rail connecting BWI, Baltimore Penn Station, D.C. Union Station. Connect from BWI or Odenton stations to Annapolis.
  • Long-Distance Bus: Greyhound/Peter Pan Bus Lines do not service Annapolis directly. They go to Baltimore or D.C. terminals; local transport needed for the final leg.
  • Border Crossing: Not relevant for domestic U.S. arrivals. International visitors process at airport entry.

Self-Driving & Parking

  • Accessibility: Annapolis is easily accessible via U.S. Route 50 (John Hanson Highway) from Baltimore and Washington D.C.
  • Requirements: Valid driver's license (U.S. state or home country). International Driving Permit (IDP) a suggestion if license is not in English.
  • Rental Cars: Available at airports (Hertz, Enterprise, Avis, Budget, etc.) and some local Annapolis offices.
  • Parking: Historic district parking is limited and may be expensive. Public parking garages (Gotts Court, Knighton, Park Place) are the most reliable options.

Sea/River Arrivals

Cruise & Ferry Ports

Annapolis does not function as a major cruise ship embarkation/disembarkation port. Baltimore's Cruise Maryland Terminal is the closest major port. No commercial ferry services provide scheduled transport from distant locations to Annapolis.

River Transportation

Annapolis sits on the Severn River, flowing into the Chesapeake Bay. This makes it a popular destination for recreational boaters. Numerous marinas welcome private vessels, offering docking, fueling, and repair services.

Seaport Immigration

For private boaters arriving from international waters, standard U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) immigration and customs procedures apply. Vessel operators report arrival to CBP upon entering U.S. Waters. Marinas are typically well-located for access to downtown Annapolis attractions.

Departure Information

Fees & Procedures

No specific exit fees or taxes exist for departing the United States via air for tourists. Airline ticket prices include necessary fees. Prepare for airport procedures to ensure a smooth departure.

Departure Guidelines

  • International Flights: Arrive at BWI, DCA, or IAD at least 3 hours before scheduled departure.
  • Domestic Flights: Arrive at least 2 hours before scheduled departure.
  • Security: Prepare for TSA security screening. Remove electronics, place liquids in clear bags.

Traffic & Airport Facilities

Factor in potential traffic delays to airports. All major airports present extensive facilities for departing travelers.

Travel Time & Amenities

  • Traffic: Factor in potential traffic delays on U.S. Route 50, especially during peak commuter hours, weekends, or holidays.
  • Dining: Airports offer a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and snack bars.
  • Shopping: Retail and duty-free shops are available for last-minute needs.

Departure Checklist

A final check ensures a smooth process.

Before Heading to the Airport

  • Reconfirm flight details with your airline 24-48 hours before departure.
  • Verify any schedule changes or gate assignments.
  • Confirm all travel documents (passport, boarding pass) are accessible.

Airport Comforts

Amenities for a comfortable wait.

Waiting & Connectivity

  • Lounges: Airline and independent lounges present comfortable seating and Wi-Fi.
  • Charging Stations: Plentiful charging stations are common throughout terminals for electronic devices.
  • Restrooms: Well-maintained restrooms are available throughout the airports.

Final Travel Alert

  • Heavy traffic on US-50 may occur during peak hours or holidays.
  • Allow extra travel time to the airport during these periods.
  • Use real-time traffic apps (Waze, Google Maps) before leaving.
  • Confirm security guidelines for carry-on and checked luggage.
  • Avoid prohibited items in your bags.
  • Contact your airline if you have specific questions or needs.

Additional Travel Tips

Efficient Connections

Maximize your travel time by knowing the best transfer options.

Getting to Annapolis from Airports

  • From BWI, ride-share or taxi are the most direct options.
  • From DCA or IAD, consider a rental car for regional exploration.
  • Private shuttle services present a comfortable choice from all airports.

Local Navigation Advice

Navigating the city becomes easy with these suggestions.

Getting Around Annapolis

  • Walk extensively in the compact Historic District.
  • Use the Circulator bus for quick hops around downtown.
  • Take the Water Taxi for a scenic cross to Eastport.

Planning Ahead

Advance booking for flights and rental cars often secures better rates and vehicle availability, especially during peak season. This avoids last-minute stress.

Flexibility

Consider visiting during the shoulder or low seasons for potentially lower costs and fewer crowds. This option has a quieter, more intimate Annapolis experience.

Regional Exploration

Annapolis's location near Baltimore and Washington D.C. Allows for easy combination with trips to these larger urban centers. A rental car makes these excursions easy.

Ground Transportation Summary

Your Journey to Annapolis

For most travelers, flying into BWI and then taking a taxi or ride-share offers the most direct route. If exploring the broader Mid-Atlantic, a rental car provides flexibility. Public transit exists but often requires transfers.