Graduate Annapolis sits on West Street, one of the main routes into the historic district, so you can walk downhill to City Dock and the harbor in minutes, or uphill to State Circle and the State House. The hotel is part of the Graduate brand, which dresses each property in the culture of its college town, and in Annapolis the theme is the Naval Academy and the sailing life of the Chesapeake. Expect nautical colors, maritime memorabilia and a friendly, slightly playful style that avoids stuffiness.
The building is a mid-rise of roughly two hundred rooms that was built in the 1980s and has been renovated and rebranded. It is not a colonial inn, and that is part of its appeal: rooms are generally larger and more modern than those in the historic houses, with updated bathrooms and good work space, and the lobby is a social hub where locals meet for drinks. Family rooms, suites and accessible rooms are among the options, so groups with children or mobility needs usually find something suitable.
The hotel's restaurant and bar are a draw in their own right, serving local dishes and cocktails with Chesapeake touches. Breakfast and evening drinks can be enjoyed without leaving the property, which is helpful after a long day on the water or on foot. There is on-site parking, a rarity in central Annapolis where garage spaces are tight and costly, though you should confirm the current arrangements and charges when you book.
The location suits a first visit. From West Street you can walk to the Maryland State House, the Hammond-Harwood House and the Paca House, and the harbor cruises depart from the dock in a short stroll. Restaurants, shops and live-music venues are all in easy reach. Weekends and event days such as boat show week, graduation week and football weekends fill quickly, so reserve early and expect higher rates then. Midweek and winter stays are the best value.
Who it suits
Families, groups and travelers who want a comfortable modern base with parking and a social bar, rather than a period inn. Light sleepers should ask for a room away from the street, because West Street carries traffic into the evening. Overall, Graduate Annapolis is a practical, personable choice that places the town's main sights within a short walk.
A few planning tips round out the picture. Request a higher floor for views over the rooftops of the historic district, and ask about the room categories if you travel with several people, since some layouts sleep a family more comfortably than a standard room. Annapolis is busiest from spring through autumn, with the sailboat and powerboat shows drawing crowds in the fall and graduation week in spring filling every bed within miles, so book months ahead for those periods.
In winter the town is calmer, the restaurants are easy to book and the hotel's bar is a cozy refuge after a walk by the cold harbor.
Why stay here
- ✓Walk to City Dock and the State House
- ✓On-site restaurant and bar
- ✓Naval Academy-themed decor
- ✓On-site parking (confirm charges)
- ✓Family rooms and suites
- ✓Fitness facilities
- ✓Free Wi-Fi
- ✓Accessible rooms available
Good questions
How far is it from City Dock?+
A short downhill walk of a few minutes along West Street, then onto Main Street and the harbor.
Does it have parking?+
There is parking on site, which is unusual in the historic core. Check current charges and availability when you book.
Is it a historic building?+
No. It is a 1980s building, renovated and themed, which gives larger, more modern rooms than the colonial inns.
