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The fall season means a lot of different things to people: fall leaves, pumpkin picking, cozy coffee drinks, and Halloween. But in Annapolis, most locals and boaters think of October as Boat Show Season.

Before we ever kept our boat in Annapolis, we visited Annapolis each October to see the latest sailboats and equipment.  Now that we keep our boat here and live in town, we’ve attended Annapolis Boat Shows for at least a decade and, more recently, worked the show as part of the crew.

Whether you live here or you’re just visiting, nothing quite compares to watching Ego Alley transform overnight and fill up with hundreds of boats every fall. If you’ve never been, the Annapolis Boat Shows are a world-famous event that attracts boaters and spectators from all over the world.

As always, we’ve made every effort to keep this article accurate at the time of publication, but show details can change quickly due to weather and year-to-year changes and conditions. Always refer to the official Annapolis Boat Show site for the most up-to-date information.

Annapolis Boat Show: Our  Guide to Making the Most of The Show

The historic Annapolis City Dock and the waterway known as Ego Alley are normally home to a handful of boats along the docks by the waterfront restaurants, as well as a few slips and the water taxi stand, and boaters cruising up and down the alley to see and be seen from the local restaurant decks. During boat show season, however, this space transforms overnight, thanks to a skilled and synchronized crew.  Docks that have been waiting in storage are floated in, and all new boats are directed in as the space transforms into a floating marina packed with everything from dinghies, daysailers, and cruising catamarans.

Annapolis Sailboat Show vs. Annapolis Powerboat Show

If you’re not a boater and you’re just going to the show for fun, you may not fully understand the all-encompassing term Annapolis Boat Show and the difference between the Annapolis Sailboat Show and the Annapolis Powerboat Show. The Annapolis Boat Shows are two separate shows held back-to-back in October. There are also smaller boat shows that take place in the Spring and across the Bay Bridge in Grasonville.

The Powerboat Show– officially called the United States Powerboat Show — now comes first in October, typically the first full week of October, and this show is a chance to see all the powerboat favorites that are very at home on the waters of the Chesapeake Bay.

This year, 2026, the Powerboat Show will be October 8-11. At this in-water show, you’ll see motor yachts, trawlers, family cruisers, center consoles, and inflatables, as well as small trailerable boats on land (aka on the hard) that are still available to board.

Unlike the Miami Boat Shows, the Annapolis powerboat shows keep to smaller boats and motor yachts under 50 feet or so; the megayachts and superyachts, as seen in Miami, aren’t part of the show. There are also tents of vendors here at the powerboat show with gear and equipment made especially for powerboats. During a short changeover after the last day of the show, the powerboats will leave, the docks will be reconfigured, and the sailboats will arrive.

The Annapolis Sailboat Show takes over the same space with sailboats of every sort and is considered the bigger of the two shows, since there are many more boats and attendees, and also because Annapolis is known for being the sailing capital of the world.  In 2026, the Sailboat Show will be held from October 15- 18.  The Sailboat Show really shows the range of hull styles, from monohulls, catamarans, and other multihulls to racer-cruisers and ocean-going yachts from builders around the world. Each show has its own tickets, so you’ll need to purchase tickets for each show and day individually.

There’s also a smaller Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show every April at the same City Dock location, which is a nice lower-key show to attend if you’re able to make the trip twice a year, and the Bay Bridge Boat Show in Grasonville near Kent Island, put on by the same organization.

Getting There By Boat

Many boaters and cruisers plan their trip south in late summer and early fall around not only hurricane season and weather windows, but also with the aim of arriving in Annapolis in October for the boat show, especially the sailboat show.

Between long-distance sailors and a few local boaters who want to attend by boat, the mooring fields fill up quickly and need to be reserved in advance during boat show weeks. The usual slips in Ego Alley are occupied by the boat show, and City of Annapolis moorings are first-come, first-served, so plan your travel accordingly. You can find out more about the Boat Show restrictions and available mooring fields via the Annapolis Harbormaster’s website.

If you don’t mind being at anchor, there’s also an anchorage on the Severn, just outside Spa Creek near Horn Point, but this is a very windy and choppy spot, especially with busy boat traffic and gusty fall weather.

Local marinas like Annapolis City Marina, the three Safe Harbor Marina locations in town (formerly Mears, Port Annapolis, and Eastport Yacht Center), and others sometimes have transient slips available, but still plan and reserve early.

If you’re planning to be at the mooring balls and dinghy into the show, be aware that some usual dinghy landings at Ego Alley and Prince George St. Dinghy Dock will not be open, but a dedicated dinghy dock at the end of Shipwright St. will be available for boaters to use. You’ll have to walk a bit from that dock to get to the show gates.

Another easy way to get to the show from the moorings or the Eastport side of town is to use the Water Taxi, which will pick you up at your position in the mooring field and stop at Annapolis City Marina, Carrol’s Creek, and other locations. Because of the show, the stops might be slightly modified and will be more crowded than usual because of the number of passengers. If you’re on your boat, you can also hail the Water Taxi on 68 and be picked up right on at your boat.

Places to Stay

If you’re planning to stay in Annapolis during the show, the hotels book up quickly with visitors and vendors who have come into town for the show. The Annapolis Waterfront Hotel on Compromise Street is located right in the middle of the show action, near the main gates, and hosts several events and seminars.

Other downtown hotels like The Westin, The Hilton Garden Inn, The Graduate, and others on West Street provide a place to stay that is about a 15 -25 minute walk to the show. The Historic Inn on State Circle, as well as the Gibson’s Inn near the USNA gates, and other hotels, boutique hotels, and bed-and-breakfasts. The Boat Show has a list of several hotels close to downtown, but space is very limited.

Many boat show attendees also opt to rent a house with friends or family through Airbnb or VRBO, and Annapolis usually has great options, since many local residents rent out homes for the boat show, Commissioning Week, and other family events at USNA.  However, like everything else, most rentals go quickly, so again planning ahead for where you’ll stay is a great idea.

If you’re out of luck staying right downtown or close by on West Street, there are other hotels farther outside of town in areas like Riva and closer to Edgewater, which will require you to either Uber in or drive in and use the designated parking.

Parking

Parking is perhaps one of the biggest concerns when attending the boat show, even for seasoned visitors. Downtown Annapolis is small, historic, and already has parking issues on a day when the show isn’t in town. Additionally, the show takes up some of the parking areas for the vendor and exhibitor tents, so parking anywhere close to the show is nearly impossible.

Our advice is to skip trying to find street parking anywhere near City Dock altogether, and plan to park in the official show parking, which is about 2 miles away at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium on Taylor Avenue. The show runs a free shuttle continuously from this lot to the main show gate on Compromise Street, about an hour before the gates open until an hour after closing. The show recommends that you reserve your parking spot ahead of time through the parking app rather than showing up and hoping for the best, since the lot does fill up on weekends. You can reserve parking or can get more details about the official show parking situation here.

There are some parking spots that pop up in Eastport, where the Elementary school runs a paid parking lot after 3 pm on Friday through the weekend. There’s also a paid hourly lot outside Carrol’s Creek, which is a quick walk or water taxi to the show. On-street parking is very hard to come by in any section of town, but occasionally you might luck out. Still, pay close attention to signage if you go this route, since fines can be steep. Whichever way you arrive, give yourself extra time; road closures around the Historic District start days before the show opens and stay in effect through breakdown.

What to Wear

While some boat shows have become see-and-be-seen events that bring out a few designer labels and a bit of old-money yachting style, as most boaters know, comfort is key, and a basic T-shirt and shorts are perfectly acceptable boat show attire.

Of course, you’ll want to dress for the weather, which in October in Annapolis can change drastically. The “usual” boat show weather can range from a hot, sunny 85-degree day with clear blue skies to a rainy, cold, damp 50-degree day with flooded docks. The daily weather report will tell you whether you’ll feel most comfortable in a crisp button-down and shorts or a wool sweater, foul-weather gear, and waterproof boots.

Obviously, you’ll want to check the specific forecast for the days before you go, but layers are usually your friend. A t-shirt or tank under a lightweight sweatshirt, shirt, or sweater, paired with shorts, pants, or jeans, is a comfortable way to dress for mid-fall temperatures and make it through the chilly morning and sunny afternoon. If rain is expected later, stash a raincoat or shell in your bag or tie it around your waist, or pick one up at Helly Hansen or other vendors selling foul-weather gear.

Aside from comfort and warmth, the most important fashion consideration at the boat show is footwear. As most boaters know, grippy, non-marking soles are important on the water. Even if you’re not planning a sea trial, you’ll want some stable footwear for navigating the docks, which can be a bit rocky, especially at the outer docks of the show if it’s a choppy or high-traffic day. That said, if you’re planning to tour some of the boats—and we assume that’s what you’re there for—you’ll be asked to remove your shoes when boarding.

The no shoes aboard rule means an easy-on, easy-off slip-on shoe, sneaker, or sandal is usually your best bet. Another thing to keep in mind is that the most popular brands of boating shoes will be worn by many attendees, so if you’re the owner of a popular style of Sperry topsider, Olukai flip-flop, or other boating brand of shoe, you might want to label your shoes in some way so that you can easily determine which pair is yours in a pile of similar styles.

Also, if walking around barefoot on the boat that many others have toured sans-shoes feels a bit off-putting, pair your look with socks or keep an easy-to-slip-on pair in your back pocket to slip on when down below.

You’ll also want sunglasses, sunscreen, and perhaps a hat, since on a sunny day the sun can sneak up on you. Bringing a reusable water bottle is a great idea for hydration, and there are refill stations are available throughout the show.

Days of the Boat Show

Whether you’re attending the Powerboat Show or the Sailboat Show, the day of the week you attend can make a big difference.

For both boat shows, Thursdays are usually VIP days for VIP ticket holders or VIPs, as designated by brokers who may give tickets to serious buyers. For both VIP and General admission, you’ll need to enter at the gates and show your ticket. You’ll get a wristband or handstamp and a map.

The VIP day is meant to be quieter and slower, giving the brokers and prospective boat owners time to talk and walk through the boats they’re considering at a slower, uninterrupted pace.

On the Friday of both shows, the show is open to general ticket holders and gets a little busier and more festive.The lines to get in are longer, so plan on waiting in line for a little bit.

The Saturday of both shows is the busiest day, as you might expect, since it’s the weekend and those who can’t attend on the weekdays will be making their way to the show. Saturday night is usually when most brokerages hold their parties, which are typically by invitation only for owners, so expect the show to wrap up promptly at closing time as various brokers prepare for the after-hours parties.

We’re not sure what the plan is for this year, but in years past, the boat show itself, or a local publication, also hosts a party which is open to all attendees. It used to be on top of Pusser’s, but since Pusser’s is no more, we’re not quite sure what the party plan is, or if there even is one!

Sunday is a busy day, but it’s also the last day of the show, so it can be a good day to get deals from vendors who don’t want to pack up all their wares and floor displays and might be eager for a sale. Close to the closing time of the show on Sunday, you’ll see everyone actively packing up, because the show runs on a tight timeline, especially the last day of the Powerboat Show, where all the boats have to depart to make way for the Sailboat Show setup that starts immediately. So don’t start your first conversation with a vendor or broker at 4:45 pm on Sunday.

What to See and Do Once You’re Inside

If you’re attending for fun and just to browse the boats, take your time milling the docks and hopping aboard anything that appeals to you.

If you already own a boat or you’re thinking of purchasing one, then your approach to the boat show might be different.

If you’re a current boat owner and not looking for a new boat, you might be there for the vendors. If so, you’ll want to be a little organized before you go. Bring notes on the equipment you’re looking for, plus any product numbers, SKUs, and models you have questions about. Bring all your boat specs as well, so you can easily tell whether a product is suitable for your boat. It’s also a good idea to research pricing beforehand so you know what’s a good boat show deal and what isn’t.

Buying at the Boat Show

If you’re hoping to buy a boat at the boat show, you’ve likely been doing some research beforehand. Reading up on the boat manufacturer’s site, watching YouTube videos, and joining owner groups on Facebook or Instagram is a great way to start gathering information on the boat you’re considering.

If you’re very serious, reach out to the brokers for your boat before the show and let them know you’ll be coming ready to purchase. That way, they can set aside time to see you and prioritize your visit. You’ll also want to have all your necessary financial information ready to go.

You might also be looking to join a boating vacation club with fractional boat ownership like the Moorings offers. Again, do your research and make sure you have all your financial information on hand and ready to make a purchase or down payment.

Browsing the Show

If you’re just in the browsing stage and trying to figure out what type of boat is for you, these shows are an amazing opportunity to see a huge variety of makes and models and get familiar with some of the specs and signature styles of each manufacturer. Once you’re through the show gate, we still recommend getting familiar with the slip and dock layout to help you decide. Some brokerage boats are scattered in among the new boats, so you’ll want to take a close look at the show map so you know which slips belong to yacht brokers versus manufacturers.

If you’re just there to tour the boats and not purchase anything, still be ready to register and sign up to see certain boats, possibly wait in line, or schedule an appointment to tour some of the more exclusive listings. Brokers are usually happy to have people tour their boats, but serious buyers will probably take precedence.

As a newcomer, you may not realize that some boats are privately owned boats that have been lent to the broker for the show, so obey all the signs about not opening cabinets or sitting on beds in these boats, because they are personal property.

Attending Seminars

If you’re attending to build your skills rather than just look at hulls, Cruisers University runs alongside the fall Sailboat Show with classes on everything from diesel maintenance to heavy-weather sailing, and it includes show admission for the days you’re enrolled, but there is a tuition fee.

There’s also an Offshore Emergency Medicine class with life-saving techniques for offshore sailors. Newer sailors might be interested in the First Sail Workshop, a hands-on session that gets you actually out on the water working through open-water boat handling and precision docking with an instructor rather than just watching from the dock.

There are also free daily seminars on nautical education topics like chart reading, provisioning, and route planning that don’t require any advance sign-up, which is a great way to fill an afternoon between boat visits. Check out and register for the seminars that are of interest to you here. This year, the classes are held up the street from the show at Historic Inns of Annapolis, the Governor Calvert House, at 58 State Circle.

Meet & Greets

At the Sailboat Show, there are also lots of meet-and-greets with sailing celebrities, aka Cruisers Creating Content, who have made a name for themselves through YouTube, Instagram, and sometimes Bravo boating shows. The times for these meet-and-greets run according to a schedule and are held in a dedicated area of the show. If the cruiser you want to meet has a huge following, expect to wait in line to say a few words and have a photo op.

Boat Show Etiquette

We’ve been to enough shows to have a few opinions about boat show etiquette, and most of it comes down to simple courtesy. Here are a few tips:

Don’t linger in a companionway or cockpit chatting once you’ve seen what you came to see; there’s almost always a line of other people waiting behind you, and the crew showing the boat appreciates it when visitors keep moving.

Always wait to be invited on if there’s a broker managing the flow of traffic. If there isn’t, just make sure that there’s room for you aboard; otherwise, wait until a few others have left the boat. It can get very crowded quickly aboard some of the smaller boats.

Getting off and on some of the boats can be tricky, so offer a steadying hand if you see someone who needs a little help.

Remember, the show docks are floating on the water, so they can be rocky and unstable, especially on windy days. Always walk cautiously, but also keep the flow of traffic moving. If you see someone you know and want to have a chat, make every effort to stand to the side.

If you’re seriously interested in a boat, speak to the reps, and the broker or builder rep will usually give you far more time and special attention than a passerby gets.

And if you own a boat yourself, don’t be surprised if someone who is considering a boat like yours or another boat owner strikes up a conversation with you in line with questions about your shared experience of ownership.  It’s a great way to share your knowledge, learn something new about your boat, and become part of your unique boating community.

That said, you’ll also probably want to keep from saying anything too disparaging or negative about any boat while you’re on board, since the builders and brokers are right there, and you might be affecting the outcome of potential sales. Educated opinions and constructive feedback are usually always welcome, but unvarnished and unfounded opinions might not be.

We said it earlier, but it’s worth repeating: while you can walk the docks with a drink, leave it back on the dock landing while touring the boats themselves. Leave any food and beverages, like coffee, that could spill and stain at the boarding docks or registration area; you don’t want to bring anything on board that could damage the boat.

As we mentioned before, follow any signage on the boat asking you to stay off the beds or keep cabinets closed, since these are either privately owned vessels on loan for the show or sold to a buyer.

Also, while some visitors take videos and photos for content creation or to remember specific boat details, try not to take too long filming or block major walkways while taking photos.

Places to Eat and Drink

When you’re on your feet for several hours at the show, you usually work up quite an appetite. There are a few food options within the show itself, namely The Fleet Club, which is usually a members-only club for members of the Armed Forces, opens up its space, and the members man the stoves and grills to offer their famous Pit Beef sandwiches and a few limited menu offerings.

The Fleet Club also offers beer, canned seltzer drinks, soda, and Cruzan Killers – the Fleet Club’s alternative to the official drink of the boat show – The Painkiller. The top deck of the Fleet Club is a great spot to get a bird’s-eye view of the show, and a great place to watch the show tear down when all the boats depart.

Speaking of Painkillers, this is the first year that the world-famous Pusser’s is now closed. The old Pusser’s space is now occupied by Marmo and Armada, two new Atlas Group-owned restaurants, so we’re not quite sure what will be happening with the official boat show beverage that used to pour so freely. We’re also not sure if the decks of these two restaurants will be serving any boat show specials since the decks are next to the show, but we’ll keep you posted. We know that Armada makes a Painkiller Margarita, but we’re not quite sure if some other vendor has been tapped to bring in the official Painkiller drink that has been synonymous with the boat show for years.

If coffee is more your thing, we have suggestions for that as well. One of the most frequently asked questions my husband fielded while working the show was, “Where can I get a good cup of coffee?” Close to the show, we recommend Storm Brothers, which, as of late September 2026, has begun offering breakfast bites and coffee as a result of its neighboring coffee shop, Bitty and Beau’s, closing as of mid-September 2026. There’s also Rise Up located in the Market House, very close to the show. We’ve written up a guide of the Best Coffee Spots in Annapolis, if you’re looking for a coffee shop anywhere within Annapolis.

Back at the show, there are a few food trucks located at the Dock Street side of the show layout for lunch, but if you want something heartier and more of a sit-down experience, you can leave the show, head out to a restaurant, and come back.

Our favorite spots close to the show are Pip’s for delicious hot dogs and cheesesteaks,  Iron Rooster for burgers, Dock Street for fish and chips or crab cake, McGarvey’s for oysters and sandwiches, Federal House, and Middleton’s are also nearby.

The Secret Spot in Market House offers great pizza (but last we knew they were sold as whole pies, not by the slice), and there’s an Oyster Bar inside as well. Chick and Ruth’s Delly is another classic Annapolis lunch stop just up the street from the boat show. For a classic, nautically on-theme stop a bit farther away, cross the Eastport Bridge and head to The Boatyard. Here’s our list of favorite bars in Annapolis; most offer a quick bite to eat, and all are great stops after the show for a drink and dinner.

Enjoying Downtown Annapolis

Part of what makes the Annapolis Boat Show experience special is that it all happens in a town worth exploring on its own. Main Street and Dock St. are lined with historic brick, hip and delicious restaurants, and boutique galleries and small shops that are fun to visit after the show or between stops.

The area also has a lot of history, plus the Naval Academy, so there’s plenty to see outside the show if your visit allows.

There are also many other restaurants on the Eastport side of town, like the Boatyard. Adam’s Ribs, Davis’ Pub, Blackwall Hitch, Rumhouse, and Vin 909, as well as Lewnes and Carroll’s Creek. They range from casual sit-down places to fine dining, but all are busy for the show, so make a reservation ahead if you can.

More Coastal Travel and Annapolis Things to Do

We’ve written a few guides on places to eat in Annapolis, and we’ll be adding more along with things to do in our city!  Check out these recent posts if you’re looking for the Best Pizza in Annapolis or Best Seafood Restaurants in Annapolis. We have plans to add our picks for the best Restaurants in Annapolis, the best places for breakfast in Annapolis, and more. If you travel up and down the East Coast as we do, you might also like our posts on our favorite places to eat in St. Augustine and favorite restaurants in Marathon, Florida. Also, follow us on Instagram and keep up with our adventures!

Long before we were RVers, we attended the Hershey RV Show and started to think about adding an RV to our travel plans and modes of transportation. As longtime residents of Lancaster, PA, we used to attend the show for fun, and when we researched an RV to buy, the Hershey RV Show became an invaluable resource just 30 minutes away. Now that we’ve been RV owners for 5 years and have been to the Hershey RV Show at least 7 times, we can bring a more experienced RVer perspective, as well as recall what it was like to attend as a newbie. So, whether it’s your first time going to the show or you’ve gone many times before, here are a few of our tips for going to America’s Largest RV Show.

What to Know Before You Go: America’s Largest RV Show in Hershey, PA

Maybe you’re just going to the show to look around, maybe you’re new to RVing, or you’re just curious about what an RV show entails. If you’re at all unfamiliar with RV shows, you might be wondering what makes the Hershey RV Show so special. Simply put, it truly is America’s Largest RV Show, hosted by the Pennsylvania Recreation Vehicle & Camping Association (PRVCA), with something like 1,500 RVs from around 40 manufacturers spread across nearly 1 million square feet, which is the equivalent of 33 football fields. This year it’s the 57th annual America’s Largest RV Show (also known as the Hershey America’s Largest RV Show), and it’s still the biggest RV show that we’ve ever been to, with an RV lifestyle energy you don’t get anywhere else.

If you’re not sure what type of RV you even like, what brands of RVs exist, or what the inside of a new RV looks like these days, there’s no other place to see this many RV brands, models, and floor plans all in one place. If you’re seriously considering buying an RV and you know what model you want, this is one of the best places to talk directly with manufacturers and RV dealers and get show-only price deals.

If you’re relatively new to RV shopping, you may not know this: your local RV dealer is probably only able to carry a few select brands and models. At Hershey, nearly every one of the RV manufacturers in the RV industry is represented, and you’ll be meeting not only with knowledgeable salespeople, but also with the top folks from corporate offices who know every detail of how these RVs were constructed and are authorized to offer show-only deals. You’ll also find fifth wheels, motorhomes, small popup campers, and small travel trailers all in one place, so it’s a great chance to compare a lot of must-see brands side by side if you already have a dream RV in mind, or if you’re still narrowing it down.

Here are some general rules for attending the big show. Some are generally helpful as a spectator, but hopefully these are also helpful for those who are seriously considering buying an RV at the show, going as a seasoned RVer looking at new RVs, or a first-time buyer picking up RV supplies and add-ons from vendors.

Getting There

The Hershey RV Show brings in people from all over. The location in Central Pennsylvania means you might be driving in from a few states away or flying in from elsewhere in the country or even other parts of the world. The Hershey RV Show is held in the gigantic parking lot outside the Giant Center in Hershey, so when planning your travels, use this address: Giant Center, 550 Hersheypark Dr, Hershey, PA 17033 as the destination.

Arriving By RV

If you’re arriving in your own rig, you have a few camping options close to the Giant Center. You can dry camp right across from the show or set up at a nearby campground with hookups. The dry camping lot, run by Hershey Entertainment, doesn’t take reservations and costs $60 a night, paid at the gate, plus $10 if you’re towing a vehicle behind a motorhome. There are no hookups, no freshwater fill, and no campground facilities, so this only works well if you’re set up for off-grid power and dry camping. Because the roads are busy, you cannot walk across Hersheypark Drive from the lot; a free shuttle handles the crossing instead. If you have a small Class C or B Class Van that will reasonably fit in a regular parking spot, you can bring that to the show as well.

If you want full hook-up RV camping that’s still close by, Hersheypark Camping Resort is less than two miles from the Giant Center and runs its own dedicated shuttle to the park and show, which is a nice perk after a long day of walking. We’ve met folks living the full-time RVing life at this RV park who come back to the show every year just for the excuse to stop in Hershey. We stayed here in 2025, and plan to stay again in 2026. Read our review of our stay at the Hersheypark Camping Resort for more information!

Closest Airports to Hershey, PA

For those who are flying in, Harrisburg Airport is the nearest airport to Hershey. Lancaster, PA also has an airport in Lititz, but it’s for very small regional flights. The next closest major airports are BWI, about 100 miles and 2 hours away, and Philadelphia International Airport is about the same: 2 hours and 100 miles. We find BWI easier to deal with, but traffic on 83N might not be! It all depends if Philly or Baltimore is easier for you!

Hotel Options

Someday we’ll make a guide to hotels in Hershey, but for now, we know there are a few close to the show. The world-famous Hershey Hotel is one option, of course, but it’s a luxury resort with prices to match. You can also stay at the Tru Hotel, a Courtyard by Marriott, or several other options.

Arriving By Car & Parking

If you’re not bringing an RV and simply want to browse or shop, driving in is the simplest option. The Giant Center sits just off Hersheypark Drive, with easy access from I-81 and PA-283, and parking for the show is free.

The parking lot is enormous, and even with thousands of RVs and exhibitor spaces set up, there’s still yet another parking lot where you can park if you’re coming by car. The road into the show is to the right (follow signs for Giant Center, not Hershey or Chocolate World). The road circles around the show and the parking lot, so it can take 5 minutes or more to get to a parking space. Once you’re parked, take note of where you’ve parked by looking at the numbers and markers on the street lights in your section and/or taking a photo.

Again, it’s a massive lot and easy to forget where you parked after a day of remembering RV model numbers and details. From the parking, you’ll be walking towards the Giant Center, which takes several minutes depending on where you are in the lot. Handicap parking and shuttles are available for transportation if needed. If you park in the general lots, there are steep stairs over the road, so if you have any mobility issues, be aware of the stairs and see if someone can drop you off closer to the show or use the shuttles.

Ticketing

You can, and should, purchase tickets in advance and online. Do not buy tickets from third-party sellers, since they are not guaranteed and can cause issues with entry. You also do not need to buy tickets for children under 12 since they can attend for free. Only buy tickets from the official website and app, and be sure to keep your email and QR code for entry handy for quick scanning. Check out all the details, including some discounts for military, senior citizens, and first responders.

After you cross into the show from the parking lot, there’s a security line where bags will be searched. The lines to get in can be long, especially when the show first opens for the day. One year, we think it was 2021, when the RV business was absolutely booming, the show took hours to get into. We haven’t had that experience since, but there is always a line for security and getting your ticket checked. That super busy year, if you arrived at 8, you didn’t get in until 10, but if you arrived at 10, you flew through the line. If that happens again and you’re attending the show just for fun, you might want to head out for a bit to enjoy some local Hershey breakfast spots and come back later in the day, once the crowds have thinned.

What To Bring

While your bag will be searched and it can take longer in line, at least one member of your party will probably want to bring a bag with some things. Usually, there are shopping bags with brochures and show maps handed out at the entrance, which can be helpful for toting things as well if you like to travel light.

There are food and beverage concessions, but the lines are long, and it’s frequently a hot day, so you’ll want to bring a big water bottle or drink to stay hydrated, and a few snacks are never a bad idea. If you’re seriously looking for an RV, you might also want to bring a pad of paper or notes on your phone with your questions about your rig.

If you’re planning to make some equipment purchases, make sure you have all the model numbers and measurements for your RV, motorhome, travel trailer, or towing vehicle.

Your phone camera or a camera of some sort is also going to be a huge help; after looking at hundreds of RVs, the details tend to blend together. If you can, get a method for photographing the RVs you want to remember. Take a picture of the model name and number, usually on the outside of the RV, or the sales sheet that might be inside on the counter or table, or take a video if that’s your style. Then take exterior and interior photos, including floor plans if the RV has a printed one posted. Trust me, it gets hard to identify all the models and details later as you scroll through pictures.

Footwear and Clothing

This show requires a ton of walking, especially if you’re planning on visiting several areas of the show and going into the vendor section inside the Giant Center, which doubles as an exhibition center for the show, and means going down many steps if you don’t take the elevator. Unlike the boat shows we attend, you don’t usually have to remove your shoes before entering the RVs, so slip-on footwear isn’t required, but comfortable, supportive shoes that you can walk in all day are highly recommended, and the dealers will appreciate that you wear shoes that are non-marking and without a pointed heel, so you don’t damage the floors.

Comfortable clothes matter too. September in Pennsylvania means it can be very hot, very rainy, or a little cold; sometimes all in one day. Our tip is always to dress in layers. You might need a sweater in the early morning, and a tank top by the end of the day. I never get it quite right, so I tend to stash a few options in the car or a light jacket in a bag with me.

Pet Policy

Many RVers are pet owners. In fact, being able to bring our dog along is one big reason we travel by RV in the first place. That said, pets aren’t allowed at the RV show unless they are registered service animals or dogs that can remain in an enclosed stroller the entire time. Otherwise, leave your dog at home or in the comfort of an AC-cooled RV with a dog monitor back at one of the campgrounds.

What to Research Before You Go

Before you go, if you’re planning on seriously looking at RVs for purchase, you’ll want to do your homework. While the pricing at the Hershey show is often some of the best you’ll see, you still want to know the competitive pricing range for the models and options you’re considering, since higher prices can sneak in on add-ons. If you have any technical questions, this is going to be a great time to ask them, since both knowledgeable dealers and representatives from the corporate build teams might be on hand. If you’re coming from a few states away, it’s also worth contacting the dealers in your home state beforehand to see if they are attending the Hershey show. They may be able to extend show pricing when you get back home, and it’s also always good to start the relationship before you’re standing in their lot.

You also want to have a family discussion before the show if you’re serious about buying something. You’ll want to know your budget and be ready to write a check and discuss your financing options if you’re trying to secure a great deal on a particular model. Sometimes last year’s models will be brought to the show on closeout, and you’ll want to be ready to act.

If you’re shopping, jot down your must-have floor plans, and get an understanding of the names or model numbers that have that floor plan.

If you’re just going as a casual visitor learning about RVs, it still might be worth doing some prep work to find out which RV class and style is for you, and which models and brands you really want to see. If you drive a truck and are thinking about getting a travel trailer or truck camper, you’ll want to know all the information about towing capacity and weight distribution for your vehicle before you start looking at trailers.

Reading up on the models, watching dealer videos, and checking out independent RV reviews on YouTube is a great way to get familiar with all the RV brands and models in the RV world. Once you find a few models you’re considering, you may also want to join any Facebook owners’ groups for that brand or model. This will give you a much better sense of what real RV owners and other RV enthusiasts think about the RVs you’re considering, beyond a sales pitch.

Food and Amenities

A series of food trucks is usually located close to the show’s entrance, right outside the Giant Center. The Giant Center also has concessions and public restrooms, plus porta-potty-style restrooms dotted around the show, with locations noted on the map. There are also vendors walking around with water and lemonade for sale if you need a quick bite or a cold drink between RVs.

If you want more of a sit-down meal, there are local amenities as well. Hershey and Harrisburg have plenty of options nearby, from quick bites and sports bars to fine dining, plus stops like Tröegs Independent Brewing if you want to make an evening of it after the show closes.

Vendor Areas

In addition to the RVs and travel trailers that are the main attraction, hundreds of booth vendors also attend the show. This means everyone from sewer hose manufacturers and RV refrigeration companies to makers of custom blinds, decor, and RV upgrades like levelers and stabilizers are on hand, along with plenty of other RV accessories and new features you won’t find at your local dealer. You’ll also get to meet with some RV parks and other specialized vendors. Vendors are dotted outside of the show and in various tents, so just like you would do with the RVs themselves, be sure to do a little research on the features of the product, as well as the correct price range.

 

Learn from our big mistake, which encompasses all of these rules. One year we purchased a replacement fan for our RV inside the Giant Center. We had researched the model and thought we got a great deal, but we hadn’t actually confirmed the model number against what we’d researched at home. It turned out to be a prior year’s model, and we’d overpaid. First off, it’s hard to get in and out of the vendor area with a purchase in hand, and we had to carry that fan all the way to the elevator and out to the parking lot. Then we had to haul it back through the show for a return the next day. Even if it’s not something big, save your purchases until the end of the show if you can, so you’re not carrying them all over the show and risking setting them down and forgetting them.

Education, Seminars, and Meet and Greets

Check the show’s events calendar for educational seminars and hands-on workshops on topics like RV maintenance, electrical systems, weight distribution, boondocking on public lands, and trip planning for national parks, since seating is limited and the popular sessions fill up. Between the seminars and the sheer number of manufacturers on hand, it’s easy to see why this is one of the biggest RV trade shows in the country, not just a camping show for browsing. You’ll also see lots of RV YouTubers and other favorite content creators being filmed at the show, especially around new RV models, the latest accessories, and the latest innovations on display. Many of the YouTubers have meet-and-greet times, so keep track of the times they’ll be available for photo ops and chatting by checking out their social media posts.

Show Etiquette and Other Tips

There aren’t too many rules at the show, but like everything else in life, it is helpful if you bring your patience and best manners. This includes elevator rules: let someone out before you get in. If you’re heading into an RV with a long line of people waiting to see it, make your visit as brief as possible while still getting the information you need.

Consult the map and make a plan. There’s no rule that says you can’t aimlessly wander the show, but if you’re short on energy or time, it’s worth making a plan for the areas you most want to see. And if you’re going to buy, or you’re seriously considering a model, we recommend doing your homework ahead of time so you’re ready to act when you find the right RV at the right price.

After the Show

After the RV Show, you’ll no doubt be tired, and there’s nothing better than relaxing back at your hotel, RV, or at one of the local restaurants and breweries.  We’re working on a guide right now with our recommendations for places to eat in Hershey, including the best restaurants, best breakfast spots, and best breweries in the area.

More Things to Do In Hershey and Central PA

Hershey isn’t just chocolate and RV Shows; there are plenty to do in this town and the surrounding areas, including Lititz and Lancaster, PA. Hershey has hockey games, amazing performances at the Hershey Theater and Giant Center, and world-class gardens and bike trails. We’ll follow up with ideas for things to do in Hershey, PA that aren’t Hersheypark.

We stayed at Hersheypark Camping Resort® last year while we were in town for America’s Largest RV Show at Hersheypark, and it gave us a great chance to try Hersheypark Camping Resort®. Hersheypark Camping Resort® is the official on-site campground of Hersheypark, right in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country and just minutes from the park gates. The same company behind Hersheypark owns and operates it. This guide is based on our visit in September 2025 and what we learned during our two-night stay. We’re about to book to stay again in September 2026 when we return to the Hershey RV show.

Our level RV campsite with views of the cabins at Hersheypark Campground

Hershey, PA Campground with RV, Tent & Cabin Camping

While we make every effort to get the details right at the time of publication, campground details can change quickly. It’s always a good idea to confirm any important information before you go by calling the campground and checking their social media and website for updates.

Hersheypark Camping Resort®

hersheyparkcampingresort.com

1200 Sweet St
Hummelstown, PA 17036

 

We used to live in Lancaster County, so for years we didn’t need RV accommodations to enjoy Hershey,  Hersheypark, a concert at the Giant Center, dinner at the Hershey Hotel, or an afternoon at Troegs Brewing; we could just take the 30-minute drive. Now, we live out of state, so trips to Hershey involve a plan for an overnight stay. Since we already own the RV and like to travel with our dog, a campground is usually our first choice whenever we’re planning overnight travel, like when we go to the Hershey RV show.

We booked our site by phone a few weeks ahead of the RV show and were glad to find they still had space.  When booking, you’ll want to refer to the map, of course, when picking a site. The campground has about four areas and loops: one dedicated to cabins and a couple of tiny homes; two loops mixing full-hookup and partial-hookup RV or tent sites in different configurations; and, down by the river, a section of primitive sites for tent camping.

Getting There

Coming from Maryland, we took 83 North to 322 East and had an easy drive in. The campground entrance is right off the main road, Hersheypark Drive, near some of the fast food restaurants. The approach is a long driveway that ends in a generously sized flat parking lot, where we parked to check in and detach our Jeep from our towing setup.

Reservations and Checking In

Campground check-in is across from this parking lot in the Big Red Barn, also known as the Historic Landis Barn. This building not only houses the check-in desk, the game room, bathrooms, and one of the two laundry facilities on the property. We arrived during an off-peak time, so there was no wait, and the staff was warm and welcoming. They answered our questions about catching the shuttle to the park and gave us the lay of the land.

Check-in and the Camp Store are housed in this red barn at Hersheypark Camping Resort®

Amenities and amusements are dotted throughout the property, including a full country store (sometimes called the camp store) stocked with Hershey products and official merchandise, an indoor game room, playgrounds, and an outdoor pool. The bathrooms and showers are located throughout the campground and are large and clean.

As with most places, you can book online or by calling the reservation department directly, and you’ll need a credit card to hold your site. They offer discounts for first responders and the military, as well as special packages geared toward Hersheypark visitors.

Campsite Types and Accommodations

Camping accommodations range from primitive tent sites along the creek to partial and full-hookup RV campsites to deluxe cabins and tiny homes.  Every RV site we saw included picnic tables and a fire ring. Full hookups (electric, water, sewer, and cable) are available for RVs, along with partial-hookup and no-hookup options depending on the loop. Whether you’re pulling a travel trailer, driving a motorhome, pitching a tent, or looking for a cabin to rent, you’ll likely find an option that fits your camping style.

Cabins and shady trees in the Pioneer Heights Section

Choosing An RV Site: Pioneer Heights vs. Carousel Circle

Our site was site 8A, up the hill from the main entrance and check-in area, in the section the campground calls Pioneer Heights. The hill is worth noting if you’re traveling with small kids, especially those who like to ride bikes or scooters. For bikers of any age, there are posted warnings about walking bikes down the hill, since it’s very steep and the main driving entrance to Pioneer Heights, and it can have a steady flow of traffic during peak arrival and departure times. As far as towing and maneuvering an RV, the sites in Pioneer Heights were easy to get in and out of, with the same kind of one-way routes you’ll find in almost any campground. We liked this loop because several of the sites have shade trees, and the elevation gives a nice view down over the pools and the rest of the campground.

We moved to site 9, uphill from 8A on the second day of our stay.

Our site’s gravel parking pad was very level, but the land around it was cut into the hillside, so the grass area around the site wasn’t perfectly flat — nothing unpleasant, just something to expect, since it means neighboring sites can sit uphill or downhill from yours.

For RVers like us, there’s another section right near the entrance to the campground called Carousel Circle, made up entirely of RV sites set closer together than Pioneer Heights, which, in contrast, seemed to have more green space and cabins mixed in. If you enjoy meeting your RV neighbors and don’t mind a more classic, side-by-side camping style with fewer trees, Carousel Circle offers that more typical resort-campground feel, and it’s further away from the train noise.

For non-RVers, cabin rentals are available and are located on the outer circle of the RV Campsites in the Pioneer Heights section of Hersheypark Camping Resort

There are pull-through sites here for larger motorhomes and travel trailers. Since this is such a popular campground, the property makes the most of its space here, and the loop is noticeably flatter overall, which should make it easier when setting up and leveling your RV. Since we didn’t camp in those spots, we can’t compare them accurately, but you can always ask staff which sites are their favorites today, and you’ll likely hear both loops mentioned, depending on whether the person you ask prefers shade or a flatter pad.

In other sections, especially for tent camping, there are warnings about the river and creeks that can flood, so be sure to read the particulars of each site in the booking notes online before you commit. We loved the trees near our site that gave us a little shade, and since we were there in September, it was hot during the day but starting to get chilly, and slightly less crowded since school had started for most families and it was slightly off-season.

Campground Amenities and Overall Conditions

The grounds are easy to navigate, the amenities are well-marked, and the RV, tent, and cabin sites we saw all had tidy landscaping. We didn’t need the bathhouses the way a tent camper would, but we checked them briefly, and everything was in good condition.

On the recreation side, the resort offers an indoor game room, multiple playgrounds, a basketball court, volleyball and shuffleboard courts, and classic outdoor games like horseshoes and cornhole, along with a community area for s’mores by the fire, self-service laundry, and free WiFi. There’s a large outdoor pool for cooling off in the summer. The country store carries firewood (no outside firewood is allowed), s’mores supplies, coffee, and camping basics, along with Hershey-branded souvenirs. There’s no shortage of family activities at this campground.

The swimming pool is a welcoming benefit to staying at Hersheypark Camping Resort at the end of a hot day at Hersheypark

Campground Rules and Details to Note

A few rules worth knowing if you’re used to bringing your own bikes, e-bikes or golf carts to campgrounds. At this campground, golf carts aren’t permitted on the property, aside from accessibility exceptions approved by the front office, so plan to leave your golf cart at home.

Fellow e-bikers should take note of this: while manually powered bikes, scooters, and skateboards are fine, you must walk them (not ride them) on the Pioneer Heights hill, and you must park them between 9 p.m. and 8 a.m.  E-bikes, e-scooters, hoverboards, inline skates, and wheeled shoes aren’t permitted in the campground. For RVers, dogs are welcome, so long as the park rules are followed, but for tent campers, you should leave all pets at home.

View of the Campground Loops at Hersheypark Camping Resort

One thing to know before you book: this resort is extremely popular, and reservations disappear quickly in summer, especially during Hersheypark’s operating hours, and we have to imagine it fills up even more if there’s also a concert or other event at the Giant Center. If you can, plan and book well ahead. If you’d rather have a quieter stay, the off-season or a mid-week visit can be a good way to visit with noticeably fewer crowds.

On the benefit side, the resort’s free front-gate shuttle bus to Hersheypark is an incredible perk. It saves you from parking and packing up the car each day, and it’s especially helpful if one family member wants to head back earlier or later than the rest of the group. It saves you time and the hassle of walking from one of the gigantic parking lots. You’ll need a wristband from the office to ride the shuttle, which runs on a continuous loop during Hersheypark’s operating season. The shuttle stop is a short walk from the Pioneer Heights sites, so plan a few extra minutes to get there.

Another unique bonus: because of its official affiliation with Hersheypark, the campground can offer package deals that bundle camping with park tickets, plus other options for family reunions and group trips.

Proximity to Hershey PA Attractions

The proximity to Hersheypark and all the other Hershey attractions is, of course, one of the biggest reasons to camp here. However, Hersheypark is just one of hundreds of things to do in the Hershey area, so if the park isn’t your thing or you have a few non-park days planned, there’s no shortage of unique activities to fill the rest of your trip.

By staying at this campground,  you’ll be centrally located to a bunch of things like golf courses, fantastic restaurants, The Hershey Hotel, The Hershey Theater, Amish Country, Indian Echo Caverns, the state capital of Harrisburg, and several other areas of Pennsylvania Dutch Country like Elizabethtown, Lititz, and Lancaster that are worth exploring, especially if you’re a history buff.

Dining Near the Campground

When we stayed, the campground had no on-site dining beyond the well-stocked country store, which can fill any gaps in your dining plans. But at this campground you’re never far from a fantastic meal: fast food places like McDonald’s are close by for a quick bite; Bob Evans and Applebee’s are 2 minutes away for sit-down dinners.

If you really like to eat, as we do, there are fantastic restaurants within a mile or two of the campground. You’ll find some of the top restaurants in PA in Hershey, plus the Hershey Hotel, which has several dining rooms of its own.

Craft beer fans will be thrilled to know that Tröegs Independent Brewing and Rotunda Brew Pub are both nearby and definitely worth the visit. If shopping and relaxing are more your speed, the Hershey outlets, Hershey Gardens, and the world-famous Hershey Spa are all within about a five-minute drive. We’ll share with you some of our favorite places to eat in Hershey in an upcoming article!

Kid and Family Friendly

While we don’t have kids, we can see that this campground is particularly kid and family-friendly, even for young kids. If Hersheypark and the surrounding attractions are the main reason for your trip, and you love to camp, it’s hard to imagine a better home base than this campground. The campground is also close to Hershey’s Chocolate World, which is a great way for families with kids too young for the bigger rides to get a taste of Hershey. Chocolate World is free to enter and offers tours, shopping, and interactive candy and chocolate experiences. It’s the perfect way to give kids a dose of Hershey magic without the cost or commitment of a full theme-park day.

Getting to and From Hersheypark

This campground is ideal for getting to the park early, since even if you drive yourself, it’s a 5-minute drive to the Hershey gates. The drive around the main Hershey parking lot to find a spot is probably going to take the most time of the commute. The complimentary shuttle here means you can leave the campground in the morning without any parking hassles, spend the day riding everything Hersheypark has to offer, and be back at your site quickly for a dip in the pool or a quiet evening by the fire. It’s a great setup for families who don’t want to deal with long drives or don’t want to waste time getting to the park, and just want to get out into the great outdoors and to the park as soon as they’re ready. If you take the shuttle from the campground

The Shuttle to Hersheypark is right on site at this campground; it is a huge benefit for campers who want easy travel to and from Hersheypark from the campground. 

Things to Know Before You Book

A few things are unique to this campground besides the Hershey connection. An active freight train runs along part of the property, and the trains pass by frequently, day and night — it adds a bit of charm to the stay if you ask us, but it’s certainly something to be aware of if you’re a light sleeper or camp with the windows open, especially in the sites closest to the tracks.

There are also nearby creeks that can get high during rainy seasons. We didn’t have any experience with this while we were there, so it’s hard to say how this might impact your stay or choosing your site, but it’s something to be aware of.

Not to Be Confused With Other Hershey Campgrounds

Search around, and you’ll find that other campgrounds use Hershey in the name because of the town, so it’s worth knowing which is which. Perhaps adding to the confusion, Hersheypark Camping Resort® is actually located in Hummelstown, not Hershey, but trust us – it’s the closest to Hersheypark and is the official on-site resort for those who want a Hershey, PA experience.

There’s also Hershey Road Campground (in Elizabethtown) and the Hershey KOA, two other campgrounds that are near Hersheypark, but still about a 10-15 minute drive to the park. Still, they are worth comparing if you’re weighing your options for a Hershey RV campground, or need a place to stay for the RV show when other resorts fill up.

Pros and Cons of Camping Here

Our stay here made us pretty much only see the pros. Everything you’d want to see in Hershey is extremely close by, and if you’re spending the full day at the park or at any other Hershey-area event, your commute is so easy. This is the closest RV park to the Hersheypark attractions, and if the park is the whole point of your trip, staying here keeps it a Hershey-fied experience from the moment you wake up. It’s a beautiful campground and a great way to enjoy Hershey without paying hotel prices. Still, if you’re the kind of camper who wants to be in nature and away from it all, then this campground will be on the busy

We think you’ll love it if:

• You’re planning a Hersheypark-focused trip and want a comfortable, convenient home base, or you’re using it as home base for exploring other Hershey-area attractions.
• You love RV parks that have resort-style amenities — pools, a game room, and organized activities alongside a classic camping experience with fire rings and s’mores.
• You’re traveling with a group of friends or extended family and want plenty of room to spread out, or you need a mix of tent camping, an RV site, and a cabin or tiny home for different members of your party.
• You have kids, and you want a campground that includes activities for the whole family.
• You appreciate having well-maintained facilities, a friendly staff, and a sense of community among fellow campers.
• You want the flexibility to explore this area of PA with the Amish markets, caverns, and countryside one day and hit the theme park the next.

This might not be the right fit if:

• You’re looking for a remote, back-to-nature experience with some solitude — this is an active, busy resort with lots of kids and families, especially in peak season.
• Budget is your top priority. Since the rates rise during peak booking times, there probably are a few campgrounds with lower rates in the region, though they won’t offer this level of proximity to Hershey’s attractions, and the money you’ll save on gas.
• You’re not particularly interested in the Hershey attractions and would rather stay somewhere that puts you near the farmland and quieter side of Pennsylvania Dutch Country.
• You prefer oversized sites with natural surroundings and hiking trails, more like what you’d find at a state park campground.

More to Do in the Hershey Area

Since we’ve spent a lot of time in the Hershey and Lancaster, PA areas over the years, we have plenty more tips to share about how to have fun in PA: restaurants worth a stop in Hershey, tips for attending America’s Largest RV Show (held at the Giant Center, not the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex in Harrisburg, which hosts a different outdoor show entirely), and other things to do beyond the main attractions we’ve covered here. We also have recommendations for the best breakfast spots near Hershey, PA.

Hershey is in Central Pennsylvania, near the Susquehanna River Valley. In this central location, Lancaster is only about 35 to 40 minutes from Hershey, so it’s an easy add-on if you have the extra day. Elizabethtown and Lititz, PA — once voted America’s best small town — are also worth the short drive. We’ll be sharing our full guides and tips for both soon. You might also like our other camping articles about camping in Delaware at Lums Pond Campground and Cape Henlopen.

 

Sitting right on the brackish waters of the Chesapeake Bay, with the Atlantic Ocean just a few hours away, Annapolis has always had a deep connection to the water — and the excellent seafood it produces. Therefore, it’s no surprise that Annapolis is home to many great seafood restaurants.

To help you find the best places to eat, we’ve created this guide with our local picks for what we think could be the best seafood restaurants in Annapolis. We will walk you through our top recommendations, so you can make the most of every meal while you’re here.

Specials, offerings, menu items, and hours of operation for most restaurants are subject to frequent change. While we make every effort to get the details right at the time of publication, it’s a good idea to confirm any important details before you go by calling the restaurant, checking their website, or social media pages.  

Our Guide to the Top Seafood Restaurants in Annapolis, MD

While Maryland will always be known for crabs, we also think the seafood restaurants that serve other quintessential Maryland seafood — like oysters and rockfish — are a big highlight of this town’s culinary offerings.

Since we try to eat fresh seafood regularly, we’re very well-versed in the restaurants in Eastport and Downtown Annapolis that excel at creating creative seafood dishes.

If you’re seeking the best crab cakes, blue crabs, fresh rockfish, or oysters, our list of the best seafood restaurants in Annapolis is here to help you find the perfect restaurant with the ideal seafood dishes for you and your dining companions.

Carrol’s Creek Cafe

410 Severn Ave, Annapolis, MD 21403 carrolscreek.com

Carrol’s Creek Cafe is probably our top recommendation for an excellent seafood restaurant in Annapolis.

One of the highlights of dining at Carrol’s Creek is the waterfront view of Spa Creek in Eastport from their dining room and deck.  You can also be assured that they earn that waterfront connection by serving some of the freshest seafood.View of Carrol’s Creek Restaurant from the water taxi stop at Annapolis City Marina

If you’re looking for a special date night, a place to host a family celebration, a waterfront lunch, or dining for one at the bar, Carrol’s is a great choice for any of those scenarios. Carrol’s can accommodate everything from big groups for birthdays to single plates.

The food here is reasonably priced by market standards, high-quality, and expertly prepared. We’ve never had a piece of seafood here that wasn’t cooked to perfection.

We think their herb-encrusted rockfish is one of the best seafood preparations in all of Annapolis.Herb Encrusted Rockfish

Carrol’s Creek also offers great crab cakes and excellent sea scallops prepared with phyllo dough, and has local oysters, both baked and raw, on the menu.  Most of all, we love that Carrol’s is the kind of place where you can come as you are, or get dressed up and make the most of the evening.

Ahi Tuna Tartare Tower

The food is always top-notch, and they offer a cocktail menu and a wine list featuring great bottles that pair perfectly with their entrees and seafood. We especially love their cream of crab soup, paired with one of their Caesar Salads, for a quick, casual at-the-bar dinner.

Boatyard Bar and Grill

400 Fourth St, Annapolis, MD 21403  boatyardbarandgrill.com

Almost right across the street from the parking lot for Carrol’s Creek is another must-visit Annapolis seafood restaurant.

We’ve mentioned Boatyard Bar and Grill in our list of the best bars in Annapolis, but it’s primarily known as an excellent seafood restaurant with an extensive menu.

Boatyard is a local favorite that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and there are delicious seafood options on each of those menus.

The Boatyard is especially famous for its “all killer no filler” crab cakes and crab cake sandwiches. In addition to their crab specials, they offer a huge variety of seafood from a raw seafood tower to favorites like Mahi Mahi and Salmon.

The Boatyard is also particularly known for its oysters, and they feature a full raw bar, a variety of oyster shooters, and you can add fried oysters to your salad.

Ocean City Inlet BLT

We often eat lunch or an early dinner here, and our personal favorites are their Ocean City Inlet Flounder BLT sandwich, the Coddies, and the smoked fish dip, which used to be a happy-hour staple for us.

If you’re looking for seafood prepared in traditional Maryland ways, with a little nautical flair, Boatyard has an unforgettable seafood dish for every seafood lover in your party.

O’Learys Seafood Restaurant

310 Third St, Annapolis, MD 21403  olearysseafood.com

Update: Sadly, O’Leary’s is permanently closing as of the summer of 2026, and is fully booked for remaining reservations. We are so sad to say goodbye to this legendary Annapolis restaurant. We’ll keep you posted if something new and worthwhile takes its place. 

Just down Severn Avenue from the Boatyard, at the corner of 3rd Street and Severn in Eastport, is a teal blue building with a VW Bus in the parking lot.

Here you’ll find O’Leary’s, a small seafood bistro known for impeccable service. The dining room at O’Leary’s is gorgeous, with local artwork and well-chosen nautical touches. The service and food here are legendary.O’Leary’s Crispy Rockfish

Because of its charming atmosphere and high-end dining experience, O’Leary’s is a great place to celebrate an important birthday or anniversary. The seafood here is known for its gourmet preparations, with seafood accompaniments you won’t find anywhere else.

We love their Crispy Rockfish, and they make an amazing gazpacho in the summer. We also love their shrimp and grits and would gladly try any of their seafood dinner specials without hesitation.

Wild Country Seafood

124 Bay Shore Ave, Annapolis, MD 21403 wildcountryseafood.net

When you’re still on the Eastport side of Annapolis, there’s one of the freshest spots you can try for off-the-boat seafood.

Wild Country Seafood is a seafood market located near the Annapolis Maritime Museum. It’s out of the way, tucked at the end of a dead-end street in Annapolis, but definitely a spot worth seeking out. Wild Country Seafood is an order-at-the-counter place with picnic tables outside for dining in warm weather.

Wild Country is the home of Patty’s Fatty’s oysters, named for the owner of Wild Country, Pat Mahoney. They are plump, fresh oysters that are famous in the Annapolis area. Wild Country is known for its fried seafood sandwiches, scallops, and soft-shell crabs in season.

We usually go for the oyster sandwich, and really want to try their broiled rockfish fillet or a combination platter. You can also order party platters or just pick up fresh fish or crabs for your own event and party hosting needs.

Cantler’s Riverside Inn

458 Forest Beach Rd, Annapolis, MD 21409  cantlers.com

While we plan to do an article dedicated to the Maryland crab shacks by themselves, you can’t mention seafood in Annapolis without mentioning crabs, and you can’t mention crabs in the Annapolis area without mentioning Cantler’s.

Cantler’s is a family-owned and legendary waterfront restaurant on the Severn River. It’s one of the top spots to pick crabs with family and friends. While you can certainly drive there, it’s also a great dock-and-dine destination. Not only is Cantler’s known for being one of the top spots for blue crabs, but they also offer a full range of seafood dishes, including seafood platters, fish sandwiches, and combination plates.

If you want crab without having to pick, they also offer crab preparations. Cantler’s has a casual picnic-table atmosphere, but its range of seafood options is first-class.

Chart House Prime

300 Second St, Annapolis, MD 21403  charthouseprime.com

The Chart House is one of our favorite places for cocktails and seafood happy hour specials. They recently rebranded as Chart House Prime, which means they’re now known not only for their seafood but also for their steaks, offering fantastic cuts of meat and classic steakhouse presentations.

The water views and the ability to get both surf and turf in this upscale environment make this a great spot to consider, especially if you’re celebrating a special occasion.

Mini Crab Cakes from the Chart House Prime Happy Hour

Chart House Prime is a chain restaurant with several locations across the US, and Annapolis is lucky to be home to one of the waterfront locations. The Annapolis Chart House Prime is known for great service; the waitstaff and bartenders are always top-notch, and the dining room is a modern, elegant space that lends itself to fine seafood.

There’s something for everyone, including sushi, a raw bar, oysters, seafood towers, crudo, and whole-fish offerings. Chart House Prime also offers global seafood selections like Salmon, Chilean Sea Bass, and Alaskan King Crab, as well as local favorites like rockfish and cream of crab soup.

The Choptank

110 Compromise St, Annapolis, MD 21401  thechoptankrestaurant.com

Nestled between the bars and restaurants in Historic Annapolis is a newcomer – The Choptank, owned by the Atlas Restaurant Group out of Baltimore. This multi-level restaurant is perfectly located right on the edge of Ego Alley, with beautiful views of the water. This is an upscale spot with outdoor seating, stunning bar seating, and several beautifully appointed dining rooms on each level.

While The Choptank is billed as a “classic fish and crab house,” the high-end decor and perfect location make this a bit more elevated than that descriptor suggests.

While this isn’t necessarily one of the go-to restaurants for day-to-day dining, it is one we frequently end up at with out-of-town guests because it is one of the few seafood restaurants with great waterfront views and a really eye-catching interior design and beautiful atmosphere.

We’ve ordered and enjoyed the Rockfish Ceviche with friends, and we also love their various preparations of fresh catches like Chilean Sea Bass and Rockfish.

Sailor Oyster Bar

196 West St, Annapolis, MD 21401  sailoroysterbar.com

Sailor Oyster Bar is located on West Street in downtown Annapolis and has recently reemerged on the Annapolis dining scene after a devastating fire closed the restaurant for many months. Sailor Oyster Bar’s primary offering is a raw bar, and its lightly cooked cuisine was inspired by the idea of being shipwrecked on a deserted island with only a torch and fresh fish available.

True to that theme, the raw bar menu features items such as oysters, clams, caviar, seared scallops, and fish prepared crudo-style. While it’s not the place to go if you want an entree-style meal or a hearty fried fish basket, if you’re looking for refined seafood bites paired with creative craft cocktails, Sailor Oyster Bar is a great stop to make on your dining adventure.

Seasalt

1 Park Pl #7, Annapolis, MD 21401  seasaltannapolis.com

Seasalt is another relative newcomer to the Annapolis dining scene and is already making a great impression.

Seasalt has a dedicated oyster bar and a seafood-inspired kitchen that specializes in sustainably sourced seafood. Seasalt offers an elegant bar and a modern dining room that perfectly complement this upscale fine-dining experience.

Admittedly, we’ve only had the chance to visit during Happy Hour, but a look at the pictures of beautifully plated food and their elegant dinner menu reveals that Seasalt is creating unparalleled, exquisite preparations.

Mike’s Restaurant and Crab House

3030 Riva Rd, Riva, MD 21140 www.mikescrabhouse.com

A crab shack like Mike’s is a Maryland institution, and we’ll take a deeper dive into their attributes in our upcoming article about the best crab houses in Annapolis and Maryland.

While it’s best known as a crab house, Mike’s menu offers a full range of seafood. We visited this fall and were highly impressed by the rockfish sandwich, the views, and the drinks.

 Rockfish Sandwich from Mike’s

Mike’s isn’t right downtown, but it’s just a short drive out of the city, in Riva. If you want seafood with a water view in a casual environment, Mike’s Restaurant and Crabhouse is a great place to try. There’s indoor seating year-round, as well as a waterfront deck with picnic tables and an outdoor bar with a great view of the South River. If you’re closer to Pasadena, MD, there’s a Mike’s location there, too!

Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls

188 Main St, Annapolis, MD 21403 masonslobster.com

Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls on Main Street in downtown Annapolis

Mason’s is a chain and little unique in Maryland’s culinary world, since its primary offerings are two New England-style lobster rolls and New England clam chowder. Located right on Main Street in downtown Annapolis, it’s the perfect spot to stop for a little lunch of afternoon seafood break.

A takeout order of the Mason’s Famous Lobster Salad Roll – The side of beer and pasta salad is our own!

You can choose from the warm, buttered Connecticut-style lobster roll, the cold, mayo-based classic New England-style roll, the lobster salad roll with celery, the Bar Harbor-style roll with added lobster tail, or a few other tasty options.

For a low-carb meal, you can also opt to have your lobster or shrimp over salad greens.  For soups, Mason’s offers lobster bisque or New England clam chowder.

It’s a small menu, but it truly focuses on the best offerings of New England seafood, and as native New Englanders, we appreciate having a place to get a taste of classic New England lobster right in Annapolis.

The Point Crab House + Grill

700 Mill Creek Rd, Arnold, MD 21012 thepointcrabhouse.com

The Point is not in downtown Annapolis, but since it’s only about 15 minutes from Annapolis, and it’s SO good, we decided to include it in this guide. The Point is a waterfront spot, tucked away in a residential area of Arnold next to the Atlantic Marina at Ferry Point. You can also arrive by boat – just call ahead for docking details.

It’s a bit of a winding drive from downtown Annapolis, and since it’s in a residential area with no other restaurants near it, it is really a destination that you have to commit to – but it’s worth the drive. While it’s primarily known as an upscale crab house, we still consider The Point one of our favorite seafood spots.

Cream of Crab Soup from The Point

The Point specializes in locally sourced seafood and steamed seafood dishes like the Lump Crab Cake, steamed shrimp and oysters, mussels, and the Fried Rockfish sandwich.

We usually go to Happy Hour, where our order is likely to include Nanny’s Deviled Eggs, Cream of Crab Soup, and their delicious Baked Jumbo Lump Crab Dip.

Enjoy the open-air waterfront bar and dining room setting of The Point in Arnold for some excellent crab and seafood dishes

Latitude 38

12 Dock St, Annapolis, MD 21401 latitude38waterfront.com

Latitude 38 is located just around the corner from the U.S. Naval Academy and is situated right near Ego Alley. It has a bit of a changing landscape at the moment, since there’s a huge construction project underway at the Annapolis Waterfront and Ego Alley space.

Latitude 38 is a moderately upscale but still casual restaurant with a unique open-air dining area with what is usually a great view of the busy Annapolis Waterfront. The menu features plenty of seafood options, from halibut to Maryland favorites like crab dip, crab cakes, and soft-shell crab sandwiches.

Lures

1397 Generals Hwy, Crownsville, MD 21032 luresbarandgrille.com

If you’re up for heading a little bit outside of downtown Annapolis, down the road about 20 minutes to Lures Bar & Grille, another great restaurant that centers seafood across many of its classic menu items and fresh offerings. They bring in fresh fish daily, which can be prepared in a number of different ways, including Rockefeller, Mango, Southern Fancy, and more. Their restaurant and bar are welcoming and full of tasteful aquatic and coastal style. Their outdoor patio features a stunning carved-wood pavilion, creating an elevated and memorable dining experience. Best of all, all of their dishes always have a little fishy signature – they include a goldfish cracker on each plate!

More Spots to Find Great Seafood

While some of the restaurants in the area aren’t known specifically as seafood restaurants, they’ll often incorporate local fish and oysters on their menus, so you really can’t go wrong with ordering a seafood dish if it’s on offer from any of the local restaurants. For instance, even though Adam’s on Fourth is known primarily for ribs, we’ve enjoyed excellent salmon and rockfish there.

Mussels from Reynold’s Tavern

We’ve had excellent mussels at Reynold’s Tavern, and there’s almost always a delicious crab soup, crab dip, or crab-topped entree at Davis’ Pub, in addition to their excellent fish and chips.

Another favorite is the Monday lobster special at Rams Head Roadhouse. Rams Head offers a varied menu and is known for its burgers. This used to be available at the downtown Annapolis location, but now it’s limited to the Roadhouse location on Defense Highway in Annapolis. They offer rockfish bites, which are generously sized portions of fried rockfish, as well as a fantastic deal on a 1-pound lobster dinner that comes with a salad, corn, and potato, all under $30!

Grilled Salmon over Kale and Quinoa

If Italian is more your style, we’ll be doing a summary of those restaurants soon, but it’s worth noting that several of the wonderful Italian restaurants in the area, like Osteria 177 and Luna Blu, center seafood in their entrees and pasta offerings.

Our Favorites

Rockfish from Adam’s on Fourth

So, which one is the best seafood restaurant? Carrol’s Creek probably gets our top recommendation for its mix of all-around service and fine dining. We also love O’Leary’s for a special event or romantic dinner, and Wild Country is a hidden gem for casual take-out for lunch with super fresh fish. As native New Englanders, we get our lobster fix from the Monday night lobster special at Rams Head Roadhouse or with a lobster roll from Mason’s.

There is something for every sort of seafood lover in Annapolis, from fine dining restaurants to casual counter service style places. Annapolis Restaurant Week can be a great time to familiarize yourself with some of these places and decide for yourself which seafood spot is the best!

More Annapolis Dining Ideas

For this article, you’ll notice that, with the exception of some raw oyster references, we’ve mostly stayed with prepared and cooked seafood restaurants, but Annapolis has a full offering of restaurants dedicated to both sushi and crab. So if you prefer your seafood in sushi or crustacean form, we’ll be sharing specific picks for both crab houses and sushi restaurants.

If you’re visiting Annapolis to attend one of the Annapolis Boat Shows, or just looking for some of the best places to eat and things to do, we’ve written a few other food guides that might interest you. Check out our recommendations for the best coffee in Annapolis, the best pizza in Annapolis, and the best bars in Annapolis.

We’ve been busy creating our shopping guides full of travel essentials, everyday style picks, RV and home decor, pet care, and boating essentials.

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See our favorite RV Essentials, RV Decor Ideas, E-Bike Must-Haves, Gifts for Boaters, Gifts for RVers, Gifts for Campers, and more on LTK.

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Whether you’re just visiting Annapolis or you live here full-time, you might be looking for the best spot to grab a cup of coffee while you’re in the area. From Annapolis Neck to Downtown, West Street to Eastport, there are excellent coffee shops in Annapolis in every part of our little city that serve great coffee and coffee drinks.  No matter which part of Annapolis you find yourself in, a great cup of coffee, rich espresso, or delicious latte is close by. Here are a few of the coffee shops we think are best in Annapolis.

While you can find the usual chains like Dunkin’ and Starbucks in the Annapolis area, unless you’re seeking those familiar flavors, there’s really no need to suffer through an uninspired cup of joe while visiting Annapolis.  Annapolis is home to numerous small, family-run local coffee shops that offer unique experiences worth seeking out and enjoying. Here are a few of our favorites.

Bitty & Beau’s Coffee

124 Dock St, Annapolis, MD 21401  bittyandbeauscoffee.com

Sadly, Bitty & Beau’s Coffee is closing in early September 2026. It is one of many businesses on Dock Street that have been drastically impacted by the ongoing construction at City Dock and its effect on foot traffic and customer parking. While we are very sad to see Bitty & Beau’s go, we did hear one bit of good news; Storm Brothers Ice Cream, one of the other businesses deeply impacted by the construction, is going to hire some of the Bitty & Beau’s employees and start offering coffee at Storm Brothers using the name “Storm’s a Brewing” at the front of Storm Brothers starting at the end of September. So head a few steps down Dock Street to 130 Dock Street and support this new coffee endeavor, and grab a scoop of ice cream as well! 

We are so lucky to have a Bitty & Beau’s Coffee right in Annapolis. Bitty and Beau’s is a national chain with multiple locations, all with an important mission: to offer a supportive work environment for people with developmental and intellectual disabilities. Bitty and Beau’s coffee shop nationally employs over 450 people with disabilities.

The Annapolis location of Bitty & Beau’s is right downtown, near the bustling City Dock area, making it a perfect spot to stop whether you’re going to the Naval Academy, enjoying the waterfront, or about to enjoy the day downtown. The shop itself has a sleek and modern coffeehouse vibe, a friendly staff, and the coffee is wonderful.

Rise Up Coffee Roasters

2042 Somerville Rd, Annapolis, MD, and inside the Annapolis Market House at 25 Market Space, Annapolis, MD 21401  riseupcoffee.com

 

Rise Up Coffee has locations in several areas of town, so you’re never very far from a spot where you can enjoy their coffee. Rise Up Coffee is a Maryland and Annapolis institution, with its first location opening on the Eastern Shore in St. Michaels. Due to their huge popularity, several other locations opened up all over the state over the past 20 years.

Rise Up is an independently owned roaster and coffee shop specializing in organic coffee from single-origin sources and vetted, fair-trade bean suppliers. You can find a coffee roast for every palette, with light to dark roast coffees to brew at home, or enjoy in their shops.

If you’re in downtown Annapolis and searching for a great cup of coffee, head over to the Market House Location. If you’re out by the mall or Whole Foods, you can drop in at their Somerville Road location in the Parole Shopping Plaza.

Oscar’s Coffee

105 Eastern Ave, Annapolis, MD 21403 wheresoscar.com

Oscar’s might be one of our absolute favorite spots for coffee, and one of the coffee shops in Annapolis that is definitely worth a special visit. It has absolutely everything we love: waterfront views, a sweet little camper redone as a coffee shop truck, and lots of dogs, including their mascot Oscar.  All the local pups and people gather here in this welcoming location.

Not only does Oscar’s serve excellent coffee, they are an easy spot to stop for coffee on the Eastport peninsula without having to head all the way downtown. They have a collaboration with  The Coastery, which means there are often one-of-a-kind homemade treats on offer.

The coffee offerings are fantastic and varied. You can get everything from a classic cup of coffee to specialty drinks like turmeric lattes and seasonal favorites like pumpkin and hot cocoa. If you prefer tea or matcha, they have a full range of teas and tea-based gourmet drinks.

The welcoming tables, fire pit, and Adirondack chairs afford a beautiful view of the Chesapeake Bay and the Horn Point Harbor marina, making this one of the best places we know to enjoy a cup of coffee with a beautiful water view.

Bean Rush Cafe

112 Annapolis St, Annapolis, MD 21401 beanrushcafe.com

Bean Rush Cafe is located in what is possibly the sweetest and most undiscovered part of Annapolis — West Annapolis. Located on Annapolis street, the quaint main road of West Annapolis, and set on the same street as an ice cream shop, boutiques, an antique shop, fine dining restaurants, and near one of the best bakeries and breweries, stopping at Bean Rush is an ideal way to start a stroll in this part of town.

Bean Rush Café offers classic coffees, non-coffee items like loose-leaf teas, turmeric lattes, and espresso-based drinks like lattes and cappuccinos. They also have their own signature and creative coffee drinks, like the Milky Way or the Girl Scout Cookie.

Bean Rush is a particularly great coffee spot if you need a bit of breakfast or lunch with your coffee, since they offer some wonderful hot paninis, salads, bagel sandwiches, pastries, and smoothies.

The West Annapolis neighborhood is a hidden gem, and Bean Rush Cafe is one of the great gathering spots that make it so special.

Ceremony Coffee Roasters

90 Russell St, Annapolis, MD 21401 ceremonycoffee.com

Ceremony has two locations in the Annapolis area. The original spot is The Roastery, a warehouse-style space where wholesale Ceremony coffee is actively roasted daily. There’s a second location a few miles away, which is an upscale, larger gathering space in their Riva location. There are also two other locations in Maryland: one in Baltimore and one in Bethesda.

All locations serve the proprietary blends that Ceremony is known for. Their coffees are known for their superior quality gourmet coffee with complex tasting profiles. We ordered a cappuccino and can confirm it had rich notes of molasses and licorice. It was delicious and unlike any cup of coffee we’ve ever had.  The Roastery location is outside of downtown Annapolis, and off of the busy part non-sidewalked part of West Street, so it is not particularly walkable from downtown. Fortunately, there is a small parking lot.

Their outside area features terrace seating covered with a sunshade to make it a great place to work outdoors with your laptop. There’s also a community table as well as some individual tables.  The drink menu offers a traditional offering of coffee, flat whites, cappuccinos, and nitro coffee, all made unique by their exceptional beans and roasting practices. They also offer bags of ground coffee so that you can enjoy this exceptional coffee at home. The unique flavor profiles at Ceremony make it a must-visit destination for true coffee aficionados.

Curate Annapolis

141 West St, Suite 101, Annapolis, MD 21401 curateannapolis.com

Curate blends some of our favorite foods and drinks into one wonderful establishment. Located in the Arts District of Annapolis on West Street, Curate is a coffee shop, bakery, and wine bottle shop. This winning combination makes it perfect for early morning beverages and a little breakfast, and then return later for a completely different experience for a plate or small bites, or a charcuterie board, paired with a fantastic bottle of wine.

Curate also offers monthly wine tasting events with wines handpicked by their in-house sommelier. With a modern space, a welcoming counter where all their baked goods are on display, and espresso, pour over, drip style coffees, seasonal and specialty coffee drinks. It’s also a great spot to grab a scone pastry or a nutritious breakfast with options like granola, chia pudding, or a salmon sandwich. It’s also a wonderful option for a light lunch, like wraps and salads. For a fun night with friends, be sure to check the schedule for their wine night events.

The Red Bean

220 Main St, Annapolis, MD 21401 theredbeancafe.com

The Red Bean is a Main Street fixture and a classic Annapolis coffee shop. This delightful little coffee shop is located at the far end of Main Street, right before you reach Church Circle.

The Red Bean is known for its duo of delicious offerings: coffee and ice cream. In addition to fantastic espresso drinks and specialities like Mexican Hot Chocolate, they also offer pastries, smoothies, and a rotating menu of gourmet ice cream flavors.

Their ice cream is served in their signature waffle cone, and can also be mixed into the cold brew coffee for a delicious smoothie.

The Red Bean is a family-owned and disability run business with great service.   The delights don’t end with their culinary treats. The Red Bean also has flower bouquets, making it the perfect one-stop shop for an armful of self-care treats!

49 West Coffeehouse

49 West St, Annapolis, MD 21401 49westcoffeehouse.com

By this point in the article, you might have noticed that some of the best Annapolis coffee shops do more than just serve coffee. Such is the case with 49 West Coffeehouse, which serves as a coffee house, art gallery, and wine bar. This popular spot is nestled near some of the best galleries on West Street and right near the music venue The Rams Head. It fits right into the art scene on West Street by offering visual and auditory delights in addition to coffee.

Brown Mustache Coffee in Old Fox Books

35 Maryland Ave, Annapolis, MD 21401 brownmustache.com

As we mentioned, Annapolis coffee shops often have a dual role and hidden surprise, and perhaps none is a more comforting combination than the Brown Mustache Coffee shop, which is tucked away in the back rooms of Old Fox Books.

Old Fox Books is a must-visit spot in Annapolis, Maryland, on Maryland Avenue, that offers everything from new bestsellers to old, rare books and curated selections of local authors and topics. Just head up the stairs and through the book show, and the Brown Mustache is at the back of the building.

There are cozy seats inside as well as a small patio outside. They serve gluten-free pastries and fine chocolates as well.

Tatte

305 Sail Pl, Annapolis, MD 21401 tattebakery.com

Tatte is a chain and one of the newest spots in Annapolis Town Center for coffee. It’s a soaring space that has lots of community tables and seating, a large bakery case, and a coffee bar. It feels both vintage, thanks to the subway tile and classic decor, and modern.

If you’re seeking an expansive space where you can work and sip your coffee, or meet a friend and spend as much time as you’d like enjoying your coffee or a pastry, Tatte is a great meet-up spot with plenty of seating.

Tatte also offers Mediterranean-inspired dishes, salads, sandwiches, tartines, bowls, brunch, and classic breakfast options.

The Big Bean

888 Bestgate Rd, Suite 110, Annapolis, MD 21401 thebigbean.com

The Big Bean has several locations in the Annapolis area. The location on Bestgate Road is the closest to downtown Annapolis, but is most convenient if you find yourself in the Parole area or near many of the medical offices on Bestgate Road.

The other locations are the original location in Severna Park and one in Millersville. The Big Bean is known for refreshing frozen coffee drinks and for offering a huge selection of specialty drinks, flavor and syrup shots, including sugar-free syrups.

Bakeries and Other Great Places To Grab a Cup of Coffee In Annapolis

While we’ve tried to give you an overview of the wonderful coffee houses Annapolis has to offer, keep in mind that many of the brunch and breakfast spots, as well as the bakeries in town, also serve some great coffee in the local community.

Since most of these establishments focus on baked goods and food rather than coffee, we plan to include them in our upcoming article on the best bakeries in Annapolis. Still others will be featured in our best breakfast spots.

That said, if you find yourself in Eastport craving both breakfast and coffee, Bread and Butter Kitchen serves Open Seas coffee. Other local bakeries like Bakers & Co., In Grano, and Black Market Bakers also serve local roasts with their gourmet baked goods, breakfast sandwiches, and pastries.  Sweet Hearts Patisserie is another bakery we adore that is the perfect place to pair a coffee with one of their legendary macrons or petit fours.

Stay tuned for more places to eat and drink in all the locations we live and visit! In the meantime, if you’re in the Annapolis area and seeking something a bit stronger than good coffee, check out our list of the best bars in Annapolis.

For suggestions on where to enjoy a seafood lunch or dinner, check out our recent post about the best seafood restaurants in Annapolis.

If you spend some time in or around Annapolis, Maryland, you may hear Annapolis humorously referred to as a “drinking town with a sailing problem.” There are certainly thousands of boats in the vicinity; the local marinas and mooring fields are almost always full. And as for the drinking, it’s also true that there are many great bars in Annapolis.

In fact, you probably can see a bar within a few feet of nearly any vantage point of Main Street, West Street, or 4th Street in Eastport.  Since it’s such a historic and walkable city, and Uber is readily available, it’s the kind of town that lends itself to walking around town and popping into a few bars and restaurants to get a feel for all the city has to offer. To help you explore the bar crawl way, we’ve created this guide to what we think are some of the top bars to visit in Annapolis.

Since we’ve kept a boat here for 8 years and now live in the area, and we’ve done our fair share of sailing and drinking in the area, we thought we’d share some of our favorite bars to visit with you. As always, this is our opinion as middle-aged folks who appreciate a nice cocktail, good service, good value, and atmosphere, whose tastes range from fun dive bars to fancy craft cocktails. Since bars in Maryland are required to serve food, most bars have at least some small plates and appetizers, while the others we mentioned are full restaurants that also have an excellent bar scene. Here are some of our favorite bars in Annapolis, listed in no particular order!

As always, specials, offerings, menu items, and hours can change frequently at these establishments. It’s a good idea to confirm any important details before you go by calling or checking their website or social media pages.  

Adam’s on Fourth

424 Fourth St, Annapolis, MD 21403 adamsgrilleannapolis.com

Adam’s is an Annapolis and Eastport institution, known for their ribs and smoked meats, and — like many on this list– is primarily a restaurant. However, the latest Adam’s location in Eastport is relatively new, and as such, has become one of our new favorite gathering spots.

Adam’s on Fourth is across the bridge from downtown Annapolis on 4th Street in Eastport and has a welcoming, open, and bright space. The bar is the main focal point, framed by the open two-floor seating and the first-floor open gathering place.  Communal tables, high tops, and porch seats that overlook the street make this a new, beautiful spot to grab a drink in Eastport.

It’s conveniently located near Boatyard, Forward, and Davis’ Pub, making it an ideal spot for an Eastport bar crawl. We appreciate the nice selection of drinks like crushes and domestic bottles, the full bar, and the fact that you can enjoy the full menu at the bar. The service is top-notch – the bartenders are wonderful about remembering past patrons and treating everyone with warm and efficient service.

Davis’ Pub

400 Chester Ave, Annapolis, MD 21403  davispub.com

Davis’ Pub is an Annapolis and Eastport institution, and a night on the town in Eastport is hardly complete without a stop here. It’s a small, unassuming building with outdoor picnic tables for diners. Davis’ serves great food, and is an especially great spot to stop for dining with your dog!

Inside, there are a few coveted tables, and the elevated pub food served here is wonderful. The Super Salad, Reuben, chicken salad sandwich, Crabby Tots, and Monday night pot roast special are some of our favorite things to order.

However, after dinner and on most weekend evenings, Davis’ is primarily a gathering spot as the local bar. Davis’ can draw a crowd most days, and is elbow-to-elbow standing room only on the weekends or when there’s a big event in town.

In addition to having additional domestic drafts and local beers on tap, the bartenders can expertly and quickly create cocktail classics like Dark ‘N’ Stormies, Moscow Mules, and nearly any other drink you crave. While it’s a bit of a dive bar vibe, and there won’t be special garnishes or cocktails in coupe glasses, you will get a pint glass filled with an excellent drink and great service. You can’t really say you’ve gone on a bar tour of Annapolis unless Davis’ is one of your stops!

Boatyard Bar + Grill

400 Fourth St, Annapolis, MD 21403 boatyardbarandgrill.com

Boatyard Bar & Grill is another classic and must-visit bar when you’re in Annapolis. Like many of the places we’ve named here, The Boatyard – as locals call it – is primarily a restaurant that serves exceptional local seafood, sandwiches, salads, and entrees from its extensive menu. We detail some of the menu items we love in our article about the best restaurants for seafood in Annapolis.

However, the bar at Boatyard itself is a renowned gathering spot, hosting everyone from sailors after the Wednesday night races to celebrities.  The decor in the Boatyard is like a beautifully arranged gallery featuring relics from the Chesapeake Bay and from popular ports around the world. The walls and nooks showcase a collection of trophies, signage from local marine businesses, photographs of famous vessels, and fine art with a maritime theme.

The architectural elements of shiplap and wood beams carry the boating aesthetic throughout. Despite being chock-full of interesting decor, the Boatyard feels clean, open, airy, and welcoming.

While you can have nearly any cocktail you desire, the Boatyard offers drinks that are alwyas a favorite with boaters, like a Dark and Stormy,  Pimm’s Cup, a Bloody Mary, Orange Crushes, and tropically inspired cocktails.

The bartenders at Boatyard have been there for years and treat newcomers and regulars with their good-natured and efficient service. Best of all, you can always enjoy any of the food from the extensive menu at the bar. Since our marina is just a half a block away, we’ve been known to eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner here in the same day!

The primary bar is located just inside the front entrance. To have a quieter time and to enjoy proximity to the oyster raw bar, the back bar is a fun, snug spot, especially if the main bar is too boisterous. It’s not always open, but when it is, it’s a hidden jewel in the spot that’s already a gem. Whether you want the freshest seafood or to celebrate a successful day on the water, Boatyard is one of Annapolis’ finest bars.

Parley Room

25 State Cir, Annapolis, MD 21401  parleyroom.com

If you’re seeking a well-made craft or classic cocktail, Parley Room is a must-visit spot for you. Not only will your cocktail be made with expert care and well-balanced ingredients that indicate true mixology, but it is also very likely to be served in an aesthetically pleasing coupe or glass, with a garnish that makes it a complete work of art.

The 1920 cocktail bar setting at the Parley Room is equally appealing. This prohibition-style, updated 1920s-style venue is located in the historic Capital Hotel building on State Circle. The outside brick terrace is a beautiful contrast to the cozy, intimate prohibition-style bar, making it a great spot to enjoy people-watching on this historic street and offering a perfect view of the State House building.

As far as what to order, The Cafe Parley is their excellent take on the espresso martini. We’ve also never gone wrong with the OG or any of the mixed cocktails or daily special drinks. We’ve also attended some fun events here, like whisky pairings and charity events. The food here is exceptionally good, and like the cocktails, the presentation is always a work of art.

Carrol’s Creek Cafe

410 Severn Avenue, Annapolis, MD carrolscreek.com

Carrol’s Creek Cafe is one of the best seafood restaurants in town. It’s also one of the few restaurants in Annapolis with a waterfront view. Since our bar trips are frequently just the two of us, looking for a light dinner as well as a drink, Carrol’s Creek is one of our top destinations. The only drawback to the bar at Carrol’s Creek is that it’s tucked at the back of the restaurant and doesn’t really have a view of the water, except for perhaps a few glimpses from the bar table seating.

However, the excellent food, drinks, and exemplary service from the welcoming and attentive bartenders make up for the lack of a water view from the bar. Carrol’s often has a great selection of wines by the glass, local craft beers, and craft cocktails. We like their Chesapeake Bae cocktail as well as a gin and tonic made with a Scottish rhubarb gin.  You also can’t go wrong with anything off the menu, like the Herb Encrusted Rockfish and starters like the Sea Scallops in phyllo dough.

Galway Bay

63 Maryland Ave, Annapolis, MD 21401 galwaybaymd.com

A visit to Galway Bay, an Irish bar and pub, is truly like taking a little trip to Ireland. Located on Maryland Avenue – one of the sweetest streets in Annapolis – as soon as you step inside, you’ll feel transported to your “local” in Ireland. We visited a few pubs in Galway, Ireland, and can vouch for the fact that Galway Bay feels just like one of those pubs.

This is the place where you can enjoy a perfectly poured pint of Guinness or cocktails that feature Irish spirits, including whisky and gin.  The food and happy hour offerings are wonderful, with something for everyone. Our usual order is the Queen Bee mule along with the curry fries, cabbage rolls, and meatballs. There’s also frequently a live band or local musician playing Irish songs, to add to the authentic atmosphere.

Fox’s Den

179B Main St, Annapolis, MD 21401 foxsden.com

Fox’s Den made our list of favorite places for pizza in Annapolis, and we feel it deserves to be included here as one of our favorite bars. In addition to the great wood-fired pizza, it has one of the best selections of craft beers on tap, from hard-to-find breweries we love like Dewey Beer, Troegs, and RAR. We also like their Sneaky Neighbor cocktail and wine by the glass. The bar itself is indeed den-like, making it a cozy spot on a fall day.

The Federal House

24 Market Space, Annapolis, MD 21401 federalhouse.com

The Federal House Bar is located downtown, right in the heart of the action near Annapolis’ city dock, Market House, and Ego Alley. It’s located in a historic building and is a classic spot to visit during a bar crawl or just to pop in for a drink. Fed House – as it’s sometimes called – offers one of the most impressive menus we’ve seen for the Maryland State drink, the Crush, with options ranging from the classic orange crush to varieties of watermelon and mango.

If beer is more your thing, beer aficionados will appreciate the extensive beer list, featuring great local craft beers and IPAs sourced from some of the most desirable breweries in the US.

It’s also a great spot to grab a bite to eat at the bar during happy hour. The crab dip is one of our favorite appetizers to have here.  They also offer an outdoor seating area, which is a great way to enjoy the market house area of Annapolis.

Reynolds Tavern and 1747 Pub

7 Church Cir, Annapolis, MD 21401 reynoldstavern.org

Reynolds Inn, located right off of Church Circle, has a few beautiful spaces to enjoy a beverage. Reynolds Inn is home to the historic 1747 Pub, which served as the shoe shop of the original owner, William Reynolds, and has been a historic eating and drinking venue for years. Reynolds Inn also has rooms and a legendary high tea.

This small space is an unmistakable trip back to the 1700s. When you step inside, you can easily imagine historical figures and the past residents enjoying themselves here during the 1700s. There’s a small bar area right when you enter the bar from the side steps, as well as a cozy hearthside seating area, which is one of our favorite spots on a cold winter’s evening.

In the summer, we always enjoy the beer garden-style outdoor seating. The spacious patio is surrounded by beautiful plants and trees, creating a little historic garden oasis that’s just right for spending a relaxing summer afternoon sipping daytime cocktails and enjoying their delightful food offerings.

The outdoor area features many tables, a small bar, and seating around one of the huge trees. Both the tavern and the outside garden are frequently home to a talented string of local musicians. This is one of the many must-visit historic pubs in Annapolis, and a great spot to enjoy the shade and some music on a summer’s day.

Stan and Joe’s

37 West St, Annapolis, MD 21401 stanandjoessaloon.com

Stan and Joe’s may be a little less upscale than some bars we’ve mentioned; it’s a rough-around-the-edges dive bar with windows plastered with beer and drink specials, along with other posted advertisements, but that’s the way we like it.  It’s also renowned for its great service and is a great happy hour or bar-crawl location.

We love it for its live music and 1/2 off beers and drinks during its 4-7 happy hour. It’s an amazing deal and a great opportunity to order a top-shelf drink at a discounted price. We’ve also heard that the meatloaf and other weekly dinner specials serve great comfort food. Live music and a patio make this a classic stop on any tour of Annapolis bars.

Harry Browne’s

66 State Cir, Annapolis, MD 21401 harrybrownes.net

Harry Browne’s is a fine-dining establishment specializing in old-school steakhouse service, fine steaks, and seafood, as well as its tableside Caesar salad. Located on the beautiful State Circle, Harry Browne’s has been a fixture in the Annapolis dining scene for years.

While it’s primarily known for fine dining, upstairs is an inviting little bar known as Harry’s Bar with classic cocktails and bartenders who offer exemplary service and ice-cold martinis.

In addition to the bar at Harry’s, club chairs and couches are making upstairs at Harry Brownes a great little spot to start or end an evening out on the town.

Harold Black

236 Main St, Annapolis, MD 21401 haroldblack.com

Not to be confused with the other HB  bar – aka, Harry Browne’s (which I do all the time!) Harold Black is one of the newer bars in the Annapolis bar scene. The idea behind Harold Black is actually an old concept. It’s a speakeasy bar found at the lower level of Acqua Al 2, an upscale Italian restaurant. However, unlike a true speakeasy, there’s no password required here; you just need to know where the entrance is.

Once inside, you’ll be in a cellar-style bar with moody dark lighting and a cozy setting with booths and bar seats. Cocktails are a house specialty, with the Espresso Martini, Blood and Sand, and Hemingway Daiquiri among our favorites. At around $14-$16 per drink, they’re on the pricey side, but there’s a happy hour with $10 cocktails, apps, and snacks.

It’s a fun novelty to promise a night at a speakeasy as part of your bar hopping. It’s a fun place to feel like you’re entering a secret club and the perfect place to enjoy a nightcap after a meal at Acqua Al 2.

Chart House Prime

300 Second St, Annapolis, MD 21403  charthouseprime.com 

The Chart House Prime, like so many spots we’ve mentioned, is far more than a bar; it’s a fine dining restaurant worthy of special occasions.

However, the bar and happy hour at Chart House Prime is a particularly wonderful upscale spot to enjoy a drink and their fine service in their beautiful waterfront setting in Eastport. While the bar itself has more of an obstructed water view, the dining space within Chart House does overlook the water, and the whole interior space of Chart House Prime, including the bar, is both expansive and chic with a huge bank of windows that look out on Annapolis Harbor and where the Severn meets Spa Creek.

 

We love going for happy hour, when some of their best craft cocktails and filling apps are available at discounted prices. It’s a great way to sample just a little bit of the good food and service that Chart House Prime is known for. The bartenders at Chart House Prime have been there for years and are exceptionally skilled at high-end service and creating beautiful drinks. It’s a great upscale start to the evening to be a patron at their bar.

Seasalt

1 Park Pl #7, Annapolis, MD 21401 seasaltannapolis.com

If you’re looking for an oyster bar experience with craft cocktails, one of Annapolis’s newest restaurants and bars might be for you! Seasalt is on West Street near the Westin and Hilton Garden Inn, so it’s the perfect stop for some oysters and a cocktail if you’re staying in that area.

Seasalt has a huge bar as well as cozy restaurant seating areas, and its interior has been completely renovated, creating a very upscale atmosphere.

It’s the perfect stop for fresh seafood and a unique and sophisticated cocktail. We enjoyed the Gin Gin Buck at a discounted price during their Anchovy Hour.

Blackwall Hitch

400 6th St, Annapolis, MD 21403  blackwallhitchannapolis.com

If you’re looking for a roof deck to enjoy a few drinks and bites, or live music in Eastport, Blackwall Hitch is a great gathering spot. The lively and elegant bar can make any type of cocktail you’d like. In the summer, the rooftop deck and lounge seating are great spots to enjoy drinks and apps with a view of the town. In the winter, we love getting a spot in front of the fireplace and listening to local music.

Beacon Waterfront Galley and Bar

2020 Chesapeake Harbour Dr E, Annapolis, MD 21403 beaconwaterfront.com

Beacon is one of our favorite waterfront bar options. It’s outside downtown Annapolis and not accessible on foot from downtown, but it is just a short boat or car ride away in the Annapolis Roads area.  For a waterfront town, bars directly on the water are pretty limited, but Beacon is one of the best waterfront options.

Not only is it a great dock-and-dine location, but it also has plenty of parking for those making the drive. Beacon is located in the gated area of the Chesapeake Harbor development. You’ll need to stop at the gate to get a pass to go into the restaurant.

While the inside bar offers a great view of the water in the fall and winter months, we particularly appreciate the long bar and outdoor seating area that is right on the water, where Beacon is one of the few waterfront spots with a mix of bar and outdoor seating, and plenty of room for a crowd.

They make excellent crushes and Dark and Stormies, and have some weekly specials like discounted crushes on Sunday Funday and Smashburger. They have also recently updated their menu with delicious small bites like the Deconstructed Smoked Salmon Arancini.

Dark Horse

985 Bay Ridge Rd, Annapolis, MD 21403 darkhorseannapolis.com

While Dark Horse may not be a destination bar, it is an institution. Dark Horse is our local neighborhood bar in the Annapolis Neck area.

If you’re looking for a spot away from the crowds of downtown, or you are looking for a find of dive bar meets sports bar atmosphere to grab a few rounds with friends and possibly make some new ones, this bar is a great stop. They have trivia and are a prime spot for watching football. They also frequently have local bands adding to the fun.

Rams Head Tavern

33 West Street, Annapolis, MD 21403 ramsheadtavern.com

Speaking of bands, Rams Head Tavern is our local music venue that brings in some amazing headliners. We’ve been lucky to see national acts like the English Beat and Mac McAnally there.

The bar at Rams Head Tavern is stocked with offerings from their own brewery, Fordham & Dominion, as well as delicious pub food. On Sundays, during brunch from 10 -2, they are known for their legendary Bloody Mary and Mimosa bar.

Rams Head also has other locations like Rams Head Roadhouse, which is right down the road near Crownsville, MD, where we enjoy their lobster special. We’ve also visited their location in Key West, which boasts an inviting outdoor seating area and an outside version of their Bloody Mary bar.

Dry 85

If you love good whisky and bourbon, Dry 85 is the spot for you! Dry 85 is another speakeasy-style bar that offers whisky flights, bourbon, and craft cocktails featuring some of the whiskies and bourbons, as well as other very inventive cocktail creations like the Brass Monkey and the Cereal Killer Old Fashioned.

This bar is full of atmosphere and a great spot to duck into when you’re heading up or down Main Street. It also offers a great (bacon-filled!) brunch.

The Choptank

110 Compromise Street, Annapolis, MD 21401  thechoptankrestaurant.com/annapolis

For a city that is all about being on the water, there are sadly very few restaurants and bars in Annapolis with waterfront locations and water views.

The Choptank has had a Baltimore location for several years, but is a relatively new arrival to the Annapolis dining scene. The Choptank boasts a few beautiful bar areas that are wonderful spots to grab a drink and enjoy a waterfront view. Located in the heart of downtown Annapolis, right along the famed Ego Alley, their rooftop seats offer a beautiful view and an absolutely gorgeous, well-appointed, and well-decorated space, which is why we wish we could rave about this spot a little more.

Unfortunately, the service is pretty uneven here, so our experiences have been good and bad. Once we waited for about 15 minutes to even be acknowledged at a mostly empty bar on a very slow Tuesday afternoon this past summer, and the bar staff was not attentive at all. On another visit, late one weekday evening, we had a wonderful bartender who expertly explained the ingredients in the specialty cocktails and made apt suggestions.  Still, it’s a popular spot for its unbeatable waterfront location, wide selection of seafood, trendy drinks, and decor.

Middleton Tavern

2 Market Space, Annapolis, MD 21401 middletontavern.com

For history buffs wanting to add a stop to their bar crawl, Middleton Tavern is a historic tavern located right near Ego Alley and just down the street from the United States Naval Academy, and one of the oldest continuously operating taverns in the US.

This historic watering hole was once frequented by George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, and many other notable Marylanders, past and present.

We like going to the bar there for their famous Shrimp or Oyster Shooters, which are served with their delicious cocktail sauce and a chaser of beer. We also appreciate that they offer Keno!

McGarvey’s

8 Market Space, Annapolis, MD, mcgarveysannapolis.com

McGarvey’s is one of the spots we’ve visited more for its delicious club sandwich and its unforgettable open dining room with a tree in the middle! It’s also one of Annapolis’s most famous bars and oyster houses, and it’s frequently a favorite stop for USNA midshipmen and grads. Even the Blue Angels are known to stop in when they are in town! Located next to Middleton’s and near The Federal House and Dock Street, it’s a must-visit on any downtown Annapolis bar crawl.

We’ve heard that McGarvey’s is the site of many a first meeting, first date, and engagement, and there are plaques around the bar from all the happy events that have occurred here. For nostalgia and an authentic Annapolis experience, add McGarvey’s to your list!

Pearl (Closed)

26 Market Space, Annapolis, MD 21401  pearlannapolis.com

Update: As of April 2026, Pearl has closed very unexpectedly. Our thoughts go out to the workers who were displaced by this sudden closing. Another Annapolis restaurant has purchased the property, and a new restaurant may open in its place at a later date. We’ll keep you updated. In the meantime, please visit one of these other excellent bars in the area like Federal House or Middleton’s.

The Pearl actually offers two bar spaces, with vastly different atmospheres. Pearl is the downstairs bar and restaurant, and Ponche is the upstairs Tiki Bar. We visited Pearl primarily to experience the upstairs Tiki Bar. The upstairs space is full of tiki decor, lighting, and the sort of Polynesian drinks you’d expect from your favorite Tiki Bar.

Even though the decor aims to transport you to an island lounge, it’s also blessed with a great view of downtown and Ego Alley from its second-floor perch.  The drinks were classic tiki offerings like Mai Tais and rum-based fruit drinks. Drinks can run $14-17, which is a little steep, especially since the serving we had was small and full of ice.

We had the Navy Grog and another cocktail that we forgot to write down. We also ordered the pizza, which was not a traditional pie, but rather a long flatbread-style pizza.  Service upstairs wasn’t particularly warm and welcoming the day we visited, but we were happy with our drinks and the atmosphere.

More Bars to Love

Dock Street is a great spot to stop on a bar crawl in Annapolis or for a fun weekend night in downtown Annapolis

Remember how we said you might have different criteria for what makes the best bar? Truth be told, you can’t go wrong with really any of the restaurant bars and spots in Annapolis. Just like a rising tide lifts all boats, the consistent mix of Annapolis residents who enjoy a good drink has made every bar bring out its best.  Whether you’re visiting the city for fun, in town for the Annapolis boat shows, or visiting your loved ones at St. John or the Naval Academy, there’s a bar to suit every group.

Again, this was written from and for the perspective of someone who wants atmosphere and good cocktails. For the younger crowd, including the Naval Academy Midshipmen, you may find that fun bars that cater to a more lively crowd  like Acme, Dock Street, Armadillos, and O’Brien’s are the place to be!

More Eating and Drinking Ideas

We have more ideas for where to eat and drink, no matter where your travels take you! Pizza and drinking always go together, which is why we’ve created our guide to our favorite pizza places in Annapolis.  If you’re looking to start your day with a cup of coffee, we’ve covered our favorite Annapolis Coffee shops in our list of the best coffee in Annapolis.  If you’re heading south, you might like our thoughts on the best places to eat in St. Augustine, Florida, or the best happy hours in Marathon, Florida.

All opinions are our own. Images are original photographs by Currently Traveling editors and may not be reproduced without permission.

If you spend a significant amount of time in any town, one of the food searches you’re bound to go on is the search for the best pizza in that area.

We started our search for the best pizza in Annapolis, Maryland, when we used to travel weekly to Annapolis by boat. Now that we’re officially residents of the area, we’ve been able to put even more effort into sampling local pizzas. Over the years, we’ve had a chance to try the pizza offerings from several different restaurants in Annapolis and, now that we live here, we find we’re looking even more regularly for the places that consistently offer the best pizza.

Dining and drink specials, pricing, available menu items, and hours can change frequently at these establishments, and may not be fully up-to-date after our initial publication date. Please confirm any important details before you order or visit these restaurants by calling or checking their websites or social media pages.  All images and opinions are our own. 

Where to Find A Great Pizza in Annapolis, Maryland

Whether you’re touring the area for a weekend, visiting a family member at the Naval Academy, or living here full-time, you might find yourself searching for the best pizza in Annapolis.

While the term “best” can be a bit subjective, because it is largely dictated by your own favorite style of pizza, here’s the list of our favorite spots we’ve enjoyed so far. As you’ll see, we favor brick oven or wood-fired crust, tangy tomato sauce, unique pairings, and fresh toppings.

While we’re sharing all of our favorite pizza shops to visit, we’ve decided to present these in a slightly unorthodox order; the top listings are what we’d call a special occasion pizza that in some way provides a unique pizza experience that is worth a special visit out of your way,  all the way to down to great spots for very good pizza to please many palates and feed a group.

Without further ado, here are our favorite pizza spots in Annapolis.

Vin 909

909 Bay Ridge Ave, Annapolis, MD 21403  vin909wine.com

 

Vin 909 gets our vote as one of our all-time favorite pizza spots in Annapolis. Vin 909 pizza is so good that it qualifies as a pretty special and memorable event when we go.

Not only is Vin 909 a welcoming little bistro just on the edge of Eastport, but it’s also a spot for delicious farm-to-table offerings, salads, and a wine bar that makes a fantastic wood-fired crust with the perfect savory sauce and topping options. Any of the fresh salads make a perfect side. We also often start things off with their famous House-Pulled Warm Mozzarella small plate.

While we think of any Vin 909 meal as a special event, it’s really not the sort of place that needs to be saved just for special occasions. Getting a seat might mean a wait; however, its smaller dining areas do mean that seating can be limited. The pizza and other offerings are reasonably priced, and the restaurant itself is upscale casual, intimate, and extremely welcoming.

Vin 909 also has limited parking in a small restaurant lot, but any restaurant with parking in the Annapolis/Eastport area is already a bit of a gem! While Vin 909 can accommodate small groups and families, the warm and inviting atmosphere and the excellent selection of wine and dessert mean it’s the ideal spot for a fun and fancy date night.

The Fox’s Den

179B Main St, Annapolis, MD 21401 foxsden.com

The Fox’s Den is located on Main Street, marked by a very low-profile sign above the doorway.  You’ll go down a long flight of stairs into this cozy bar and pizza spot that serves gourmet wood-fired pizza, delicious sides, and offers a notable selection of local beers, IPAs, craft cocktails, and whiskies.

The Fox’s Den specializes in gourmet toppings and inventive pairings. We love the Sausage Party pizza, which gets extra points for its inclusion of pesto sauce in the mix, as well as the Fig & Pig pizza, which provides a wonderful combination of fig, brie, and mint.

We also appreciate the $5 off pizzas on Mondays for a discounted way to sample these pies. Pair that with their Monday through Thursday happy hour deals from 5 -6, where you can save $2 on their always impressive draft list, as well as $3 off the house cocktails — the Sneaky Neighbor being an all-time favorite. The sides, like the Brussels sprouts, duck fat fries, and locally sourced seasonal salads, are another great way to round out your order.

Timber Pizza Co.

192 West St, Annapolis, MD 21401  timberpizza.com

Timber Pizza Co. is a new addition to the Annapolis pizza scene. From what we’ve heard and seen so far, it has received a warm welcome, with many folks flocking to this West Street location.

We first enjoyed Timber Pizza when their mobile wood-fired oven on wheels made a few appearances at Tides + Tunes, the local Thursday Night concert series in Eastport. From our conversations with their team members, we learned that Timber has several other DMV locations, including one in DC and two in Virginia, making the move to Annapolis a natural extension of the business. They also just opened a new location in Edgewater.

Their wood-fired approach and bright, sunny space at their new West Street storefront had people lining up for their 12-inch pies when they opened. We particularly enjoy their Green Monster and their Margarita options. The menu is nicely rounded out by fresh salad options and desserts as well as empanadas as apps.

The Italian Market

126 Defense Hwy, Annapolis, MD 21401  theitalianmarket.com

The Italian Market is something to behold for any Italian treat, not just pizza. We were there during Christmastime when the center shop area was full of Italian Christmas cookies, nougat, and Italian specialty candies, as well as Panettone.

The market always features an impressive wine selection, delicious gelato, entrees, salads, and pizza.  The in the round dining area that flanks the shop is meant to bring the feel of an Italian piazza dining experience right here to Annapolis.

The eat-in and take-out options include many authentic Italian entrees that we’d love to try, but on that day, we were there just for the pizza. We heard that it was true New York-style pizza with that thin foldable crust, tangy tomato sauce, and perfect cheese mix, and we were happy to learn that it was an accurate description. We were there after lunch and just took a warmed-up slice to go, but true to its reputation, the pizza at The Italian Market was an excellent slice of  New York pizza.

We’ll be returning again to have a whole pie, as well as to sample some of the deli sandwiches, entrees, and a bit of that gelato too. Employees were friendly, welcoming, and speedy with the service. On Mondays, the Italian Market offers a deal on this great pizza: If you buy 1 New York Style Large, you can get 1 Medium Cheese for $7.00. They also offer a gluten-free option.

Sammy’s Pizza Kitchen

1007 Bay Ridge Ave A, Annapolis, MD 21403 sammyspizzakitchen.com

Sammy’s was a favorite stop of ours when we kept our boat in Eastport. Everything here is delicious, especially the pasta entrees and salads. The pizzas are a classic variety, just your basic great slice made to be special with their homemade tomato sauce, which can be jazzed up with their variety of toppings. Sammy’s pizzas were something we ordered frequently – especially while moving or on those nights when cooking didn’t seem appealing. It’s another great place for affordable pizza with high-quality ingredients that will please a crowd.

The service at Sammy’s is also excellent, with welcoming staff who are clearly working hard to make sure every pasta and pizza dish comes out hot. Sammy’s Pizza Kitchen is a full-service Italian restaurant offering salads and pasta dishes like the Fusilli Primavera and the Springach Stuffed Eggplant, which are just a few of the other menu items that we love. The balsamic salad dressing that accompanies their house salad is also excellent.

The dining room offers a welcoming space to enjoy your pizza inside, or to make it a night out with a glass of wine, salad, or entree. But if you feel like just having a pizza night at home, the pick up for takeout is speedy, and we’ve had fast service from delivery as well.

Little Italy

1411 Forest Dr, Annapolis, MD 21403 littleitalyannapolis.com

We aren’t 100% sure of this, so we’ll try to confirm this with the owners, but given the nearly identical menu offerings and weekly specials, we think Little Italy and Sammy’s  Italian Pizza Kitchen may be run by the same folks.  We apologize if we have that wrong! Either way, the pizza at Little Italy is also excellent, and the Forest Drive location is more convenient for pizza lovers who are further away from the Eastport area, where Sammy’s is located. The Monday special on cheese pizza – a large pizza for $9.99 is an excellent value and is something we look forward to getting either from Little Italy or Sammy’s. While Little Italy can be a takeout pizza spot, it is also a casual restaurant that offers a dining area for family dining. The parking area is a little tight since it shares space with a number of businesses, but you can usually find a spot to pick up or place your order.

Ledo Pizza

505 S Cherry Grove Ave, Annapolis, MD 21401, many other locations in the area  ledopizza.com

Ledo Pizza is a Maryland institution. Since we both grew up in New England, we had not heard of this state-wide chain until we moved to the area. If you’re from out of state, and you’ve never tried a Ledo’s Pizza, you certainly owe it to yourself to give it a try. However, if you’ve lived in Maryland your whole life, then maybe Ledo’s isn’t a special event, and there’s a good chance it is more like your regular weekly pizza spot.

The unique square shape of Ledo’s pizza, cut into even small squares that can be eaten in 2-4 bites, and the excellent heavy application of hearty sauce and toppings, make Ledo’s fully its own thing.

This is a great style of pizza if you’re feeding a crowd, especially because of the way Ledo slices small squares — it makes it perfect for kids or any time someone just wants a bite. Ledo’s, of course, offers all the classic toppings, but we love the original cheese. There’s a Ledo’s in nearly every town near Annapolis, so it’s easy to find the one closest to you.

Boatyard Bar & Grill

400 Fourth St, Annapolis, MD 21403 boatyardbarandgrill.com

Boatyard is known for boat drinks, crab cakes, oysters, and fantastic seafood offerings that highlight the best of Maryland cuisine.  That said, when we’re not ordering the sandwiches, salads, or seafood, we’ve quite often ordered the pizza from Boatyard.

Not only is it really good pizza, but it also has the added benefit of being the perfect small size for two when you just want a little bit of pizza with another appetizer or salad.  Possibly the best feature is their cauliflower crust, which is their unique gluten-friendly offering that is tasty enough to order even if you aren’t gluten intolerant. Like everything else on the extensive menu, there are flavorful toppings available, and the pizza at Boatyard is delicious!

Pasticcio

150-F, Jennifer Rd, Annapolis, MD 21401  pasticcioannapolis.com

When we’re over in the Jennifer Road area of Annapolis, out near the Westfield Mall doing errands near Trader Joe’s and Home Goods, Pasticcio is a delicious and nearby stop. These homemade pizzas are topped with very fresh ingredients and come in 14 and 16-inch sizes as well as square options. There are also different crust types, including a Sicilian thin crust and Grandma’s style, so that you can customize your pizza experience.

At the recommendation of others, we tried the  Grandma Margarita, which had a generous helping of basil, cheese, and sauce. We would love to try the Chicken Parmigiana as well as a slice of regular cheese for comparison next time. Pasticco also offers entrees, salads, and fresh subs.

Secret Spot

25 Market Street, Annapolis, MD secretspotannapolis.com

Secret Spot is a new pizza establishment that opened a few months after we first published this post, and it definitely deserves a mention among the best pizza spots in Downtown Annapolis.

Secret Spot is a little bit hidden inside their stall at the Market Space food court on Market Street in Downtown Annapolis, across from Ego Alley and Middleton’s. The Secret Spot can be found in a stall towards the back of the building.  We had a chance to try this pizza when someone brought a few pies to a party we were attending, and we were impressed. It was a classic Neopolitan style. We had the margarita and loved it for the generous dollops of mozzarella and whole basil leaves.  If you’re Downtown and need a quick slice or a whole pie, it’s worth seeking out the Secret Spot!

Rocco’s Pizzeria

954 Bay Ridge Rd, Annapolis, MD 21403  roccospizzashop.com

Rocco’s Pizza is unpretentious yet quite delicious, and it is the go-to spot for a generously sized classic pizza. It’s a great, freshly made option that stands well above the chains like Papa John’s or Domino’s. In fact, we probably wouldn’t have survived our move to Annapolis without Rocco’s. Each night before we unearthed our pots, pans, and plates, and before we had time to grocery shop, we were ordering Rocco’s subs and pizza for several weeks during the move.

Rocco’s pizzas are generously sized and have the classic pizzeria taste. It’s another pizza spot, great for feeding a crowd with varying tastes, and will always hit the spot if you want a classic  New York pizza preparation. You can also get gluten-free and Sicilian crust varieties as well as pizza by the slice, which is a handy option for lunch or a quick snack.

Rocco’s also offers pizza delivery. Rocco’s phone line is often busy with delivery orders, especially on weekends and near the holidays, so service can feel a little rushed, and you might have to wait a bit for someone to pick up during the busier times. The subs are also great at Rocco’s – we usually go for the classic Italian Cold Cut.

Neo Pizza + Taphouse

220 Harker Pl Suite 145, MD 21401 neopizza.com

If you’re over near the Annapolis Town Center shopping area and looking for a bit of pizza, Neo is a popular option. We only visited once, and while the pizza and atmosphere were fairly customary. The bar seating option was particularly nice since Neo offers some great local craft beers, and it’s a nice place if you’re dining solo. In fact, we were so impressed with the beer selection and our Caesar salad that the pizza was competing for attention rather than standing out. Neo stands for “Never Expect Ordinary”- and to that end, they are known for their specialty pizzas and are one of the spots we tried that offers a gluten-free crust.

We went with the Goodfellas pizza on our visit and would order that or the Florentine, or the Margarita again.  The Philly Cheesesteak or the Chesapeake option also looks like one of those unique-to-the-establishment pizzas that should be tried, even just for the novelty. Sandwiches, salads, and kids’ menu offerings are also available.

Service was very friendly, but the bar floor needed a bit of a wipe-down, as it was covered in crumbs from the lunch rush and previous patrons. While it’s not the first stop on our list, we know so many others who swear by it, especially because of the gluten-free options and the convenient location, nearby parking, and proximity to the gym, shops, and residences around Town Center, so check out the menu and see if it’s for your taste buds!

More Fun Things to Eat and Do in Annapolis

We’ll be covering more fun things about Annapolis, including the best bars in Annapolis, the best coffee shops in Annapolis, and the best seafood restaurants in the Annapolis area. We’ll also share with you fun things to do in Annapolis, as well as insider tips for attending the Annapolis Boat Shows. If you’d like more coastal dining ideas, check out our ideas for the best restaurants in St. Augustine, Florida.

We hope this guide to pizza places in Annapolis has helped you find a slice of pizza you love!

Update: There are a few new pizza places that have moved to the area that we need to try.  We can’t wait to check out the new Positano restaurant that opened in West Annapolis in the beautiful space where Agave used to be.  Additionally, we recently learned that Luna Blu has a great selection of pizzas, so we’re eager to try those. We’ve also heard that The Right Slice in the Annapolis Mall is a hidden gem for pizzas. We plan to visit these spots soon and we’ll update our list and pictures when we do!

We have visited Saint Augustine– the nation’s oldest city–three times in the past two years.  The second time we stayed for a whole month! Thanks to those experiences, we’ve had the opportunity to learn more about the great food scene in St. Augustine, indulge in some wonderful meals, and discover what we think are some of the best places to eat in St. Augustine.

Fish dip appetizer at Fish Camp in St. Augustine

When trying to find the best restaurants in St. Augustine, we feel like we get to live like locals when we stay in our Thor Gemini RV, making Anastasia State Park our temporary home. There are a few different areas of the city that are home to some wonderful dining areas. We’ll share some great places to eat the beach area of Anastasia Island, the historic downtown, Lincolnville, and the waterfront areas along the river and out towards Vilano Beach.  We hope this helps you find a few fun restaurants to visit when you stay in St. Augustine!

As always, menu items and hours can change frequently. You may want to confirm details before you go by calling or checking their website or social media pages.  All images and opinions are our own. 

Best Places to Eat When Visiting St. Augustine, Florida

St. Augustine is a place full of history and a variety of restaurants. As a waterfront city, there are many seafood restaurant offerings, but there’s also fine dining, Southern comfort food, and some Cuban-inspired fare as well. Here are a few of the St. Augustine restaurants we’ve enjoyed, and we hope you will too!  We’ve presented these in a bit of random order, but with some of our favorites first.

St. Augustine Fish Camp

142 Riberia St, St. Augustine, FL staugustinefishcamp.com

Upscale fresh coastal seafood favorites, and cocktails in a beautiful waterfront location

We’ve eaten at the St. Augustine Fish Camp each time we’ve visited St. Augustine. Our first visit to Fish Camp was when we stayed in St. Augustine for only a few days, and the next time it was one of our first stops!

Fish Camp has a few other locations in coastal Florida, but it’s still not what you’d ever call a chain; each space is unique, with well-crafted dishes on the menu that feature the local fare.

The decor at St Augustine Fish Camp is upscale nautical, open, and modern, and it is an immediately welcoming spot close to the water. We chose the back ba,r where the seats offer a little hideaway from the main dining room but still afforded us a water view.

Our bartender, who we had as our server on both visits, was a fantastic steward of the place. He was a great conversationalist and kept all the bar patrons happy and engaged while mixing and serving delicious craft cocktails and pouring perfect pints.

Shrimp and grits from St. Augustine Fish Camp

As native New Englanders, we were impressed to see the fried clams offered, but we ultimately decided to go with the local cuisine and picked the Shrimp and Grits. It was so good the first year, we just repeated the order in year two. So much for branching out; maybe next year!

The menu is a pleasing mix of fresh seafood favorites with local and multi-coastal influences. As we mentioned, we saw North to mid-Atlantic favorites on the menu like clam chowder, cod, and blue crab next to southern-style dishes like Oyster Po Boys, Shrimp and Grits, Low Boil for Two, and Fried Green Tomatoes.

There are also some Carribean-inspired dishes like the conch fritters and Mediterranean-style plates like fried octopus. There are also burgers, and delicious pork and chicken entrees if anyone in your party doesn’t favor seafood. We highly recommend this spot if you’re seeking a great atmosphere and delicious food.

Asado Life

173 Shipyard Way, St. Augustine, FL 32084 asadolife.com

Upscale waterfront restaurant that offers a fine dining and Argentinian grilling experience that is not to be missed!

The open-flame outdoor grill at Asado Life

Asado Life was a new restaurant for us to visit in 2024, and we will certainly make it a point to return on all of our future trips to St. Augustine. Asado Life is named for and inspired by the traditional Argentinian method of barbeque.

Chef Matthew Brown has taken this BBQ method and turned it into the overarching theme of the restaurant: experience grilling. The dinner menu consists of a Prix Fixe menu of chef’s selections which are posted seasonally on their website.

The fixed price offerings for the Waterfront dinner range from the Asado Trio for $59, all the way to the Tomahawk rib eye for two for $169. There are also lunch options and seating at the bar.

The Waterfront dinner is by reservation only, and reservations are booked out well in advance.  Since we decided to go last-minute with friends, we didn’t have reservations so it gave us a great opportunity to experience the lunch offering. We were extremely impressed by the meal itself, the portions, the atmosphere, andthe  overall experience.

At lunch,we ordered the Grilled Asado Trio for two along with the classic Pisco Sour. Our friend who joined us is originally from South America, and he verified that both the Pisco Sour and the meat was prepared both authentically and perfectly. The Asado trio was all that we expected and more. The Argentinian steak was so flavorful and perfectly complimented by the seasonings, and chimichurri sauce as well as the open flame method of cooking.

The Asado Trio

We sat outside with a fantastic view of the River as well as the outdoor open flame grills, and high-end barbeque equipment that is the foundation of the Asado Life brand.

Since we were there during lunch, we could see the chefs preparing some of the prix fixe offerings for the dinner service over the open flame. The open terrace, as well as the inside bar, is decorated in an upscale coastal style of the restaurant. Both areas are beautiful spots to spend time.

Interior bar and dining space at Asado Life

If you’re not in the mood for a meat-centric meal, Asado Life also offers burgers, sandwiches, salads, and small plates. You can also shop the market for prime cuts of meat, spices, sides, and much more.

Whether you make a reservation for one of the prix fixe dinners, enjoy lunch, or even just pick up some seasonings and prepared food from their market, we think the Asado Life is the good life!

River  + Fort

12 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine, FL 32084  riverandfort.com

Steak and seafood in an unforgettable atmosphere with beautiful views 

As you drive down the Avenida Menendez, you can’t miss the fort — Castillo de San Marcos — and the Mentdoz River — and across from both of those is one of St. Augustine’s newer restaurants and a fine dining experience: River and Fort.

This restaurant has an amazing atmosphere. The multi-level space features a ground-floor open dining terrace,  spacious dining rooms high ceilings, and plenty of windows and porches showing off the view. There are also welcoming bar spaces on each level and a popular rooftop deck.

Seared scallops and chow chow with red pepper gastrique

While it was the rooftop deck and the outdoor lounge area that we had seen online and encouraged us to go in, it was actually the only disappointing aspect of the space. The rooftop deck doesn’t have the best view of the fort and the water, but it still has the gorgeous design elements that are present in every area of this space. The menu is also limited to flatbreads and pizza on the rooftop.

Since we wanted to have the full steak and seafood experience the restaurant is known for, we opted for an early dinner and craft cocktails. We ordered the seasonal cocktail– the Sage Blossom– which was a delicious combination of strawberry puree, sage syrup, and St Augustine rum and Pimm’s.

The Stuffed New York Strip from River & Fort

For our meal, we splurged and ordered the stuffed New York strip and the seared scallops. Both were dishes to remember, both for their incredible presentation, well-balanced flavors, and perfect preparation.

The menu offers wines by the glass and craft cocktails along with a full bar and wines but the bottle.

River + Fort is a definite fine dining experience, with the best cuts of meat and fresh fish prepared with sophisticated pairings, but they still cater to the whole family with a kids’ menu and classic dishes.

Whether you go here for a drink or enjoy a full meal, it’s a fine dining experience in a gorgeous building with a beautiful view.

The Rooftop at River & Fort offers flatbreads and cocktails

The Floridian

New Location! 485 Old Beach Road, St. Augustine, FL thefloridianstaug.com

Floridian-inspired tiki cocktails and fresh farm-to-table food with a Southern twist

Update: The Floridian is no longer located in downtown St. Augustine on Spanish Street in the Historic District. It has recently moved to a brand new building and location closer to the beach district on Anastasia Island at 485 Beach Road. It wasn’t yet open during our last visit, but it was under construction, and we’re sure they are still serving some of the best food in St. Augustine! It also looked like it might have a parking lot – making it even easier to visit!

The Floridian was located on historic Spanish Street in downtown St Augustine and has since moved to 485 Beach Road on Anastasia Island. It is another local treasure we had on our list of spots we wanted to try. Some of the Foodie RV YouTubers we follow had raved about the food there, and they were right to do so!

The Floridian’s menu philosophy revolves around using the finest local ingredients to craft Southern comfort food with a modern twist. The result is a menu filled with upscale comfort food that pays homage to the rich food culture of the local farms in Florida and the cuisine of the South.

Beet Salad with the Catch of the Day

We ordered the Citrus Beet Salad with the Catch of the Day and the Not Your Momma’s Meatloaf sandwich and enjoyed both of those tremendously. The restaurant’s atmosphere is fantastic. It’s a sophisticated and aesthetically pleasing mix of old Florida style with bold tropically themed wallpaper, rattan details, retro decor finds, and beautifully chosen details from the tables to the plates and tables.

Not Your Momma’s Meatloaf

The cocktails were out of this world. We tried the Garden Gimlet and Saturn in Crosshairs cocktail, which were two of the best drinks we’ve ever had.  The service was efficient and welcoming, echoing the warmth and hospitality that were apparent in every aspect of this place.

Beachside Diner

451 A1A Beach Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32080  beachsidediner.com

Classic brunch and breakfast options with brunch cocktails in a lively beachside diner

When we are staying at Anastasia in our RV, we don’t want to have to pack up the RV to go out to for a meal–especially breakfast– so we are always eager to find restaurants that we can bike or walk to.

The Beachside Diner is located on A1A in the beach district of St. Augustine on Anastasia Island. It’s about a 7-minute bike ride from our campsite at Anastasia State Park.

Waffles with fruit 

This diner is a clean, cheerful, and welcoming modernized 1950s-style diner that serves a fantastic breakfast and offers brunch cocktails. There’s a whole menu dedicated to their creative takes on Bloody Marys!  It gets crowded at breakfast, but we didn’t have to wait long for seating.  The breakfast offerings are fantastic. We had the 2-2-2-2, which is exactly the kind of full breakfast combination with pancakes, eggs, and sausage that we always crave, but can rarely find!

We also had the chicken fried chicken – another delicious and somewhat hard-to-find combination. We were tempted by the cocktail offerings but saved it for our second visit, where we had the waffle,s which were as visually gorgeous as they were delicious, and the biscuits and gravy which we loved! Highly recommend this as a breakfast or brunch spot.

Beachcomber Restaurant & Bar

2 A St, St Augustine Beach, FL 32080  beachcomberstaugustine.com

Beachfront dining with excellent cocktails and island-style seafood, burgers, and salads.

The Beachcomber is one of our favorite places to bike from where we stay in Anastasia State Park. St. Augustine has some great bike paths, and taking some of the back roads from the State Park to A1A  will get you to the Beachcomber in just a few minutes.

Island-inspired cocktails are a specialty at The Beachcomber

The Beachcomber is an amazing little beach bar and restaurant right on the sandy entrance to the beach. You can sit outside at the picnic tables and the outdoor covered patio that have a nice view of the dunes and water.

We love sitting at the bar since all the doors are open and the beach atmosphere very much carries into the bar space. We’ve gone for lunch, light mid-day food, and cocktails.

The bar makes a great Dark N Stormy, a drink called Changes in Latitude, and they are known for their Goombay Smash. All of the cocktails are great. We also enjoyed the Coconut Shrimp appetizer and the Big Fish Reuben.

It’s one of those places that really makes you feel like you’re on vacation. For a additionaly fun stop on the way home, there’s a little bar on the corner of A1a that is a fun spot to have a beer while being able to sit right on the street.

The Conch House

57 Comares Ave, St. Augustine, FL 32080 conchhousemarinaresort.com

A Caribbean-inspired eatery with great island-style drinks, outdoor seating, tiki huts, expansive decks next to a beautiful marina

We spend a lot of time in the vicinity of the Conch House because friends of ours keep their boat in the marina there. We are usually enjoying Bloody Marys or Painkillers at the fun bar decks that overlook the waterfront and marina. However, one day we decided to sit down and have a proper meal.

The Painkiller at The Conch House is authentically and perfectly made

The restaurant is known for its Caribbean-inspired menu, featuring a variety of seafood dishes, tropical flavors, and island-inspired cocktails. The menu often includes items like conch fritters, jerk chicken, and other dishes with a Caribbean twist.

Tiki-style outdoor seating huts at The Conch House

One of the coolest things about The Conch House is the tree house style Tiki Hut seating with multiple Tiki huts that function as outdoor booths.

We got to sit in one of these, and we ordered the Shrimp & Grits, which our friends highly recommended, the hushpuppies, the Shrimp Anastasia seafood pasta, and a watermelon lime chili cocktail.

Shrimp and grits from The Conch House

The shrimp and grits were the spicy variety with tasso ham, so it wasn’t our favorite preparation, since the spicy ham overpowered the shrimp, but it was still good. The Shrimp Anastasia and the Watermelon cocktail were all delicious! The restaurant has a laid-back vibe, and with its outdoor seating options, tiki huts, and a waterfront deck, it’s a wonderful spot to enjoy Carribean-style comfort food while taking in the waterfront view.

Shrimp Anastasia seafood pasta

Ice Plant Bar

110 Riberia St, St. Augustine, FL  iceplantbar.com

 Craft cocktails and farm-to-table plates in the unique setting of a former working ice plant 

For a unique atmosphere and delicious cocktails, we love the Ice Plant Bar. Ice Plant is just a few steps down the road from St. Augustine Fish Camp and right next to St. Augustine Distillery. The interior is unlike any other restaurant, with a modern industrial feel, soaring ceilings, and a large open space, that has been carefully renovated to keep the historical details of the former ice plant.

Interior space at The Ice Plant

The Ice Plant Bar is known for craft cocktails and farm-to-table cuisine. Since St. Augustine Distillery is right next door, there’s a tasting room on the first floor of the Ice Plant in the distillery offering samples of local gins, vodkas, and bourbons.  For dining options, you can move upstairs to enjoy sitting at the tables in the open modern industrial space or outside on the small covered patio.

The Ice Plant Truck

The menu offers salads, sandwiches, southern dishes, and seafood like their famous blue crab beignets and smoked fish dip. What truly sets this place apart are the cocktails.

The bartenders here are mixologists creating drinks that are as visually appealing as they are flavorful. From classic cocktails with a twist to low- and no-alcohol options and mocktail concoctions, the drink menu is a work of art with ingredients like aloe, snap pea, rose hips, and avocado seamlessly blended into magical cocktails.  One of our personal favorites was the Moonage Daydream, a cocktail that brilliantly captures the farm-to-table meets distilled botanicals.

Salt Life Food Shack

321 A1A Beach Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32080 saltlifefoodshack.com

Cocktails, happy hour, and seafood favorites from the coastlines of the world in an upscale beachy atmosphere

After seeing Salt Life’s ubiquitous logo plastered on vehicle windows and emblazoned on t-shirts, sunshirts, and other gear, we hadn’t associated the Salt Life brand with anything related to dining.

However, St. Augustine is home to one of the small group of restaurants known as the Salt Life Food Shacks owned by the coastal fishing brand. We were pleasantly surprised to find that we enjoyed our experience there.

The name “shack” doesn’t really apply, since the restaurant is a beautiful modern 2-story building on A1A across from the beach. The contemporary surf-inspired decor, open-air bar seating, a great happy hour menu, delicious cocktails, and fast service made this one of our favorite happy hour stops during our time in Anastasia Island.

Salt Life’s menu unsurprisingly is ocean-inspired, offering a variety of coastal seafood dishes from many different saltwater environments, from the New England Clam Chowder to Hawaiian-inspired Poke Bowls.

We went on a Thursday for their Oyster & Margarita specials, where they offer 1/2 price margaritas 1/2 price Elevated Patron Margaritas, and $9.99 for a dozen raw oysters, or 1/2  a dozen baked oysters. We also enjoyed their tuna roll and the shrimp brochette, along with our order of the crab stuffed oysters and skinny and salty margaritas.

Prohibition Kitchen

119 St George St, St. Augustine, FL 32084 pkstaug.com

A vintage industrial-style atmosphere with live music nights, serving specialty hamburgers, American comfort food, cocktails, and boozy milkshakes 

One of the restaurants we knew we had to try was Prohibition Kitchen, located on historic St. George Street. The interior is a huge space with a vintage Prohibition-style speakeasy with industrial artifacts that give it a steampunk atmosphere.

Prohibition Kitchen specializes in contemporary American Gastropub food with a farm-to-table focus and a Southern twist. The sandwiches and burgers – including a build-your-own option are what they’re most known for.

The Prohibition Style Atmosphere at the bar at Prohibition Kitchen

We were there for lunch, so we had the PK Signature burger and the Bootlegger Burger with fried green tomato and pimento cheese, along with their famous boiled peanuts. We were also tempted by all the adult milkshakes we saw being served, but since we knew we had a day of walking and sampling other bites to eat, we didn’t indulge. From the baked mac ‘n’ cheese with add-ins to poutine, and hearty short rib dishes, we thought that the menu offers a range of delicious and hearty southern comfort foods that are perfect for lunch on a day spent touring St.Augustine.

The Bootlegger Burger

O’Steen’s

205 Anastasia Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32080  osteensrestaurant.com

Known for: Casual fried seafood restaurant with classic Southern sides

O’Steen’s is a casual seafood restaurant right on Anastasia Boulevard, making it easy to get to from both the historic district of St. Augustine and the beaches. O’Steen’s was founded by the O’Steen family in the 1960s and has remained in the family ever since.  It’s now considered to be one of the must-visit spots in St. Augustine for any fried seafood lover.

The famous fried shrimp and sides at O’Steen’s

The menu at O’Steen’s is known for its focus on Southern-style and traditional seafood dishes, especially their famous St. Augustine Fried Shrimp. An important thing to note if you’re planning on going is that it is a cash-only restaurant. You can also enjoy crab cakes, clam chowder, various fried seafood, and Southern-inspired sides.

The Blue Hen Café

223 W King St Ste A, St. Augustine, FL 32084  bluehencafe.com

Hearty Southern biscuits, sandwiches, and sides for breakfast, brunch, or lunch

The Yard Bird, a famous dish at the Blue Hen Cafe

This is a breakfast and lunch spot that my husband pedaled to on one of his bike trips into downtown St. Augustine.  The Blue Hen Cafe is known for its Southern comfort food, especially buttermilk biscuits and gravy, shrimp and grits, and fried chicken. The lunch menu features breakfast items along with a variety of substantial sandwiches. While he went with the famous Yard Bird  – a combination of buttermilk fried chicken, with onions, gravy, and collard greens for breakfast, our second pick would be the Fried Green Tomato BLT for lunch.

The Village Garden Food Truck Park

1480 S Old A1a S, St. Augustine, FL 32080  villagegardenftp.com

A collection of food trucks offering street tacos, salads, smoothies, coffee, and acai bowls 

One of the coolest things about staying at Anastasia State Park is the amazing combination of the natural setting of the park and ocean, combined with the proximity to various attractions and restaurants. Right outside the park through the back exit down Nona and Papa Roa,d is open only to foot traffic and bikes there’s a cut-through that takes you down a few neighborhood streets where Old A1A intersects with new A1A.

Budda Bowls and Salads are a way to get a quick healthy meal in Anastasia Island

This little space is the permanent home to 4-5  food trucks, including our favorite, Big Island Bowls. We mainly ate at Big Island Bowls because getting fresh salads and veggies along with some healthy fruits is always tricky on the road. We loved the Shaka Bowl and the Hibiscus Bowl, along with the Spicy Thai Buddha Bowl for a quick and easy lunch or early dinner.

One night, we also tried the street tacos and puffy tacos from both Kusina Colorado and the Birra Tacos from The Little Sombrero and had drinks from  The Good Karma Cafe.

Acai bowls are a specialty at Big Island Bowls

The drawback to these trucks is that not all are open, and there seems to be a lack of variety; specifically, there’s a surplus of taco and smoothie options, but it would be great to have a burger or barbeque truck to balance out some of the dining choices.

If you’re a fan of food trucks in general, there’s no shortage in St. Augustine. There’s a coffee truck and a taco truck near the front entrance to Anastasia State Park, and there are some that show up in the parking lot when there are concerts at The Amp – the music venue next to the park. There are also many food trucks and food stands that come to the weekly farmers market on Saturday morning.

Blackfly

410 Anastasia Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32080  blackflytherestaurant.com

Steaks and seafood are prepared in fine dining methods in a relaxed bistro atmosphere

Update: Blackfly has moved to a new spot! Blackfly is now in the former Mellow Mushroom location. When we visited in April, they hadn’t yet opened at the new location, but it was under construction, and the renovated space looked like it would be fantastic. We can’t wait to see the new space, just down the street from the old location.

This restaurant’s name throws us off a little, as we tend to think of the frustrating gnat-like bug, and not the fine dining experience this place is known for. Of course, as many fishermen know, a blackfly is a fly fishing term, and the Blackfly sister restaurant is located in the Bahamas — so we’re lucky to have its counterpart in St. Augustine.

Friends of ours who also spend time in St. Augustine have insisted this is the place for a great meal, and they visit weekly! We were there for a late night after a day out, so we didn’t really get to experience the full expanse of the menu, but from what we saw, there were so many excellent choices for seafood, as well as an extensive wine list.

We somewhat lamely had the pizza since we had eaten a large meal earlier that day, but we’d like to go back with the sole purpose of trying out their extensive menu. The pizza was fantastic, in a true margarita style with a delicious crust. The atmosphere of the bar and dining space was upbeat and welcoming, and our friends splurged on rockfish and other entrees that looked fantastic, and probably more in line with what we’d order on a regular night.

We’d love to try the Wellington beef tips, and the Coquille St. Jacques, as well as the seafood entrees like Blackfly Fried Shrimp and the Scallops Brandon or the catch of the day done in one of their excellent preparations. They also offer fine options like steaks and chops from their grill and an offering of desserts, including the Celebration Cake,e which is perfect for a special occasion.

Andaman Asian Bistro

1935 A1A S, St. Augustine, FL 32080 andamanasianbistrofl.com 

A collection of Asian cuisine favorites,s including sushi, Thai dishes, and appetizers in a welcoming space

Pad Thai 

We were in the mood for Asian food and sushi after our month-long dining adventures that were heavy on comfort food, so one evening we biked the short distance from the back gate at Anastasia State Park, and used caution to cross over into a little plaza where Andiman’s is located.

This little spot is in a strip mall and has a welcoming small outdoor seating area. Inside, there are booths and tables along with a sushi bar. We ordered the pad Thai, the Andaman Platter which is an assortment of their best appetizers, and the Elton John roll.

The Elton John roll, one of the chef’s specialty rolls at Andaman

The dishes were excellent, with the beautiful presentation that one likes to see at a good sushi restaurant. All the food was delicious with fast and friendly service. While we wouldn’t travel to St. Augustine specifically for a visit to Andaman, it’s very nice to have it as an option within biking or walking distance to the park, especially when you’re craving pad Thai.

Pizza Time

124 St George St, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Unforgettable pizza with generous and creative Italian-entree-style toppings in a fast-casual environment

See the slices before your order. The line moves quickly!

Pizza Time has smartly marketed itself as “The Second Best Pizza in the US” thanks to its standing on TripAdvisor back in 2015. While we can’t prove that it’s true, this marketing tagline does have some really exceptional pizza behind it. If you’re looking for loaded gourmet slices with toppings you won’t find at most of the pizza chains and pizza parlors, Pizza Time is for you.

Burrata pizza

Be warned, it’s a cash-only spot, and there’s a line and a fast ordering process where the efficiency of ordering is appreciated. There’s a rotating selection of pizza by the slice. These slices are loaded with options that sound more like entrees than toppings. The pizza toppings are rotating, but on the days we were there, we were treated to toppings like lasagna, chicken parmesan, ravioli, meatballs, eggplant parmesan, along with full, heaping dollops of ricotta, mozzarella, and burrata. The generous toppings make for hearty slices.

Eggplant Parmigiana Pizza

At between $8 to $10 a slice for the heavier toppings, you can easily spend $20 on just a few slices, but they are delicious and not to be missed!

Sunset Grille

421 A1A Beach Blvd, St Augustine Beach, FL 32080 sunsetgrillea1a.com

Beachfront dining with a large menu featuring seafood, pasta, and classic dining favorites, perfect for families

The Sunset Salad

Sunset Grill was another A1A restaurant, within a short bike ride from the State Park. It has an outside and multiple levels of seating. It has lots of Seafood options, as well as salads, sandwiches, pasta and “land food”.

On our first visit, we sat at the bar for a happy hour drink. We had the Sunset Salad with fish and Sunset Shrimp seafood pasta. We were impressed by both dishes and appreciated the friendly and efficient servers at the bar and the delicious Sunset Cocktail.

The Sunset Shrimp

We went again with a group of 5 of us when our family was visiting, and we sat in the back room. Unfortunately, that time we had uneven service (it seemed like we were forgotten in that back room!), and our food didn’t taste as fresh and wasn’t presented as well.  This led us to conclude that this spot could be a bit hit-or-miss. We’d go again, but wouldn’t make it a part of our must-visit destination each time we go.

Auggie’s Draft Room

3 St George St, St. Augustine, FL 32084  auggiesdraftroom.com

A self-serve tap house with affordable and tasty burgers

St. George Street in St. Augustine is where the crowds go to take in some of the historic architecture while browsing various shops and restaurants. It’s a busy, touristy, pedestrian-only walkway. As we walk, we like taking lots of little breaks away from the crowds for food and drink.

The self-serve draft system at Auggie’s

We visited Auggies mainly because we had a coupon from the coupon book we picked up at the St. Augustine Visitor’s Center, but we were also intrigued by their burgers and their unique draft system that lets you pay by the pour. The burgers were good and served quickly, and the open seating was a very nice atmosphere. The beers on the draft weren’t an exotic selection by any means – Bud Light was one of the selections — so we just had a few small pours and then headed to the St. Augustine Distillery tour that was right next door.

St. Augustine Restaurants We’d Love to Try

Even with this long list, there are still some classic St. Augustine restaurants as well as classic and world-famous spots that we haven’t visited yet. On our next visit, we’d love to try these places that we’ve heard good things about.

Llama

We’ve heard Llama offers a fine-dining experience featuring fantastic Peruvian food, expertly prepared by their chefs using classically trained methods. The dishes are works of art and are meant to be an experience. The ceviche and the grouper in plantain leaves would be dishes we’d love to try.

Forgotten Tonic

We peeked at the menu here when dining nearby at Peace Pie, and both the atmosphere and the menu looked fantastic!

Aunt Kate’s

This waterfront restaurant is located in the Vilano Beach area. and has a 100-year tradition of serving seafood baskets and entrees that are exactly the kind of food we love to eat on vacation.

Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille

Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille is supposed to be a legendary spot nestled across from the Bridge of Lions, across from the fort, on one of the main streets of St. Augustine. We tried to get in twice, but unfortunately, it was packed, and there was too long a wait for our party. However,  we did get to quickly glimpse at the gorgeous courtyard garden. We’d love to have lunch on a leisurely day here in St. Augustine.

Colombia Restaurant

The Columbia Restaurant is part of a chain known as Florida’s Oldest Restaurants, and since St. Augustine is America’s oldest city, it’s almost like you’re getting double the history! The Columbia is known for award-winning Spanish and Cuban cuisine. This location is also known for its impressive architecture with an open two-level style courtyard and tile-lined space, and fountains. Everything from the famous 1905 salad to the Cuban sandwiches for lunch, tapas, or one of their seafood or steak entrees served in the traditional Spanish style all sounds delicious to us!

More Ideas for Where to Eat and Stay

We travel around Florida quite a bit – especially the Florida Keys, where we’ve shared our thoughts on the best RV Camping in the Florida Keys. If you’re looking for more ideas for where to eat in Florida, check out our best places to eat in Marathon, Florida.

We’ll also be writing soon about our experiences camping at Anastasia State Park in St. Augustine, as well as our picks for the best bars in St. Augustine, and where to enjoy some sweet treats during your visit to St. Augustine.

If you’re snowbirds like us, who go north for camping in the summer, you might also enjoy hearing about our travels further north, camping in the Delaware Seashore, our adventures camping in Boothbay, Maine, or our thoughts on the best bars in Annapolis, MD

 

We’ve stayed in Marathon, Florida, for several seasons camping in the Florida Keys at our home-away-from-home at Jolly Roger RV Resort. While we stay, we enjoy many of the local restaurants repeatedly. And, since everything in the Keys can be expensive, getting the most out of our dining budget becomes a top focus of our Keys vacation.

If you’re looking for the best happy hours in Marathon, Florida, we’re sharing our guide to the happy hour deals we enjoy most when visiting the mid-point of the Florida Keys.

While we love a good meal, we especially appreciate a good deal on good food even more, that is why we seek out as many happy hour specials as possible. Since we’re staying for an extended period in Marathon, finding good food at a good deal is not only a budget-friendly bonus, it’s one of our favorite things to research.

Thankfully, many Marathon restaurants are full of fantastic happy hour specials. That said, we’ve found it’s pretty hard to initially find and keep track of the happy hour specials day-to-day without visiting several sites, reading several reviews, and creating your own list of go-to places to find the best spot for happy hour each night.

As always, happy hour specials change frequently. While we have made our best effort to keep this list up to date, these deals are likely to change frequently or to be discontinued altogether. You may want to confirm hours and deals before you go by calling, checking their website, or social media pages.  If you’re a restaurant in Marathon and you’d like us to make an edit or add your happy hour special to this list, get in touch with us via our Instagram or leave a comment with your updates on this article on our Facebook page.

Barnacle Barney’s Tiki Bar

Update for Winter 2026: We heard word that Barnacle Barney’s might have changed ownership, and their happy hour menu might have changed as a result. We haven’t been able to visit or find the new HH menu yet. These specials may no longer be valid, but their social media lists just a general happy hour from 2-5 with food, beers, drinks, and cocktails. Stay tuned for updates, or feel free to tell us about an updated menu here.

 1688 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050 (Behind Bluegreen Vacations)

Barnacle Barney’s Facebook Page

2-5 pm Daily

 

 

Barnacle Barney’s was a spot we tried for the first time this season. Located off of Overseas Highway, and behind the Bluegreen Resorts, this tiki bar meets sports bar has beautiful water views of the Gulf side of Marathon, outdoor seating that looks out on a few private islands nearby. It’s a great place to spend the afternoon.

If you’re a frozen drink lover, this is one of the few spots with frozen drink specials during Happy Hour.  Their take on the Key Lime Colada was one of our favorites. We also tried the sweet potato bites, the lobster bites, and the sliders that were on a happy hour special. The beer menu features local drafts from Florida Keys Brewing and Islamorada Brewing, with New England classic Narragansett Lager thrown in. In fact, the only drawback if you’re a domestic beer lover, and just want a Miller Lite or a Bud Light, is that all of the beers are local craft beers, except for the ‘Ganset.

Castaway Waterfront Restaurant + Sushi Bar

1406 Oceanview Ave, Marathon, FL 33050

castawaysfloridakeys.com

Happy Hours: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM  (Closed Wednesdays)

$7.00 Food Specials

Chicken Wings

Fried Chicken Livers

Fish Fingers

2 Chili Dogs

4 PC Crab Rangoon

4 pc Lumpia

Chips and Pico De Gallo

4 PC Tuna Nachos

Spicy Tuna Dog

Spicy Tuna Crunch Roll

California Roll

Dragon Roll

Veggie Roll

Sashimi * Nigiri (3) pc per order

Drink Specials

Yuengling & Bud Light $2

12 oz Well Drinks $5

House Wine $6

Rum Punch $8

Sailors Sedative $9

Bloody Wilson $10

Drafts 1/2 Price 2-3 pm

The happy hour at Castaway Restaurant starts early and has an extensive offering, making it the perfect spot for a lunchtime happy hour, or to do some day drinking if you enjoy that sort of thing.

The Castaway happy hour is full of sushi and seafood options, including special rolls, tuna nachos, fish dip, beers on tap, and cocktails like the Rum Punch. Both indoor and outdoor bar seating is available.

Dockside Boot Key Harbor

35 Sombrero Blvd, Marathon, FL 33050

Dockside’s Facebook Page

Happy Hours:  3:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Food Specials
Sweet Potato Fries: $6

Fish Dip w/Chips: $7

Onion Rings: $6

3 Soft Pretzel w/whole grain mustard: $5.25

Wings (Buffalo/BBQ Ranch/Bleu Cheese): $7

Drink Specials

Well Drinks: $4

Domestic Bottles: $3.25

Bud Light Draft: $2.09

Wines: $3.25

 

Dockside Bar & Grill is located right next to the Boot Key Harbor marina area. It’s a great spot for looking out at the water, enjoying live music, and getting super-speedy bartending service while savoring their great happy hour specials. Deals include: well drinks for $4, Bud Light draft for under $3.00, and as well as tasty bar food at a discounted price. We love and usually order their fish dip and onion rings.

There is live music almost every night from both local musicians and national acts, so it’s well worth staying on past the happy hour specials.

Florida Keys Steak and Lobster

3660 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050

flkeyssteakandlobster.com

Happy Hours: 11:30 AM – 6:00 PM (Early bird until 5:30 PM)

Food Specials

$5.95

6 Chicken Wings

Mozzarella Sticks

Spinach Artichoke Dip

$6.95

Buffalo Shrimp

Potato Skins

$7.95

1/2 Pound Peel & Eat Shrimp

Calamari with Mango Sauce

Shrimp and Crab Ball

Prime Rib Kabobs

Tuna Tataki

JB Salmon Roll

 Drink Specials

All Well Drinks $5.00

Bud Light 3.00

Iguana Bait – Kolsch 4.50

Stella Artois – Pale Lager 3.50

Spearfish – Amber Ale 4.50

Funky Buddha Hop Gun – IPA 4.50

Featured Stout or Porter 5.00

Domestic 3.00

Import/Craft 4.50

Sailfish Sunrise City – IPA 4.50

Crazy Lady – Blond Ale 4.50

Blue Moon 4.50

O’Douls Non-Alcoholic Beer 3.75

Becks Non-Alcoholic Beer 3.75

Omission Lager – Gluten Free 3.75

Heineken Non Alcohol 3.75

Stella Apple Cider Gluten Free 4.00

3 Daughters Key Lime Cider 4.00

Canyon Road – Cabernet, Merlot, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, White Zinfandel
$5 Glass / $12 Half Carafe / $20 Full Carafe

Angeline Sauvignon Blanc 6.00

Moulin De Gassac Rose 6.00

Monte Degli Angeli Pinot Noir 6.00

Florida Keys Steak and Lobster is a must-visit spot for happy hour deals. Not only does it start at 11 am, but it also has some of the best deals imaginable. Florida Keys Steak and Lobster is one of the few restaurants in Marathon that aims to have a bit more of a fine dining experience rather than the typical tiki atmosphere.

The bar is windowless and therefore a little bit dark, so it won’t give you an island outdoor dining experience, but it will give you the chance to sample some delicious peel-and-eat shrimp, calamari, and have a beer for only $3!

We also adore their early bird dinner specials that start at 3:30. It’s ga reat way to have their salad, steak, and seafood dishes for less. Along with Key Colony Inn, this is probably one of the best cheap happy hour deals.

Havana Jacks

 401 E Ocean Dr, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051

havanajacksoceanside.com

Happy Hour 4 pm-6 pm

Food

The Giant Pretzel –  Bavarian salted pretzel served with beer cheese $15

Sesame Seared Tuna Wontons served with wasabi aioli with soy glaze $18

“House Favorite” TNT Shrimp tempura beer battered with boom boom sauce $15

George’s Shrimp Fritters $15

Tuna Tini Hawaiian-style tuna poke with avocado, onion, sesame seeds,  soy glaze,  and wontons $18

Edamame with sesame oil, sesame seeds, soy sauce $9

Coconut Shrimp coconut encrusted  with sweet chili sauce $15

Havana Wings mild, hot, guava BBQ or mango jerk or sweet chili served with blue cheese or ranch and celery

Drinks

$2 off all draft beer, domestic bottle beer, house liquor, and house wine.

The discount on beer and drinks is the real discount here — the food prices seemed a bit high to us. In addition to saving money on these drink specials, Havana Jack’s is a great open-air spot to enjoy live music and ocean views in their bar and outdoor lounge area that overlooks the Atlantic Ocean.

The Coconut Shrimp and Edamame were our happy hour picks, but like we said – $9 to $15 for simple appetizers isn’t exactly a deal. We also loved the Key Lime Colada here, but unfortunately, it’s not on the happy hour.

 

Key Colony Inn

Update: Sadly, we’ve heard that Key Colony Inn is now closed or under new ownership and no longer offers these fantastic happy hour specials. We’ll keep the menu here for posterity until we learn more details. We hope to replace it with something new in Marathon or an update on the future of the Key Colony Inn. 

700 W Ocean Dr, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051

kcinn.com

3:00 PM – 5:00 PM (Weekends 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM) No longer available

Food

$5 Fried Calamari

$5 Sesame Seared Ahi Tuna

$5 Shrimp Cocktail

$5 Tomato Bruschetta

$5 Caprese Salad

$5 Fried Mozzarella

$5 Mussels in creamy garlic sauce

$5 Cheese Pizza

Drinks

$5 Margarita

$5 Pirate Punch

$5 High Noon

$5 Espresso Martini

$5 Cappuccino Martini

$5 House Wine

$5 Bloody Mary

$4 Well Liquor

$3-$6 Beer

 

The Key Colony Inn’s happy hour is LEGENDARY and for good reason! You can get two drinks and two apps for $20! Those $5 espresso martinis! $5 full-size pizzas! And as you can see from the list, that’s just the start of it.

Additionally, the old-school Florida vibe of  Key Colony Inn located near the Key Colony Golf Club, lined with palm trees, is a classic location.

We love the Pirate Punch, as well as the caprese salad, shrimp cocktail, ahi tuna  ,and — of course — the pizza! These amazing happy hour offerings draw quite a crowd, so you’ll want to get there early for these deals, especially if you want to sit at the bar. Thankfully, the happy hour specials are available in the spacious dining room areas as well.

We are always stuffed after the $5 pizza, but we wanted to stay one of these days for an entree of one of their pasta dishes.

Keys Fisheries

3502 Gulfview Ave, Marathon, FL 33050

keysfisheries.com

 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Stone Crab Claw $15 each (Subject to availability and market prices)

Gulf Oysters $23 Dozen / $17 Half-Dozen

Fresh Tuna Poke Bowl $19

Stone Crab Chowder $8

$6 Bar Appetizers
Conch Ceviche
Tuna Sashimi
Crab & Spinach Dip
Smoked Fish Dip
1/4 lb Peel & Eat Shrimp

Upstairs on the deck at the Keys Fisheries Raw Bar (also now known as Shannon’s Crab Trap) is one of our favorite places to be in this world.  A beautiful breezy view of the gulf, great live music, great sunset views,  and an unbelievable deal on stone crab claws and toast at sunset make this one of our favorite spots and the perfect place for an early evening happy hour.

The happy hour specials here are mainly on food, but there is a $1.00 off on some beer and wine as well. Keys Fisheries is known for its fresh seafood, which is why we love their conch ceviche for happy hour.

In addition, we enjoy splurging on the Lime in Da Coconut cocktail or the Lobster Reuben (both are delicious, but not on happy hour specials). The bar also has super-friendly staff who go above and beyond to make your time at Keys Fisheries enjoyable. Be sure to thank them for their exceptional service!

Lighthouse Grill

1994 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050

lighthousegrillmarathon.com

Happy Hours: 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM Monday – Friday

Food

Drinks

$2 off all Drinks

The Lighthouse Grill, the bar within Faro Blanco Resort, is a beautiful spot for an upscale happy hour experience. In addition to the food and drinks, we enjoyed the panoramic view of the marina and water.

While the happy hour specials don’t offer any huge bargains on dining, it was a nice way to sample some of their apps and drinks at a discount.

The cocktails are expensive (we paid $19 for a martini off the happy hour!), so it’s nice to have that $2 off option. We tried the Cuban Rice Balls for our app, thought it was delicious, and would order it again.

Porky’s

1410 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050
3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
www.porkysbaysidebbq.com

Drinks

 $8 – The Following Classic Cocktails:

Mojito

Rum Punch Margarita

Pina-Colada

Pain Killer

—

$5 Sangria

Red or Sparkling

$5 Wine

Red: Cabernet, Merlot, Pinot Noir

White: Chardonnay

—

$5 Well Drinks

Pinot Grigio, Sauv. Blanc Sparkling: Moscato

Draft Beer

Andre Brut Champagne

$4 Bud Light

$5 Stella Artois

$4 Domestic Bottles

$6 Iguana Bait

Bud, Bud Light

$6 Islamorada Seasonal

Coors Light

$6 Marlin Wit

Miller Lite, Mich Ultra

$6 Funky Buddha IPA

Food

75¢ Peel ‘n’ Eat Shrimp (10 minimum) Served Chilled

$1.75/each Fresh Oysters (6 min)

$6 Pork Belly Bites w/Remoulade Sauce

$8 BBQ Pork or Chicken Sliders (3)

For Brisket (add $2); NC Pork or Mojo Pork (add $1)

$9 Smoked Chicken Wings (6)

(Buffalo or Spicy Thai)

$8 Fish Fingers

$8 Chef’s Tacos of the Day (2)

$9 Calamari

$9 Blackened Mahi Quesadilla

$9 Mussels Marinara

$9 Tuna Tataki

$8 Classic Roll / $8.50 Spicy Roll (choose Tuna or Salmon)

$12 Saku Tuna Nachos

 

Porky’s Bayside is in one of the many tiki huts on our happy hour list. This open-air spot is off of Overseas Highway and one of the last stops before you cross the Seven Mile Bridge as you are on the way to Key West, but it is still near Marathon.

This bar offers a casual atmosphere, a marina side location,  and live music. We love that this happy hour includes good drink specials like a Pina Colada and a Painkiller – it’s hard to find good frozen mixed drinks on happy hour, but this place has a great selection of frozen and hand-mixed tropical cocktails.

The food is also a big draw for their happy hour offering. In fact, we have never dined for a sit-down meal here. We’ve only had happy hour food, where we enjoyed the tacos of the day, the BBQ sliders, and the Mahi quesadilla, especially. The only dish we didn’t enjoy was the pork belly bites, which were too fatty and chewy for our liking.

The service behind the bar is excellent, with attentive and friendly bartenders.

Porky’s also has one of our favorite takes on key lime pie – a wedge of key lime pie with fried panko bread crumbs and raspberry sauce.  We’ve heard good things about their breakfast, too, and the dinner menu is substantial.

Sparky’s

6850 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050
4:00 PM – 6:00 PM daily (Closed Mondays)

www.sparkyslanding.com

We need updated information for this menu, so the information in the photo of the menu may not be correct.  Their website now lists the happy hour as:

Peel & Eat Shrimp and Wings $0.50 each

$3 Domestic Bottles, $5 Well Drinks $6 House Wine, and $1.00 Off Imports and Drafts

 

 

Sparky’s Landing is one of our favorite restaurants in Marathon, and it was one of the best places in our article on The Best Restaurants in Marathon, Florida. Sparky’s features a large bar overlooking the water, outdoor waterfront seating, and a huge oversized tiki dining room. Sparky’s is a very popular spot; the bar is always packed, but it’s extremely hard to find a seat at happy hour, so arrive early!

The happy hour has been consistently voted one of the best in Marathon, but we were actually a little disappointed to find it’s a pretty limited menu offering compared to some of the other happy hours we’ve mentioned in this article.

Unless we’ve missed an update on the menu, the food Happy Hour specials are only two things: peel-n-eat shrimp and wings, so if you don’t like either of those, you’re kind of out of luck for food deals. We personally prefer happy hours that offer a nice discount on a small selection of drinks, small plates, and a few discounted appetizers from the regular menu.

 

The same frustration goes for the drink specials, which was $1.00 off beer, wine, and well drinks.We need to update our information, so it might have changed to a fixed price for each. We love the specialty cocktails at Sparky’s, but since there’s no happy hour discount on any of those, there’s no huge deal for us here on drinks either. We usually just settle for a beer or a rail rum and Coke. 

When we do go, we usually end up just ordering a full-priced small plate or entree and take advantage of a happy hour-priced beer or two.  We’d really love to see a happy hour from Sparky’s that offers a discount on a slightly wider range of apps or at least one of the special cocktails Sparky’s is known for, before we’d give it our own little endorsement for best happy hour.

SS Wreck

Hours: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
58835 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050
www.sswreck.com

$8 – Special Menu

$1 OFF – Bottle & Draft Beers

$1 OFF – House Wine

$1 OFF – Well Drinks

$1 OFF – Seltzers

 

The S.S. Wreck was mentioned in our best key lime pie article for having the best key lime pie. But before we tried the delicious key lime pie, our first visit to “The Wreck” was for the happy hour.

Our first happy hour here was a bit of an uneven experience from a service perspective, with slow-to-arrive food and an overly-feisty waitress who gave us grief when we ordered water along with our drinks, and then forgot about us. After that first bad experience we have had some very good service there from the two servers who are most often behind the bar.

The day we went the special menu happy hour offering was nachos, and we just had 2 Coronas, so it was a pretty uneventful happy hour experience for us, but largely as a result of our own ordering. It’s not always clear what will be offered on the $8 special menu for food, but we appreciate the $1 off drinks. When not ordering from the happy hour menu,  we really enjoy the coconut shrimp, fajitas, tuna poke nachos from the regular menu as well as the legendary key lime pie!

Tiki 61

243 61st Street, Marathon, FL 33050

tropicalcottages.net

$1.00 off Beer, Wine and Canned cocktails

$1.50 off  Signature Drinks and Shots and Cocktails

 

Tiki 61 is located in the Tropical Cottages off of  Overseas Highway. Tropical Cottages are vacation cabin rentals, that are also home to a taco food truck called La Isla Tacos as well as a tiki bar called Tiki 61. Florida Keys tiki bars are one of the best things about the Keys, Tiki 61 is exactly the kind of atmosphere we love in the Keys.  It’s a local favorite, has live music, and there’s usually a seat somewhere. Tiki 61 and the Tropical Cottages were recently featured on Motel Rescue, and had an amazing makeover as a part of that process. The bar is now beautifully appointed with updated, chic tropical decor. The cocktails are fantastic, and all of our favorites are on the daily happy hour, which is $1.50 off signature drinks and $1.00 off beer, wine, and canned cocktails. We love the Painkiller, Rum Runner, Pina Colada, and the Strawberry Margarita. The tacos from the taco truck aren’t a part of the happy hour, but grab a fish taco and then settle in for a few drinks during happy hour for a wonderful evening.

Places to Eat and Things to Do in Marathon ,Florida

We hope this helps you keep track of some of the best happy hour specials in Marathon, Florida. We’ll keep adding to this as our travels continue! Until then, save us a seat at the bar!

For more recommendations, check out our picks for the best restaurants in Marathon, Florida.

If you’re a camper or RV, also check out our thoughts on the best RV camping in the Florida Keys.

If you head up to the mid-Atlantic states, and find yourself in Annapolis, you might like our locals’ guide to the best bars in Annapolis, Maryland or our picks for the best pizza in Annapolis.

As with all of our posts, the information provided here was accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time of our visits to these restaurants. However, menu items, locations, hours, and availability are always subject to change. You may want to double-check specials, as well as restaurant locations and hours. All opinions are our own.

Except where noted, all images are photographed by and copyright of the editors of Currently Traveling. Use of our photos is prohibited without permission. None of this content was sponsored unless noted we always purchase our own food and beverages for all the dining experiences mentioned in this article.