Boat shows are fun for the whole family
If you’re bringing the whole family to the Annapolis Boat Shows, you'll be looking for ways to keep everyone engaged, especially the kids. Fortunately, the shows and downtown Annapolis are filled with interesting spots for sailors and boaters of all ages, and we've got some suggestions to share with you. Before we get kid-specific, check out these general boat show tips from our team. The Annapolis Powerboat Show runs October 5-8, 2023, followed by the Annapolis Sailboat Show October 12-15.
Inside the shows
- Stop at the SpinSheet booth (land space 19A for the sail show only) and PropTalk/FishTalk booth (land space F/6-7 for the power show only) for stickers and temporary tattoos.
- Participate in the EWE Spirit Foundation scavenger hunt (sailboat show only/booth 19A).
- Lie on a catamaran trampoline, look up at the clouds, and ask your crew where they would sail to if they could cruise anywhere.
- Visit the FishTalk Fishing Spot where you can help build a reef ball or try a fishing simulator (powerboat show only).
- Borrow a free loaner lifejacket from BoatUS. Find them on the BoatUS Bridge across Ego Alley.
- Tour the tall ship Pride of Baltimore II (sailboat show only).
Outside the show gates
- Ride the water taxi. During the powerboat show, you may ride for free between the main show area and Brokerage Cove.
- Eat an ice cream cone: a delicious choice for that afternoon boost. Several shops are just a short walk from the harbor.
- Visit the Annapolis Maritime Museum and Park and perhaps get tickets to ride on the Skipjack Wilma Lee.
- Go sailing on the Schooner Woodwind. Check their website for sail times during the shows.
- Visit the Maryland State House, the oldest state house in America still in continuous legislative use.
- Get out the wiggles at the playground on the corner of Newman and Comprise Streets: swings, slides, and climbing.
- Take a pirate cruise with Pirate Adventures on the Chesapeake. Arrgh!
