Historic Annapolis offers many engaging, hands-on learning opportunities for kids and families.
Peek into history at any Historic Annapolis site:
- Explore the interactives at the Museum of Historic Annapolis
- Discover the wonder of William Paca’s House and Garden
- Experience living history at Hogshead
For all family program dates, visit our Calendar of Events.
For Homeschool programs, visit our Field Trips page.
For more information about events, group tours, public programs, membership, and discounts, please join our email list.
The Annapolis Footprints After-School Program, developed in 2009, is offered by Historic Annapolis for students 3rd through 5th grade. Footprints uses living history interpreters, primary and secondary historical resources, and visits to historic sites to lead students in the footsteps of actual historic people. This thought-provoking, six-week program supports Maryland’s social studies curriculum by seamlessly incorporating history lessons into STEAM-based activities in math, science, reading, art, and social studies. Through hands-on activities and immersive experiences, including a field trip to one of HA’s historic sites, students build personal connections to the past and their local heritage. Most importantly, by discovering the impactful “footprints” of those who came before them, students develop an awareness of their own “footprints,” and better determine how their actions and decisions will affect the future and the legacy they will leave.
Interested in bringing Annapolis Footprints into your school? Please contact Nannetta Hall, Education Coordinator at nannetta.hall@annapolis.org.
Annapolis Footprints is currently supported by 
Designed for various age groups, our FREE scavenger hunts are available daily at the Museum of Historic Annapolis and the William Paca House and Garden. There is something for everyone to explore at our sites. Pick up this FREE activity at the front desk and engage with your family during your visit.
Join us for storytime and fun activities in the William Paca Garden, a secret treasure in the Historic District of Annapolis. This program combines children’s stories, songs, crafts, and the historic garden to provide an engaging experience for kids ages 3-7. Typically offered twice a month on select Tuesdays and Saturdays.
For dates and to register, please visit the Calendar of Events.
Experience history up close at the Museum of Historic Annapolis. On the second Sunday of the month, Historic Annapolis hosts a day for families to explore the Museum, get a closer look at unique artifacts, complete a craft, and read books together for a full museum discovery experience. Admission is half-price for all visitors.
For more information on upcoming Hands-On History Days, please visit the Calendar of Events.
This program is an opportunity for students (ages 13-18; grades 8-12) to volunteer as Junior Docents at the William Paca House and Garden and the Museum of Historic Annapolis. Working as a volunteer docent can be a deeply rewarding experience for students and an opportunity to develop skills such as public speaking, professionalism, organization, and research, as well as an appreciation for community and local history.
Please contact Janet Hall, Visitor Services Manager, at 410.990.4514 or janet.hall@annapolis.org to learn more about this opportunity.
Check the Calendar of Events for information about special annual festivities: Maryland Day (March), Juneteenth (June), Independence Day (July), Constitution Day/Smithsonian Museum Day (September), Colonial Yuletide Celebration (December).
Can I bring a stroller?
All our sites are in historic buildings. The Museum of Historic Annapolis is fully accessible with a ramp and elevators. The William Paca House and Garden and Hogshead have multiple staircases.
Are there restrooms?
There are restrooms in the Museum of Historic Annapolis and the William Paca House. There are no restrooms at Hogshead or the Waterfront Warehouse.
How long does a program last?
Tours and programs range in length, program information can be found above.
Where should cars park?
Please see Annapolis parking suggestions at www.annapolisparking.com or accessannapolis.com.
Historic Annapolis reserves the right to take photographs and video footage of people of all ages at Historic Annapolis-sponsored events for publicity and promotional purposes. Through participation at an event, patrons agree to allow the use of images for such purposes only. If you do not wish to be photographed or filmed, please opt out by notifying Historic Annapolis staff.
For more information about Historic Annapolis programs, please contact us at info@annapolis.org.