Visit the United States Naval Academy

Visit the United States Naval Academy

Located in Annapolis, Maryland, the United States Naval Academy is a top-notch educational institution that trains and educates future naval officers. However, the academy is not just a school but also a popular tourist attraction. Here are some of the things to do and see while visiting the United States Naval Academy.

Take a Guided Tour:

The United States Naval Academy offers guided tours of the campus to visitors. A tour guide will take you through the academy’s grounds, and you will get to see some of the most historic buildings and landmarks, such as the Naval Academy Chapel, the crypt of John Paul Jones, and Bancroft Hall, the largest dormitory in the world. Additionally, you’ll learn about the academy’s history and the rigorous training that midshipmen undergo.

Visit the Naval Academy Museum:

The Naval Academy Museum is a must-visit while at the academy. The museum features over 100,000 artifacts that showcase the academy’s history and naval heritage. Among the museum’s displays are a collection of ship models, weapons, and uniforms that tell the story of naval warfare.

Attend a Navy Sports Event:

The United States Naval Academy is renowned for its sports teams. You can attend a Navy football game at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium or watch other sports teams compete, such as basketball, lacrosse, and soccer. The midshipmen’s dedication and spirit in sports make for an exciting experience.

Visit the Academy Cemetery:

The United States Naval Academy Cemetery is the final resting place for many notable people, including Admiral Farragut and John Paul Jones. The cemetery is open to the public, and visitors can explore the grounds and view the tombstones of the academy’s notable graduates and their families.

Attend a Performance at the Chapel:

The Naval Academy Chapel is a stunning architectural masterpiece and a spiritual center for the academy. Visitors can attend religious services at the chapel or listen to a concert or choir performance. The acoustics of the chapel make it an ideal venue for musical events.

Take a Stroll along the Yard:

The Yard is the heart of the United States Naval Academy. It’s a green oasis where midshipmen march, play sports, and relax. The Yard is surrounded by historic buildings, including the Bancroft Hall, the superintendent’s residence, and the academic buildings. Visitors can stroll along the Yard and take in the beauty of the academy’s grounds.

Attend the Herndon Monument Climb:

The Herndon Monument Climb is an annual event that takes place during the academy’s commissioning week. The event commemorates the first-year midshipmen’s completion of their plebe year. The midshipmen climb the monument, which is greased with lard, and replace a plebe hat with a midshipman’s hat at the top.

In conclusion, the United States Naval Academy is a remarkable place to visit, whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or sports. Visitors can explore the academy’s grounds, attend a Navy sports game, or learn about the academy’s history and naval heritage at the museum. The academy’s stunning architecture, beautiful grounds, and rich history make for a unique and memorable experience.