Start with quick, reliable options inside Union Station (bakery, coffee, or a sit-down counter). It’s an easy, early start and keeps you right by major Amtrak departures if needed.
Stroll from the U.S. Capitol toward the Lincoln Memorial, passing the WWII and Vietnam Veterans Memorials — open outdoors 24/7 and perfect for a broad orientation to D.C.
Visit one Smithsonian museum that interests you; most Smithsonian museums are free and typically open from about 10:00am–5:30pm, so check the specific museum’s hours and any timed-entry requirements.
Classic D.C. tavern serving American fare — a convenient and iconic spot near the White House, good for a hearty midday meal. Check current hours and expect a line at peak times.
Spend a couple of hours with world-class paintings and sculpture; the National Gallery is free and typically open 10:00am–5:00pm (some wings may have different hours).
Board an Amtrak Northeast Regional or local service from Washington Union Station to Baltimore Penn Station (about 30–40 minutes). Buy tickets in advance for best fares and check train times.
Dine with harbor views — choose a waterfront restaurant to enjoy seafood and the city lights; most Inner Harbor restaurants are open into the evening, but confirm hours and reservations.
Popular Baltimore breakfast/brunch spot known for creative Southern-influenced dishes; arrives early and a great way to fuel up before a museum-filled day. Check hours as busy periods can require wait times.
Explore marine life exhibits and the tropical rainforest; the aquarium commonly opens around 9:00am and closes in the late afternoon (verify seasonal hours and pre-book timed entry to skip lines).
Sample Baltimore specialties and quick local bites at the historic Lexington Market or pick a waterfront cafe for sandwiches and salads; many vendors open by mid-morning but check closing times for market stalls.
The Walters offers a compact, excellent collection (often free) and is close to the Mount Vernon neighborhood for picturesque walking; typical gallery hours are 10:00am–5:00pm — verify day-of.
Visit the star-shaped fort that inspired 'The Star-Spangled Banner' for a short history tour and harbor views; National Park hours commonly mid-morning to late afternoon — check seasonal times and park fees.
Walk cobbled streets of Fells Point or return to the Inner Harbor for shops and live music; these neighborhoods come alive in the evening with bars and restaurants.
Grab a quick breakfast at your hotel or a nearby cafe to prepare for a morning transfer to Annapolis; plan for luggage storage if you’ll return to Washington later.
Take a short Amtrak hop to BWI Airport Station (or travel via Washington if schedules work better), then continue onward by shuttle/rideshare to Annapolis; check the day’s Amtrak schedules for the best connection.
A 25–40 minute shuttle or rideshare will deliver you to downtown Annapolis; shuttle service and drive times vary by traffic—book ahead or leave cushion time.
Explore the compact, walkable colonial downtown, including the Maryland State House (often open to visitors midday); the area is ideal for walking and photos—check hours for specific buildings.
Take the guided or self-guided Naval Academy visit to see the Yard and Bancroft Hall; public access requires a visitor pass and has specific tour hours, so check availability and security rules before arrival.
A beloved Annapolis institution known for big sandwiches and local flavor — an iconic spot for a relaxed midday meal. Confirm hours; it’s typically open for lunch daily.
Enjoy the waterfront atmosphere at City Dock and, if the schedule allows, take a short harbor cruise to see the bay and historic homes (seasonal; check sail times and book ahead).
Head back to BWI by shuttle or rideshare, then board Amtrak to Washington Union Station (about 30–40 minutes); choose a late afternoon train to give buffer time for traffic when leaving Annapolis.
Finish your trip with a classic D.C. meal near the station or Penn Quarter; both popular options and reasonable for late dinners — check reservation policies and hours.
If time and energy remain, a short nocturnal walk past the lit monuments is a memorable way to close the trip, or proceed to your final transit connection from Union Station.