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Latest News
April 18, 2018
It’s a joyous time in Annapolis. The United States Naval Academy is graduating yet another class, and parents, friends, family members and guests are all invited to experience it. This year’s Commissioning Week will be Friday, May 18th to Friday, May 25th. Generally speaking, you can expect a lot of celebratory events.
Here’s a bit of what you can look forward to:
Saturday, May 19th
The Ring Dance from 7-11pm. Formal attire is required.
Sunday, May 20th
The USNA Band Chapel Walk Concert from 10-10:30am, 12-12:30pm.
Superintendent’s Reception from 4:30-8pm. Tickets are required.
Tuesday, May 22nd
The USMC Family Orientation/Awards Ceremony from 10-11:45am.
The Commissioning Week Glee Club and Gospel Choir Concert from 8:30-10pm.
Wednesday, May 23rd
Graduation Ball from 7:30-11pm. Formal attire is required.
Thursday, May 24th
The Color Parade at 11am. Tickets are required.
The Prizes and Awards Ceremony from 2-4pm.
Friday, May 25th
Class of 2018 Graduation at 10am. Tickets are required.
…and those are just a few highlights! Some events have special requirements, so make sure to check the USNA’s website beforehand to make sure you’re in accordance.
If you’re coming into town to see your loved one graduate, the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Annapolis is the place to stay. We’re just miles away from the USNA, and we offer special military rates just for your convenience. Midshipmen and their families can stay at our downtown Annapolis hotel for a discounted rate without missing the amenities you need. We offer free high speed Internet, free hot breakfast every morning and free premium cable just to give you an idea.
Book today, and get ready to celebrate your new graduate and the exciting phase they’re about to enter.
Congratulations, graduates!
April 9, 2018
Mother’s Day will be here before you know it, Annapolis. Are you still trying to figure out what you’re going to do? Are you trying to top last year’s present but you’re honestly struggling a bit? Look, struggle no more! This year, gift her something that’ll do more than sit in the closet. Gift her something different. Gift her an experience.
Schooner Woodwind is offering a special Mother’s Day Brunch cruise, and it’s the perfect opportunity to shake things up. You live in a city that’s designed for these types of activities, so why not take advantage? Whether you’re taking your own mother, your wife, your best friend, etc., it’ll be a sail she won’t forget.
The cruise departs at 10am on Mother’s Day and returns at 1pm. It includes one free Bloody Mary or Mimosa plus lots of tasty food. You and your loved one can take your pick from dishes like bacon and swiss quiche, homemade scones, blackened salmon, grilled flank steak, fresh fruit, fresh juices and even homemade biscotti.
Imagine relaxing on the open water with a scone in one hand and a Mimosa in the other. Sounds nice, right?
The cruise has a maximum limit of 35 people, so it won’t be overcrowded or uncomfortable. It’s $92 for adults and $52 for children.
Let’s be honest…doesn’t sailing in Annapolis sound so much better than another bottle of perfume? We think so too.
Happy Mother’s Day, Annapolis!
April 6, 2018
Summer may not be here just yet, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some of the season’s best activities! For example: conditions may not call for swimming, but you can enjoy an outdoor run. You may not be able to sunbathe on the beach, but you can have a nice brunch on the patio. Another summer-esque activity you don’t have to wait for? Barbecuing! You don’t even have to do the work yourself.
Naptown’s BarBAYQ, the annual event held at the Anne Arundel County Fairgrounds, will be back in the city next month, and all you have to do is show up! The event brings in thousands of people every year and is open for all. Whether you want to simply come and eat or you’re going to flaunt your newest BBQ recipe, the event is open for the taking. There will be live music, arts and crafts, cooking demos and activities for the little ones, so bring the whole family while you’re at it!
The KCBS BBQ competition kicks off Saturday at Noon and starts with the chicken portion of the contest. From there, cooks submit their best ribs, pork and brisket, and the winners will be awarded at 5pm on the main stage. Some of this year’s competitors are Astro Pigs BBQ, Chicken Chokers, Drilling and Grilling, Do It Gently BBQ and Slabulous. If their names are any indication of the quality of their food, this competition is sure to be tough!
The Naptown BarBAYQ, sponsored by ABC Events, is Saturday, May 5th at the Anne Arundel County Fairgrounds. The gates open at 10am, and tickets range from $7 to $60 for the VIP Experience.
If you’re coming into town for the event and need an affordable Annapolis hotel, look no further. The Holiday Inn Express & Suites Annapolis is located in downtown Annapolis, and has all the accommodations you need to make the trip worthwhile.
Enjoy the BarBAYQ, Annapolis!
March 26, 2018
If you’re part of the boating community, you already know what time it is…time to get those babies shined and polished…time to get out on that sparkling water…time to take advantage of being in the sailing capital of the country. Boating season is upon us, and the Bay Bride Boat Show is coming to kick it off.
The show will feature hundreds of boats including fishing boats, powerboats, luxury cruisers and more. There will be displays of jet skis, jet boats, kayaks, canoes and even inflatables for you to check out. If you aren’t in the mood to buy a boat, however, there will also be vendors with boating accessories, merchandise and gear. There will be something there for everyone – even kids! There will be an interactive children’s area full of fun activities like face painting and a bouncy house.
Or if you’d rather save the playing for later and learn instead, that’s possible too! There will also be boating seminars and workshops every day taught by industry professionals, so get your questions ready!
The show will be at the Bay Bride Marina in Stevensville, which is a short drive away from our downtown Annapolis hotel. It’ll be all weekend long, from Friday, April 27th to Sunday, April 29th. Tickets start at $12, and kids under 12 get in free!
If you’re coming to town for the show and need an affordable place to stay, check out the Holiday Inn Express and Suites Annapolis. We’re close to the venue plus the best attractions in Annapolis. You can enjoy all the boating-related activities you can stand during the day and enjoy great restaurants and sights during the evening.
Enjoy the show, Annapolis!
March 19, 2018
The weather is nice and the sunshine is nicer. It’s not too cold or not too hot. It’s the perfect opportunity to take advantage of everything Annapolis offers and get out in the city! Don’t know where to start or what to do? You know we have your back.
You have to eat, so why not take in some scenery while you do it? We know. We think it’s a great idea too!
Here are some of the best restaurants in Annapolis – complete with sweet views:
Boatyard Bar & Grill – 400 4th Street
Boatyard Bar & Grill is the perfect place if you’re looking for something casual but still want quality food. The family-friendly establishment allows you to come dressed comfortably and wants you to leave your worries at home. The whole restaurant resembles that of a yacht and just outside its doors are views of the Annapolis City Docks. Their specialties include fresh fish (duh!), crab cakes and lobster rolls.
Carrol’s Creek Café – 410 Severn Avenue
Carrol’s Creek Café is a bit more upscale, but it’s based on similar principles: give people good food and even better views. The restaurant is as historic as Annapolis itself and doesn’t take its reputation for granted. It sits on the shore of Spa Creek, and they strive to give patrons the best possible experience. They offer an extensive drink list, fine dining options and provide solid customer service. Go for Sunday brunch and try the jumbo lump crab cake appetizer.
Sam’s on the Waterfront – 2020 Chesapeake Harbour Drive East
The owner and creator of Sam’s, Andrew Parks, has a vision to “provide a fabulous meal as well as excellent service and an atmosphere that relaxes and indulges every customer.” With a specially curated menu and drink list along with pristine views of the water, he can consider his vision complete. The dinner menu features dishes like seafood linguini, beef tenderloin, scallops and even a shrimp po boy if you want something familiar. The drink menu has classics like a cosmopolitan and a dirty martini as well as specials like their Alligator, which has rum, melon liqueur, pineapple and a splash of soda.
And those are just a few ways you can enjoy a meal and enjoy Annapolis at the same time.
The year is steadily ticking by, people. Get out and make the most of it!
March 5, 2018
With Spring cleaning naturally comes Spring shopping. Think about it. You’re doing away with the old and making room for the new. You’re de-cluttering your life and making space for a new season, a new outlook and finally some new weather. Luckily for you, we have an Annapolis hotel deal that allows you to take full advantage of the changing season.
You can escape routine and regroup, and with our special package, you can also get some quality shopping in while you’re at it. Book with the Holiday Inn Express and Suites Annapolis, and you’ll get a discounted hotel stay along with a completely free Visa gift card! That gift card can be used anywhere and any way you’d like. In fact, you can start with these downtown Annapolis shopping options:
Annapolis Towne Centre
You can literally walk to this shopping center from our hotel if you’d like. There are lots of great options to choose from like Target, Bed Bath and Beyond and even a Whole Foods if you get hungry.
Westfield Annapolis Mall
This one is more traditional if you’re looking for department stores and places you’re already familiar with. Westfield has stores like Macys, Express, Nordstrom and an Apple Store if you want to finally get that new computer.
Main Street Area Shops
This option allows you to explore downtown Annapolis and get some good shopping done too! There are lots of galleries and restaurants to check out as well as locally celebrated boutiques. There’s a tea shop, a jewelry shop, a clothing store and a leather goods shop – just to name a few!
Then, when you’ve had enough shopping, you can head back to your cozy room and rest up for the new season. Remember, our hotel always offers free hot breakfast in the morning, free high-speed Internet and free premium cable.
February 26, 2018
With Spring comes renewal. If you’ve been wanting to switch up your wardrobe or your home décor or even your hair, Spring is usually the time to do it. If you’ve been wanting to go on a vacation or simply step back and just relax for a moment, Spring is the prime opportunity.
Luckily for you, you live in a place perfectly designed for a vacation set right in your backyard. This Spring, take advantage of your city and have a staycation. You’ll save money and still reap so many benefits.
At the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Annapolis, we’re offering the perfect staycation package. Trust us, this is one Annapolis hotel deal you don’t want to pass up!
To start, you’ll get a super affordable nightly rate. You’ll get a complimentary bottle of sparking wine to set the tone, and you’ll get the amazing luxury of a late check out – you can sleep in past Noon if you want! You’ll also be in close proximity to the very best that Annapolis has to offer.
Want to ignore responsibilities and do some shopping? Annapolis Towne Centre is right around the corner. Want to hop aboard a relaxing cruise and actually see the city? Do it! We’re not called the sailing capital of the U.S. for nothing. Want to get dressed up and drink wine you can barely pronounce? Cooper’s Hawk Winery and Restaurant is just a short drive away.
However you need to bring in a new season, whether it’s by getting some much-needed sleep or trying out new restaurants in town, you can make it happen with us.
Book your affordable staycation today, and get ready for Spring.
February 16, 2018
We may be thousands of miles away from Ireland, but that doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate the big day. In fact, Annapolis is full of spirit and holiday cheer, so all you have to do is show up - dressed in your finest green attire, of course.
Here are a few ways to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, and get in on some of that good old Irish Luck!
Go to the Parade!
Every year, Annapolis throws a festive St. Patrick’s Day parade, and every year, the turn out is amazing. Brought to you by The Blue Ribbon Project, this year will be the sixth annual parade, and like always, it’s designed for the whole family to enjoy. There will be fun prizes and giveaways along the route, so make sure you get a good spot! The parade is Sunday, March 11th, in downtown Annapolis.
Do the Shamrock Stroll!
For the fourth year running, the Shamrock Stroll will take over Annapolis. The event presents day-drinking at its best as participants will do a massive bar crawl through the best bars and restaurants in town. Some participating bars are Armadillos, Dock Street Bar & Grill, ACME Bar & Grill and Stan and Joes Saloon. Tickets are only $10, and you can party, dance and drink with the best of them all day long. The stroll is Saturday, March 10th.
Celebrate at Galway Bay
Head over to Galway Bay and experience a taste of Ireland right in Annapolis. On St. Patrick’s Day, the restaurant will open at 8am for breakfast and live Irish music will start at Noon. There will be Irish staples like corned beef and cabbage, shepherds pie, whiskey, beer and more! If you wanted to have a lively dinner but can do without the chaotic party, Galway Bay is the place to celebrate!
Of course, go to Fado Irish Pub
Every year, Fado Irish Pub goes above and beyond for St. Patrick’s Day, and this year will be no different. On the day of, there will be music, dancing, and lots and lots of Irish food and drinks. The bar has even dubbed 2018’s celebration “Be The Legend,” so you already know it’s going to be a good time. Just see for yourself, Annapolis!
Take advantage of all the exciting events happening in town, people! Enjoy yourself. And when you’ve had enough, don’t even think about trying to drive home. Book a room at our nearby hotel in downtown Annapolis, and sleep it off. We want you to have the time of the your life, but we want you to be safe while doing it!
Have a fun (and safe!) St. Patrick’s Day, Annapolis!
February 9, 2018
We know this time of the year is usually dedicated to romance. Everything is decorated in pink and red, and you can’t go anywhere without seeing chocolate and teddy bears and heart-shaped balloons. We understand the importance of this type of love, but we want you to remember another type of love that’s worthy of celebration too: the love of your children!
There are lots of fun ways to celebrate your little ones in Annapolis, and one of those ways is at the Chesapeake Children’s Museum, which is near our downtown Annapolis hotel. The museum has tons of fun and educational activities, and their latest event, “Lead On, Harriet,” teaches the young ones all about the complex Underground Railroad and the life of Harriet Tubman. “Lead On, Harriet” will take place from March 9th to the 10th.
If you can’t make that event, there are lots of other exhibits and events to take advantage of including “Healthy Me,” which encourages healthy eating and playing habits, “African Folk Tales and Crafts,” which teaches the young ones about West Africa, and the “Animal Party” series, which lets kids explore the animals both in and outside the museum.
You can also bring young children and toddlers to the museum. No one is left behind! On Fridays, the museum hosts “Art and Story Time” from 10:30am-11:30am, and your little ones can read and play along with books, puppets and arts and crafts.
This time of year, you should celebrate love in more ways than one, and a trip to the Chesapeake Children’s Museum is a gift that keeps on giving.
January 25, 2018
Annapolis, here’s your opportunity to be adventurous…to be daring…to be bold. It’s Annapolis Restaurant Week 2018, and at the very least, it’s your opportunity to try something new.
Whether it’s one of your resolutions to explore things to do in Annapolis or you simply want to try different foods, this is the perfect way to take advantage – all for a fraction of the cost!
If you’ve never joined in on the dining fun, here’s how it works: you visit any of the participating restaurants for breakfast, lunch or dinner, and you order from a specially curated menu. For breakfast, you can get a two-course meal for only $12.95. For lunch, you can get two courses for $15.95, and for dinner, you can get a complete three-course meal for only $34.95.
There will be more than 40 local restaurants participating this year, so you can have something completely different for breakfast, lunch or dinner. If you want to really indulge, eat out for all three meals and take your taste buds on a journey. With quality menus all at fixed prices, the splurge is so worth it!
Annapolis Restaurant Week has been taking over the city for nearly a decade, and this year’s celebration will be Sunday, February 25th to Saturday, March 3rd. The event is put on by the Downtown Annapolis Partnership, which works to “facilitate sustainable economic growth while improving the quality of life for Annapolis residents.”
Happy eating, Annapolis!
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Holiday Inn Express Hotel and Suites Annapolis 2451 Riva Road | Annapolis, MD 21401 Phone: 1-888-791-7531
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