While exploring Middleburg’s historic district, stop into Side Saddle
Cafe for seasonal dishes with the finest local ingredients, many of
which come from the farm that owns it. This is a place to sit and
savor, not eat and run. For an elegant meal in a gorgeous setting,
The Red Fox Inn & Tavern, a local landmark, has several beautiful
dining spaces, including a romantic garden terrace. Its location in
the rolling hills of Virginia’s wine country, makes it an ideal place to
explore the local vintages.
Annapolis City Dock
Credit: Bob Peterson
ANNAPOLIS, MD
Distance from downtown D.C.: 42 miles
Situated on the Chesapeake Bay, Annapolis has a beautiful historical
district lined with 18th-century architecture. It’s also home to the
U.S. Naval Academy, which sets the tone of this city — historic,
steadfast, and water-focused.
Guided tours of the U.S. Naval Academy are available, and guests
can explore its history at the U.S. Naval Academy Museum, which
houses an intriguing collection of maritime artifacts, including more
than 600 historic American and captured foreign ship flags. The
copper dome of the Naval Academy Chapel is striking, but it’s even
more beautiful on the inside, with intricate stained-glass windows
and wood carvings.
Red Fox Inn & Tavern
Credit: Visit Middleburg
City Dock, at the water’s edge, is the historical and cultural heart
of Annapolis. At Ego Alley, sign up for a boat tour or watch them
sailing across the bay. A walk along Main Street from City Dock
reveals an assortment of quaint shops, restaurants, and galleries.
Hats in the Belfry draws shoppers with both its clever name and
wall-to-wall assortment of hats for all seasons. At Lilac Bijoux, find
jewelry, clothing, and accessories by local artisans and designers.
Annapolis has a delightful dining scene. Boatyard Bar & Grill is
famous for its award-winning crab cakes and excellent raw bar.
Add a scenic waterfront view at upscale Carrol’s Creek Cafe, which
serves classic seafood dishes. Just be sure to save at least one
breakfast for Iron Rooster. Its fried chicken is good enough to merit
its own section of the breakfast menu and is served atop waffles,
French toast, pancakes, biscuits, and even Benedicts.
King Street, Alexandria
Credit: R. Kennedy for Visit Alexandria
AUTUMN 2019 59 FLYWASHINGTON.COM