About
Like the Empire State Building is synonymous with New York City, so is the United States Naval Academy to Annapolis. Aside from being the Navy's premier institution, fostering leadership, service, and academic excellence, it's also rich with history.
Our story begins in 1845 when Secretary of the Navy George Bancroft created the Naval School at Fort Severn. While it had only 50 midshipmen and 7 professors, it was the precursor to today's institute. The curriculum was five years, with the first and last years spent at the school and the three years in between at sea.
The Civil War was a pivotal period for the academy. To avoid the conflict and southern sympathies prevalent in Maryland, the academy temporarily relocated to Newport, Rhode Island. Once the war was over, the United States Naval Academy returned to Annapolis in 1865.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, architect Ernest Flagg introduced a new era by replacing the original fort buildings with grand Beaux-Arts-style structures. These include Bancroft Hall and the Naval Academy Chapel, which are iconic landmarks to this day.
Aside from architectural renovations, the academy has also undergone administrative changes. In 1976, the Naval Academy admitted its first class of women. Today, women comprise a substantial percentage of each entering class, reflecting the institution's ongoing evolution.
The academy's mission has remained consistent: to develop midshipmen morally, mentally, and physically. It prepares graduates to serve as well-rounded leaders in the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. The curriculum is rigorous, balancing engineering and cyber science with humanities and social sciences.
The campus is a designated National Historic Landmark, making it a welcome addition to a tour of the Colonial Annapolis Historic District.
When planning your visit to the Naval Academy, you may book a tour online or at the Armel-Leftwich Visitor Center.
United States Naval Academy: Fun Facts & Cool Features
One of the most famous buildings to visit is Bancroft Hall, the world's largest single dormitory. It houses over 4,400 midshipmen and is so massive that it has its own zip code! The nearly five miles of corridors lead to dining facilities, a post office, a bank, and various recreational areas.
While a seasonal activity, the Herndon Monument Climb is another must-see. This unofficial tradition marks the end of the demanding first year for plebes, or freshmen. To celebrate, the entire plebe class works together to climb the 21-foot Herndon Monument, which is covered in vegetable shortening by upperclassmen. The goal? Replace a plebe "Dixie cup" hat at the top with a midshipman's cover. While it can take hours for the class to succeed, the event symbolizes their transition from plebes to upperclassmen.
The Naval Academy Chapel is an architectural masterpiece and a spiritual center for the campus. Its iconic dome is a prominent feature of the Annapolis skyline. Below the chapel lies the crypt of John Paul Jones, the Revolutionary War naval hero. His remains were brought to the academy in 1905 after being discovered in Paris. The ornate marble sarcophagus, modeled after Napoleon's tomb, is a moving tribute to the man often called the "Father of the American Navy."
The United States Naval Academy's proximity to other key landmarks makes planning an itinerary easy-peasy. For instance, combine a stroll at the 6 acres of Quiet Waters Park with a tour of the academy. Afterwards, discuss your adventures over succulent cuisine at restaurants like Osteria 177 and Carrol's Creek Cafe.
A visit to the United States Naval Academy offers a unique glimpse into a world of discipline, history, and honor. Exploring the grounds, witnessing the noon formation, or touring the buildings provides a deeper appreciation for the midshipmen's commitment.
Local Tips
- All visitors 18 and older must have a valid U.S. government-issued photo ID or passport.
- Tours last 90 minutes, so dress comfortably.
- Be sure to watch the midshipmen's noon formation in Tecumseh Court.
- Parking is not available on campus; use nearby city garages.
