About
Quiet Waters Park is a 340-acre outdoor wonderland featuring playgrounds, paved trails, a dog beach, a concert series, and even an ice skating rink!
Long before it became a park, the land was private farmland in the late 19th century. Later, the Larrimore family used the land as a country retreat.
By the 1980s, Anne Arundel County recognized the need for more public recreational areas and purchased the land. City planners aimed to preserve the land's natural beauty while introducing amenities that would serve the community. The park officially opened in September 1990, offering formal gardens with untamed woodlands and scenic waterfront views.
Today, the Visitor Center and art galleries occupy the heart of the park, serving as a hub for cultural events and information. Adjacent to the visitor center is the Quiet Waters Park Ice Rink. Popular during winter, it offers family-friendly outdoor skating, skate rental, and blade sharpening.
The park's layout encourages exploration, with miles of paved trails winding through diverse ecosystems. Additionally, its proximity to the Colonial Annapolis Historic District, United States Naval Academy, and St. John's College makes planning an itinerary easy.
Quiet Waters Park: Fun Facts & Cool Features
The art galleries are a distinctive feature and are visible at the park's visitor center and administrative buildings. Here, rotating exhibits from painters, photographers, and sculptors make art accessible in a natural setting.
The county added the Reading and Butterfly Garden in 2012, which features a natural, peaceful, and healthy environment. The facility offers an outdoor classroom, reading grove, and butterfly and sensory gardens.
Another popular destination is the dog beach. This designated off-leash area allows canine companions to splash and play freely in the South River. There is also a fenced-in dog park away from the water for more traditional playtime.
Speaking of water adventures, consider renting a kayak, canoe, paddleboard, and pedal boat to explore the serene Harness Creek. Exploring the calm waterways to spot wildlife like herons, ospreys, and turtles makes this water attraction a major draw. It lets you combine water and land excursions without ever leaving Quiet Waters Park.
During the summer, check out the family-friendly Concerts in the Park series. These outdoor performances are free and are perfect for a picnic dinner while listening to music.
Nearby restaurants make it easy to coordinate a picnic to-go. Hotspots like Iron Rooster-Annapolis and Boatyard Bar & Grill offer everything from made-from-scratch breakfasts to award-winning crab cakes. Another option is to celebrate your adventure at the park with a dinner at iconic eateries like Carrol's Creek Cafe and Vin 909 Winecafé. With so many options, the possibilities are endless!
A visit to Quiet Waters Park offers a refreshing break and a chance to connect with nature and local culture. It combines the peace of a nature preserve, the engagement of an arts center, and the fun of a water park.
Whether you spend the day hiking wooded trails, admiring art, or paddling down a quiet creek, the park provides a memorable and diverse experience on any Annapolis vacation.
Local Tips
- Check the online event page to coordinate your visit with an activity.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many scenic spots or pavilions.
- Alcohol is not permitted in the park.
- Bring insect repellent during the summer months, particularly near the water and wooded trails.
