5 Amazing Day Trips You Can Take From Annapolis, MD
If you’ve chosen the historic maritime city of Annapolis, MD to be your home, chances are you enjoy history, time on the water, outdoor recreation, and cultural opportunities. You can get your fill of all of those in our charming city of 33,000, but did you know that there are a number of easy day trips that offer additional opportunities for exploration?
1. St. Michaels, MD
Calling itself “The Heart & Soul of the Chesapeake Bay,” St. Michaels is located on the water and offers both maritime history and a seaport lifestyle. Check out the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum or book one of the sailing cruises offered. Afterward, browse for finds in the many galleries and antique stores. And for those who drink responsibly, St. Michael’s winery and Lyon Distillery are fun stops. This seaside town is located just 60 miles from Annapolis.
2. Frederick, MD
If you’re ready for a day in the country, look no further than Frederick. A mere 70 miles from Annapolis, Frederick offers historic homes, museums, and battlefields. The National Museum of Civil War Medicine is a must-see. And for those who don’t drink and drive, Frederick offers some of the best wine in the state. Locally owned wineries offer a variety of tours, many of which showcase country views.
3. Baltimore, MD
If the city beckons, Baltimore is just 30 miles away. Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, which offers restaurants, museums, and a host of other attractions, is especially popular. The Maryland Science Center is well worth a visit, as is the National Aquarium. The Top of the World Observation Level offers dramatic views of the area. And to continue the maritime theme, check out the Historic Ships in Baltimore, essentially floating museums on the edge of the harbor.
4. Washington, DC
In addition to Baltimore, Annapolis offers easy access to another big city: Washington, DC. Just 41 miles away, Washington offers no shortage of cultural, historical, or entertainment options. Take advantage of the Smithsonian Institution, which operates a number of completely free museums. Visit the Washington Monument or one of the other memorials in the city. End your day with a stroll along the cobblestone streets of Georgetown.
5. Ocean City, MD
Sometimes the best medicine is a day at the beach, and Ocean City offers just that. Ocean City is home to one of the most beloved beaches in the region, and its boardwalk offers everything from dining and shopping to amusement rides. During the summer, check out one of the free seaside concerts. Located just 117 miles away, Ocean City is an easy day trip. Don’t miss Thrasher’s French Fries on the boardwalk.
Whether you’re looking for fun in the sun or a walk through history, there is no shortage of places to explore if you’ve made Annapolis your home. Once you’ve planned your next day trip, you’ll need a great vehicle for all of your adventures. Head over to Koons Annapolis Toyota to pick out your next car, truck, or SUV.
6 Great Parks Near Annapolis, MD
Kayaking on river
Annapolis, MD has a way of beckoning outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you enjoy sailing, which is the sport this seaside city is best known for, or walking, jogging, and other outdoor pursuits, there is no shortage of opportunity. But your time outdoors doesn’t have to be restricted to the city limits. There are plenty of terrific parks within easy reach of the city.
1. Sandy Point State Park
Sandy Point State Park is located just outside the city limits on the shores of the Chesapeake Bay. It’s a terrific option if sand and surf are calling your name. Fish or swim in the water or take a long walk along the shore. The view from the end of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge is amazing. Spend an hour or the whole day at this easy-to-reach gem.
2. Gunpowder Falls State Park
If woodlands are what you’re looking for Gunpowder Falls State Park, located 45 miles from Annapolis, is a great option. This state park covers more than 18,000 acres, making it one of Maryland’s largest. In addition to miles of trails, this park offers horseback riding, fishing, kayaking, swimming, and a marina. River tubing is also a popular activity here.
3. Ohio Canal National Historic Park
This park preserves many of the original structures along the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. The towpaths along either side of the canal are ideal for walkers and bikers, and the lock houses you’ll encounter along the way are interesting to explore. Located 37 miles from Annapolis, this park offers visitors a taste of history as well as a chance to enjoy the outdoors.
4. Assateague State Park
Nearly 95 miles from Annapolis, Assateague is a barrier island located just off Maryland’s Eastern Shore. In the summer, it’s an ideal spot for swimming and surfing, and trails on the island can be used to bike, walk, or jog on. This island is also known for its population of wild ponies, which visitors often can catch a glimpse of.
5. Rosaryville State Park
Rosaryville State Park is a 982-acre public recreation area with trails for walking, jogging, and horse-riding. Rosaryville is home to Mount Airy Mansion, which is connected to the Calvert family, the family that founded Maryland in the Colonial era. The recreational area, located 31 miles from Annapolis, also has two pavilions that are available for rent.
6. North Point State Park
Located 30 miles from Annapolis, North Point Park is located on the edge of the Chesapeake Bay. This park offers hiking trails, scenic Chesapeake Bay views, water access, and two fishing piers. In the early 1900s, North Point was the site of a popular amusement park, and the original trolley station is currently used as a picnic area.
If you’re ready to hit the road in search of outdoor adventure, you’ll want to have a good vehicle at the ready. Make your way over to Koons Toyota Annapolis and pick out your next car, truck, or SUV today!
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Bikers on a nature trail
If you’re looking for somewhere to go biking, then Annapolis, MD is a great place to begin. There are lots of municipal bike trails in the city itself, while outside you’ll find lots of exciting mountain bike paths to explore. So strap on your helmet and get ready for a day on these fantastic trails.
4 of the Best Bike Paths and Biking Trails in And Around Annapolis, MD
1. Poplar Avenue Trail
The Poplar Avenue Trail, sometimes just called the Poplar Trail, is nearly a mile long and is an urban trail in the heart of the city. It’s paved along its entire length, and follows the route of the old Washington, Baltimore, and Annapolis Right of Way; it’s still an important route connecting residential areas with schools, athletics fields, and a library. There are proposals to extend the trail along the same route to connect with the planned South Shore Trail, which will bring the total distance to over 10 miles.
2. Broadneck Peninsula Trail
Situated in East Annapolis, the Broadneck Peninsula Trail is a 1.2 mile stretch of asphalt that roughly follows the College Parkway. It starts by Green Holly Drive, and terminated near Old Cape St. Clair Road, with several spurs that reach out to both Broadneck Library and Walnut Ridge Drive. There’s an extension planned to this route too, with this one expected to connect to the much longer Baltimore and Annapolis Trail.
3. Baltimore and Annapolis Trail
So far, the trails we’ve mentioned here have been fairly short, but where to go if you’re looking for a longer ride? No list of trails in the Annapolis area would be complete without a mention of the mighty Baltimore and Annapolis Trail, which, as the name suggests, provides a direct cycle route connection. There’s more to this trail than just the picturesque trees and landscape: this route is also steeped in history. It follows the route of an old railroad, the Baltimore and Annapolis Short Line, which carried freight and passengers along the coast from 1880.
If you have even a passing interest in the history of the area, it’s also worth taking the time to stop and read the 26 alphabetical signs that each provide information on a particular feature of the trail. The trailheads are located past the Severn River, off US 50; find the Baltimore end near West Central Avenue.
4. Waterworks Park Mountain Bike Trails
If you’re looking for a little more of an adrenaline rush, then try Waterworks Park, a large recreation area that includes over 11 miles of trails, thanks to the heroic efforts of the Mid-Atlantic Off-Road Enthusiasts volunteers. In addition, you can also connect to other mountain bike trails by following a connector up to Bacon Ridge, a fantastic trail system in its own right.
These are just a few of the fantastic trails to discover in the area, any of which make for a fantastic ride. You’ll need a great car to get you there though, so visit us at Koons Annapolis Toyota today!
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6 Favorite Local Coffee Shops Near Annapolis, MD
Coffee Shop
There’s nothing like a delicious cup of coffee to begin your day, whether you’re spending the day at home or heading to work. You’ll find great coffee shops and cafes in and around Annapolis, MD on your next visit to town.
1. Brown Mustache Coffee
You’ll find this local coffee house one of the top favorites for providing exquisite espresso-based beverages, friendly baristas, and a cozy, laid-back atmosphere. Brown Mustache Coffee’s menu offers a delicious variety of lattes, teas, coffee drinks, iced beverages, and baked goods. Artisan chocolates and gluten-free treats are the main features of this café. You can place orders online for curbside pickup and delivery and gift cards are available.
2. Ceremony Coffee Roasters
This fantastic café is conveniently located in the Riva Shopping Center, which is the ideal spot to enjoy a coffee break in between your errands. Ceremony Coffee Roasters high-quality blended drinks, teas, iced drinks, and a wonderful menu of light fare, including salads, sandwiches, and pastries. The café offers dairy-free options and whole beans to purchase for home.
3. Rise Up
4. The Red Bean
If you’re looking for an excellent spot to savor a tasty cup of coffee with your favorite iced treat or baked dessert, you’ll love the Red Bean. This café provides high-quality coffee and blended drinks, ice cream, waffle cones, and assorted sweets. You can order your favorite drink and treats for dine-in and take-out six days a week. Non-dairy beverages and dessert options are also available.
5. Bean Rush Café
6. Bitty and Beau’s Coffee
The 2021 Toyota Corolla: All You Need to Know
Get ready to end your search for your next vehicle, because we’ve got one of the year’s most exciting models to show you. Brighten up your future driving experiences with the quality that the 2021 Toyota Corolla offers you. With its striking design and all the modern tech and amenities for you to enjoy, there are a whole lot of reasons so many drivers love their Corolla. Get introduced to everything Toyota is offering here with our preview below.
The 2021 Toyota Corolla
Show Up in Style
You can finally show off a vehicle that’s as stylish as you are with the bold appearance the new Corolla presents when you take it out on the road. The sporty, aggressive front fascia demands attention from the moment you enter, with stylish details like the 18-inch machined alloy wheels adding their own distinctive flair. Get a confident, sporty look with the Corolla Apex or go for bold and dark with the Corolla Nightshade.
Fun and Efficient
Cut costs at the gas pump with the impressive mileage the Corolla gets, rated for up to 40 miles per gallon on the highway. The 2.0-liter dynamic force engine doesn’t compromise on power to get you that efficiency either, cranking out 169 horsepower for you to work with.
Those who desire more direct control over their engine will love the mounted paddle shifters on your steering wheel, allowing for greater precision as you take the Corolla through the gears.
Cutting-Edge Tech
The new Corolla is advanced enough to keep up with you and all the gadgets you already use in your everyday life. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility make it easy to access your phone’s contacts, music, and more all while you’re on the go.
Recognized for Safety
Toyota’s commitment to the safety of drivers and passengers in their vehicle earned the Corolla an IIHS Top Safety Pick award, when equipped with specific headlights. That commitment shows in high-tech features such as the full-speed range dynamic radar cruise control.
When you’re using cruise control on the highway, this feature adjusts your speed automatically to maintain a safe separation between yourself and other vehicles it detects.
Priced for Your Budget
Driving a quality vehicle shouldn’t cost you an outrageous fee, which is why Toyota designed the Corolla to offer a more affordable choice that doesn’t compromise on the experience it delivers you. Starting costs for the Corolla go for as low as $20,025, putting this vehicle within most drivers’ reach.
A variety of trim levels and optional features help you customize your ride to find the right middle ground between the cost you’re looking for and the features you need.
Why pay a hefty price for your next vehicle when you can get all the quality you need in your drive from the new Corolla? Get the full information about one of 2021’s most exciting vehicle options when you see it up-close at our dealership. Come check out the new and improved Corolla at Koons Annapolis Toyota today!
Trim Levels of the 2021 Toyota Camry
The 2021 Toyota Camry is one of the top cars currently available, but how do you know which trim level of the Camry to choose? Check out our guide to help you make an informed decision.
Camry LE
You’ll get plenty of benefits from the base level of the Camry with the LE trim level. The integrated backup camera that shows your projected path will make navigating tight spots in reverse easy and worry-free.
Camry LE Hybrid
A fully hybrid powertrain helps the LE Hybrid trim level achieve superb gas mileage that will save you time and money for years to come, with an EPA-estimated 53 miles per gallon on the highway. You’ll also have access to the Smart Key system to start your engines with the push of a button.
Camry SE
Show off a bold look with the 18-inch black machined-finish alloy wheels that the Camry SE sports, with a black front grille with sport mesh insert to match. You’ll also ride in the utmost comfort provided by the Sport SofTex-trimmed front seats with fabric inserts.
Camry SE Hybrid
You’ll get the same bold look the SE brings to the road combined with hybrid efficiency from the Camry SE Hybrid. Take your hybrid performance to the next level with the sport-tuned suspension this trim level brings, giving you more responsive handling.
Camry SE Nightshade Edition
The dark theme available from the SE trim levels gets even more stylish accents when you choose the Camry SE Nightshade Edition. Black door handles, mirror caps, window trim, and badging complete a cohesive style theme that runs through your whole appearance.
Camry XLE
Take your favorite music on the road with you with excellent clarity and quality from the six-speaker Audio Plus system. Set the mood with the right song for the moment, controlling everything with ease from the 9.0-inch touchscreen control console. There’s also a V6 engine option for this trim level.
Camry XLE Hybrid
The XLE Hybrid gives you all the features you get from the XLE trim level with the addition of top-notch efficiency, getting up to 47 miles per gallon. Enjoy your efficient ride in comfort with the leather-trimmed multi-stage heated and ventilated front seats.
Camry XSE
The Camry XSE’s sport-tuned suspension allows for more precise control on tight turns. Your ride will look as good as it feels with 19-inch gloss-black wheels. Like the XLE, this trim level also comes in a V6 variant to get a more powerful drive.
Camry XSE Hybrid
The XSE Hybrid’s gas/electric powertrain gets an impressive 47 miles per gallon on the highway. Paddle shifters on your steering wheel let you take more direct control as your car goes through the gears.
Camry TRD
Unleash the power of the Camry TRD’s V6 3.5-liter 24-valve DOHC engine, adding more power to your daily ride. Signature style elements such as the rear diffuser with red pinstriping give the TRD its unmistakable look.
Come check out the different options for your new Camry at our dealership. Find your next dream ride at Koons Annapolis Toyota today!
Your car’s transmission is one of its most vital components. It helps to control the gears and transfer power from the engine out to the wheels, effectively allowing the car to move around. Unfortunately, just like with other car parts, issues can arise with your vehicle’s transmission over time. This guide will take a look at some of the big signs that your car requires urgent transmission repair from the Toyota dealer.
The Top 6 Signs Your Car Needs a Transmission Repair from the Toyota Dealer
1. Warning Light
One of the easiest ways to identify a transmission problem is to simply keep an eye on your dashboard and watch for the appearance of a warning light. Many cars are equipped with little lights that illuminate to let you know when problems have been detected. Some vehicles have specific transmission lights, while others might simply show the “Check Engine” light as a general warning when something is wrong.
2. Fluid Leaks
Another easy way to spot transmission issues is to take a look around the area where you usually park your car, like your driveway. If you spot any puddles of red or brown fluid, that might be transmission fluid and your car may have a leak. This is a really serious issue, as the transmission will fail if it doesn’t have enough fluid.
3. Gear Switching Problems
4. Strange Sounds
5. Burning Smells
6. Unresponsive Vehicle
If you spot any of these warning signs or have any doubts about your transmission, it’s important to seek professional repairs right away. The longer you wait, the worse the problems can become. Call Koons Annapolis Toyota today to schedule transmission checks and repairs.
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4 Best Fishing Spots Near Annapolis, MD
Fishing pole
The city of Annapolis, MD is situated near some great places to fish. While the city’s parks offer some great fishing lakes and ponds, the city’s proximity to the Severn River, South River, and the entirety of the Chesapeake mean that some of the best fishing spots in the country are right next door. So grab a rod and line and head out for a day by the water at one of these amazing spots.
1. Thomas Point Park
Thomas Point Park, located right at the southern tip of Annapolis, juts out into the bay on a narrow spit of land. The park attracts thousands of anglers all through the year, but gets particularly busy during the spring and fall, as it is at this time of year that catching a huge striper becomes a real possibility.
However, you’ll need to get your hands on one of the limited daily permits to be able to fish here, and they are offered first-come-first-served, so call the park office to get one before heading down.
2. Sandy Point State Park
Situated just to the north of Thomas Point Park on the same narrow peninsular, Sandy Point State Park is also an excellent place. It’s especially good if you’re looking to get your hands on a trophy striper, with some huge fish caught from the number of rocky jetties, as well as the dedicated fishing pier.
Night fishing is also allowed here but only those actively fishing are allowed after the park closes. There is a tackle and bait supply store located next to the park’s marina where you can stock up for a day by the water.
3. South River
Despite high levels of boat traffic during the day, anglers who are willing to fish in the morning and evening, when the river is quieter will find that there are numerous opportunities to fish for striped bass, white perch, spot, and Atlantic croaker.
Fishing on the lower tidal section of the river is usually best, but anglers can also venture further upstream to the marshy swamps and small runs that characterize the upper river. Catfish often lurk in the shallow creeks and inlets, and there are numerous piers to fish from along most of the small roads that run by the water.
4. Jonas Green Park
Located a short drive from Annapolis, over the Naval Academy Bridge on the Severn River, Jonas Green Park is home to an excellent fishing pier in the form of the old bridge section that protrudes into the water.
The pier is open 24/7 and provides an option to catch white perch, spot, croaker, pumpkinseed, and rockfish, depending on the season. If you head to the very end of the pier, you will be able to drop a line in much deeper water, allowing you to target blue catfish as well.
These are just some of the best places to fish near Annapolis, but there are lots more out there to discover, so head out to the water today? Need a new car for your next fishing expedition? Then head down to Koons Annapolis Toyota, where you can view our incredible range of new and used cars.
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5 Great Features of the 2021 Toyota Venza
Toyota has long been known for its durable, high-value cars. But with the new release of the 2021 Toyota Venza, this automaker is soon to be synonymous with luxury as well. The Venza nameplate was at one time applied to a wagon/crossover. Today, it’s attached to a luxury hybrid about to blaze a new trail in the crossover market.
1. Lexus-Like Luxury
With its sculpted body lines, chrome trim, and coupe-like roof, the revived Venza could easily pass for a Lexus. It shares its platform with the RAV4, a long-running favorite in the SUV market, but feels more upscale from every angle. The vehicle’s rear is elegantly sculpted, with thin LED taillights that span the width of the hatch. Inside, all surfaces are wrapped in real or synthetic leather with contrast stitching for an upscale look.
Three different trims – the LE, XLE, and Limited – offer different features that further elevate the driving experience. For example, the Limited offers heated and ventilated seats with a star-gazing panoramic roof. Even the base LE comes with a standard hands-free power liftgate, an accessory available only on higher trims in other vehicles.
2. A Whole Lot of Tech
The Venza’s interior console is designed for drama, and your eye is likely to first be drawn to the 8-inch touchscreen that provides easy access to maps, music, and apps. A 12.3-inch screen is available on the XLE and standard on the Limited.
A clean, well-lit 7-inch multi-information display is also available so you can see key driving data without taking your eyes off the road. Another option is a digital rearview mirror that provides a wider and clearer view of what’s behind the vehicle. And ambient lighting creates a refined feel on nighttime drives.
3. Green Power
Excellent fuel economy and earth-friendly habits tend to make an SUV feel sluggish, but the Venza has plenty of power. The engine remains in the background most of the time so that even on acceleration, the cabin remains serenely
quiet. And the brake pedal has a nice, tight feel that rises above most hybrid competitors.
4. Room to Spare
5. Safety in Spades
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Automatic emergency braking
- Blind-spot monitors with rear cross-traffic alerts
- Active lane control
- Automatic high beams
- Adaptive cruise control
- Road-sign recognition
Earth-friendly, sleek, and perfect for smaller families, the Venza is a game-changer in the crossover market. We recommend you take it for a test drive and see what precision engineering and plush luxury feel like on the road. Visit Koons Annapolis Toyota today and experience the all-new Venza.
Ramen
Welcome to beautiful Annapolis, MD! Whether you’re here on business or family vacation, you’ll find plenty of fine restaurants for dining in, takeout, or delivery. And when you’re in search of the best Chinese food, you’re in luck. The city has great Chinese restaurants that are sure to please.
1. Jack’s Fortune
This family-owned and operated establishment is a favorite among locals. Known for their fresh cuisine, cozy environment, and friendly service, Jack’s Fortune prides itself on authentic food. With easy access to amazing seafood right on the Chesapeake, they serve up some favorites.
From Jack’s signature crab cake to the Kung Pao shrimp, and the scallops in garlic sauce to the fish fillet Szechuan style, you’ll find it all. Vegetarians, don’t despair—they’ve got you covered as well!
2. The Canton Restaurant
For large portions at affordable prices, stop by this eatery, which has been an Annapolis fixture for some 60 years. We recommend the Szechuan shrimp, orange beef, sweet and sour shrimp, general triple delight, or the pork fried rice. We love their red chili oil-based sauce, which is spicy and flavorful. Stop in for lunch and take advantage of their buffet.
3. Golden Dragon Restaurant
Dine here, or relax in your hotel and use their convenient online ordering service for takeout or delivery. They use only the freshest ingredients to create classic cuisine. Start with a cup of egg drop, tofu vegetable, or seafood soup. For an appetizer, try the crab rangoon or the fried dumplings.
For an entrée, you’ll want to try the General Tso’s chicken, which is probably some of the best we’ve ever had. For vegetarian options, we recommend the bean curd Szechuan style or the crispy eggplant.
4. House of Hunan
When you’re on the go and need a quick meal, this is a convenient stop. They serve a large variety of traditional dishes, including vegetarian and vegan plates. They have lunch specials, which run Monday to Friday until 3 p.m. and come with an egg roll and fried rice.
If you dine in, they have a full bar, so sit back and sip on a cold one as your meal is being prepared. Please drink responsibly and in moderation. Do not drink and drive. Alcohol is for adults of legal drinking age only.
5. Nano Asian Dining
For some of the best Chinese food around, visit this vibrant and friendly eatery. They serve a Pan-Asian menu that includes both traditional Chinese and Japanese dishes, as well as a sushi bar. Start with a bowl of egg drop soup or the sweet and sour soup, and for an entrée, try the combination lo mein, the mango with sticky rice, the egg foo young, the drunken noodles, or the vegetable fried rice.
Before you leave town, be sure to stop by Koons Annapolis Toyota and check out our large selection of inventory, including SUVs, cars, and trucks. We are ready to assist you with your vehicle needs today.
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