Since the Parent Cafe is my primary source of advice and info, I wouldn’t dream of making a major life change without consulting you all. Our three grown kids all live either permanently or intermittently in DC, so GAmom and I have decided to become MDmom and dad in the next year or two. We anticipate moving to a waterfront home somewhere in Anne Arundel County and enjoying the opportunities and activities of a more cosmopolitan setting in addition to getting to see our kids more often. Are there parts of the county that you’d either endorse or caution us about? Any considerations that would make life in the Annapolis area especially enjoyable? Any favorite places to go or things to do?
Annapolis was one of our favorite places to live. Anne Arundel has a range of places to live from the historic city to rural.
If you want to able to walk into town or to restaurants, the Eastport area is great if you can find something. Parking for guests can be a challenge with some of the older historic places.
There are so many nooks and crannies in neighborhoods around town with all of the water. Up the Severn River and over by Cape St. Claire gives you additional water options. Traffic is fierce at times, so having a few ways to get in and out of a neighborhood is helpful (think about being on a peninsula with limited or no bridges).
If you are okay with a little more rural feel, head down to Galesvile or Shady Side - this southern part of the County gives you some other options to head into DC as well.
Lots of folks keep heading East to the Eastern Shore as well.
For food and fun-
Reynolds Tavern and 1747 Pub
The pub is a wonderful experience and a step back in history.
https://maps.app.■■■■■■/MotNgMfPnjU9K1MG9?g_st=ic
Cantler’s Riverside Inn
Is a classic. Nothing fancy - just a laid back seafood place on the water
https://maps.app.■■■■■■/FS4V7H21yrErE7Ej6?g_st=ic
Good Luck.
Marvelous!
Some areas are impacted by summer weekend travel across the Bay Bridge.
Others may be impacted as they are on a tributary & one road in and out.
There is an updated planning and zoning map for land use, will want to be aware how the neighborhood may change.
See responsibilities of waterfront property owners, for example.
https://www.aacounty.org/departments/public-works/wprp/education-outreach/waterfront-homeowners/
You can’t make assumptions about putting in boat slips, structures, etc., there will be need for prior approvals and permits. The state and county will order such items to be torn down if prior approval was not sought.
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No specific advice, but please make yourself aware of taxation in Maryland. We have both state and county taxes. I do not live in Annapolis, but I understand there may be a special “extra” tax if you live in Annapolis proper.
Different places in AA Cty have different feels. I suggest a long visit, or possibly renting for some period of time before buying a home.
Bay Ridge seems like a nice area, but homes on the water are not cheap.
ETA - I think @4kids4us may live in the Annapolis area.
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