Navigating to the US Naval Academy: Your Guide to Getting Here

Planning a visit to the historic US Naval Academy in Annapolis? Knowing exactly where to go is the first step to an enjoyable visit. This guide provides comprehensive directions and essential information to ensure you arrive at the USNA with ease and clarity. Whether you’re coming from nearby cities or navigating Annapolis itself, we’ve got you covered.

Finding Your Way to the US Naval Academy

Getting to the US Naval Academy is straightforward with clearly marked routes from major nearby cities. Below are detailed directions to guide you to Gate 1, the primary visitor entrance.

Directions from Washington, D.C.

If you are traveling from Washington, D.C., the most direct route involves utilizing US Route 50 East.

1. Begin on US Route 50 East. Follow US Route 50 East for approximately 35 miles.
2. Take Exit 24 for Rowe Blvd. Merge onto Rowe Boulevard via Exit 24.
3. Continue on Rowe Blvd. Drive for 1.6 miles until Rowe Boulevard ends at College Avenue.
4. Turn Left onto College Ave. Make a left turn onto College Avenue.
5. Turn Right onto King George St. At the first traffic light, turn right onto King George Street.
6. Arrive at Gate 1. Follow King George Street for two blocks. Gate 1 will be on your right.

Directions from Baltimore, MD

Travelers from Baltimore have a couple of convenient options, both leading you efficiently to the Naval Academy. You can choose between Interstate 97 South or Maryland Route 2 South.

1. Choose Interstate 97 South or Maryland Route 2 South. Travel south on either I-97 South or MD Route 2 South for about 26 miles.
2. Take Exit 24 for Rowe Blvd. Merge onto Rowe Boulevard using Exit 24.
3. Continue on Rowe Blvd. Drive 1.6 miles on Rowe Boulevard until it terminates at College Avenue.
4. Turn Left onto College Ave. Turn left onto College Avenue.
5. Turn Right onto King George St. At the first traffic light, turn right onto King George Street.
6. Reach Gate 1. Drive along King George Street for two blocks to find Gate 1 on your right.

Directions within Annapolis

For those already in Annapolis, accessing the Naval Academy is simple from Rowe Boulevard.

1. Navigate to Rowe Blvd. Get onto Rowe Boulevard.
2. Follow Rowe Blvd. Drive 1.6 miles on Rowe Boulevard until it dead-ends at College Avenue.
3. Turn Left onto College Ave. Make a left turn onto College Avenue.
4. Turn Right onto King George St. At the first stop light, turn right onto King George Street.
5. Gate 1 is Ahead. Continue on King George Street for two blocks to reach Gate 1.

Accessing the US Naval Academy Grounds

Upon arrival, it’s important to understand the access protocols for entering the Naval Academy.

• Limited Access: Access to the Academy grounds is restricted.
• Authorized Personnel: Individuals with a USNA ID Card or DOD credentials, including military retirees and dependents, are permitted to drive onto USNA.
• Visitor Entry: All other visitors must park outside the Academy and enter through Gate 1 on foot.
• Identification Requirements: Visitors aged 21 and older must present a valid photo ID. Acceptable forms of ID are listed in the Security and Access FAQs. Visitors under 21 without a valid photo ID must be accompanied by an adult with proper identification.
• Security Restrictions: It is highly recommended to check the current security restrictions before planning your visit to ensure a smooth entry.

By following these directions and access guidelines, your visit to the US Naval Academy will be both seamless and enjoyable. We encourage you to explore the rich history and impressive sights of this distinguished institution.