William Paca House and Garden Annapolis
Explore a restored 18th-century Georgian mansion and its stunning 2-acre terraced colonial gardens, once home to a signer of the Declaration of Indepe...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Gardens in full bloom
William Paca House and Garden Annapolis
Best Time
Gardens in full bloom
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a restored 18th-century Georgian mansion and its stunning 2-acre terraced colonial gardens, once home to a signer of the Declaration of Independence.
"Felt like I stepped back in time into a hidden gem with pure colonial charm."
🎟️ Garden vs. House Ticket
Choose between garden-only ($5) or house & garden ($12) tickets. Garden is lovely, house tour is insightful.
🌸 Check Bloom Status
Gardens are beautiful, but check for seasonal blooms if flowers are a priority.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Terraced Colonial Gardens
2-acre garden
Wander through meticulously restored 18th-century terraced gardens, a serene escape with blooming flowers and vegetable patches.
Georgian Mansion Interior
William Paca House
Step back in time with a guided tour of the beautifully preserved Georgian mansion, once home to a signer of the Declaration of Independence.
Summer House
Garden
Discover the charming summer house nestled within the gardens, offering a tranquil spot for reflection and enjoying the scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Garden Entry vs. Full House Tour
Best Time for Blooming Gardens
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Garden vs. House Ticket
Choose between garden-only ($5) or house & garden ($12) tickets. Garden is lovely, house tour is insightful.
🌸 Check Bloom Status
Gardens are beautiful, but check for seasonal blooms if flowers are a priority.
🚶♀️ Guided House Tour
Highly recommended! Staff are friendly & tours are engaging and informative.
📸 Picture-Perfect Views
Every corner is a painting! Perfect for photography enthusiasts.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Garden vs. House Ticket
Choose between garden-only ($5) or house & garden ($12) tickets. Garden is lovely, house tour is insightful.
🌸 Check Bloom Status
Gardens are beautiful, but check for seasonal blooms if flowers are a priority.
🚶♀️ Guided House Tour
Highly recommended! Staff are friendly & tours are engaging and informative.
📸 Picture-Perfect Views
Every corner is a painting! Perfect for photography enthusiasts.
🤝 Support Historic Annapolis
Your visit helps preserve this historic gem and its mission.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the beauty and tranquility of the William Paca House and Garden, highlighting the meticulously restored 18th-century gardens and the engaging guided tours of the historic Georgian mansion. While some note seasonal bloom variations or ongoing nearby renovations, the overall experience is considered a worthwhile and educational visit to Annapolis. +2
"Beautiful, green serene garden. Not many people were visiting so that made it better! The entire garden is not very big but worth the $5 entrance fee. For $12 you get to also visit parts of the house. Worth visiting in Annapolis."
Ahmed Satti (Family Guy)
"Perfect for adults. It’s not interactive, but it is set up to evoke your imagination. The gardens are beautiful, though not peaceful right now because of the renovation going on next door."
Sandy Avery
"We just did the Garden and it was $5 each. It was a very cute garden. My favorite part was all the growing vegetables. Worth the visit."
Colin Bartlett
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The William Paca House and Garden is located at 186 Prince George Street, Annapolis, MD 21401. It's easily accessible by car, with nearby parking garages. Many visitors also enjoy walking around downtown Annapolis to reach the house.
Yes, there are several public parking garages within walking distance of the William Paca House and Garden, such as the Noah Hillman Garage and the Gott's Court Garage.
Absolutely! The Paca House is centrally located in downtown Annapolis, making it a pleasant walk from attractions like the Naval Academy and the Maryland State House.
Many visitors combine a tour of the William Paca House and Garden with a stroll around downtown Annapolis, visiting the Naval Academy, and exploring the historic streets.
While Annapolis is very walkable, local bus services do operate within the city. However, most visitors find that walking or driving and parking is the most convenient.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission for the gardens is typically around $5, while a combined ticket for the house tour and gardens is around $12. Prices can vary, so it's best to check their official website.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance, especially for guided house tours, is recommended, particularly during peak season or for special events.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's advisable to check the official Historic Annapolis website for the most up-to-date hours of operation before your visit.
Historic Annapolis sometimes offers special promotions, such as free admission for veterans on certain days. Check their website or social media for current offers.
Yes, you can purchase a ticket specifically for the gardens, which is a more affordable option if you're primarily interested in the outdoor spaces.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can tour the beautifully restored 18th-century Georgian mansion, explore the expansive 2-acre terraced gardens, and visit the charming summer house.
The house tour is typically guided, offering fascinating historical insights from knowledgeable staff. The gardens are generally self-guided.
A visit can range from 1-2 hours for the gardens to 2-3 hours if you include a thorough house tour and leisurely garden stroll.
The gardens offer a beautiful space for children to explore, though it's more of a serene historical experience than an interactive playground.
The house was the residence of William Paca, a signer of the Declaration of Independence and a former governor of Maryland, offering a glimpse into colonial life.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed in the gardens and for personal use within the house. However, always check for any specific restrictions on professional photography or flash usage.
The terraced garden levels, the summer house, and the blooming flower beds offer picturesque backdrops. The architecture of the house itself is also very photogenic.
The William Paca House and Garden is a popular venue for events, including weddings and engagement photos. Inquire directly with their events team for specific policies and booking information.
Early morning or late afternoon light often provides the most flattering illumination for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a softer glow.
Drone usage is typically restricted in historic sites and residential areas. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise by the venue.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider focusing on the garden aspect if you have very young children, as it's less about quiet contemplation and more about open space. The $5 garden-only ticket is a good option for families looking for a shorter, more budget-friendly visit.
💰 Budget Travelers
It's a perfect way to enjoy a significant historical site in Annapolis without breaking the bank. Combine your visit with a walk around downtown Annapolis, which is free, and pack a picnic to enjoy in a public park nearby. This strategy allows you to soak in the historic atmosphere of Annapolis affordably.
❤️ Couples and History Buffs
+1 The guided house tour is a must for those interested in colonial history, offering deep dives into the life of William Paca and the Georgian era. Consider visiting during a less crowded time, like a weekday morning, to fully appreciate the quiet beauty of the gardens and the intimate details of the house. The historical significance of the estate, coupled with its aesthetic charm, makes it a memorable outing for couples seeking culture and romance.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Gardens: A Living History
One of the most charming features is the Summer House, a picturesque structure that offered a cool retreat on warm days. The gardens are designed to be enjoyed throughout the seasons, though some visitors note that bloom times can vary, so checking ahead for peak floral displays might be beneficial.
Beyond the visual appeal, the gardens offer a sense of tranquility amidst the bustling city of Annapolis. It’s a place to slow down, appreciate the craftsmanship, and imagine life in colonial America. The integration of history and horticulture makes the Paca Gardens a standout attraction.
+1Exploring the Georgian Mansion
Guided tours offer a fascinating journey through the rooms, revealing stories about the Paca family, their lives, and the historical context of the era. Visitors often praise the engaging nature of the guided tours, with staff sharing 'cool and interesting things' that make the history come alive.
While the gardens might be the primary draw for some, the house tour provides crucial context and a deeper understanding of the estate's significance. It’s an opportunity to connect with a pivotal period in American history through the tangible remnants of a prominent figure's life.
Events and Special Occasions
+2 The expansive grounds, elegant tents, and historic ambiance create a memorable backdrop for any celebration. Various organizations and groups host events here, from political action committee gatherings to charity fundraisers like the Paca Girlfriends Party and Blazers, Bourbon, and Cigars.
+2 These events often highlight the beauty of the gardens and the historic house, offering a unique way to experience the property. Attending an event at the Paca House provides a different perspective on the venue, showcasing its versatility and its role in the modern Annapolis community. It’s a chance to see the historic site come alive with contemporary celebrations.
+3
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