By Markus G. Moore, Director of the Department of Transportation, City of Annapolis
As designated by Travel+Leisure magazine, Annapolis is one of America’s Top 25 Holiday destinations. Each year, historic downtown is transformed into a winter wonderland. The streets and shops are beautifully decorated, and the charm of Midnight Madness on December 5, 12, and 19 will draw visitors from near and far to enjoy the festive atmosphere. To make holiday visits easier and more affordable, the City of Annapolis is continuing its tradition of offering free parking from Black Friday to New Year’s Day.
During the holidays, visitors to downtown can enjoy two hours of free parking at metered spaces, along with a free hour in Noah Hillman Garage. This initiative is part of the City’s commitment to supporting local businesses and ensuring that downtown Annapolis is a welcoming destination during the busiest shopping season of the year.
Holiday Parking Details
Downtown Metered Spaces
Visitors can park free for the first two hours at downtown metered spaces, including kiosks, in the following locations: Calvert Street, Cathedral Street, College Avenue West, City Dock Lot, Dock Street Donner Lot, Franklin Ave, Maryland Avenue, Market Space, and Main Street. To access free parking, use ParkMobile (app or website) and select the amount of time you need. The first two hours will show a cost of $0. ParkMobile makes it easy to add time remotely if you opt to stay longer, allowing you to extend your stay without returning to your vehicle.
Hillman Garage
This holiday season, we’re again offering the first hour free at Hillman. When you park, use the QR code, ParkMobile, or the on-site payment kiosk to pay for your stay – your first hour will automatically be free. Hillman Garage includes electric vehicle (EV) charging and easy gateless entry and exit.
Park, Shop & Dine
Many downtown restaurants and shops participate in Park, Shop & Dine, with one- and two-hour discounted parking for customers. Be sure to ask at your favorite shops or restaurants if they participate to make your experience even more enjoyable. Learn more about “Park, Shop & Dine.”
Residents Park Free
Annapolis residents can benefit from the “Residents Park Free” program, which offers two hours of free parking at Hillman, Gott’s, Knighton, and Park Place garages. Check out https://www.annapolisparking.com/parking-decals/ for more details on resident incentives.
Additional Garage Options
For those seeking value, Park Place, Gott’s, and Knighton garages offer excellent rates and gateless entry and exit. Employers can purchase $5 all-day vouchers for staff. Each of these garages is serviced by the free downtown Magenta Shuttle, which runs continuously in a loop to keep you connected to downtown, including Main Street, State Circle, and Inner West Street.
Annapolis Current/Ten-Minute Trolley
Take advantage of Annapolis’ unique trolley services! Two electric GEM carts operate on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (weather-permitting), covering Maryland Avenue/State Circle and Eastport. You can catch the trolleys at Gott’s Garage, Whitmore Garage, or Calvert Street Garage, which offers free parking on weekends. The Eastport trolley makes stops along Norman Drive, Chesapeake Ave., Chester Ave., Second Street, and Bay Ridge Ave., connecting riders to several transit lines. Simply flag down a trolley to hop on.
Other Parking Perks
Visitors can park for free at City-owned garages (Gott’s Court, Knighton, Park Place, and Hillman) on Sunday mornings. You must enter after 6 a.m. and leave before 2 p.m. Plan to spend your mornings enjoying downtown’s charming shops and cafes, with easy access to everything Historic Annapolis has to offer.
With so much to see and do, Annapolis is a holiday destination not to be missed. From our historic charm to the twinkling holiday lights, there’s something for everyone. Make a plan to visit us this season – and be sure to take advantage of our holiday parking options for a stress-free experience.
Happy holidays from the City of Annapolis, and we look forward to welcoming you downtown!
