With its towering trees, enticing Beaux-Arts buildings and inviting, wide walkways, the U.S. Naval Academy campus (known as “the Yard”) is a decidedly romantic spot. Even with over 175 years of rigorous military training, the Yard has managed to exude an air of beauty and grace, framed by beguiling seaside views and the lure of historic Annapolis.
If you’re looking for romantic tours that take you on an unforgettable stroll through history, start with Naval Academy tours. In the annals of romance, it’s hard not to get swept up by a place where sacrifice, passion, and love of country are on full display every day. Welcome to the Yard. Here’s a map for your travels.
If you wander to the edge where the land meets the Severn River, Spa Creek, and the Annapolis Harbor, there is an old light that was dedicated by the Class of 1945 and erected in 1959. Its construction symbolically represents God, Country, and Ship on three sides. Containing the waters of all 22 seas across the globe, its story is as romantic as the couples who spend time with it; both watch the waters and help to welcome all sailors safely home. Sailors will recognize the flashing pattern it beams. Many couples enjoy this stop on a romantic tour, relaxing on the bench and reflecting on the power behind this monument.
Related: The USNA Triton Light History: A Beacon of Beauty and Brightness.
Continue your romantic tour to a pretty spot along the quadrangle near the Herndon Monument, which became known as “Lovers’ Lane” years ago. It winds over by the Herndon Monument, and was the place where midshipmen could walk with a date. You can take in the glorious USNA Chapel, the impressive Mahan, Sampson, and Carter Hall, and the Zimmerman Bandstand that’s just a short walk away. Legend has it the Herndon Climb was started here, when the Class of 1910 whooped around the monument to celebrate their eligibility for Lovers Lane. Many Naval Academy tours will take you to this 21 foot granite obelisk, also a romantic spot to listen to music from the bandstand.
Behind Hopper Hall, you can find some benches facing out towards Dorsey Creek. Across from the tree-lined Hospital Point, this spot gives couples front row seats to the crew team racing by, as well as the graceful sailboats gliding through. Just a short walk from the quadrangle, it’s a good distance from some of the hustle and bustle, and provides a nice spot for quiet conversation. You can pick up provisions at 1845 Coffee and enjoy some quality time together.
Related: A Story of Service: Dating as a USNA Midshipman.
February is historically the month of Cupid, but romance lives on the Yard all year long. If you’re looking for a special place to take your loved one, try one of our fascinating Naval Academy tours. We offer USNA Tour & Tea, the Anchors Aweigh Music Tour, and some of the most romantic tours you can find in Annapolis. You can feel especially good about these Naval Academy tours since they directly fund extracurricular activities like cultural arts, music, theater, club sports, and more for the Brigade of Midshipmen. So while you’re taking a romantic tour, you’re also giving love to the midshipmen, too. Come show some Navy love today!