At the United States Naval Academy (USNA), curiosity is always welcome. Whether you’re a future applicant, a proud parent, or just a fascinated visitor wondering “where is the Naval Academy?,” we’re here to answer your most frequently asked questions in one place. From traditions to tours, a mascot to a meal hall, here’s your friendly guide to what makes the USNA so special and iconic.
The Naval Academy is located at 52 King George Street, Annapolis, MD 21402. For easy pedestrian access, head to the Armel-Leftwich Naval Academy Visitor Center at Gate 1, near Randall and Prince George Streets. If you’re starting at the Annapolis City Dock, you’re just a block away!
Parking Tip: The Noah Hillman Garage is the go-to public parking spot. From there, it's just a short stroll to the Yard. Here are more parking and shuttle options.
Important: All persons over the age of 18 must have a valid REAL ID, Enhanced Driver's License or U.S. Passport. Visitors under the age of 18 without a valid ID must be escorted by a responsible adult with a valid ID. Please review this page for further information.
He’s more than just a mascot—he’s a legend. Bill the Goat, currently in his 37th iteration, is beloved by midshipmen and fans alike. He became a good luck symbol when a pet goat that had accompanied sailors out to sea passed away. Two young officers were transporting his skin to the taxidermist after they docked in Baltimore and were waylaid by a Navy football game, where they ran onto the field during half-time with the skin and elicited great laughter from the midshipmen. They won the game and the goat became their legendary mascot, next showing up years later in 1893 as the sea-goat El Cid at the fourth Army-Navy game. He helped them win the game and his successors have been bringing luck to Navy ever since. You can get more details on the stories over the years here.
Related: The Making of a Mascot: Bill the Goat
One of the most unforgettable rites of passage for plebes (first-year midshipmen), this climb marks their transformation into upperclassmen. Each year, the 21-foot tall Herndon Monument obelisk is greased, and the goal is to replace a dixie cup hat at the top with a midshipman cover. The whole class must work together—and it's as entertaining as it is symbolic.
Rumor has it the one who swaps the covers will be the first admiral in their class. We’ll see…
Related: One of the Greatest Struggles You’ll Ever See: The Herndon Climb
All 4,400+ midshipmen live in Bancroft Hall, aka “Mother B.” This isn’t your average dorm—it spans over 4.8 miles of corridors and contains everything from a dining hall (more on that below) to laundry, a post office, and even a barbershop.
Related: Bancroft Hall: The Place They Call Home
Say hello to King Hall, located in Bancroft Hall. Named after Fleet Admiral Ernest J. King, it serves over 13,500 meals a day—lightning fast. Fan-favorite meals? Buffalo chicken sandwiches, tacos, and mac n’ cheese. Fun fact: over 100 pounds of peanut butter are consumed daily. That’s a lot of protein!
Related: Behind the Scenes: Feeding the Masses at King Hall
Plebes enjoy town liberty in Annapolis on Saturdays from noon to midnight and Yard liberty on Sundays. Upperclassmen have town liberty aligned with class weekends, and they are also granted a limited number of overnight weekends based on class.
The Naval Academy Business Services Division (NABSD) operates 22 different business units on the Yard. Every time you buy something at Navyonline.com, dine on the Yard, or take a USNA tour, proceeds support midshipmen extracurricular activities like the arts, music, theater, club sports, and more.
Your support = their success.
You’re eligible to shop at the Midshipmen Store if you’re a midshipman, a parent of a midshipman, alumni, or their dependents, as well as members of the U.S. Naval Academy faculty and staff, Blue and Gold Officers, Naval Academy Club, and other groups as authorized. Don’t worry if you’re not eligible, as you can visit Navyonline.com or the USNA Gift Shop to show your Navy support. Do good for the mids and look good doing it.
Check out the public events calendar and academic calendar to see everything from musical performances to formal parades.
Start your journey early. You’ll need to submit a preliminary application, obtain a nomination, pass a fitness test, and more. Learn more about the application process here.
Curious about the competition? The Naval Academy acceptance rate typically hovers around 8-9%, so plan ahead and bring your A-game.
Related: An Academic Tour: Naval Academy Majors
The best way to answer your questions? Come take a United States Naval Academy tour. Walk the Yard, dine at The Alley Restaurant or 1845 Coffee, shop at the USNA Gift Shop, and see what midshipman life is really like.
Whether you’re dreaming of applying, supporting a midshipman, or just exploring Annapolis, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the people who help protect our country—and have a deeper impact on their future. Anchors Aweigh! Come visit the Yard soon!