A Winter Walk on the Yard: Exploring the U.S. Naval Academy in This Special Season

Written by Bill the Goat | Dec 2, 2024 1:30:00 PM

Winter is a magical time at the USNA. With its beautiful historic buildings set against a crisp sky and still winter air carrying the echoes of history, the Yard is a unique destination that promises a memorable trip for anyone who visits, whether it’s their first or twenty-first time.

 

Take a Tour

Even in the colder months, the Yard bursts with fascinating sites to experience, from historic landmarks to scenic overlooks of the Severn River. Here, we’ve picked some of our favorites for you to enjoy. Bundle up for a brisk walk, grab a hot coffee and delicious treat at 1845 Coffee, and get ready to explore these iconic spots.

 

Related: History Class: The Yard’s Beaux-Arts Architecture

 

1. The USNA Chapel and the Crypt of John Paul Jones

No visit to the Yard is complete without a stop at the iconic USNA Chapel, an architectural gem with a soaring dome that stands proudly against the winter sky. In fact, it’s the tallest spot on the Yard, and a visible monument from all around Annapolis. Inside, the chapel’s stunning stained-glass windows cast a warm, colorful glow that beautifully contrasts the chilly scene outside. If you venture beneath the chapel, you’ll discover the moving Crypt of John Paul Jones, the first American Navy war hero. When you enter the crypt, you’ll find an awe-inspiring black marble sarcophagus that holds Jones’s remains, and a room that feels like the turbulent sea, with columns in that same black marble. A visit here is like a journey to another world - and a powerful reminder of the Naval Academy’s strong history and tradition.

 

2. Zimmerman Bandstand

Just a short walk from the chapel, the Zimmerman Bandstand stands proudly in the middle of the Yard. This elegant white structure hosts various musical performances throughout the year, but in winter, it takes on a serene, almost magical quality. It has often housed the Naval Academy Christmas tree and its many festive seasonal concerts. Surrounded by stately trees, the bandstand is a beautiful spot to pause and appreciate the quiet winter beauty of the Yard. On a quiet day, you can imagine the notes of the band drifting through the crisp air, adding a bit of festive spirit to your winter walk. The bandstand leads to the quadrangle, providing a 360 degree look at the Yard, and nearby is the fabled Herndon Monument, where hundreds of midshipmen clamber to release the “dixie cup” plebe cap from the top each spring.

 

3. Mahan Hall and the Academic Quadrangle

Mahan Hall is one of the Yard’s most striking buildings, and its historic lecture halls have inspired generations of midshipmen. While Mahan Hall itself is closed to visitors, the building’s grand architecture and location within the academic quadrangle make it a must-see from the outside. The quadrangle, surrounded by buildings that date back to the early 1900s, feels like stepping back in time. The statues, walkways, and open spaces offer great photo opportunities, especially when they’re lightly dusted with snow.

 

Related: A Walk Through Mahan Hall, Home to USNA Theater

 

4. The Naval Academy Club and 1845 Coffee

Once you’ve had a chance to walk for a bit, you can warm up with a visit to the elegant Naval Academy Club, a cozy retreat that’s been a part of USNA life for over a century. The club offers a quiet escape where you can relax and enjoy a delicious meal in a welcoming atmosphere. Although access is typically limited to members and their guests, lunches are open to the public. It’s the perfect place to experience the hospitality and tradition that define the Naval Academy.

 

5. The Farragut Field Sea Wall and the Scenic Waterfront
After exploring the interior of the Yard, make your way to the Sea Wall along the Severn River. In winter, the waterfront offers an awe-inspiring view of the river and the boats anchored nearby. Take some time to absorb the sounds and smells of the waterfront. It’s a fantastic place to enjoy the winter landscape, with the historic architecture of the Yard in the background. Stay cozy in your scarf and gloves as you stroll along the Sea Wall, feeling the peace and serenity of this riverside walk, which is dotted with monuments and other fascinating historic markers. As you listen to the gently lapping waves, keep an eye out for seabirds and other wildlife braving the chilly waters!

 

6. The Visitors Center and the USNA Gift Shop
End your winter walk with a visit to the USNA Visitors Center, where you can dive deeper into the Academy’s history and mission. The center offers engaging exhibits about midshipman life, the rigorous training the midshipmen undergo, and the history of the Naval Academy. Don’t miss the short films and interactive displays that give you a closer look at the Academy’s role in shaping America’s future naval leaders - and sign up for an official tour while you’re here!

 

Before you head home, stop by the USNA Gift Shop. It’s the perfect place to pick up a souvenir to remember your visit, with a wide selection of REAL Navy-themed apparel, keepsakes, and books that make great gifts for family and friends. From cozy scarves to ornaments that celebrate the Academy’s history, there’s something for everyone in this charming shop.

 

A Winter Walk to Remember

Walking the Yard in winter offers a peaceful, inspiring experience as you discover the historic places that have shaped the lives of America’s naval leaders. The chapel, crypt, bandstand, Sea Wall, and other storied spots across the Yard offer a glimpse into the Academy’s enduring legacy. Whether you’re a local resident or visiting for the first time, a winter walk on the Yard is a memorable way to enjoy this season while learning about the history of the U.S. Naval Academy.

 

Bundle up, take in the beauty of the Yard in winter, and leave with a deeper appreciation for the Academy and the midshipmen who walk its paths. When you visit the Academy for a USNA tour, shop in the Yard shops, and enjoy dining on the Yard, you’re also giving back to the midshipmen who give their all for our country, as all proceeds help fund extracurricular activities like cultural arts, music, theater, club sports, and more. Come experience the Yard this winter, and be a part of history.