Completed in 1779, the Maryland State House is the oldest US state capitol still in continuous legislative use. The wooden dome — held together entirely by wooden pegs, with not a single nail — was the tallest in America when built and remains the largest wooden dome in the country. Inside, the Old Senate Chamber has been restored to its 1783 appearance, with the lectern from which Washington resigned standing in the corner.
The building is free to visit and self-guided tours run during legislative hours. The grounds, with the Treaty of Paris monument and the modern statue of Thurgood Marshall (an Annapolis native), are themselves worth a wander. From the steps you get one of the best views of the historic district unfolding downhill toward the harbour.