Considering a move to Annapolis and curious about the President St. neighborhood? Nestled just off Forest Drive and bordered by quaint intersections like Hilltop Lane and Spa Road, the President St. area strikes a rare balance between small-town tranquility and easy city access. As a longtime local, I’m excited to give you an authentic look at what it’s like to put down roots in this friendly, welcoming pocket of Annapolis.
Community Vibe
President St. isn’t one of Annapolis’ flashiest neighborhoods, and residents cherish that. Here, you’ll find a genuine sense of community — neighbors wave from their porches, parents chat on evening walks, and there’s a noticeable pride in well-tended lawns and gardens. It’s a diverse area reflecting both lifelong Annapolitans and newcomers, which makes for a rich, inclusive vibe. Many homes are owner-occupied, so you’ll be running into familiar faces whether you’re taking out the trash or enjoying an afternoon jog.
Community-organized activities, like block parties and Halloween parades, pop up throughout the year on streets like Madison Place and Cleveland Avenue. The small scale of the neighborhood means kids ride their bikes together and you’re never far from a neighbor willing to lend a hand. Whether you’re a young family or downsizing retirees, it’s easy to find your place here.
Types of Housing
One of the best things about President St. is the mix of homes. The neighborhood features:
- Classic mid-century ranchers and Cape Cods, especially along President St., Madison Place, and nearby Roosevelt Dr.
- Updated colonials with charming porches and mature trees shading well-sized yards.
- A handful of modern remodels, seamlessly blending old charm with new amenities.
Many homes are single-family, with 2 to 4 bedrooms and yards big enough for gardens and playsets. There are also a smattering of duplex options closer to Forest Drive, making the area accessible to a broader range of budgets. Mature landscaping and thoughtful renovations, rather than cookie-cutter developments, give President St. a unique personality.
Walkability
President St. scores high for walkability. Quiet, tree-lined streets like McKendree Ave and Cleveland Avenue see minimal through traffic, so strolling with a stroller or walking your dog feels safe and enjoyable. Sidewalks are common, though some stretches (especially closer to the edges of Forest Drive) may lack curbs — a typical quirk of older Annapolis neighborhoods.
- Essential errands are easily walkable or a quick bike ride away: Safeway, Starbucks, and CVS are just across Forest Drive.
- Annapolis Middle School and the Boys & Girls Club, both within a half mile, are destinations many kids can reach on their own.
- Downtown Annapolis, with its shops, historic charm, and waterfront restaurants, is a 20-30 minute walk or a 5-minute drive.
For anyone who values a lifestyle with less dependence on the car, President St. is a standout in Annapolis.
Schools and Family-Friendliness
Families in President St. are served by some of Annapolis’ established public schools. Annapolis Elementary, Annapolis Middle School, and Annapolis High School are the typical public assignment, and there are several respected private and parochial options nearby, like St. Mary’s and Key School.
- The proximity of schools means less time spent commuting and more time enjoying family life.
- The area is known for safe, walkable routes to school, and “walking school buses” (small groups of supervised children) are a common sight in the morning.
- Local parents rave about neighborhood babysitting swaps and playgroups that meet in the parks.
Overall, the family-friendliness here is real — it’s common to see kids playing basketball in driveways, building forts in shady backyards, or gathering for pickup games at nearby parks.
Parks and Green Spaces
While President St. is centrally located, it doesn’t lack for greenery:
- Quiet corners like Obery Court Playground, a little hidden gem, give local children easy access to slides and swing sets just a few blocks from home.
- The expansive Truxtun Park is less than a mile away. There you’ll find tennis courts, a swimming pool, trails for jogging or dog walking, and even a canoe launch for paddling Spa Creek.
- The public gardens and paths around the Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts make a great spot for peaceful solo walks or family outings.
Many streets are lined with mature oaks and maples — autumn especially is a favorite for those evening strolls when the leaves are blazing gold and red.
Safety
Residents consistently cite safety as a top reason for loving President St. Neighbors look out for each other, and the tight-knit feel of the neighborhood makes it easy to recognize when something’s out of place. Traffic is generally slow throughout the residential core, making it safer for children and pets.
While all of Annapolis benefits from responsive police and community patrols, President St. is particularly known for a “watchful neighbor” culture. Crime is relatively low, and concerns like package theft or car break-ins are rare — most residents know each other well enough to offer an extra set of eyes.
Proximity to Downtown and Major Employers
One of the big perks of living in the President St. neighborhood is convenience. You're:
- Less than 2 miles from downtown Annapolis and the historic waterfront — perfect for an evening out, weekend brunch, or joining in on community festivals.
- Minutes from Route 50 and the Bay Bridge, making commutes to Washington D.C. or Baltimore straightforward.
- Close to top area employers like the Maryland State Government, Anne Arundel Medical Center, and the Navy (Naval Academy just up the road).
Plus, using public transit is easy, thanks to bus stops along Forest Drive and Hilltop Lane. Grocery stores, pharmacies, and casual dining options are all within a short walk or drive.
What Residents Love Most
Ask President St. neighbors what keeps them here, and you’ll hear a recurring list:
- The authentic, friendly community — it’s easy to make friends and feel supported.
- Peaceful side streets and lovely old trees that make each block unique.
- Proximity to everything Annapolis offers, without the tourist crowds or downtown traffic.
- The ability to walk, bike, or drive, depending on the day — and to truly feel “at home,” whatever stage of life you’re in.
If you’re looking for a neighborhood with character, convenience, and genuine connections, President St. might just be your perfect Annapolis landing spot.