Things To Do In California

The flagship of Chesapeake Beach Resort & Spa, Miss Chesapeake Beach spirits vacationers and die-hard anglers alike on chartered fishing expeditions. Captain Luke Thatcher and his crew of hyper-intelligent seagulls provide rods, artificial bait, and a fishing license, and allow passengers to bring their own snacks, lunches, and beer. Once everyone's fully kitted out, Captain Thatcher sets out across the bay, as Miss Chesapeake Beach trails fishing lines and cuts watery swathes from Bloody Point to the Choptank River.

After a full day of bamboozling fish, sun-soaked adventurers return to shore with coolers filled with their catch. Fish cleaners stand at the ready on the dock, happy to prep the newly netted seameats or step aside and let passengers to do it themselves.

Competition plays a peripheral role at Let’s Move Sportz. Coaches of the coed flag-football league, which welcomes kids aged 5–12, emphasize sportsmanship and camaraderie instead. Above all else, they aim to keep kids active and healthy, giving words of encouragement as budding athletes—clad in NFL flag-football jerseys—tackle the basics of noncontact football.

When Pete and Kate Vonderheide moved from Hawaii to Annapolis to live closer to their family, they thought they'd have to give up a career of ocean kayaking to resume responsible office jobs. Soon they recognized the historic city harbor's lack of kayak tours and knew they couldn't stay inside forever. Their shared passion for history spurred them to research and interview the locals until they'd compiled enough historic material to start leading tours. Today, their tours can teach something new even to locals.

The Vonderheides continue to assemble a team of outdoor guides certified in CPR and first aid who all bear a well-researched knowledge of area wildlife and history. These experts lead two-hour scenic tours through the historic harbor. Starting each excursion with a brief paddling lesson, they put first-timers at ease with basic instruction and an amiable demeanor, unlike guides who rely only on their convincing Captain Ahab impressions. Excursions begin at the Spa Creek headwaters in Truxtun Park and lead participants into open-harbor waters to drift in full view of the state capitol building, the US Naval Academy, and historic Eastport. Trips peak at the City Dock, where participants receive a break to take photos and rest. On the return trip, guides field open-ended questions about city history such as presidential visits, the crabbing and oystering trade, and whether George Washington had to swim using floaties.

At Rivertowne 12 Cinemas, children’s films, supernatural thrillers, comedies, and superhero blockbusters all share equal billing. Twelve auditoriums light their silver screens with 3D and digital projections, carrying audience members to other worlds so they don't blow their savings accounts while trying to make a space elevator.

The Range

• Ten 50-yard rifle lanes and fourteen 25-yard pistol lanes
• Regular and themed targets featuring zombies and clowns
• Ear and eye protection available

The Test Weapons

• 40 test and evaluation weapons
• Options include .40 S&W handguns, .38 Special Revolvers, and .357 SIG handguns

At a Glance

For nearly 40 years, the experts at Maryland Small Arms Range have helped to hone the aim of law-enforcement and security personnel as well as everyday citizens. After range outings, their clients can check out the showroom, where weapons experts advise on firearms, ammunition, and self-defense apparel.

Calleva at National Harbor organizes adventures that traverse land, water, and air, each designed to inspire the intrepid with the bounties of nature. A terra-based encounter, the guided bike ride over the Woodrow Wilson Bridge and Mount Vernon Trail combines the thrill of physical activity with the wonder of american bald eagle and bald presidential monument sightings. From 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on weekends, pedal pumpers are treated to panoramic views of the Potomac River. If the allure of the deep overcomes grounded wanderings, embark on a watery outing in a solo kayak, canoe, or tandem kayak, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on weekends. After a mind-stretching lesson on paddling and water safety, boat brethren can drift through the National Harbor in their floating vessels and explore the shores of the District and Alexandria, stopping occasionally to feed breadcrumbs to migrating politicians.