Posted in D.C.
July 05, 2016
Here Are 15 Unique Day Trips Near Washington DC That Are An Absolute Must-Do
Washington DC has a lot to offer in terms of attractions, dining, and experiences. There’s always something to do there. However, sometimes you need to take a break from the city and escape the noise and traffic. Luckily you’re not far from many other amazing locations. This summer, skip the Netflix binge, save money on flights, and just jump in the car and adventure on one of these 15 unique day trips near Washington DC.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
Get into nature and in the mountains on this DC day trip! In north central Maryland, the Catocin Mountains provide Washingtonians with a place to camp, fish, picnic, hike and majestic mountain scenery.
Sandy beaches, wild ponies, horseback riding, water sports and camping grounds all live one Island, a national park in Maryland.
Get wild at one of the many amusement parks within a few hours of Washington DC. Head south towards Busch Gardens or Kings Dominion or Water Country USA in Virginia. Or head up to Hershey Park in Pennsylvania or Six Flags America in Maryland.
A very little known but beautiful day trip is Ladew Topiary Gardens. There are 15 themed “garden rooms”on 22 acres of this Maryland property. You can also tour the old Manor House and butterfly house.
Rehoboth Beach is a little over a two hour drive from Washington DC. Get your fill of boardwalks, mini golf, ocean waves and arcades at this fun beach destination.
Actors in period costume depict day to day Colonial life in Williamsburg. Williamsburg
is a historic district with museums, restored stores and homes, live reenactments and plenty of history.
Known for a variety of festivals, St. Michael’s in Maryland is a historic town a few hours from Washington DC. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of Chesapeake Bay, a rich history, water sports, fine art galleries and waterfront restaurants.
Northern Virginia’s wine country is quickly growing in popularity. You can get in a bike ride, enjoy impressive views while sipping wine, relax and unwind at a spa, or do a little shopping.
Historic and trendy, Frederick has it all. This historic town has gorgeous views, a thriving Main Street, hiking trails, battlefields, and great bars and restaurants. Head there on a weekend and shop at one of their popular art fairs.
In Northern Maryland, Havre de Grace is a quiet little town along the Chesapeake Bay and Susquehanna River. It’s an excellent place to find antiques, see the wildlife, view the oldest lighthouse in Maryland, and enjoy delicious restaurants in the downtown area.
Harpers Ferry is a picturesque historic town in West Virginia. Visitors enjoy hiking trails, battlefields, historic museums, living history workshops, and a quaint downtown area.
If you’re looking for somewhere to play, Charles Town Races in West Virginia is your spot! You can find horse racing, a large casino with plenty of games, and first class live entertainment just a few hours away from Washington DC.
If you’re looking for nature, adventure and space, look no further than the Shenandoah Valley. Nestled between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Appalachian Mountains, Shenandoah has hiking, biking, white water rafting, tubing, caverns to explore and beautiful scenes.
Even if you’re not a Civil War buff, you’ll love visiting Gettysburg. Watch a demonstration on the famous field where the Battle of Gettysburg was fought, go on a ghost tour, or get in a round of golf, all while enjoying the quaint scenery.
An hour away from Washington lies charming Annapolis. Home of the United States Naval Academy, this seaside town off the Chesapeake Bay offers boating, sailing, historic sights, delicious restaurants and plenty of seafood options.
If you want to have an adventure inside of Washington, DC, be sure to hit these hidden gems!
