Short But Sweet: How to Spend Only a Few Hours in Oxon Hill, Maryland

Whether you live in Maryland, Virginia, or D.C., or you're just passing through the area, do yourself a favor and stop in Oxon Hill. Located in Maryland along the Potomac River, across from Alexandria and just a few miles from Washington, D.C., Oxon Hill is a fantastic location for a quick day trip due to many attractions concentrated in one area. While its main draw is the National Harbor, Oxon Hill is also home to an educational farm and historic park. Here is an itinerary for a short but sweet trip to this suburb of D.C.:

Discover Family-Friendly Attractions at the National Harbor

There's so much to see and do here at the National Harbor, but if you only have a few hours, I suggest starting with a walk or a bike ride along the Harbor Trail. This paved trail is 1.2 miles and winds its way along the Potomac. If you go far enough and turn around, you'll have a great panorama of the National Harbor with The Capital Wheel as its most prominent attraction.

Speaking of The Capital Wheel, you should absolutely take a ride! From this 180-foot wheel, you'll have outstanding views of the river and the D.C. skyline. Afterwards, take a spin on the Spirit Park Carousel with nearly 30 whimsical hand-painted animals. If time allows, rent a "Donut Boat" from Freedom Ring Boats. These round boats are a fun way to experience the Potomac and see the National Harbor from the water.

Of course, visiting the National Harbor isn't complete without stopping at the MGM Conservatory. Here, you'll find a massive, over-the-top seasonal display of art and florals. And if you're hungry, check out the MGM National Harbor's restaurant scene.

Marvel at "The Awakening" Sculpture

A quick trip to the beach by the National Harbor will get you up close and personal with the massive 72-foot statue known as "The Awakening." This fascinating 5-piece aluminum sculpture by J. Seward Johnson is embedded in the sand and is as odd as it is intriguing. It's a great spot for photo ops.

Spend Time on the Farm

Less than three miles from the National Harbor, the scenery changes from a seaside trove of attractions to more of a bucolic landscape. This is where you'll find Oxon Cove Park & Oxon Cove Farm, which was once the site of a farm and is overseen by the National Park Service. Many buildings of this historic acreage remain intact, and aside from history, there is a visitor center where you can talk to a ranger about the park, and then visit with farm animals before hiking the park's nature trails.

A Short but Sweet Trip That's Worthwhile

I love day trips, and spending a few hours in a town I've never been to can give a great overview of the community, attractions, and dining scene. If you spend a few hours in Oxon Hill, you'll likely want to make plans for a longer visit next time. And when that time comes, you can book a stay at Club Wyndham National Harbor, where you'll be close to all the action at the National Harbor.

Have you visited Oxon Hill, Maryland, before? If you have a favorite attraction or restaurant you'd like to share, please do so through our nomination page.

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own Maryland trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.