weekend trips from dc for families

• Last Updated On
• September 5, 2023

45 Best Weekend Getaways From Washington DC — Quick Trips!

Washington DC is a city home to more than 175 embassies and diplomatic missions from around the world. 

Aside from that, there’s a plethora of awe-inspiring destinations within arm’s reach, from globally acclaimed urban hubs to pristine outdoor locales.

Imagine the joy of sharing quality moments with your loved ones as you embark on a weekend filled with captivating sightseeing, unwinding in prestigious accommodations, and more.

Having personally experienced these magical spots, I’ve carefully curated a list of the best weekend getaways from Washington DC. 

Dive in and discover the perfect getaway for you.

Best Weekend Getaways From Washington DC Compared

Immerse yourself in history at Gettysburg, explore the charming streets of Annapolis, or unwind in the scenic beauty of Shenandoah National Park. 

Find your ideal getaway below:

Editor’s Choice

Salamander Resort & Spa — Virginia

The Salamander Resort & Spa is a luxurious 5-star accommodation that opened in August 2013 in Middleburg, about a one-hour and ten-minute drive from Washington, DC.

• Room Variety: 4/5
• Comfort and Cleanliness: 5/5
• Location: 4/5
• Affordability: 3/5
• Family-Friendliness: 4/5

#2nd Best Choice

Goodstone Inn & Restaurant — Virginia

The Goodstone Inn & Restaurant, resting on 265 acres of rolling hills, is a 5-star hotel featuring 18 beautifully decorated rooms in Middleburg, Virginia.

• Comfort and Cleanliness: 4/5
• Location: 5/5
• Affordability: 2/5
• Family-Friendliness: 3/5

#3rd Best Choice

The Craddock Terry Hotel — Virginia

The Craddock Terry Hotel, located in a building constructed in 1905, is a 4-star, 44-room hotel along Commerce Street in downtown Lynchburg.

• Room Variety: 3/5

Here are top 45 weekend getaways from Washington DC.

1. Salamander Resort & Spa — Virginia (Editor’s Choice)

500 N Pendleton St Middleburg, VA 20117 (540) 751-3160 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Luxurious amenities: Salamander Resort & Spa offers a wide range of luxurious amenities, such as a world-class spa, outdoor pools, a fitness center, and beautifully appointed rooms. 
• Scenic Location: Nestled in the picturesque countryside of Middleburg, Virginia, Salamander Resort & Spa provides a serene and scenic setting for a weekend getaway.
• Pricey: The luxurious nature of Salamander Resort & Spa comes with a higher price tag. Accommodations, dining, and spa treatments can be quite expensive, making it less accessible for budget-conscious travelers.
• Limited dining options: It’s worth considering if you have specific dietary preferences or if you prefer a wider range of dining choices.

Here, you can take your loved ones on a family weekend vacation that you will remember for years.

Enjoy various activities such as horseback riding, zip-lining, biking, golfing, catch-and-release fishing, playing various sports, archery, ax throwing, and countless others.

It also has plenty to offer your younger children, like mini art kits, indoor and outdoor pools, scavenger hunts, family crafts programs, board games, and much more.

It features a high-end spa for a much-needed day of pampering, exquisite dining choices for every craving, pet-friendly facilities, and designer suites ideal for large families.

2. Goodstone Inn & Restaurant — Virginia

36205 Snake Hill Rd Middleburg, VA 20117 (540) 687-3333 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Tranquil setting: The tranquil and secluded setting offers a peaceful atmosphere, allowing guests to relax and unwind amidst beautiful gardens and rolling hills.
• Culinary excellence: The Goodstone Inn & Restaurant boasts a renowned culinary program featuring farm-to-table cuisine prepared with locally sourced ingredients. 
• Limited recreational facilities: If you’re seeking extensive amenities or a wide range of recreational options, you may find them more limited here.
• Remote location: The property is situated in a rural area, which means that access to nearby attractions or services may require driving and planning in advance.

It is the perfect accommodation to check in when searching for places near Washington DC for vacation, less than one hour and twenty minutes from Washington, DC.

It boasts boutique cottages, a peaceful setting, luxury amenities, premier hospitality, catering services for special occasions, and more.

This accommodation features fine-dining eateries, serving artfully plated dishes prepared from high-quality ingredients and an extensive collection of fine wines.

It also has an onsite, fully-operating farm with chickens, cows, a llama, gardening areas, and so on.

3. The Craddock Terry Hotel — Virginia

1312 Commerce St Lynchburg, VA 24504 (434) 455-1500 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Unique accommodation: The historic building has been creatively repurposed, incorporating original features and offering a blend of modern comfort and vintage charm.
• Location and accessibility: Situated in Lynchburg, Virginia, The Craddock Terry Hotel is conveniently located near downtown attractions, restaurants, and shops. Guests can easily explore the city’s vibrant culture, historical sites, and entertainment options without extensive travel.
• Limited on-site amenities: While it provides comfortable accommodations, guests may find a more limited selection of facilities such as a spa, fitness center, or extensive recreational options.
• Noise potential: Light sleepers or those seeking a more tranquil environment may want to consider this factor before booking.

It is the perfect place to relax as you rest in a room with colossal windows offering picturesque views, residential-style furniture, high-quality linens, rustic accents, and more.

It also offers catering services for special occasions, sophisticated event spaces, pet-friendly rooms, award-winning restaurants, and various packages.

Explore the area as you tour diverse museums, stroll through the historic district, hike along creek-front trails, watch a live show at a theater, shop at boutique stores, and countless others.

4. Harpers Ferry — West Virginia

Harpers Ferry, WV Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Harpers Ferry is a historic town in West Virginia resting on the banks of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers.

It is roughly one hour and twenty minutes from Washington, DC, and offers the perfect place for history buffs to explore.

Head to the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park to explore one of its most popular attractions.

It features several museums, a gorgeous natural area, and recreational opportunities like boating, hiking, whitewater rafting, and fishing.

Another must-visit is St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church, the only church in the area that survived the Civil War and has a Neo-Gothic architectural style.

Before ending your weekend trip, have a delicious vegan-friendly meal at Kelley Farm Kitchen, boasting a humble ambiance, accommodating staff, and mouth-watering plant-based dishes.

Recommended Hotel: Clarion Inn Conference Center Harpers Ferry

5. Gettysburg — Pennsylvania

Gettysburg, PA (717) 334-1160 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Gettysburg, incorporated in 1806, is a Pennsylvanian borough and seat of Adams County.

It offers many historically significant attractions and is less than two hours from Washington, DC.

Kick-start your weekend by visiting the Gettysburg National Military Park.

It serves to protect the site of the Battle of Gettysburg in 1863 during the American Civil War and features a museum housing more than 43,000 artifacts related to the war.

Travel back to the past and learn what domestic life was like during Civil War times by touring the Jennie Wade House, featuring authentic furnishings throughout the home.

Visit the former home and farm of 34th US President Dwight Eisenhower by exploring the over 690-acre Eisenhower National Historic Site.

View fascinating exhibits and more than 4000 artifacts related to different American wars by heading to the Gettysburg Museum of History along Baltimore Street.

Recommended Hotel: Hilton Garden Inn Gettysburg

Related: Hotels in Washington D.C.

6. Philadelphia — Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA (800) 537-7676 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Philadelphia , also known as Philly, is the largest city in Pennsylvania and rests on the banks of the Delaware River.

Drive less than three hours to this bustling metropolis when searching for inexpensive weekend getaways near Washington DC.

Get a better idea of what awaits you by visiting the Independence Visitor Center, offering free amenities such as brochures, regional maps, short historical film screenings, and lots more.

A must-see on your tour is the admission-free Liberty Bell Center, home to a famous bell of the same name symbolizing American independence and equality.

Tour other budget-friendly tourist hotspots like the President’s House, which served as the third presidential mansion, and Elfreth’s Alley, a historic district with beautifully well-preserved homes.

Recommended Hotel: The Rittenhouse Hotel

Related: Fun Day Trips From Philadelphia

7. Annapolis — Maryland

Annapolis, MD Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Annapolis, incorporated in 1708, is a waterfront metropolis and capital city of Maryland in Anne Arundel County.

It is the perfect destination for last minute weekend getaways from Washington DC because it is a mere fifty minutes away.

Here, you can enjoy activities like signing up for wine tastings, booking guided tours at a local agency, and dining at a top-rated restaurant.

Visit attractions like the U.S. Naval Academy Museum displaying artifacts, galleries, and memorabilia related to American naval training, figures, and significant achievements.

Spend time in nature at the 340-acre Quiet Waters Park, where you can enjoy paddleboarding, rowing boats, kayaking, canoeing, swimming with your dog at a pet-friendly beach, and more.

Explore other places like the Maryland State House, the oldest continuously operating state capitol in the US, and the St. Anne’s Church, a historical church erected in the 18th century.

Recommended Hotel: Graduate Annapolis

8. The Greenbrier — West Virginia

101 W Main St White Sulphur Springs, WV 24986 (855) 453-4858 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Greenbrier is a luxurious, 5-star resort founded in 1778 in White Sulphur Springs, a beautiful city in West Virginia.

Prepare to enjoy one of the best romantic getaways from Washington DC as you and your partner drive roughly four hours to check into the high-end accommodation.

This outstanding resort boasts high-end amenities, gorgeously decorated bedrooms, various packages for every occasion, and many others to make your stay more intimate.

Spend quality time with your beloved as you sign up for a relaxing couple’s treatment at the spa and go on a fantastic dinner date at one of its many onsite eateries.

It also offers various activities for all seasons, like horseback riding, golfing, biking through the captivating landscape, carriage rides, ice skating, booking guided tours, and so on.

Recommended Hotel: The Schoolhouse Hotel

9. Rehoboth Beach — Delaware

Rehoboth Beach, DE (866) 284-7483 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Rehoboth Beach is an oceanfront town resting on the shores of the Atlantic Coast in Delaware, between two hours and thirty minutes to three hours and twenty minutes from Washington, DC.

Are you traveling with your loved ones?

Then, I recommend stopping by Funland, a family-owned amusement park with at least 19 rides for all ages, a high-energy arcade, and engaging games.

Spend time basking under the sun or swimming in the cool water by heading to the Rehoboth Beach Public Beach, boasting a sandy shoreline and a mile-long boardwalk.

Have a more adventurous experience by visiting the Delaware Seashore State Park, where you can enjoy kayaking, fishing, surfing, camping, chartering a boat, or signing up for guided tours.

You can also go on a shopping spree at Tanger Outlets Rehoboth Beach, featuring stores like Adidas, Coach, Ulta Beauty, Kate Spade, Nike, Hot Topic, Calvin Klein, and so much more.

Recommended Hotel: Canalside Inn

10. Whitetail Resort — Pennsylvania

13805 Blairs Valley Rd Mercersburg, PA 17236 (717) 328-9400 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Whitetail Resort, founded in 1991, is a four-season resort on Two Top Mountain in Mercersburg, Pennsylvania, roughly two hours from Washington, DC.

It is a fantastic winter destination boasting 109 acres of skiable areas, nine lift systems, ski slopes of varying difficulties for all skill levels, and more.

You can also enjoy other activities like snow tubing, snowboarding, ice skating, and signing up for lessons.

During the warmer months, it offers activities like golfing at a 72-par course, fly fishing, and many others.

It also offers other onsite amenities like five dining choices, lodging facilities, seasonal programs for all ages, a sports shop, and so on.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Clear Spring, an IHG Hotel

11. Ocean City — New Jersey

Ocean City, NJ (609) 399-6111 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ocean City, roughly a 3-hour and 30-minute drive from Washington DC is a coastal metropolis in Cape May County in the neighboring state of New Jersey.

It is the perfect place to unwind with your travel buddies as you relax by the oceanfront while enjoying a beach trip.

Have a thrilling time at the Ocean City Boardwalk, where you can play miniature golf, shop for souvenirs, rent water sports gear, snack on treats sold by vendors, hit the arcade, and more.

Spend some time under the sun at Corson’s Inlet State Park, ideal for fishing, enjoying a leisurely beach day, boating, and birdwatching.

Want an exciting night out with your group this weekend?

Then, head to Playland’s Castaway Cove because it offers go-karts, colossal sides, roller coasters, thrilling rides, a drop tower, a carousel, and kid-friendly attractions.

Related: Weekend Getaways Near Jersey City

12. New York City — New York

New York City, NY (212) 484-1222 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

New York City , nicknamed the Big Apple, is a world-famous metropolis and the most populous city in the country.

It is the ideal destination for your long weekend trips from Washington DC because it is less than four hours away and boasts endless fun-filled opportunities.

Tour famed landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, a world symbol of freedom gifted by France, and the Empire State Building, an art deco-style skyscraper that towers 102 stories high.

Have a blast outdoors at the over 840-acre Central Park, boasting two ice skating rinks, a gorgeous landscape, eye-catching sculptures, and various recreation opportunities.

Are you an art enthusiast?

Then, visit one of the largest art museums in the continent, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, with a massive collection of over two million pieces from all over the world.

Enjoy other activities like taking in jaw-dropping views of the city at the observation deck at the Rockefeller Center and watching a Broadway show at Times Square.

Related: Fun Day Trips From NYC

13. The Inn at Perry Cabin — Maryland

308 Watkins Ln St Michaels, MD 21663 (410) 745-2200 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Inn at Perry Cabin, which initially opened in 1816, is a 4-star hotel in St. Michaels on the eastern shore of Maryland, roughly two hours from Washington, DC.

Do you want to get a break from large crowds and the noise of city life?

Then, I highly recommend checking into this elevated hotel alone or with your partner, friends, or family.

It offers a serene landscape, calming waterfront views, breathtaking nature views, outdoor sitting areas with fire pits, and more.

It features a high-end spa with a seasonal outdoor pool, seven treatment rooms, and services like massages, facial therapies, body treatments, mani-pedis, waxing, and so on.

Have the ultimate luxurious experience by booking the One Bedroom Luxury Suite.

It boasts a king-sized bed, a soaking tub, fine linens, elegant accents, a flat-screen TV, a grand fireplace, a private balcony or terrace, and numerous others.

14. Foster Harris House — Virginia

189 Main St Washington, VA 22747 (202) 413-7690 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Foster Harris House, established in 1984, is a charming bed and breakfast in a house constructed in 1905 in Washington, Virginia.

It is a 1-hour and 30-minute drive from Washington, DC.

It has a spectacular dining area with gorgeous decorations, comfy furnishing, an intimate ambiance, eye-catching art installations, and a sizable menu of delicious dishes.

It has various guestrooms, like the Mountain View Room, boasting a private bath with a spa shower, a sitting room, a queen-size bed, a loveseat, a crystal chandelier, and more.

You can enjoy a peaceful weekend trip in the area as you go wine tasting, shopping at boutique stores, sightseeing, or spending the day at a park.

15. Glen Gordon Manor — Virginia

1482 Zachary Taylor Hwy Huntly, VA 22640 (540) 636-6010 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Glen Gordon Manor is a 5-star hotel that opened its doors to the public in 2006 in Huntly, Virginia, with an award-winning restaurant.

It sits on 45 acres of well-landscaped area and is less than a two-hour drive from Washington, DC.

It offers luxurious rooms, gourmet breakfasts in a beautiful dining area, champagne on arrival, high-speed wifi, an extravagant spa, and more.

It is the perfect place to celebrate a momentous occasion with your significant other because it offers several packages.

The award-winning Wine Country Date Night is a superb choice for a terrific wine-tasting experience with your partner.

It includes a romantic room or suite, wine tasting at a nearby vineyard, a 5-course dinner for two, a 3-course gourmet breakfast, and a complimentary room upgrade if available.

16. Turf Valley Resort — Maryland

2700 Turf Valley Rd Ellicott City, MD 21042 (410) 465-1500 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Turf Valley Resort is a 172-room accommodation in Ellicott City, Maryland, less than one hour and twenty minutes from Washington, DC.

It is the ideal resort for a cool overnight trip, offering amenities like two championship 18-hole golf courses, all-inclusive packages, scenic nature trails, and an indoor pool.

At its elegant spa, you can snack on choco-dipped strawberries in a serenity room, soak in a hot tub, and sign up for massage therapies, body treatments, or facials.

Other facilities include an outdoor pool with a slide, a fully equipped fitness center, three tennis courts, catering services for special occasions, and so much more.

17. The Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Resort — Maryland

100 Heron Blvd, US-50 Cambridge, MD 21613 (410) 901-1234 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Resort is a 4-star accommodation sitting on 342 acres of land in Cambridge, Maryland, less than three hours from Washington, DC.

This waterfront resort offers a boatload of amenities, like a charging station for electric vehicles, laundry areas, a fitness center, high-speed wifi, event spaces, a nearby marina, and more.

Enjoy activities like swimming in an indoor or outdoor pool, golfing, playing basketball, enjoying a fun round of tennis, hiking through picturesque nature trails, and many others.

It boasts a luxurious spa offering various massages, firming facials, body scrubs, signature mani-pedis, and hair therapies.

18. The Annapolis Inn — Maryland

144 Prince George St Annapolis, MD 21401 (410) 295-5200 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Annapolis Inn, established in the late 18th century, is a delightful bed and breakfast along Prince George Street in Maryland.

If you want to sleep overnight at a charming hotel for your getaway, Washington DC has many fantastic options nearby, like this charming accommodation roughly an hour’s drive away.

It offers a three-course breakfast in a gorgeous dining room with an elegant table, a stunning chandelier, eye-catching artwork, and a grand fireplace.

It also boasts several packages for every occasion, like the Girlfriends Getaway, perfect for a weekend trip with your friends.

This package includes afternoon tea, dinner reservations for the entirety of your stay, transportation arrangements to and from the hotel, and more.

19. The Angler’s Inn — West Virginia

867 Washington St Harpers Ferry, WV 25425 (304) 535-1239 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Angler’s Inn is a four-room bed and breakfast in a Victorian home from the 1870s along Washington Street in Harpers Ferry, about a 1-hour and 15-minute drive from Washington, DC.

Its delightful bedrooms feature a private bath, a sitting room, top-quality linens, charming art installations, and so on.

This B&B boasts complimentary fast wifi, central air-conditioning, onsite parking, a beautiful landscape, a gourmet breakfast, a kitchen, guided fishing trips upon reservation, and more.

It also has many attractions where you can enjoy activities like horseback riding, touring historical sites, hiking by the riverfront, trying various water sports, and many others.

20. The Bavarian Inn — West Virginia

164 Shepherd Grade Rd Shepherdstown, WV 25443 (304) 876-2551 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Bavarian Inn is a hotel in a historic home constructed in the 1930s, nestled on a beautifully landscaped area near the banks of the Potomac River.

You can find it in Shepherdstown, West Virginia, roughly one hour and thirty minutes from Washington, DC.

Some of its facilities include an infinity pool, sports courts, a hot tub, a health club, an ATM, ADA-accessible common areas, a gift shop, an outdoor fire pit, a fitness room, and more.

Depending on which room you book, you can take advantage of amenities like air conditioning, a balcony, a cozy fireplace, a fridge, cable TV, a whirlpool tub, and many others.

It is the ideal place to check in close to various tourist hotspots to enjoy activities like trying your luck at a casino, exploring a historic site, tasting wines, and playing golf.

21. Gibson’s Inn of Annapolis

110 Prince George St Annapolis, MD 21401 (410) 268-5555 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Gibson’s Inn of Annapolis, established in 1980, is a hotel consisting of three houses, the Patterson, Berman, and Lauer House.

Are you planning your weekend getaways in Washington DC, and want to stay at a hotel around the area for a quieter ambiance?

Then, this accommodation is the perfect choice for you because it is roughly a 45-minute drive away.

It has twenty beautifully furnished rooms, a spacious shaded brick courtyard, a 19th-century styled parlor, and a stunning dining room.

It offers an expansive breakfast selection featuring fresh seasonal fruits, yogurt, assorted cereals, oatmeal, granola bars, freshly baked pastries, bread, and so much more.

It is also within walking distance of a visitor center where you can learn more about the area, waterfront parks, local agencies offering guided tours, and several dining choices.

22. Wisp Resort — Maryland

296 Marsh Hill Rd McHenry, MD 21541 (301) 859-3159 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Wisp Resort, founded in 1955, is a highly acclaimed ski resort in McHenry, Maryland, about a three-hour and thirty-minute drive from Washington, DC.

Here, you can take your friends on a much-needed, fun-filled weekend vacation as you spend time bonding and doing all sorts of exciting activities.

Have a fantastic winter escape as you make snowmen, go snowboarding, ski, do snow tubing, and much more.

In the warmer months, enjoy riding a mountain coaster, practicing archery, going on chair lift rides, golfing, gem mining, whitewater rafting, kayaking, and numerous others.

It also boasts an onsite Escape Room where you and your friends can solve puzzles, hints, and clues to make your way out of a challenging themed room.

Recommended Hotel: The Lodge at Wisp

23. The Jefferson Hotel — Virginia

101 W Franklin St Richmond, VA 23220 (804) 788-8000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Jefferson Hotel is a longtime-running, 5-star accommodation that debuted in 1895 in downtown Richmond in the Old Dominion state of Virginia.

Splurge on a much-deserved, luxurious weekend getaway by driving roughly two hours to this elevated hotel.

It boasts 181 beautifully decorated rooms featuring spacious floor plans, high-end furnishing, marble baths, hand-crafted bedding, feather beds, dual vanities, and lots more.

This hotel has opulent decor, high ceilings, mesmerizing art installations, exceptional service, a champagne Sunday brunch, and many others.

You can also dine at its outstanding onsite restaurant, the Lemaire, offering professional servers, delectable New American cuisine, a curated list of more than 200 wines, and so on.

You can get tickets for live shows, tour info, transportation, complimentary bike loans, pet sitting services, gift deliveries, brochures on local attractions, and the like at the concierge.

24. Old Town Alexandria — Virginia

Old Town Alexandria, VA 22314 (703) 838-5005 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

​​Old Town is a historic neighborhood and one of the oldest sections in Alexandria, Virginia, dating back to 1749.

It is the ideal destination for short trips from Washington DC because it is a mere 20-minute drive away.

Here, you can find several antique shops, century-old townhomes, eclectic dining choices, over 100 independent boutique stores, red brick sidewalks, and cobblestone streets.

Explore the area free of charge by riding a bike or boarding the admission-free King Street Trolley.

Travel back in time to the late 18th century by going on a guided tour of the Carlyle House Historic Park, a Georgian-style mansion erected in 1752 by a wealthy merchant.

You can also view artwork in various forms at the Torpedo Factory Art Center and tour the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum, a former apothecary shop from 1805 to 1933.

Recommended Hotel: Lorien Hotel & Spa

25. Morrison House Old Town Alexandria — Virginia

116 S Alfred St Alexandria, VA 22314 (703) 838-8000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Morrison House Old Town Alexandria is a luxurious 4-star boutique hotel located in a building constructed in the 1790s in Virginia.

Are you preparing for your Washington DC weekend getaways and want to stay at a fabulous place in the area?

Then this hotel is a fabulous choice because it is a mere 30-minute drive away.

It has several amenities to make your stay more comfortable, like valet services, nightly wine hour, full continental breakfasts, a well-decorated parlor, and a library filled with various books.

Head to its onsite eatery, The Study, after spending the day touring the area.

It offers a sizable selection of expertly crafted cocktails, a modern American menu that changes with seasonally changing specialties, a luxurious atmosphere, live piano music, and more.

26. Loudoun County — Virginia

Loudoun County, VA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Loudoun County, founded in 1757, is one of the most populous counties in northern Virginia.

It is the ideal destination when looking for places to go for a weekend trip near you because it is roughly a 30-minute drive from Washington, DC.

Have a fantastic wine-tasting experience at the Stone Tower Winery, where you can also go on self-guided tours of its vineyard and enjoy expert-led cellar visits.

Spend time outdoors at the 1000-acre Morven Park, boasting an athletic field complex, formal gardens, multi-purpose trails, three museums, guided tours upon request, and more.

Go on an elevated shopping spree at the Leesburg Premium Outlets, featuring luxury stores like Armani, Swarovski, Coach, Burberry, Michael Kors, Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, and so on.

Recommended Hotel: Comfort Suites Leesburg

27. Baltimore — Maryland

Baltimore, MD Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Baltimore , nicknamed the Charm City, is a vibrant, independent metropolis resting on the banks of the Patapsco River in Maryland.

It is the perfect destination for your Washington DC area weekend getaways because it is roughly an hour’s drive away.

You can visit prominent tourist hotspots like the Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine here.

It is a historically significant fort that defended Baltimore Harbor against the British navy in the 1800s and is the birthplace of The Star-Spangled Banner, the US national anthem.

You can also head to the Walters Art Museum to view more than 36,000 art pieces from all around the globe.

Enjoy other activities like watching a sports game at Oriole Park at Camden Yards, discovering marine life at the National Aquarium, and walking through the historic streets of Fell’s Point.

Recommended Hotel: Sagamore Pendry Baltimore

Related: Fun Day Trips From Baltimore

28. Eastern Shore — Maryland

Eastern Shore, MD Visit Website Open in Google Maps

The Eastern Shore of Maryland, featuring at least nine counties, is a waterfront area on the banks of the east side of Chesapeake Bay.

It is ideal when planning cheap vacations from Washington DC, less than three hours away, because it offers various budget-friendly attractions.

Enjoy free things like walking or biking along the streets of the South Chesapeake City Historic District and taking pictures of its century-old buildings.

View an impressive collection of wildfowl carvings worldwide, including working decoys used by hunters and art sculptures, by visiting the affordable Ward Museum of Wildfowl Art.

Other fun options include watching wild horses roam the shores of the Assateague Island National Seashore and dining at a well-loved dining establishment.

Recommended Hotel: Sleep Inn Salisbury

29. Rappahannock County — Virginia

Rappahannock County, VA (540) 675-5330 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Rappahannock County, founded in 1833, is a landlocked county resting in the northern region of Piedmont.

Create long-lasting memories with your travel buddies as you enjoy a plethora of fun-filled activities.

Have a leisurely afternoon at the Little Washington Winery, offering hand-crafted artisan wines and craft beer.

Are you an avid hiker looking for a challenging route backed by breathtaking nature views?

If so, I highly recommend hiking the 5.6-mile loop of Little Devils Stairs Trail.

Have a blast trying other activities like viewing artwork at the independently-owned Cottage Curator and shopping for unique finds at ​​the Copper Fox Antiques.

Recommended Hotel: LeFay Cottage at Little Washington

30. Wilmington — Delaware

Wilmington, DE (800) 489-6664 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Wilmington, nicknamed the Corporate Capital of the World, is a riverfront city incorporated in 1731 in Delaware, about a 1-hour and 10-minute drive from Washington, DC.

It is home to several outstanding tourist hotspots perfect for a sightseeing tour with friends, a romantic weekend getaway with your significant other, or going on a family vacation.

Enjoy a date with your partner by exploring the Nemours Estate, boasting one of the largest informal French gardens in the continent and a stunning French château-inspired mansion.

The Delaware Children’s Museum is a must-visit for families, offering immersive activities, play areas, and interactive exhibits ideal for toddlers to teens.

Have a terrific tour experience with your friends by visiting the Hagley Museum, featuring a historical machine shop, a Renaissance Revival garden, and a house museum.

You can also watch a mesmerizing live show at the Grand Opera House, stroll along the Wilmington Riverwalk, and much more.

Recommended Hotel: Hotel Du Pont

31. Central Virginia — Virginia

Central Virginia, VA Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Central Virginia, explored by settlers in the early 1600s, is an area in Virginia consisting of at least seven counties.

It is less than a three-hour drive from Washington, DC.

It is a must-visit for history buffs because it boasts a rich past and various historical sites to discover.

Kick-start your tour by exploring the Henricus Historical Park, a living history museum with costumed actors and Colonial buildings showing what life was like in an English settlement.

Get the chance to visit a Gregorian-style manor constructed in the 1750s by heading to the Wilton House Museum displaying over 1400 artifacts from the 17th to 19th centuries.

Head to Kings Dominion in Doswell, Virginia, after touring various century-old attractions for a fun day out on your weekend trip.

It is a colossal 280-acre amusement park with a 20-acre water park, at least 60 rides, including 13 roller coasters, live shows, and tons more.

Recommended Hotel: Hyatt Place Richmond Chester

32. Thomas — West Virginia

Thomas, WV Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Thomas is a waterfront city in Tucker County and was once a coal town named after Thomas Beall Davis, a prominent American democratic politician.

It is roughly two hours and fifty minutes to three hours and thirty minutes from Washington, DC.

Visit attractions like the Buxton & Landstreet Gallery and Studios, displaying regional fine art exhibits of diverse forms, like paintings, pottery, glassworks, prints, and so on.

You can grab a couple of drinks at the Purple Fiddle at night, offering tasty food and entertaining live performances.

Shop for souvenirs at the Thomasyard, selling items like local jams, flowers, fine wines, gourmet condiments, bath essentials, ceramics, and so much more.

Recommended Hotel: The Inn at Canaan

Related: Best Weekend Getaways From Columbus

33. Arlington County — Virginia

Arlington County, VA (800) 296-7996 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Arlington County, nestled on the southwestern banks of the Potomac River, is a county founded in 1801 in northern Virginia.

Are you planning your Washington DC vacations and looking for other must-visit places to try various enjoyable activities?

If so, I suggest driving roughly fifteen minutes to this neighboring county.

Here, you can go on guided sightseeing tours, dine at a renowned eatery, enjoy a couple of drinks at a bar, stroll through a picture-perfect park, and more.

Tour one of its most popular attractions, the Arlington National Cemetery, an over 630-acre US Army-run national cemetery where you can honor the lives of those who served in the army.

You can also pay your respects to US service members who were never identified by visiting the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Recommended Hotel: Melrose Georgetown Hotel

34. Alexandria — Virginia

Alexandria, VA (703) 838-5005 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Alexandria, less than a 30-minute drive from Washington, DC, is a riverfront city founded in 1749 in northern Virginia.

It has plenty to offer you, such as specialty museums, national memorials, historical sites, spectacular dining choices, and countless others.

Immerse yourself in stunning artwork at the Torpedo Factory Art Center, boasting striking pieces in various forms, such as photography, sculptures, paintings, ceramics, jewelry, and the like.

Spend time outdoors at Huntley Meadows Park as you enjoy hiking, catching up on some reading on a bench, honing your photography skills, observing passing wildlife, and so on.

Try other activities like exploring its historic Old Town district, enjoying scenic waterfront views aboard the Potomac Water Taxi, and much more.

Recommended Hotel: The Westin Alexandria Old Town

35. Charlottesville — Virginia

Charlottesville, VA (434) 293-6789 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Charlottesville, nicknamed C’ville, is a city in Central Virginia, less than three hours from Washington, DC.

This metropolis is the perfect destination for a memorable sightseeing adventure because it is home to many highly acclaimed tourist hotspots.

Visit places like Monticello, the primary plantation of Founding Father and third US president, Thomas Jefferson, constructed in 1772.

Another must-see is the University of Virginia, a breathtaking public research university established by former president Jefferson in 1819.

Take in the fresh air by visiting the Carter Mountain Orchard, where you can enjoy seasonal fruit picking, appreciate enthralling valley views, shop at its onsite country store, and more.

Other fun activities in the area are shopping at the Historic Downtown Mall, sipping fine wines at the Trump Winery, and hiking through Saunders-Monticello Trail.

Recommended Hotel: Omni Charlottesville Hotel

36. Richmond — Virginia

Richmond, VA (804) 782-2777 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Richmond , nicknamed the River City, is the capital metropolis of Virginia and one of its most populous cities.

Visit places like Maymont, boasting a house museum, several formal gardens, a nature center, an impressive carriage collection, native wildlife exhibits, and more.

Get the chance to view more than 22,000 artworks of varying forms by going on a self-guided tour of the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.

You can also stroll through differently-themed gardens at the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden and learn about local history at the Virginia Capitol Building.

Recommended Hotel: Courtyard by Marriott Richmond Downtown

37. Virginia Beach — Virginia

Virginia Beach, VA (757) 385-4700 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Virginia Beach , first incorporated in 1906, is an oceanfront Virginia city less than four hours from Washington, DC.

Get a break from your daily life as you go on a beachfront weekend vacation with your travel buddies in this magnificent metropolis.

Start your trip by exploring the three-mile-long Virginia Beach Boardwalk, featuring various eateries, a playground for your kids, a statue, museums, and more.

Enjoy a relaxing time at the secluded Sandbridge Beach, boasting endless Atlantic Ocean views, a powdery sand shoreline, and a quieter ambiance than other coastlines.

Discover the richness of ocean life at the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, featuring more than 12,000 animals, differently-themed aquariums, and educational displays.

You can also view various propeller-driven military aircraft at the Military Aviation Museum and sip exquisite alcoholic concoctions at the Tarnished Truth Distilling Co.

Recommended Hotel: Hilton Garden Inn Virginia Beach Oceanfront

38. Hershey — Pennsylvania

Hershey, PA (717) 231-7788 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Hershey is a census-designated place in the Dauphin County of Pennsylvania, about a 2-hour and 30-minute drive from Washington, DC.

Create memories to last a lifetime with your loved ones as you explore its many wonders.

Have a blast at Hersheypark, a theme park boasting several shops, eateries, an onsite waterpark, and at least 76 attractions, including 13 roller coasters, for all ages.

The Hershey Story Museum is a must-visit for chocolate lovers, featuring a chocolate lab for your little ones, interactive displays, and immersive activities.

You can also view blooming flowers of every color at the Hershey Gardens, observe live animals at the ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park, and watch live shows at the Hershey Theatre.

Recommended Hotel: Best Western Plus Hershey

39. Norfolk — Virginia

Norfolk, VA (800) 368-3097 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Norfolk, incorporated in 1705, is an independent city in Virginia resting on the shores of the Elizabeth River and Chesapeake Bay.

It offers several attractions where you can enjoy going on guided tours, dining establishments catering to your every craving, and other fantastic tourist hotspots for all budgets,

Head to the Battleship Wisconsin, one of the largest battleships constructed by the US Navy, at Nauticus to visit its most popular attraction.

Appreciate the beauty of nature at the 158-acre Norfolk Botanical Garden, featuring gorgeous themed sections and a Naturalistic Landscape design.

View exotic animals with your companions at the Virginia Zoo, like Bornean orangutans, African lions, red pandas, cheetahs, Malayan tigers, meerkats, white rhinos, zebras, and tons more.

Recommended Hotel: Hilton Norfolk The Main

40. Bethesda — Maryland

Bethesda, MD (877) 209-5883 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Bethesda is a census-designated place and unincorporated community in southern Maryland’s Montgomery County.

Make long-lasting memories with your friends, significant other, or loved ones as you enjoy various activities.

You can watch a captivating live show at the Strathmore, an artistic and cultural venue erected in 1981, and go on a shopping spree at Bethesda Row, an upscale shopping mall.

Have fun with your kids as you play with them at a playground at the Cabin John Regional Park and view interactive exhibits or participate in immersive programs at the KID Museum.

Recommended Hotel: The Bethesdan Hotel, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

41. Assateague Island — Maryland

Assateague Island, MD (410) 641-1441 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Assateague Island, nestled on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, is a barrier island spanning at least 37 miles long in Berlin, Maryland.

Catch up with your friends as you enjoy a much-needed break from city life by driving roughly three hours to Assateague Island.

Relax on the sandy shoreline as you sunbathe, have a delightful picnic, observe passing wild horses from a safe distance, or go for a quick dip in the ocean.

You can also enjoy a more adventurous experience on the island by kayaking, canoeing, camping, signing up for ranger-led programs, driving off-road vehicles, and so much more.

Recommended Hotel: Francis Scott Key Family Resort

42. St. Michaels — Maryland

St. Michaels, MD Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

St. Michaels, or Saint Michaels, is a town incorporated in Talbot County in Maryland.

You can find it nestled on the banks of the Miles River, about a two-hour drive from Washington, DC.

Have an unforgettable tour experience exploring attractions like the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, displaying artifacts, vessels, and exhibits related to the Chesapeake Bay.

You can also have a leisurely afternoon with your group at the Lyon Rum Distillery, established in 2012, as you sip exquisite various alcoholic concoctions.

See a stunning historical landmark by visiting the 1879 Hooper Strait Lighthouse, a well-preserved lighthouse from the 19th century.

Recommended Hotel: St. Michaels Inn

43. Chincoteague — Virginia

Chincoteague, VA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Chincoteague is a charming town nestled on an island of the same name in Accomack County, Virginia.

It is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life as you spend time in nature.

Go on a nature adventure at the 14,000-acre Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge as you enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, horseback riding, biking, observing wildlife, and lots more.

You can also rent a bicycle at the Bike Depot and enjoy biking along scenic trails.

Other activities to try in the area include learning about local history at the Museum of Chincoteague and splashing in the pristine water at Maui Jack’s Waterpark.

Recommended Hotel: Comfort Suites Chincoteague Island Bayfront Resort

44. Shenandoah National Park — Virginia

3655 U.S. Highway 211 East Luray, VA 22835 (540) 999-3500 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Shenandoah National Park, encompassing almost 200,000 acres, is an American national park welcoming more than 1.6 million visitors annually.

It offers the perfect break from city life as you drive roughly two hours from Washington, DC.

Enjoy a spectacular adventure as you enjoy hiking, camping, birdwatching, rock climbing, stargazing, biking, fishing, and numerous others.

It boasts a jaw-dropping natural landscape with majestic waterfalls, lush greenery, dense forests, towering trees, and more.

Recommended Hotel: Hotel Laurance

45. Ellicott City — Maryland

Ellicott City, MD Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ellicott City, founded in 1772, is a census-designated place and seat of Howard County in Maryland.

Enjoy one of the best weekend getaways from Washington DC by driving roughly one hour to this unincorporated community.

The B&O Ellicott City Station Museum is a must-visit on your sightseeing tour, displaying model trains, authentic railroad artifacts, reenactments, educational programs, and more.

Are you an outdoor enthusiast?

Then, visit Patapsco Valley State Park, an over 14,000-acre state park ideal for picnicking, fishing, hiking, canoeing, mountain biking, horseback riding, and camping.

Drop by a stunning historical and religious landmark before leaving, the Shrine of St. Anthony, a Roman Catholic church erected in 1931 with a Neo-Renaissance architectural design.

Recommended Hotel: Sonesta ES Suites Columbia Baltimore

Getaway Guide 

Comparing destinations: which one is right for you.

When planning a weekend getaway, it’s essential to compare the different attractions to ensure you choose the one that perfectly suits your interests. 

Each destination offers its own unique charm, and by comparing them, you can make an informed decision that maximizes your enjoyment.

At Salamander Resort, I was whisked away by the equine charm, and after a relaxed trail ride, I basked in their world-class spa. 

During our stay there, my daughter was smitten with their culinary classes.

Goodstone Inn, with its captivating history, was our gastronomical heaven. 

A romantic sunset wine tasting overlooking the sprawling vineyards was etched in my memory, and the kids adored the friendly farm animals.

A quirky twist to our adventures was the Craddock Terry Hotel. 

Luxuriating in their rich industrial heritage, my children found delight in the shoe-themed whimsy. 

The in-room breakfast, served in an antique wooden shoeshine box, was an amusing surprise. 

How I Picked The Destinations 

When it came to selecting my weekend getaways in Washington DC, I took a personalized and immersive approach. 

I engaged in lively conversations with locals, tapping into their insider knowledge and recommendations for hidden gems. 

Additionally, I delved into extensive online research, exploring travel blogs and forums to uncover lesser-known attractions and experiences. 

With this amalgamation of local insights and online wisdom, I crafted a unique itinerary that promised delightful surprises and authentic encounters in the captivating capital.

Our Property Rating Method 

I rate these properties based on the following criteria:

• Room Variety: I use this to rate the room options offered by every property. What room types are available? Can it accommodate different budgets, group sizes, and preferences? I ask myself these questions when evaluating the property’s room variety. 
• Comfort and Cleanliness: This measures the overall cleanliness and comfort of the accommodations. Does it have comfortable beds? Are the rooms spotless and dust-free? These are important factors I consider when rating comfort and cleanliness. 
• Location: This is used to evaluate how convenient and accessible the property is. How close is it to the attractions? Are there good public transportation options near the location? Is it easily accessible for families? These questions are important when I rate the location of every accommodation. 
• Affordability: I use this to evaluate the property’s affordability. Are the room rates reasonable? Does the property have any additional fees? Does the property offer discounts or packages? I ask myself this in order to rate affordability. 
• Family-Friendliness: This evaluates the family-friendliness of each property. Does it offer babysitting services and children’s activities? Does it have connecting rooms for families? I use these questions to rate the family-friendliness of the property. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Are there any scenic coastal destinations near washington dc for a weekend trip.

Yes, there are several coastal destinations near Washington DC that make for great weekend getaways, such as Ocean City in Maryland and Rehoboth Beach in Delaware.

How Far Are The Weekend Getaway Destinations From Washington DC?

Shenandoah National Park is approximately 70 miles west of Washington DC, making it easily accessible for a weekend trip. Annapolis, Maryland, is about 30 miles east of the capital city, allowing for a short drive or train ride. Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia, is around 65 miles northwest of Washington DC, providing a scenic drive or train journey.

What Outdoor Activities Can I Enjoy During A Weekend Getaway From Washington DC?

Shenandoah National Park offers numerous outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, birdwatching, and scenic drives along Skyline Drive. Annapolis provides opportunities for sailing, boating, and waterfront dining. Harper’s Ferry allows for hiking, whitewater rafting, and exploring the historic town.

Conclusion 

When seeking the best weekend getaways from Washington DC, my family and I wholeheartedly recommend Salamander Resort & Spa. 

Its unique blend of luxurious accommodations, gourmet dining, and a wealth of family-friendly activities sets it apart. 

Nestled in the heart of Virginia’s wine country, it offers a retreat from city life without losing any creature comforts. 

Compared to other options, it has been the most memorable based on our personal experiences, offering unparalleled service and fun. 

So, if you’re hunting for that perfect family-friendly escape, this luxurious country resort should be at the top of your list.

Protect Your Trip »

The 11 best weekend getaways from washington, d.c..

Escape the hustle and bustle of our nation's capital with one of these refreshing weekend getaways.

Weekend Getaways From Washington, D.C.

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Consider a seaside adventure to Annapolis for your next trip away from Washington, D.C.

There's no denying the countless things to do and see in our nation's capital. However, the nonstop pace of Washington, D.C. , can wear anyone out, and sometimes a weekend getaway is just what the doctor ordered. Luckily, D.C.'s central mid-Atlantic location gives travelers easy access to top destinations in Virginia , Maryland , Pennsylvania and more.

To help you choose the destination that is right for you, U.S. News evaluated expert and traveler opinion to bring you the best weekend getaways from Washington, D.C. Whether your perfect trip involves hiking the Blue Ridge Mountains or being pampered at a world-class spa resort, you'll find all that and more only a stone's throw from D.C.

The Best Weekend Getaways From Washington, D.C.

About an hour or less:, leesburg, virginia, annapolis, maryland, middleburg, virginia, about two hours or less:, shenandoah national park, virginia, st. michaels, maryland, richmond, virginia, about three hours or less:, charlottesville, virginia, rehoboth beach, delaware, philadelphia, ocean city, maryland.

Situated about 40 miles northwest of D.C., Leesburg may not be the first destination Washingtonians have in mind when they think of an exciting weekend getaway. But this hidden gem on the banks of the Potomac River has plenty to offer all kinds of travelers. From historic buildings like George C. Marshall's Dodona Manor to lush green spaces like Morven Park, you'll discover a surprising number of things to occupy your time with in Leesburg. Browse boutiques, explore art galleries or sip a latte at one of historic downtown Leesburg's many charming cafes. Or, if you'd like something a little stronger, hit up one of the area's breweries for a drink – Loudoun Brewing Company and Black Hoof Brewing Company receive rave reviews from recent travelers. Meanwhile, wine lovers can sample delicious vino at traveler-approved Zephaniah Farm Vineyard or Casanel Vineyards & Winery. In the evening, listen to live music at the Tally Ho Theater before bedding down at one of the area's charming bed-and-breakfasts . You can also splurge on a stay at the luxurious Lansdowne Resort , which offers amenities like three golf courses and a full-service spa.

Maryland's capital city is ideal for travelers who need a break from D.C.'s fast-paced atmosphere. Once dubbed the "Athens of America," the historic seaport of Annapolis now draws visitors looking to explore its boutique- and restaurant-lined streets or experience the magic of the Chesapeake Bay by boat. Start your visit with a stroll through Historic Annapolis , which is home to a variety of charming cafes, museums and art galleries. Here, travelers will find top attractions like the William Paca House and the Banneker-Douglass Museum , which presents an overview of Black history in Maryland from the 1600s onward. Then, tour the exhibits on display at the U.S. Naval Academy , the second-oldest federal service academy in the country.

Don't forget to check out the city's many outdoor treasures as well. Weekenders can spend an afternoon lounging on Sandy Point State Park 's golden shoreline or enjoy a picnic at scenic Quiet Waters Park . Later, see for yourself why Annapolis is one of the nation's premier sailing destinations by taking a sunset boat tour of Chesapeake Bay. When it's time to turn in for the night, lay down your head at one of the city's many historic inns or hotels. Graduate Annapolis is a popular pick among recent travelers thanks to its comfortable, nautical-style accommodations and friendly staff.

[See more of Annapolis:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

Affectionately nicknamed "Charm City," Baltimore fits the bill whether you are planning a whirlwind daytrip or a fun-filled weekend getaway. From renowned art museums like the Baltimore Museum of Art and The Walters Art Museum to historic sites like Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine , this dynamic city has something to offer just about everyone. You won't want to miss top attractions like the USS Constellation and the National Aquarium , and if you can swing it, try to catch a baseball game at the iconic Oriole Park at Camden Yards . Just don't leave without sampling Maryland's famous blue crab – the Chesapeake Bay is responsible for approximately half of the country's entire supply.

Although the drive here from D.C. is relatively short at about 40 miles, you can save yourself the hassle of navigating through downtown Baltimore by taking an Amtrak train from Washington's Union Station to Baltimore's Penn Station, which will get you into the city in less than an hour. From there, Baltimore's convenient public transit system is easy to get the hang of, and the Charm City Circulator (which offers four routes through the city's central business district) is free to ride. First-time visitors hoping to see many of Baltimore's top sights should opt for lodging near the Inner Harbor , or you can put your ghost-hunting skills to the test by staying overnight in one of city's spooky haunted hotels – such as the Admiral Fell Inn .

[See more of Baltimore:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

About 45 miles from D.C., Middleburg is like a breath of fresh air. Set amid a backdrop of rolling hills and vineyards, this quiet sanctuary at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia is known for being the nation's premier horse and hunt capital. World-class equestrian events are held here throughout the year, and the town is also home to the National Sporting Library & Museum, an art museum and research library dedicated to country pursuits. After brushing up on your horseback riding skills at one of the area's equestrian centers, go for a stroll along charming Washington Street, where you can browse art galleries, dine on delicious farm-to-table cuisine or hunt for hidden treasures in one of the town's antique shops.

Middleburg is also known for its many wineries – visitors can spend an afternoon sampling top-notch vino before bedding down at one of the area's lavish hotels. With a full-service spa, indoor and outdoor pools, an equestrian center, a cooking studio, and even an on-site zip lining course, Salamander Resort & Spa is perfect for travelers who want to pull out all the stops for their short weekend getaway. Or, you can opt for a room at the luxurious Goodstone Inn & Restaurant, an exclusive property offering a mere 18 guest rooms spread across six historic cottages. Time your visit for October to experience the four-day Middleburg Film Festival, or arrive on the first Saturday of December to take part in the town's beloved annual Christmas parade.

From rushing waterfalls to rocky mountain peaks, Shenandoah National Park is home to a wealth of natural beauty about 70 miles from the city. Experience it on foot while hiking the park's 500-plus miles of trails (the strenuous 9.4-mile Old Rag Mountain hike is a traveler favorite), or enjoy the stunning views while exploring Skyline Drive , a 105-mile scenic route that is a must-do on any Shenandoah itinerary. You can also step foot on the legendary Appalachian Trail , about 100 miles of which is located in Shenandoah National Park. Plan your visit for fall to see the Blue Ridge Mountains painted in magnificent shades of red, orange and yellow, or come during spring to admire the park's wildflowers in bloom.

If you feel like roughing it under the stars, the park offers five campgrounds to choose from, and backcountry camping is allowed with a permit. Or, kill two birds with one stone by booking accommodations in the nearby town of Luray. Here, visitors will find the famous Luray Caverns, a vast underground cave system known for its extensive chambers of stalactites and stalagmites.

[See more of Shenandoah National Park:  Things to Do  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

Travelers looking for a relaxing weekend getaway will love the laid-back town of St. Michaels. Located about 80 miles east of Washington, this quaint harbor town on Maryland's eastern shore can suit a variety of needs, whether you are looking for a romantic trip for two or a family-friendly retreat on the water. Learn about the town's rich history of shipbuilding through interactive exhibits at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, then gain your sea legs on a sunset boat tour of Miles River. Or, if you'd rather stick to land, you can explore the streets of St. Michaels on a pedicab ride before perusing the many unique shops and restaurants that line Talbot Street. When it's time to turn in for the evening, visitors can retreat to one of St. Michaels' cozy inns or vacation rentals.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

About 110 miles from Washington, Virginia's capital, while steeped in history, is by no means stuck in the past. Sure, travelers can enjoy iconic landmarks like the Virginia State Capitol and St. John's Church , but you'd be remiss not to save time for exploring Richmond 's other cultural offerings too. From world-class art museums like the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts to top-notch restaurants and breweries , Richmond offers a plethora of ways to spend your time. Take a stroll through eccentric Carytown , where you'll find boutiques, a 1920s movie theater and more street murals than you can count.

You can also spend an afternoon rafting or kayaking down the scenic James River. Meanwhile, travelers with a taste for beautiful outdoor spaces will want to check out the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden and historic Maymont , a sprawling Gilded Age-era estate featuring spectacular Italian and Japanese gardens. In the evening, lay down your head at the sophisticated Jefferson Hotel , an upscale property in the heart of downtown Richmond boasting deluxe amenities and opulent guest rooms – perfect for a romantic getaway in Virginia .

[See more of Richmond:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

The city of Charlottesville , located about 115 miles southwest of D.C., is an ideal getaway spot for those who want to immerse themselves in our nation's history. Your first stop should be Monticello , the former home of President Thomas Jefferson. Here, visitors can tour Jefferson's living quarters and learn about the experiences of the enslaved people who were forced to live and work here. Recent travelers also recommend saving time for a stroll through the Saunders-Monticello Trail, a 4-mile route through native hardwood forest. After exploring the grounds of his historic estate, pay a visit to the university founded by Jefferson in 1819: the University of Virginia . This historic college is the only university in the United States to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

When you're ready to step back into the present, you'll find top-rated restaurants, art galleries, specialty shops and more in Charlottesville's beloved Downtown Mall . For a memorable experience, visit in autumn to go applepicking at Carter Mountain Orchard and witness the area's colorful fall foliage . Don't forget to grab an apple cider doughnut – a treat recent travelers say is not to be missed. Recharge your batteries with a luxurious stay at Boar's Head Resort , a charming property with many on-site amenities, including tennis and pickleball courts, a spa, golf courses, three swimming pools, a squash center and a rock climbing wall.

[See more of Charlottesville:  Things to Do | Wineries |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

Nicknamed the "Nation's Summer Capital," Rehoboth Beach is one of Delaware's best weekend getaway destinations. Located about 120 miles east of D.C., this 1-square-mile town is perfect for travelers in search of a classic beach vacation. Spend an afternoon lounging on the sand, then go for a stroll along Rehoboth's lively boardwalk , which is packed with restaurants, bars, shops and more. Meanwhile, families won't want to miss a visit to Funland , a popular amusement park featuring arcade games and plenty of kid-friendly rides. For a quieter (but no less beautiful) beach experience, head to Cape Henlopen State Park . Located north of Rehoboth Beach, this coastal park offers ample opportunities for swimming, fishing, cycling, camping, hiking and more.

When it's time to bed down, the area is full of cozy cottages and vacation rentals. Or, travelers can find lodging at one of Rehoboth Beach's top hotels. Boardwalk Plaza Hotel boasts comfortable Victorian-style accommodations and perks like an on-site pub and indoor-outdoor pool. Meanwhile, The Avenue Inn & Spa attracts travelers looking for extras like a full-service spa and complimentary breakfast. Plan an autumn visit to Rehoboth Beach to experience the annual Sea Witch Festival, a top fall festival .

[See more of Rehoboth Beach:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

History buffs who have already explored Washington's many monuments and museums will be delighted to know there's yet another historical city within close reach of the nation's capital. Located around 140 miles northeast of D.C., Philadelphia boasts iconic landmarks such as the Liberty Bell Center , the Betsy Ross House and Independence Hall , where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were drafted and signed. But despite its historic heritage, Philadelphia has kept up well with the times – hip nightclubs and trendy restaurants abound in Center City, along with world-class art museums like the Rodin Museum and the Philadelphia Museum of Art .

Keep in mind that traffic in Philly is notoriously bad and parking options are slim, so ditch the car and opt for public transportation instead. An Amtrak train from Union Station to William H. Gray III 30th Street Station typically takes less than two hours, and once you're there, the city's easy-to-use transit system will get you wherever you need to go. But if you don't feel like sharing elbow room with a bus full of strangers, don't worry – Philadelphia is consistently rated as one of the most walkable cities in the U.S. Take advantage of this by booking your stay at Kimpton Hotel Monaco Philadelphia or the swanky Rittenhouse hotel, both of which offer prime locations near many of the city's top sights.

[See more of Philadelphia:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

Maryland's Ocean City has long been the beach destination of choice for D.C. residents – and for good reason. Complete with kid-friendly amusement rides and 10 miles of uninterrupted shoreline, this quintessential beach town has all the makings of a fun-filled weekend getaway. For prime beach access, opt for a hotel facing the ocean – Princess Royale Oceanfront Resort and Hilton Ocean City Oceanfront Suites both receive rave reviews from recent travelers. Or, enjoy relaxing water views from a bayside vacation rental. And the best part? Ocean City is located less than 150 miles from D.C., so beach bums won't have to travel far to stick their toes in the sand.

Thanks to its position on Assawoman and Isle of Wright bays, Ocean City is the perfect place to enjoy low-key waters ports like paddleboarding and kayaking. But, of course, the main draw here is the city's wide, sandy beach . Although you'll have to fight off other beachgoers for a spot to lay your towel come June, lounging under the sun while ocean waves crash in the distance is the perfect summer activity. Families can peruse the boardwalk 's many souvenir shops and arcades, or head to nostalgia-inducing Trimper Rides for amusement park classics like mirror mazes and bumper cars. Refuel with tasty local treats like Thrasher's French Fries and Fractured Prune donuts. Meanwhile, travelers 21 and older can take advantage of Ocean City's exciting nightlife scene – Seacrets, the island's most popular party complex, features more than 15 bars and several stages playing nightly live music.

[See more of Ocean City:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Romantic Getaways in Pennsylvania
• The Top Romantic Getaways in New Jersey
• The Top Romantic Getaways in New York State
• The Top Presidents Day Weekend Getaways
• The Cheapest Travel Insurance Options

Tags: Travel , Washington DC Vacations , Southeast Vacations , US Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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15 Top-Rated Weekend Getaways from Washington D.C.

Written by Freddy Sherman Updated Mar 30, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

When it's time to get away from Washington D.C., your destination options include almost the entire Eastern United States. Aside from all the possible getaways by car, the city is well connected to the Northeast and New England by train, including Amtrak's Acela high-speed train. Acela service connects Washington and Boston with 14 stops in between. Amtrak's Silver Meteor train will get you to the theme parks of Orlando or the beaches of South Florida in about a day.

You can do an urban getaway to the Broadway shows, museums, and fine dining of Manhattan, or head to Harpers Ferry in West Virginia for some history, along with rural hiking or mountain biking.

The D.C. area is also within easy reach of many beaches, including those along the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean like Myrtle Beach or Ocean City. You may want to take a winter ski getaway , and there are several options within a two-hour drive of the city.

The area around Washington is home to a lot of destination resorts, where you can spend the entire weekend experiencing the available amenities and activities. Families will enjoy a visit to the massive Greenbrier resort in West Virginia, with its 11,000 acres of activities. Couples might like a romantic country house resort like the Goodstone Inn in Middleburg, Virginia.

For ideas on easy city escapes, browse this list of the top weekend getaways from Washington D.C.

1. New York City

2. ocean city, new jersey, 3. old town alexandria, virginia, 4. harpers ferry, west virginia, 5. gettysburg, pennsylvania, 6. philadelphia, pennsylvania, 7. annapolis, maryland, 8. the greenbrier, west virginia, 9. rehoboth beach, delaware, 10. cape hatteras, north carolina, 11. whitetail resort, pennsylvania, 12. goodstone inn & restaurant, 13. orlando, florida, 14. myrtle beach, south carolina, 15. boston, massachusetts, map of weekend getaways from washington d.c..

Any list of D.C. getaways has to start with New York City (or at least include it in the top three). Amtrak's Acela Express train service gets you from Union Station in Washington to Penn Station in Manhattan in three hours, sometimes even less.

Whether you take in a Broadway show , enjoy a foodie adventure in the city's many great restaurants, or spend your entire visit exploring the many museums , there is something for everyone.

The Dominick Hotel is one of the city's newer luxury hotels, located in a neighborhood called Hudson Square, next to SoHo and TriBeCa. It's within easy walking distance of Lower Manhattan, and there's a subway stop a block away to explore other areas of the city. The hotel is by far the tallest building in the area, giving its rooms and suites sensational views, some looking downtown, others uptown.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in New York City

For a family-friendly beach getaway three hours from D.C., Ocean City, New Jersey is an excellent option. Although Ocean City, Maryland is an hour closer, the New Jersey resort retains more of its small-town, family feel - the town was founded 100 years ago as a church retreat location.

The family-friendly environment means no alcohol sales anywhere in the city and many businesses close on Sundays to allow for worship or family time.

There are no mega-resorts here, just small hotels and motels and a wide, beautiful beach fronted with an old-school 2.5-mile-long wooden boardwalk. The boardwalk is lined with shops, restaurants, ice-cream stands, and a few amusement parks. Beyond the boardwalk are miles of windswept dune beaches. Ocean City is a summer weekend getaway destination, and many of the businesses close for the winter.

The Port-O-Call Hotel is right on the Boardwalk at 15th Street. The city's original high-rise hotel (10 stories), it retains a retro charm and puts you within walking distance of the whole town. Some rooms have balconies overlooking the beach, and there's also a large pool.

Alexandria, Virginia is right across the Potomac River from Washington and the home of many D.C. workers. But this city is also an easy getaway destination. It's a short trip by car, or you can even go by train via the Metro.

The Old Town area has a concentration of preserved buildings, now converted into more than 200 locally owned shops and restaurants. Old Town Alexandria is focused around a mile-long stretch of King Street, with cobblestone streets and red-brick sidewalks.

The Lorien Hotel & Spa is a luxury boutique hotel right in Old Town on King Street. The hip, stylish rooms are offered with warm, personal service and an effort to immerse guests in local culture.

This city in West Virginia, about 90 minutes from Washington, is where the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers come together. Famous for its role in Civil War history, the area is just as popular as a getaway destination for its scenic beauty and abundance of outdoor activities.

The Harpers Ferry National Historical Park offers both history and miles of hiking and exploring. There are numerous historic sites and exhibitions to learn about the area and its history, along with miles of hiking trails and beautiful scenery to explore. The Harpers Ferry Historic District has a lot of original homes and the historic downtown area.

For overnight stays in Harpers Ferry, there are plenty of camping areas, or The Ledge House Bed and Breakfast is a popular option. This boutique property has a scenic hillside location with sweeping views of the Potomac River from its large front porch.

Gettysburg, site of the battle that was a key turning point of the Civil War, is only a 90-minute road trip from Washington D.C. The battlefield site, a national park called Gettysburg Memorial Battlefield, is in Southern Pennsylvania, and it's a moving place to visit.

Gettysburg is an hour from a very cool area called Pennsylvania Dutch Country, and the two make for a great getaway. Pennsylvania Dutch Country is a rural farming area, home to the local Amish population, along with many tourist attractions.

You can't find a more central location than the Gettysburg Hotel , at 1 Lincoln Square. This historic hotel has been around since before the Civil War (it opened in 1797), and a stay here is a great complement to a battlefield visit. It's a wonderful choice for families, as the hotel itself is a piece of living history with strong connections to the Civil War.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Gettysburg

Philadelphia makes a great weekend getaway destination from Washington, and it's less than two hours away by train. This historic city is filled with museums, great restaurants, and plenty of history, especially that of the Colonial American period.

The historic downtown area called Old City (known as America's most historic square mile), near Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, is a good area for sightseeing . The core is the Independence National Historical Park, which includes the Liberty Bell Center and other historic buildings from the colonial period.

To create a 24-hour-a-day historic experience in Philadelphia, a stay at The Morris House Hotel , built in 1787, is a great option. This luxury boutique hotel is a few blocks from Independence Hall and is also an excellent option for couples seeking a romantic colonial getaway. Not only is the Morris House hotel housed in a period building, the experience, furnishings, and decorations are all done in the Federal style.

The capital city of Maryland is about an hour from Washington D.C., and its waterfront location makes it a great escape from the city, especially for a summer getaway. Annapolis is home to the United States Naval Academy (which is open for guided tours), and the city offers many museums, cool shops, and, of course, fresh seafood.

The Annapolis Waterfront Hotel, Autograph Collection lives up to its waterfront name with a great harborfront location (it's the city's only waterfront hotel). Some of the hotel's rooms and suites have perfect views of the harbor and its many boats. Autograph Collection is a Marriott boutique hotel brand.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions and Things to Do in Annapolis, MD

This large resort in West Virginia is a getaway destination in itself. A hotel first opened on the site in 1778, and it has grown into an 11,000-acre luxury mega-resort and wellness spa. There are so many things to see and do at the Greenbrier - it's a great destination for families, solo travelers, and couples seeking a romantic experience.

Over the years, 27 US presidents have stayed at The Greenbrier , along with a who's who of international royalty and celebrities. There is a wide range of activities available (more than 50 different things to do), with golf, fishing, and horseback riding among the most popular. There's even a bowling alley and a movie theater, all part of the vast resort.

The Greenbrier is in Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, about a four-hour drive from Washington D.C. You can also take the Amtrak Cardinal train from Union Station to the resort - the travel time is about six hours.

Another small-town beach city originally founded as a church group retreat, Rehoboth Beach, Delaware has long been a popular (and cheap) summer getaway for D.C. residents. It's not too far away, If you time it right, you can leave Washington and be on the sand of Rehoboth Beach within about 2.5 hours. Formerly known mainly to Mid-Atlantic residents as a great getaway destination, Rehoboth Beach has gained international fame, as it's home to the summer residence of President Joe Biden.

The beach itself is a broad, sandy, flat beach but the town is best known for its old-fashioned wooden boardwalk. There's even a bandshell in the center of town on the boardwalk, with plenty of great musical programming and performances. The boardwalk is lined with carnival games, food stands, and locally owned shops. The ocean is also especially clean, very highly rated by the Natural Resources Defense Council.

Rehoboth Beach is a very family-friendly place to visit. Adults and visitors seeking a more active nightlife head to the neighboring town of Dewey Beach. Rehoboth Beach is also a popular shopping destination, Delaware has no sales tax, and there's a large outlet mall just outside of town.

• Read More: Top-Rated Beaches in Delaware

The Cape Hatteras National Seashore is a strikingly beautiful area, part of North Carolina's Outer Banks . There are miles and miles of raw, wild undeveloped beaches and grassy sand dunes. It's about a six-hour drive from Washington, but well worth it.

The area all around Cape Hatteras is just about one of the best places on the whole East Coast for sportfishing and surfing, too. The harbors and beaches provide a great vacation environment, and all the fishing results in incredible seafood.

The Cape Hatteras Motel sits right on the sand, facing the sea, not far from the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. The rooms are not luxurious, but you'll be too distracted by the view to notice. The area in front of the motel is popular for surf fishing, where you stand on the beach or in the water and cast your line into the sea. The motel has oceanfront rooms, as well as two-bedroom suites with full kitchens.

If you're looking for a good winter weekend getaway, Whitetail Resort is on Two Top Mountain in the Bear Pond Mountains in Mercersburg, Pennsylvania. It's the best, closest ski resort to Washington, D.C. - you can leave D.C. and be on the slopes within two hours.

Whitetail Resort has 23 trails to ski, all of which are lit for night skiing. The total elevation is only about a thousand feet, but there's a range of runs for skiers of all skill levels.

Whitetail has three high-speed lifts along with its own terrain park for snowboarders and snowtubers. The mountain resort offers rentals and lessons as well.

Whitetail is a four-season resort, which means aside from skiing in the winter, they offer visitors a range of activities all year-round. You can go hiking and mountain biking on mountain trails or go fishing in a mountain lake.

Only about 15 minutes from the mountain, the Mercersburg Inn offers a rather fancy bed-and-breakfast experience in an ornate turn-of-the-century (19th- to the 20th-century) Georgian Revival mansion. The 17-room inn has rooms and suites in a main house and a carriage house. Accommodations range from cozy bedrooms to lavish suites.

This country inn is a great Washington, D.C. weekend getaway destination on its own. The Goodstone Inn & Restaurant is at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains in the town of Middleburg, Virginia. The area is known as Virginia's "horse and hunt" capital - it's filled with horse farms.

About an hour from Washington, the inn features a complex of six historic houses and cottages on a 265-acre estate. The cottages have been converted to create 18 luxurious rooms and suites, all oozing with country English or country French style.

The Goodstone is a popular foodie destination, as it has its own farm, where much of the food is grown. The resort's restaurant features a French-inspired menu, and many make the drive from DC just for a meal.

To work off all the delicious food you'll eat, the luxury boutique resort has miles of hiking and biking trails along with an outdoor heated pool and a spa.

With some good planning, you can do a weekend getaway from Washington in Orlando. Direct flights take less than three hours, or you can take an overnight train. Amtrak's Silver Meteor leaves DC in the early evening and gets you into Orlando just after noon the next day. Of course, you can drive from DC to Florida, but it's not much faster than the train.

For a luxurious experience, The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes is centrally located to all the local theme parks yet in a private, park-like lakeside setting. The resort has its own championship golf course, a world-class spa, and several fine-dining options on-property.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Orlando, FL

This casual, family-friendly golf destination is part of what's called the Grand Strand: 60 miles of beautiful beaches along the South Carolina coast. Myrtle Beach really delivers on all levels as a getaway destination. Aside from lots of great golf, there's a wide, beautiful beach to play on, a beachfront boardwalk, all kinds of water sports to enjoy, and amusement parks and fun things to do for the kids.

Cheap flights to Myrtle Beach are available from Washington; the flight time is about 90 minutes. The very scenic drive will take about seven hours.

The Hilton Grand Vacations Club Ocean 22 Myrtle Beach is right on the sand, about a 15-minute walk from the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk area. There's a nice pool, a gym, and a restaurant on-property. All the rooms and suites have private terraces, some with direct ocean views.

Read More: Best Tourist Attractions in Myrtle Beach, SC

The history, food, and fun of Boston is an easy flight, train ride, or drive from Washington. Getting here is easy. A flight from DC to Boston only takes less than 90 minutes, or it's about a seven-hour drive up I-95. You can also take the Amtrak Acela train, which takes about six hours.

The Fairmont Copley Plaza, Boston is the city's Grande Dame hotel, located in the Back Bay neighborhood and close to all the things to do for visitors .

Consider taking a self-guided walking tour of the city's Freedom Trail, which includes sites important to the American Revolution. About 43 acres of downtown Boston and the surrounding area make up the Boston National Historic Park. Park rangers lead an array of guided tours and talks focusing on specific subjects or aspects of American history.

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Best Weekend Getaways from Washington, D.C.

By Julekha Dash

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One of the charms of living in D.C. is that there’s always a park or botanical gardens close enough to enjoy a moment of serenity. But sometimes residents need a longer getaway from the politically charged atmosphere, especially as the winter doldrums set in. Luckily, the nation’s capital enjoys a  seat in a prime mid-Atlantic location within hours of rural mountains, waterfront towns, and history-rich sites—all reachable by car or train. Whether you want to glide down a snowy hill, explore colonial history, or celebrate Black history, these weekend trips will give you the chance to explore new surroundings.

(Editors note: Given the changing nature of the COVID-19 pandemic , the hours and accessibility of many venues are fluid and subject to change. Make sure to contact them before visiting. Note that some states, like Pennsylvania, require a negative Covid test within 72 hours of entering.)

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Williamsburg, VA

Picturesque and historical Williamsburg

How to get there

Using interpretive actors and exhibits that simulate life in 18th century colonial America, Williamsburg makes it easy to get lost in the past. Take Amtrak’s Northeast Regional and you'll arrive nearly four hours later in downtown Williamsburg; the train station is conveniently located just a mile from the Colonial Williamsburg Visitors Center. You’ll shave off an hour by driving if you hit I-95 during off-peak times and use the E-ZPass.

Williamsburg stands in the middle of what’s dubbed the historic triangle, with Jamestown and Yorktown, in a Virginia peninsula bookended by the James and York rivers. To explore one or more of these towns over a weekend, it’s best to choose a few sites depending on your interests, as the options are overwhelming. Williamsburg alone contains two museums, interpretative tours, an arboretum, and colonial buildings spread over 300 acres. Get into the colonial spirit and take a carriage ride to cover the extensive grounds.

Many of the area’s attractions are outdoors, making it easy to enjoy a socially distant educational vacation. But make time to view the indoor exhibit Focused: A Century of Virginia Indian Resilience , which begins Jan. 29 at Jamestown Settlement. Taken from the Smithsonian and prominent photographers, the images and objects honor Virginia’s Native American cultural heritage. The highlight of the exhibit is a majestic and intricately woven turkey feather cape worn by the Native American activist Mollie Adams.

Where to stay

Staying at one of the Colonial Williamsburg Resorts allows travelers to soak up the history even after the attractions close. Admire the colonial homes during an evening stroll along Duke of Gloucester Street, a 10-minute walk from Williamsburg Inn ( from $359 per night ). While all of the rooms contain period details, the Churchill, Rockefeller, and Queen’s suites pay homage to historical figures who have visited. Book an appointment for a massage or a session at the hotel spa’s indoor pool. The Social Terrace offers a picturesque spot to grab drinks or a casual dinner overlooking the hotel’s golf course. Williamsburg Lodge ( from $129 per night ) presents a more affordable option with several rooms that are dog friendly.

Laurel Highlands

Frank Lloyd Wright's Fallingwater in Mill Run

A mountainous region spanning three counties in southwestern Pennsylvania, the Laurel Highlands are a winter wonderland for skiing and snowshoeing enthusiasts. The three-and-half-hour drive follows I-70 in Western Maryland, followed by I-68 or the Pennsylvania Turnpike, where the road curves nonstop through the scenic Allegheny Mountains, so stay alert and don’t drive hungry. Stop midway in Hagerstown at the local outpost of Pittsburgh’s Primanti Bros., whose iconic mile-high sandwiches stuffed with meat, fries, and coleslaw will provide sustenance for the road.

Charlie Hobbs

Maya Silver

CNT Editors

The region’s three major resorts—Nemacolin, Seven Springs Mountain Resort, Hidden Valley Resort —offer a Highlands Season Pass that allow unlimited skiing and snowboarding at all three. Each resort also offers snow tubing and other thrilling snow adventures, such as dog sledding through the wooded acres at Nemacolin. When you need a break from the slopes, head to the region’s most famous architectural wonder, Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater in Mill Run. Fashioned in his signature prairie style with stacks of elongated balconies, the house gets its name from its lofty perch atop a waterfall. Tours of the house resume in February.

Staying at one of the ski resorts, even if you don’t ski, gives you access to a spa and other amenities that will keep your crew entertained. With a game room, roller skating, and bowling alley, Seven Springs caters to families, with a variety of accommodations in the hotel, condos, and cottages ( from $221 per night ). Swanky Nemacolin’s diverse array of offerings on its sprawling 2,200 acres includes everything from a wildlife habitat to a fine art gallery. Rent a luxury home or townhome on the property, or stay in the Chateau ( from $315 ), where the latest season of The Bachelor was filmed . Unwind in front of the spa lounge fireplace while you wait for your massage.

Baltimore, MD

The Baltimore skylilne

From the tony Harbor East neighborhood to former working-class-turned-hipster enclave of John Waters’ favorite Hampden, Baltimore is a town of neighborhoods, each with its own distinct personality. Depending on where you live, you can take the Baltimore-Washington Parkway or I-95 for the 40-mile ride. On your way in (or out), stop at Guinness Open Gate Brewery, the iconic Irish brand’s only U.S. spot, to pick up one of its made-in-Maryland experimental brews. Some prefer to take the Marc train from D.C.'s Union Station and hop off at Baltimore’s Penn Station, a 109-year-old Beaux Arts building a few miles north of downtown. It’s worth looking up to admire the station’s stained glass ceiling and the controversial 51-foot stainless steel Male/Female sculpture outside.

Ahead of Black History Month, Baltimore’s tourism bureau has unveiled a new pass that gives visitors discounts to the city’s African American cultural attractions and Black-owned businesses. The list includes the Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History & Culture, which highlights the struggles and achievements of Black Marylanders, with a current exhibit depicting Black Lives Matters activists. That’s just one of the city’s treasure trove of woefully underrated museums. Just south of the Inner Harbor in the Federal Hill neighborhood, the American Visionary Art Museum’s collection from self-taught artists includes a 10-foot statue of Divine and an outdoor oversized egg covered in mirrored mosaics.

From there, it’s a 15-minute drive north to the city’s newest food hall. Whitehall Mill, a rehabbed 18th century flour mill, showcases some of Baltimore’s best food businesses against a background of exposed brick and weathered beams. Reward yourself with Crust by Mack’s famous crab pies, the glittery lemonade at Wight Tea Co., and arroz caldo at Heritage Kitchen, or bivalves at True Chesapeake Oyster Co.

Located in the city’s culturally rich Mount Vernon neighborhood, the Black-owned Ivy Hotel ( from $395 per night ) contains eye-catching design elements at every turn, from the armoires hand painted by local art students to the mural-covered lounge. A stay in one of the 19 rooms and suites in the former 19th century Gilded Age mansion comes loaded with perks, including a memorable breakfast, afternoon tea, and cocktails at the self-service bar. While the city has shut in-restaurant dining due to COVID-19, you can order the Maryland crab cakes to go and eat in your room. Just a few blocks away, visitors will find another beautifully restored former mansion at the Hotel Revival ( from $108 per night ). Get takeout at the popup restaurant from the city’s first female- and Black-owned oyster bar, the Urban Oyster.

St. Michael’s, MD

St. Michael's, Maryland is more peaceful in the winter than the crazy summers.

Unlike the frenetic summer months, visiting St. Michael’s in winter allows you to experience the area’s quiet natural beauty at your own pace. The 90-minute drive takes you past the Bay Bridge, mostly on route 50, crossing Eastern Shore farms on the way. Make a pit stop 15 minutes before your destination to pick up some homemade peanut butter and strawberry rhubarb jam at the Amish Country Farmers Market in Easton.

With an assemblage of brightly colored shops, Federal and Victorian homes, and a sailboat-studded marina, St. Michael’s downtown could double as a movie set. The town’s main drag, Talbot Street, houses several eclectic boutiques, from jewelry store Silver Linings to the Shops at Sea Captain’s Cottage, a treasure chest of antiques, home decor, and art. St. Michael’s nautical heritage is on display at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, whose 18-acre campus includes a working shipyard and the town’s signature lighthouse. Charming eating spots abound, including St. Michael’s Bistro, which produces an award-winning oyster stew, and local hotspot Ava’s Pizzeria & Wine Bar, whose dining room boasts a beer tap waterfall with a selection of local brews.

Sometimes a hotel is the destination, and we wouldn’t blame you if you spent your entire stay at the Inn at Perry Cabin ( from $595 per night ), made famous by the movie the Wedding Crashers . Nurse a hot toddy by the courtyard firepit at Purser’s Pub, or watch the kaleidoscope sunsets against the Miles River from an adirondack chair on the expansive property.

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Momma Wanderlust - Curating Cultural Travels for Families

Top 7 Best Family Weekend Getaways from Washington DC

This post contains affiliate links which means that if you click and make a purchase I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you. All opinions are my own.

As the capital of the United States, Washington, D.C. is a major city with a large population. Even though there is so much to see and do in DC, sometimes it’s nice to get away for the weekend. It’s especially nice to go somewhere outdoorsy to get some fresh air away from the city life. Fortunately, DC is in a central area that makes it easy to travel and go on a weekend trip away. 

[This post on Best Family Weekend Getaways from Washington, DC was originally published in August 2021, and updated in August 2022]

Here’s are the 7 Best Family Weekend Getaways from Washington, DC:

Philadelphia, pennsylvania.

Distance: 2 hours and a 25-minute drive What to do: Visit the Liberty Bell, Enjoy a Philly Cheesesteak, Visit Independence National Historic Park Where to Eat: You must try the Philly Cheesesteak and there are good ones all over Where to Stay: The Notary Hotel Autograph Collection , Penn’s View Hotel Why Visit: Philadelphia is a UNESCO World Heritage City and the only one in the US. This city has helped shape America into what it is today, and there is so much history to appreciate and explore. 

  New York City, New York

Photo Credit: www.NYCgo.com

Distance: 3 hours and a 45-minute drive What to do: Visit Times Square, Explore the Empire State Building, Stroll through Central Park, Catch a Broadway show, Climb to the top of the Statue of Liberty Where to Eat: Enjoy a meal while diner staff sing show tunes show while you eat at Ellen’s Stardust Diner , Totto Ramen , Hell’s Kitchen Where to Stay: It’s a huge and expensive city, so it can be hard to decide where to stay. Midtown is best for first-time visitors, but prices vary greatly, so do some research within your budget.  Why Visit: New York City is large, crowded, and busy and evokes a sense of excitement and wonder in most.  You could spend all day wandering the city and never get tired of it.

Wilmington, Delaware

The Josephine Fountain at Brandywine Park

Distance: 2 hours and a 40-minute drive  What to do: Visit the Hagley Museum and Library, Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library, and Walk along the Riverwalk. Where to Eat: Brew HaHa !, Pizza by Elizabeths , Farmer & the Cow Where to Stay: Hotel du Pont , Courtyard Wilmington Brandywine Why Visit: Wilmington is full of gorgeous, historic garden homes, has a burgeoning food scene, and is perfect for family fun. There are quite a few parks and trails to enjoy as well.

Harpers Ferry, West Virginia

Distance: 1 hour and a 15-minute drive What to do: Visit Harpers Ferry National Historic Park, The Harpers Ferry Toy Train Museum, and Civil War Living History Museum, Take a walking tour of the town Where to Eat:  The Rabbit Hole , The Country Cafe Where to Stay:  Cozy Cabin , The Ledge House Why Visit:  Harpers Ferry is a quaint, historic town. You’ll feel like you have been transported to the past when visiting the National Historic District. It’s a great place to explore, slow down for the weekend, and get some much-needed time outside. It’s not very far from DC which is why it’s a great quick weekend trip from DC. 

Loudoun County, Virginia 

Distance: 1-hour drive What to do: Enjoy a glass or two of vino while visiting a local winery (there are many to choose from), Enjoy an ice-cold beer at Dirt Farm Brewery , Pick your own fruit at Great Country Farms , or Hike at Red Rock Wilderness Overlook Park or Algonkian Regional Park, Shop at the Salamander Market. Where to Eat: Fire Works Pizza , Salamander Market Where to Stay: Salamander Resort and Spa , The Red Fox Inn & Tavern Why Visit: Loudoun County is known as ‘DC’s wine country’ with over 40 wineries. There are also historical parks and trails that you could spend the day walking through and enjoying the beautiful scenery. 

Williamsburg, Virginia

Distance: 2 hours and a 25-minute drive What to do: Visit Colonial Williamsburg , Explore the Governor’s Palace, Thrill-seek at Busch Gardens Theme Park Where to Eat: Fat Canary , Aroma’s World , Nawab Indian Where to Stay: Club Wyndham Kingsgate , Westgate Historic Williamsburg Resort   Why Visit: Williamsburg is full of history and is home to the world’s largest living history museum known as Colonial Williamsburg, where the life of the 1700s is reenacted and recreated in the original location. You can visit the Revolutionary City and watch actors interpret life during this century. Williamsburg is a great city to travel into the past for a weekend away from DC. 

Orange, Virginia

Distance: 2-hour drive What to do: Montpelier Estate and Museum, Visit James Madison Museum, and Wander around the downtown area. Where to Eat: The Market at Grelen , and Iron Pipe Alewerks Where to Stay:   Mayhurst Estate Why Visit: Nestled near the Blue Ridge Mountains, this small town is filled with spectacular mountain views, excellent cuisine, historic sites, and friendly people. Orange, Virginia is a short drive from Washington, DC, and offers a wonderful respite from the hustle and bustle of life in the city.

One of the best things about living in the Washington, DC area is its proximity to so many amazing cities, all within a two-to-three-hour drive. There are more than enough places to ensure that our weekends are filled with adventure and exploration.   The next time you have a free weekend, plan a trip from DC to one of the places on this list.

If you found this post on the best family weekend getaways from Washington, DC helpful, you might also like:

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9 Exciting Weekend Getaways Near DC for Families

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Ready to embark on one of these weekend getaways near DC for families ? While Washington, DC, provides a wide variety of family-friendly activities , sometimes a weekend getaway is just what a family needs to mix up their travels. Whether you’re in the mood to immerse yourself in nature, learn about American history, or simply relax on the beach, DC puts you close to it all. Visit major cities like Philadelphia for a jam-packed, super-fun vacation. Or, take it down a notch at more low-key destinations such as Harper’s Ferry . Which of these amazing weekend getaways near DC for families you select will ultimately depend on your family and what type of vacation you’re expecting. Just in case you need some advice, I’ve put together a list. Here, we explore nine perfect weekend getaway ideas near DC (in the greater mid-Atlantic region), which promise to deliver an unforgettable family trip!

Richmond, VA

Another capital city with history and culture.

Richmond, Virginia , has so much to offer as one of the best weekend getaways near DC for families . As a state capital, the State Capitol Building is an obvious attraction. For museum-goers, try local family favorites like the Children’s Museum of Richmond , Edgar Allen Poe Museum , Science Museum of Virginia , the Black History Museum , and the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts . To explore outside, consider the Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens , a riverfront canal cruise , or Belle Isle within the James River Park . In between activities, there are countless family-friendly ways to fuel up. Richmond has some of the best barbecue around at places like ZZQ , Buz and Ned’s , and Q Barbeque . And the local brewery scene can satisfy both kids and adults. There are so many centralized in the Scott’s Addition neighborhood. Ardent Craft Ales , for example, has both beer and juice boxes, gourmet hoagies, and ice cream sandwiches.

Note : Tours for the State Capitol Building are expected to resume in 2023 after numerous construction projects are completed.

Where to Stay in Richmond with Kids

Look for family-friendly amenities at Richmond-area hotels during your family weekend getaways in VA . The Omni Richmond Hotel , for example, has an Omni Kids Crew amenity package and a pool. The Residence Inn Downtown (or the West End location) offers more space to stretch out and make yourself at home with kitchens and bedrooms. The Jefferson Hotel offers a potential home base for history buffs and those looking for a five-star experience. Hotels are not located directly within some of the more popular neighborhoods for shopping and dining. This includes the Fan District, Carytown, Scott’s Addition, and The Museum District – so look into rental sites for lodging options there. Regardless of where you choose to stay this weekend getaway from DC is sure to please!

READ RELATED: The Best Hikes Near DC For Families

Surrounded by Nature and Small-Town Appeal

Luray, Virginia , may only be about two hours from Washington, D.C., but your family getaway will feel worlds away. Nature is the main appeal, with activities on land and in the water. One of the most popular is cruising Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park ; Luray is located adjacent to the Thornton Gap Entrance. There are also plenty of trails for all levels. Similarly, George Washington National Forest offers hiking, without the park entrance fee. The shorter, paved Storybook and Lion’s Tale Trails are especially good for families with young children. The area also boasts Luray Caverns , where it’s rain-free and feels 65 degrees year-round. For some canoeing, kayaking, tubing, or rafting, check out Shenandoah River Outfitters . The main downtown of Luray has a few cute shops, restaurants, and even a brewery . Stop by Gathering Grounds for amazing food for breakfast and lunch or just a baked treat!

Where To Stay In Luray With Kids

Luray sits within Page County, the Cabin Capital of Virginia . Look for rentals with games, a hot tub, a swing set, and other family-friendly amenities. For those seeking a resort on this weekend getaway from DC , check out Massanutten Resort by Tripforth which offers homes, villas, and hotel rooms with additional amenities like skiing, swimming, or golf, depending on the season. And be sure to learn more about Yogi Bear’s Jell y stone Park , which gives families access to cabins and campsites, amenities like a water park. Enjoy activities from basketball to bingo during one of the best weekend getaways near DC for families !

Williamsburg, VA

Steeped in our nation’s history with modern gems, too.

Come learn about the United States’ earliest history with a visit to Colonial Williamsburg and Jamestown . Escape to colonial times in the historic area of Williamsburg , with numerous activities daily . Enjoy visiting the Governor’s Palace or meeting the town carpenter! While anyone can visit the area, tickets are required to participate in activities and enter buildings. Don’t forget to stop by one of several taverns for a meal inspired by 18 th -century recipes. Kids 15 and under get free admission to nearby Historic Jamestown , which has daily tours and family-friendly programming to teach the trades and skills needed in colonial times. Weather not cooperating? In neighboring Newport News , check out the Virginia Living Museum , which showcases the state’s natural heritage. For those seeking a faster pace, Busch Gardens and Water Country USA offer theme park thrills for all ages – including seasonal activities for the fall and holidays.

Reserve From DC: Overnight Tour to Historic Williamsburg, Virginia at GetYourGuide.com!

Where to Stay in Williamsburg with Kids

In looking where to stay in Williamsburg with kids , Great Wolf Lodge is a destination within itself – with an indoor (and weather-permitting outdoor) waterpark, arcade, spa, and much more on the premises. For a stay on the James River, look at the Kingsmill Resort , which offers cottages and traditional rooms, alongside kid- and parent-approved activities like indoor and outdoor pools, boating, golf, a game room, and a spa. In addition to numerous chain hotels within central Williamsburg, there are a number of Colonial Williamsburg Resorts properties, including the family-friendly Woodland Suites and Hotel . No matter what accommodations you choose, Williamsburg will prove to be one of the best weekend getaways from DC for your family!

Harper’s Ferry, WV

Get outdoors and on the river.

One of the best weekend trips from DC with kids is to Harper’s Ferry , West Virginia . The outdoors should feature prominently in any family trip here, as it sits within a National Historical Park . Companies like River Riders , Harpers Ferry Adventure Center , and River & Trail Outfitters offer so much for weekenders of all ages. While river rafting and whitewater rafting are a highlight, there’s also zip-lining, canoeing, kayaking, biking, and hiking. For those who prefer to explore without a guide, check out the views along Jefferson Rock . Or, the more ambitious Maryland Heights Trail . Catch up on Civil War history at more than a half dozen historical sites . And train buffs should not miss the Harpers Ferry Toy Train Museum of Joy Line Railroad . The downtown is a cute area to walk around. Finally, be sure to grab a treat at True Treats Historic Candy !

Book From DC: Private Civil War Battlefield Day Trip to 3 States through GetYourGuide.com here!

Where to Stay in Harper’s Ferry with Kids

If you need a place for a night or more during your kid-friendly weekend trip from DC , the Harpers Ferry/Civil War Battlefields KOA is a notable destination with a pool, mini-golf, craft room, jumping pillow, arcade, movie theater, and more among cabins, tent sites, and RV sites. For families who love camping, Treehouse Camp offers year-round cottages, three-season tree houses, and tent sites that can accommodate one to four tents. Families with older children (ages 12 and up) can stay at the Light Horse Inn , a historic home. Located at the center of town, the Light House Inn includes breakfast and board games during downtime. And there are several traditional hotels for your weekend getaway near DC near the center of Harper’s Ferry , as well, including the Clarion Inn and Quality Inn .

Baltimore, MD

A neighboring city with tons of charm.

Less than an hour away, Baltimore, Maryland , is a great option for a family weekend getaway from DC . A central gathering spot is the Inner Harbor , which has restaurants, like Miss Shirley’s Café , and shopping. For museum buffs, check out Port Discovery Children’s Museum or the Maryland Science Center . The National Aquarium is also a must-see attraction. For water-related activities, boat lovers can get a glimpse into life at sea at Historic Ships , tap into their inner pirate with Urban Pirates , or take the water taxi . Sports lovers will enjoy Camden Yards , home of the Baltimore Orioles, and the Baltimore Ravens’ M&T Bank Stadium . Tours are offered in addition to the games. The B&O Railroad Museum showcases train history and indoor and outdoor fun for train lovers. For some of the best food around, Little Italy is a central spot for restaurants and dessert, including Vaccaro’s Italian Pastry Shop .

Where to Stay in Baltimore with Kids

When considering lodging, Baltimore offers something for everyone on a weekend getaway from DC , especially as one of the best destinations for weekend getaways near DC for families . For example, the Four Seasons Baltimore is one of the best-value choices among the luxury chain’s properties, with an outdoor pool and spa overlooking the harbor. Comfort Inn and Suites Baltimore Inner Harbor is an all-suite hotel for families wanting more space. Then, SpringHill Suites Baltimore Downtown/Inner Harbor has a few suites as well, and a look inside an old bank vault that showcases some of the building’s history. Finally, the Hampton Inn & Suites Baltimore Inner Harbor also offers families an indoor pool.

Ocean City, MD

Beach, boardwalk, and so much more.

Families are spoiled for choice on weekend trips from DC in Ocean City, Maryland . Water activities play prominently at this popular summer destination, with miles and miles of beach and bayfront to enjoy. Play in the sand, body surf the waves, or cruise in a rental from Bayside Boat Rentals . The boardwalk offers plenty of action on dry land, including rides, arcades, mini-golf, and shopping; entertainment centers with similar activities, like Jolly Roger Amusement Park , spread north from there. Then, don’t miss out on plenty of iconic treats! Visit Thrasher’s French Fries , Fisher’s Popcorn , Dumser’s Dairyland , Dough Roller for pancakes and pizza, and Fractured Prune for doughnuts. To connect with nature, take a short drive to Assateague Island . Remember to check out the wild horses that live there!

Where to Stay in Ocean City with Kids

There are so many places to stay in Ocean City , you’re sure to have one of the best weekend getaways near DC for families ! Here, make the most of your time with a hotel loaded with kid-friendly amenities. The Princess Royal Oceanfront Resort sits on the beach and boasts an indoor, Olympic-sized pool. The Holiday Inn and Suites Ocean City offers children’s pools inside and along the beach, as well as a water slide. Then, Dunes Manor provides suites for more space, as well as an indoor pool. The Carousel Hotel and Condos even has an ice rink. Finally, for an option on the bayside of town, families can enjoy two- and three-bedroom units with water views at Bay Club Resort during their weekend getaway near Washington, DC . Note that some properties require a minimum stay, especially during the peak summer season. 

The Best Oceanfront Hotels in Ocean City, MD from $129

Philadelphia, PA

History and adventure just hours away.

Like most major cities, it’s difficult to fit everything into one visit to Philadelphia . Some of the most iconic landmarks are in the city’s old part, anchored by Independence Hall , the Liberty Bell , and Betsy Ross House . Nearby, other unique sites are sure to please families – Shane Confectionery , America’s oldest candy store, and Fireman’s Hall Museum . For food lovers, enjoy family-friendly markets and food halls, including Reading Terminal Market and the Italian Market in Little Italy. Plus, those who love a good cheesesteak can sample the options to decide their favorite. The Art Museum District houses some interesting destinations, including the Philadelphia Museum of Art , the Franklin Institute , and Eastern State Penitentiary . Then, Franklin Square boasts a carousel, mini-golf, and burger joint adjacent to a 100-year-old fountain. Further afield, families will enjoy time at the Philadelphia Zoo , Longwood Gardens , or one of the most kid-friendly museums, the Please Touch Museum .

RELATED : Taking a weekend getaway near Washington, DC during the winter months? Check out these 14 Things To Do In Philadelphia With Kids During Winter.

Where to Stay in Philadelphia with Kids

On your weekend getaways from DC, Rittenhouse Square offers a central home base for any family. The Sonesta Philadelphia boasts the largest heated outdoor pool in the city, and bonus rooftop views, though the Four Seasons Philadelphia has the highest pool – on the 57 th floor. For families wanting to settle themselves in the Old City, Wyndham Philadelphia Historic District is steps from the main attractions. For an option a bit further from downtown, consider the Chestnut Hill Hotel , which is nestled in a great neighborhood for shopping and dining, offering free breakfast and marshmallows for the on-site fire pit!

Philadelphia Hotels from $85 – Hotel Deals | Travelocity

Lancaster County, PA

Going back in time.

Families can enjoy modern-day and old-time adventures during a weekend escape to Lancaster County, Pennsylvania . Home to the Amish, a community steeped in tradition that shies away from modern technologies. Experience their lifestyle at places like the Amish Farm and House and the Amish Village , which offer glimpses into Amish day-to-day life. Take a bus tour to real Amish communities with kid-friendly activities like petting zoos, playgrounds, and country cooking. Then, train lovers will enjoy a ride on a traditional steam train with Strasburg Railroad – America’s oldest operating railroad! For modern-day fun, Dutch Wonderland offers amusement park rides, shows, and a water park during warmer weather. If you have a sweet tooth, Turkey Hill Experience is a must-visit destination. Visitors can sample ice teas and ice creams. Plus, create a signature ice cream flavor, packaging, and commercial. The Taste Lab also enables your family to bring creamy creations to life.

Where to Stay in Lancaster County with Kids

There are so many unique places to stay during your exciting weekend getaways from DC , all of which are perfect for a family vacation! Visitors can immerse themselves in some of their favorite cartoon characters with a stay at Cartoon Network Hotel . It is adjacent to Dutch Wonderland, and can keep families busy on-site with pools, an arcade, a play area, and a seasonal outdoor movie screen. For boat lovers, book a passage with the Steamboat Inn and enjoy a family-friendly room with bunk or trundle beds. And for a unique experience for those who can’t get enough of trains, stay in a real train car at the Red Caboose Motel . There are plenty of traditional hotels as well! 

Hershey, PA

A sweet, action-packed destination.

Chocoholics and thrill-seekers can look forward to a family-friendly getaway to Hershey, Pennsylvania . Not only is it one of the best places for a weekend away from DC , but it also offers a fun family vacation for all ages. The main destination is Hersheypark ®, which has three attractions within the grounds – a theme park (including a water park in the warmer months), a zoo, and an illustrative chocolate factory and store, Hershey’s Chocolate World. Tickets to the park allow access to the zoo and theme park. Plus, anyone can visit Chocolate World for free, besides parking. If you’re not sure you can fit it in during the day, tickets allow you to access the park the evening before. For a break, check out a Hershey Bears hockey game, learn about Milton Hershey at The Hershey Story Museum or walk among the flowers, greenery, and butterfly sanctuary at Hershey Gardens .

Where to Stay in Hershey with Kids

If you’re looking for accommodations during your weekend getaways near DC for families, you’ll have plenty of choices in Hershey. There are three official Hersheypark resorts – the Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge, and Hersheypark Camping Resort. Each offers benefits, such as reduced-price tickets, free parking, and extended hours. However, there is no shortage of family-friendly hotels in the Hershey-Harrisburg area. For example, Homewood Suites Harrisburg East-Hershey and Residence Inn Harrisburg-Hershey have suites to spread out and kitchen amenities. Finally, County Inn & Suites Harrisburg and Hilton Garden Inn Hershey both have indoor pools, ideal for a family-friendly weekend away near DC !

Happy Travels!  

We hope this list featuring 9 Exciting Weekend Getaways Near DC for Families helped fill up your calendar with family-fun weekend trips from the Washington, DC area ! Whether cityscape or countryside, there are plenty of weekend getaway ideas near DC to keep families busy year-round within minutes or hours of our nation’s capital! Enjoy these weekend getaways from DC with your kids! 

This article was written by FLT Top Contributor, Megan Tucker. Find more from Megan and her family adventures on their blog, Three Men and a Lady . Unless otherwise noted, all images in this article are courtesy of Megan Tucker.

*Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, some of the attractions, accommodations, or things to do on this list may be closed or experiencing reduced services. Please ensure availability before making your decision. 

* This post may contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links in no way inform the hotels, sights, products, or other recommendations included in our articles. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are compiled from submissions submitted by the generous members of our Families Who Love To Travel community.

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• Destinations

35 Best Weekend Getaways from DC

Last Updated By VacationIdea on February 1, 2024 in Weekend Getaways

Salamander Resort & Spa - 1 hour from DC

500 North Pendleton Street, Middleburg, VA 20117, Phone: 844-303-2723

Primland - 5 hours and 30 minutes from DC

2000 Busted Rock Road, Meadows of Dan, VA 24120, Phone: 866-960-7746

Washington, VA - Foster Harris House - 1 hour 20 minutes

189 Main Street, Washington, VA 22747, Phone: 540-675-3757

Glen Gordon Manor - 1 hour 20 minutes

1482 Zachary Taylor Hwy, Huntly, VA 22640, Phone: 540-636-6010

Goodstone Inn & Restaurant, a Romantic Getaway from Washington, DC - 1 hour driving time

36205 Snake Hill Road, Middleburg, VA 20117, Phone: 877-219-4663

Turf Valley - 50 minutes from Washington, DC

2700 Turf Valley Road, Ellicott City, MD 21042, Phone: 410-465-1500

Chesapeake Bay - The Inn at Perry Cabin - 1 hour 30 minutes from DC

308 Watkins Lane, St. Michaels, MD 21663, Phone: 410-745-2200

The Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Resort

100 Heron Blvd. at Route 50, Cambridge, MD 21613, Phone: 410-901-1234

The Cavalier Virginia - 3 hours 20 min

4200 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451, Phone: 757-425-8555

The Annapolis Inn, a Weekend Getaway from DC - 40 minutes

144 Prince George St., Annapolis, MD 21401, Phone: 410-295-5200

Harpers Ferry - The Angler’s Inn - 1 hour 15 minutes

867 W Washington Street, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425, Phone: 304-535-1239

Shepherdstown, WV - The Bavarian Inn - 1 hour 30 minutes

164 Shepherd Grade Road, Shepherdstown, WV 25443, Phone: 304-876-2551

The Tides Inn

Where to stay: The Hotel Hershey

Gibson’s Lodgings of Annapolis – 40 minutes

Weekend Getaways in Virginia West Virginia Weekend Getaways in Maryland Tennessee

Virginia Crossings Hotel and Conference Center

1000 Virginia Center Parkway, Glen Allen, VA 23059, 804 727 1400

The Wisp Resort - 2 hours 50 minutes

Weekend Getaways in Vermont Famous Weekend Getaways in the USA All-Inclusive Weekend Getaways

The Jefferson Hotel in Richmond - 1 hour and 50 minutes

101 West Franklin St, Richmond, VA 23220, Phone: 804-649-4750

The Craddock Terry Hotel - 3 hours 20 minutes

North Carolina Vacations SC Weekend Getaways Weekend Getaways From Atlanta Connecticut Rhode Island Weekend Getaways

Morrison House in Old Town Alexandria - 20 minutes

116 South Alfred Stree, Alexandria, VA 22314, Phone: 866-834-6628

Hillbrook Inn, Charles Town, WV

4490 Summit Point Rd, Charles Town, WV 25414, 304 725 4223

Harmony Hill Bed and Breakfast, Arrington, VA

929 Wilson Hill Rd, Arrington, VA 22922, 434 263 7750

Rod'n Reel Resort, Chesapeake Beach, MD

4160 Mears Ave, Chesapeake Beach, MD 20732, 866 312 5596

Keswick Hall, Keswick, VA

701 Club Drive, Keswick, VA 22947, 434 979 3440

Boar's Head Resort, Charlottesville

Cabin Getaways in Pennsylvania Romantic Weekend Getaways from Pittsburgh, PA Romantic Weekend Getaways from Philadelphia Weekend Getaways in Pennsylvania Poconos Weekend Getaways

Annapolis, MD

Stroll through the Annapolis streets and learn about the city’s 300 years of history while visiting the Maryland State House, the Banneker-Douglass Museum, the Museum of African American Heritage and the Annapolis Maritime Museum, overlooking the Chesapeake Bay. From the Museum, take a boat trip to see the 1875 lighthouse. Stroll through the garden of the 18th century William Paca House, a beautiful, green oasis in the heart of the city.

Weekend Getaways from DC: Arlington, VA

Charlottesville, virginia beach, hershey, pennsylvania, bethesda, maryland, weekend getaways from dc: wilmington, delaware, driving distances from dc.

• 1. Salamander Resort & Spa - 1 hour from DC
• 2. Primland - 5 hours and 30 minutes from DC
• 3. Washington, VA - Foster Harris House - 1 hour 20 minutes
• 4. Glen Gordon Manor - 1 hour 20 minutes
• 5. Goodstone Inn & Restaurant, a Romantic Getaway from Washington, DC - 1 hour driving time
• 6. Turf Valley - 50 minutes from Washington, DC
• 7. Chesapeake Bay - The Inn at Perry Cabin - 1 hour 30 minutes from DC
• 8. The Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Resort
• 9. The Cavalier Virginia - 3 hours 20 min
• 10. The Annapolis Inn, a Weekend Getaway from DC - 40 minutes
• 11. Harpers Ferry - The Angler’s Inn - 1 hour 15 minutes
• 12. Shepherdstown, WV - The Bavarian Inn - 1 hour 30 minutes
• 13. The Tides Inn
• 14. Gibson’s Lodgings of Annapolis – 40 minutes
• 15. Virginia Crossings Hotel and Conference Center
• 16. The Wisp Resort - 2 hours 50 minutes
• 17. The Jefferson Hotel in Richmond - 1 hour and 50 minutes
• 18. The Craddock Terry Hotel - 3 hours 20 minutes
• 19. Morrison House in Old Town Alexandria - 20 minutes
• 20. Hillbrook Inn, Charles Town, WV
• 21. Harmony Hill Bed and Breakfast, Arrington, VA
• 22. Rod'n Reel Resort, Chesapeake Beach, MD
• 23. Keswick Hall, Keswick, VA
• 24. Boar's Head Resort, Charlottesville
• 25. Annapolis, MD

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5 Weekend Getaways From DC With Kids

Aug 26, 2014

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Written by Amanda Geronikos

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15 weekend road trips from washington, d.c..

Whether you’re a local in search of an escape or you’re visiting Washington, D.C. and want to discover more of the area than the crowded historical sites and Washington D.C. landmarks you’ll get inside the city, there are tons of options for weekend road trips from Washington DC.

The great part about visiting DC is that it’s wedged in between the Northeast and the South, so you can travel in either direction and find all kinds of picturesque coastal towns , scenic mountain retreats, and historic cities within a few hours’ drive.

Where to Stay in Washington DC See all hotel options

• Willard Intercontinental  – this is an exceptional hotel close to everything
• Conrad Washington DC  – right next to the Capital One Arena and great restaurants
• Westin Washington DC City Center  – right in the center of everything

Best Tours and Experiences in Washington DC

• Tickets for Monuments by Moonlight
• Private Washington DC Guided Tour
• Capitol Hill Guided Walking Tour with Entry to US Capitol & Library of Congress
• Arlington National Cemetery Guided Walking Tour with Changing of the Guards

When I lived in DC, I often took weekend trips to explore the area. There’s a quick jaunt up to Maryland, with beautiful Annapolis or Baltimore to discover, and there’s Richmond, Virginia, or Raleigh, North Carolina, to the south. So many places to see, and it’s not that far of a drive to get to any of these road trips from DC.

» Want more? We’ve got a great 3-day itinerary to make your planning easier. Add to your plan with these 50 top activities to do in Washington DC, or see it like a local with these non-touristy things to do . We also recommend seeing these special landmarks .

Table of Contents

Best Way to Get Around

The best way to get around to any of these road trips is by car or by train. If you have your own car, you’re good to go. If you need to rent a car , I suggest renting through Discover Cars . They collect the best deals from all the car companies, so you’re sure to get the best price.

Driving from Washington D.C. to nearby towns and cities may involve tolls depending on the route you take, the time of day you’re driving, and the kind of vehicle you’re driving. The tolls may also vary if you’re using an E-ZPass or another form of electronic tolling, or if you’re paying by cash.

15 Best Road Trips From Washington, D.C.

Get ready to embark on an epic journey as we present our top 15-weekend road trips from the capital city. These D.C. road trips take you through breathtaking destinations near the capital; they are close enough to visit, explore, and return in one day.

1. Annapolis, Maryland

Estimated Drive Time: 45-60 minutes Distance: 32 miles

Nestled along the Chesapeake Bay, Annapolis is the preeminent capital city of Maryland State. The coastal town has lots to offer, from charming streets to quaint shops and tons of museums; Annapolis is one of the best places to visit for a weekend getaway if you don’t want a long drive. It’s only about 45-60 minutes (mostly on Rt 50).

Start by exploring the city’s rich maritime history at the United States Naval Academy . Founded in 1845, this academy is one of the most esteemed military schools in the country. Continue to the Annapolis Historic District, where you can admire 18th-century architecture.

If you’re more of an outdoor lover, you can enjoy a range of water activities like kayaking or canoeing on the Chesapeake Bay. Annapolis also has many parks and outdoor spaces for leisurely strolls, hikes, and relaxing on the beach. Don’t forget to taste some of Annapolis’ most delicious seafood at Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls or O’Learys Seafood Restaurant. 

2. Harpers Ferry, West Virginia

Estimated Drive Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Distance: 64 miles

Located at the meeting point of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers, Harpers Ferry is a charming town that offers breathtaking vistas of Maryland and Virginia. The small town promises an enchanting blend of natural beauty, rich historical significance, and outdoor adventures.

You can explore this well-preserved 19th-century town by stepping back in time and learning about its role in American history at the Civil War Museum. At John Brown’s Fort, you can learn more about John Brown’s Raid , when the abolitionist and a small group of enslaved people revolted against the state of Virginia. 

Immerse yourself in nature by hiking the picturesque trails of Harpers Ferry National Historical Park or indulge in thrilling water activities such as rafting or kayaking. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or an outdoor adventurer, Harpers Ferry provides an unforgettable experience.

3. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Estimated Drive Time: 2 hours 30 minutes Distance: 139 miles

Tolls: If you take I-95 N, there are no tolls until you reach Delaware. From there, you’ll encounter several tolls on I-95 and the Pennsylvania Turnpike.

A road trip to Philadelphia from Washington, D.C., offers a fascinating journey into American history and vibrant city life. Known as the “City of Brotherly Love”, Philly is a treasure trove of iconic landmarks and cultural attractions. 

The Liberty Bell and Independence Hall are where both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were signed, effectively making Philly the birthplace of the United States. But there’s more. The city also boasts bustling neighborhoods, a thriving arts scene, delicious food , and world-class museums, such as the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Franklin Institute.

With its rich history, thriving arts scene, and delicious food, Philadelphia is a must-visit destination that promises an exciting and memorable weekend trip from Washington, D.C.

Tip: Take the Constitutional Walking Tour of Philadelphia for behind-the-scenes access to the Independence National Historical Park and 20+ other historical landmarks. 

4. Baltimore, Maryland

Estimated Drive Time: 1 hour Distance: 39 miles

Tolls: If you take the Baltimore-Washington Parkway (MD-295), there are no tolls. If you take Interstate 95 (I-95), there may be tolls, especially if you’re driving through tunnels in Baltimore, like the Fort McHenry Tunnel.

Known for its lively atmosphere and rich history, Baltimore is a captivating destination and one of the most historic cities in the U.S . Baltimore is another city that sits along the Chesapeake Bay, so you can explore the iconic Inner Harbor and visit the National Aquarium, where you can immerse yourself in the city’s maritime heritage.

You can also enjoy some waterfront dining at Rusty Scupper Restaurant and take scenic boat tours along the bay. Additionally, Baltimore is home to charming neighborhoods like Fells Point and Canton, with their cobblestone streets, unique shops, and delicious seafood eateries, which are ideal for exploring. Whether it’s the history, delicious cuisine, or the city’s vibrant energy that brings you here, Baltimore promises an exciting weekend trip from D.C. for all visitors.

Tip: Immerse yourself in Baltimore’s culinary scene with this Fells Point food tour .

5. Richmond, Virginia

Estimated Drive Time: 1 hour 45 minutes Distance: 109 miles

Tolls: If you take I-95 S, there’s a toll for the Richmond Metropolitan Authority Downtown Expressway. There might also be tolls on the Dulles Toll Road (Route 267), if you choose to take this route.

Richmond promises an enriching experience filled with history, culture, and culinary delights. As the capital city of Virginia, Richmond offers a perfect blend of Southern charm and modern attractions, including a variety of museums, botanical gardens, and lush public spaces.

You can immerse yourself in the city’s rich history by visiting landmarks like the Virginia State Capitol and the American Civil War Museum. Explore the vibrant arts scene at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and the Richmond Symphony, and indulge in delicious cuisine. 

From traditional Southern dishes to trendy culinary offerings in the city’s Arts District, you’ll love Richmond’s gastronomy. Make sure you don’t miss the opportunity to stroll along the scenic James River or experience the city’s thriving craft beer and cider scene.

6. Assateague Island, Maryland/Virginia

Estimated Drive Time: 2 hours 45 minutes

Distance: 149 miles

Taking a road trip from D.C. to Assateague Island , which straddles the borders of Maryland and Virginia, promises an enchanting escape into untouched natural beauty. Known for its wild horses and pristine beaches, Assateague Island offers unspoiled landscapes, perfect for camping under the starry sky and hiking along scenic trails. 

You’ll also enjoy spotting wildlife in their natural habitat. Spend your days lounging on the sandy shores, swimming in the Atlantic Ocean, or enjoying water activities like kayaking and paddleboarding for a unique and unforgettable experience.

Assateague Island provides a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle, allowing you to reconnect with nature and create lasting memories on your road trip adventure.

7. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Estimated Drive Time: 1 hour 15 minutes Distance: 71 miles

Nestled along Virginia’s beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah National Park guarantees an awe-inspiring journey through breathtaking natural beauty. Shenandoah National Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers as it offers plenty of things to do, from hiking to wildlife excursions and backcountry camping.

You can take the scenic Skyline Drive, a winding road that offers panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the park’s lush forests. Explore the park’s extensive network of hiking trails, ranging from leisurely strolls to challenging treks that lead to cascading waterfalls. The park also offers plenty of stunning overlooks and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities.

8. Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

Estimated Drive Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Distance: 85 miles

If you’re a history aficionado, a road trip to Gettysburg is one of the best driving trips from D.C. you can take. The town offers a profound and moving experience delving into one of the most significant chapters in American history. 

Gettysburg National Military Park is where you can walk the hallowed grounds, visit the battlefield monuments, and gain insights into the historic events that unfolded. You can also engage in informative guided tours , including visits to the Gettysburg National Cemetery and the Gettysburg Museum. 

The museum gives you an opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the rich history, artifacts, and interactive exhibits that tell the story of this decisive battle. Additionally, the charming town offers delightful shops, restaurants, and accommodations that perfectly complement the historical significance of the area. 

9. Charlottesville, Virginia

Estimated Drive Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Distance: 118 miles

Nestled in the heart of the state, Charlottesville offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. The city has a diverse range of attractions and experiences, from scenic roads to fascinating historical landmarks. 

Immerse yourself in the historical legacy of Thomas Jefferson by visiting Monticello, his architectural masterpiece and former residence. You can also explore the picturesque grounds of the University of Virginia. It’s one of the world’s most prestigious universities and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Head down to the vibrant Downtown Mall, where you can stroll among charming shops, galleries, and restaurants. Indulge in the region’s renowned wineries and vineyards, immersing yourself in Virginia’s growing wine scene. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Blue Ridge Mountains nearby provide opportunities for hiking and scenic drives.

10. Blackwater Falls State Park, West Virginia

Estimated Drive Time: 3 hours 3 minutes

Distance: 168 miles

Blackwater Falls State Park is a natural gem that offers breathtaking landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities. The park is located in the rugged yet tranquil Allegheny Mountains of West Virginia, offering miles of hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and mesmerizing waterfalls.

Blackwater Falls is, without a doubt, the most famous attraction in the park. You’ll love marveling at this serene natural wonder as the amber-colored water cascades down the rocks. 

Take some time to explore the park’s extensive trail system, hike through lush forests, witness vibrant wildflowers, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. In the winter, the park transforms into a snowy wonderland, inviting visitors to engage in cross-country skiing and sledding, making it one of the best winter destinations in the U.S.

11. Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

Estimated Drive Time: 2 hr 40 minutes

Distance: 121 miles

If you’re looking for a delightful seaside escape and a perfect destination for relaxation and fun? Well, look no further than Rehoboth Beach. This coastal haven is often called the nation’s summer capital, thanks to its pristine sandy shores, refreshing ocean waves, and vibrant beachside atmosphere. 

You can spend your day basking in the sun, swimming in the Atlantic Ocean, kayaking, paddleboarding, or building sandcastles on the beach. Explore the lively boardwalk, lined with shops, arcades, and delectable eateries serving up fresh seafood and other culinary delights. 

For outdoor enthusiasts, nearby Cape Henlopen State Park provides opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, birdwatching, camping, and so much more. 

12. Raleigh, North Carolina

Estimated Drive Time: 4 hours 30 minutes

Distance: 278 miles

As the capital of North Carolina State, Raleigh offers a dynamic blend of culture, history, and Southern charm. The city boasts an exciting arts and culinary scene, historical landmarks, and beautiful outdoor spaces. You can explore the North Carolina Museum of Art, which features an impressive collection of artwork spanning various periods and styles. 

Stroll through the historic neighborhoods of Oakwood and Mordecai to admire the Victorian architecture. Then you can visit the State Capitol building and the North Carolina Executive Mansion, showcasing the city’s rich political heritage.

For nature enthusiasts, nearby parks like Umstead State Park provide opportunities for hiking, biking, and picnicking. With its blend of history, culture, and outdoor activities, Raleigh offers an enriching and memorable road trip destination .

13. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Estimated Drive Time: 4 hours 15 minutes

Distance: 241 miles

A road trip promises an exciting and diverse experience in the heart of the Keystone State. Better known as the “Steel City” and nestled among three rivers, Pittsburgh offers a unique blend of industrial heritage, vibrant cultural attractions, and stunning natural landscapes.

You can explore the city’s iconic sights by taking a hop-on hop-off bus tour to see the towering skyscrapers of Downtown, the historic Andy Warhol Museum, and more. Then immerse yourself in the city’s thriving arts scene, with world-class theaters, galleries, and live music venues. 

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, the city’s surrounding hills and rivers provide opportunities for hiking, biking, and kayaking. Pittsburgh also has numerous museums, like the Carnegie Museum of Natural History and the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.

14. Cape May, New Jersey

Estimated Drive Time: 3 hours 40 minutes

Distance: 187 miles

A road trip from Washington, D.C., to Cape May offers a charming coastal getaway filled with Victorian architecture, beautiful beaches, and a relaxed atmosphere. Located at the southernmost tip of the state, Cape May is known as an idyllic vacation spot for families across New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

You can take a leisurely stroll through the streets lined with colorful cottages or embark on a whale and dolphin-watching cruise to learn about the area’s marine life. Then you can enjoy the sun and sand at Cape May’s pristine beaches, where you can swim, sunbathe, or engage in water sports.

If you’re a foodie, don’t miss out on indulging in fresh seafood at one of the many acclaimed restaurants, and explore the boutique shops and art galleries. With its quaint charm and architectural splendor, Cape May provides the perfect destination for a relaxing and memorable road trip experience. 

15. New York City, New York

Estimated Drive Time: 4 hours Distance: 225 miles

Tolls: You might encounter tolls in Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey, and New York depending on your route. A common route is via I-95 N which includes Delaware Turnpike, New Jersey Turnpike and bridges/tunnels entering New York.

New York City needs no introduction. Known as the “Big Apple”, New York City offers a vibrant mix of culture, history, and endless entertainment. There are tons of things you can see and do across the best areas in New York , including visiting famous landmarks, such as Times Square, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty. 

Immerse yourself in the city’s diverse neighborhoods, each with its unique character and attractions. You can also indulge in world-class dining, from street food to Michelin-starred restaurants, experience Broadway shows, and try other touristy things to do in Manhattan .

New York is also a great place to discover renowned art museums like the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Museum of Modern Art, showcasing impressive collections from around the globe. Additionally, if you like to shop, Fifth Avenue is your best friend. 

Visit trendy neighborhoods like SoHo and Greenwich Village, and take in the breathtaking skyline from atop the Empire State Building or One World Observatory. New York City’s energy and cultural richness guarantee an unforgettable road trip experience for anyone seeking the excitement and diversity of a bustling metropolis.

Tip: There is so much to explore in the Big Apple that a weekend might not be enough to discover all this metropolis has to offer. So consider staying a bit longer and use this 4-day itinerary to help you make the most of your trip.

Washington D.C. Road Trips | Wrapped Up

Embarking on a road trip from Washington, D.C., opens up a world of incredible destinations within driving distance. Whether you seek history, nature, or vibrant city life, these 15 road trip ideas from D.C. offer a diverse range of experiences. 

From the captivating sites of Gettysburg to the natural beauty of Shenandoah National Park, these best weekend trips from D.C. offer a perfect balance of culture and outdoor escapades. While energetic cities like Baltimore, Richmond, and Pittsburgh provide an array of culinary delights, arts, cultural offerings, and welcoming communities.

Whether you’re seeking historical knowledge, scenic vistas, beachfront relaxation, or urban excitement, these road trips have it all. So, buckle up, hit the road, and explore the wonders that await you on these unforgettable journeys.

Be Prepared For Travel Planning is the most important part of any successful trip. Do it the easy way:

🧳 Travel Packing List | ✔️ Why You Need Travel Insurance | ✈️ What to Do Before You Leave Home

• Find and book the best hotel (our favorite booking site is Expedia)
• Research flight options (our favorite tool is Skyscanner )
• Book a tour (we always use Viator to find the best tours)
• Rent a car through Discover Cars (they search the best deals for you!)

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Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

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20 Weekend Getaways from DC (Within Driving Distance)

Posted by Riley Loftus | Aug 25, 2023 | Inspiration , Trip Ideas | 0 |

We know, we know. You live in the DC metro area and have been itching to go on an adventure. You have been eager to travel beyond city limits. But, unfortunately, your vacation days are slipping away and time off of work can be hard to come by. Therefore, a weekend getaway is all you can manage. So, you have been racking your brain for new things to do this weekend – thinking, maybe a road trip? The same old same old of DC city life doesn't sound appealing and you're wondering what adventure you can embark on this weekend with your friends.

Maybe you have a knack for history and want to immerse yourself in a historically rich environment . Maybe you are one of those outdoorsy types that crave dirt under your nails and clean oxygen in your lungs. Or, maybe you are one of those I-just-need-some-peace-and-quiet-this-weekend types. Whatever the case, our list of the 20 best weekend getaways from DC will include the exact place that you are looking for. The destinations are all within driving distance, ranging from 20 minutes to 4 hours from Capitol Hill. So, get ready to pile in the car with great friends and set off on your next weekend adventure.

Here is a list of the best weekend getaways from DC. And the best part, they are affordable and within driving distance from the heart of capital.

1. annapolis, md.

Annapolis is not only the capital of Maryland. The city is also known as the sailing capital of the nation. Therefore, don't be surprised when you see numerous sailboats floating and gliding through the water. Annapolis, Maryland is home to the Naval Academy and during your weekend visit, you can wander around the Naval Academy Grounds. Stroll along the water and admire the boats. Take a boat or kayak ride and afterward, dine in one of the many restaurants offering freshly caught seafood. The drive from D.C. to Annapolis is short at less than one hour. For those who cannot get away for the entire weekend, Annapolis is a great city to wander to even for a day trip.

2. Atlantic City, NJ

Atlantic City is the place for those who want to get a little rowdy. Gambling and drinking happen frequently in Atlantic City. Typically, both happen at the same time in one of the city's several casinos. Regardless of if the drinking and gambling scene is your style or not, there are also other things to do in the city. Walk along the famous boardwalk, journey down to the beach, or go to the pier where there are rides and carnival games to play. Atlantic City also offers parasailing and other water sports. Nearby golf courses attract many to the area, so be sure to bring your golf clubs too. Whatever you decide to do during your weekend stay in Atlantic City, you will enjoy your time along the coast of New Jersey.

3. Baltimore, MD

Baltimore, Maryland is a definitely an arts and music scene. If you love either, or both, this is one of the best weekend getaways from DC for you. Surrounding the Inner Harbor is a walkable friendly area with restaurants upon restaurants . There are also shops around the Harbor to explore. And to chocolate lovers, we highly recommend swinging by the Fudgery for a taste of some creamy and smooth fudge. Large crowds typically gather around as the fudge-makers sing songs and hand out free tastings of their homemade fudge! While in Baltimore you can visit the National Aquarium that's conveniently placed along the Harbor as well. There are a lot of exciting things to do in Baltimore that we know you will love, making it a close and lovely weekend getaway spot for those who like in the D.C. area.

4. Bethany Beach, DE

Seated along the Delaware-Maryland border, Bethany Beach is a family-friendly place down by the shore. This hidden escape gives travelers more peace and solitude than the bustling area of Ocean City, Maryland that is just down the road. There is a charming downtown area with cute beachy stores, a bookstore, and surf shops. At any time of day, you will find people holding cones of scooped ice cream from one of the many ice cream stores in the downtown area. When traveling to Bethany Beach for the weekend, you can dig your heels into the sand, relax by reading one of your favorite books, go out for a round of mini golf, or kayak in the bay. Various water activities are offered in Bethany. Also, you will have to mosey on down to the shore during the evening to catch the sky as it fades into shades of pink and orange. This is one of the most beautiful (and close) weekend getaways from DC you can take.

5. Charlottesville, VA

History, history, history. Charlottesville is full of it. And full of cozy coffee shops for those who desire to nestle in with a cup of hot (or iced) coffee or tea. The University of Virginia may be located in Charlottesville, but there is more to the city than just the university. Thomas Jefferson's Monticello is also located in the city and a visit to the property will be informative to those who love learning about history.

Charlottesville's Historic Downtown is a pedestrian-only area, where you will find 10 blocks on restaurants, coffee shops, and clothing boutiques. There are also a few used bookstores in the Historic Downtown area where you can spend hours getting lost in the pages of hand-me-down books. There are hiking trails close to Charlottesville if you want to get outside and breathe in some mountain air too. Whether you decide to go wine tasting, hiking, or visiting historic monuments, Charlottesville has the best of all worlds.

6. Chincoteague Island, VA

The island is small at only 7 miles long and 3 miles wide. However, there is no shortage of things to do in Chincoteague. Since everything you could want is nearby, you hardly need a car to drive from one place to the next on the island. Chincoteague is a great place to unwind by taking a bike ride, a light walk, or a hike. If you have an interest in fishing or water-skiing, there are boats you can rent at Chincoteague too. Hop abroad and show off your skills. There are also spots to rent kayaks. You can spend the afternoon paddling through creeks and channels in the area. Talk about blissful weekend getaways from DC!

To the east of Chincoteague is Assateague Island. At a larger 38 miles long, Assateague is a must-see during your stay in Chincoteague. There are beaches, wildlife, and the reason why you really need to visit – there are wild ponies. You will spot them on the side of the road and even galloping along the beach. And your heart will swell with delight and awe.

7. Deep Creek Lake, MD

You will love Deep Creek Lake if you love the outdoors. Come in the winter or in the summer and you will be satisfied with the copious amount of sporting activities that are offered. In the winter, lace up your snowboarding boots or tighten your ski boots. Hit the freshly powdered slopes for a great time. Not only is Deep Creek a skiing and snowboarding destination in the winter, but the area also offers snow tubing, ice skating, and snowmobiling. After a couple hours of being in the cold, head into the lodge for a cup of hot chocolate to warm you up.

In the summer, exchange your snow tube for a water tube and hit the lake. Go fishing, kayaking, boating, or swimming. Or, just lounge on the dock by the water. You can also go hiking on one of the many trails around the lake. Biking and camping are popular things to do at Deep Creek as well. Can't you see? Deep Creek Lake really does have it all for the lover of the outdoors. This spot will be a refreshing and adventurous time away from the hustle and bustle of D.C. city life. This is clearly one of those weekend getaways from DC for those who want to take in the beauty of the natural world.

8. Harpers Ferry, WV

Mountains and rivers and (maybe) bears. Oh my! You're out in the great outdoors so you never really know what you may find. Maybe bears. Certainly fun and a great time. This small, unassuming town is the place where you can visit 3 states from one point. Harpers Ferry is the place where Virginia, West Virginia, and Maryland meet, and there is much to do. Go hiking, rock climbing, or zip lining in the mountains. Go swimming, fishing, tubing, whitewater rafting, or kayaking along the rivers. There is also rich history to discover at Harpers Ferry. Over all, the quiet of Harpers Ferry will serve as a refuge for you during your weekend stay. This is one of the most ideal weekend getaways from DC for those who want the blend of a quaint, charming town and outdoor activities. And for those wanting to say they have been standing in 3 different states at the same time.

9. New York City

NYC, the Big Apple, the city that never sleeps. If you don't necessarily want to leave the city, but instead want to explore a new one, then visiting NYC is your place to be. There is so much to do in the area. So much . Go and see a Broadway show, visit the Statue of Liberty , take a walk in Central Park, climb up the Empire State Building , or visit the September 11th Memorial and Museum . There are tons of bars in NYC that you will have to try out too (even rooftop bars that give you a stunning view of the NYC skyline!).

In the city, you can also find any food you have a craving for. Indian, Mexican , Thai, Chinese, Mediterranean, and oh does the list go on. Times Square will display its brightest lights for you and you will quickly find that a one weekend visit isn't a long enough stay. Once you visit, you are sure to come again. And since you likely will not want to drive through that wild NYC traffic, you can take a bus from D.C. to the heart of NYC for as low as $25!

10. Old Town Alexandria

If you live in D.C., then Old Town Alexandria is just a hop, skip, and jump away. This is the closest place to retreat when you are wanting to shake things up and adventure around a new area. As you meander through the old-fashioned town, window-shop or stop inside one of the many local boutiques. On Saturday morning, visit the Old Town Farmers Market. The market is open year round and is one of the oldest farmers markets in the United States. Farmers and artisans have been selling product there since 1753. Even George Washington sold his produce at this market. We also recommend visiting the Torpedo Factory Art Center to watch art-making in progress. You can observe artists are they work in their studios. We think you will love the creativity that Torpedo Factory Art Center exhibits.

11. Philadelphia, PA

Philadelphia is a great spot for a weekend getaway because of its historical landmarks, culinary flavor, and artistic detail. Philly is a city with a unique blend of things to do and experience. As for sightseeing, be sure to check out the Independence Hall, Liberty Bell Center, Philadelphia Museum of Art , and the Franklin Institute of Science Museum . Reading Terminal Market is another spot you will have to go to during your weekend visit. Nearly 100 vendors set up shop in the market. You can grab lunch from anywhere in the world, just inside this one market. And in the evenings, walk along the Delaware river and appreciate the beauty of the city.

12. Pittsburgh, PA

Pittsburgh is the second largest city in Pennsylvania and one of the most wonderful weekend getaways from DC for Washingtonians wanting to change up their scene. The performing arts scene is big in Pittsburgh, as is the list of museums and attractions to be found in the city. You can walk, bike, or drive around the city, depending on your preference. We recommend stopping by Carnegie Museum of Natural History and Mount Washington during your stay. In particular, Mount Washington provides a unique overlook of the Pittsburgh city skyline. Come during the day, or come in the evening to see the city lit up and sparkling. Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is another mesmerizing spot to check out. The conservatory and gardens showcase exquisite flowers, fluttering butterflies, and greenery galore.

13. Richmond, VA

Richmond, Virginia is a lovely 2-hours from Washington D.C. and is a hipster spot that art and literature lovers will enjoy. While visiting for the weekend, mosey into the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts or the Virginia State Capitol. If museums and tours aren't your thing, poke your head into one of the eclectic coffee shops, cafes, and restaurants within the Richmond area. Those wanting an adrenaline rush are going to love Richmond's proximity to Kings Dominion . The amusement park is about 25 miles north of the city and has all of your favorite upside-down and backwards rollercoasters. The Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden is another lovely spot that displays a symphony of colors and scents. Make sure you book a night in the city's newest hotel , too. Trust us, a stay in the Jefferson will be an experience all on its own.

14. Shenandoah National Park, VA

Ah, the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. As you say goodbye to Washington, D.C. for the weekend, say a joyful hello to the mountains. The drive along Skyline Drive alone will be enough to take your breath away. There are numerous scenic overlooks where you can pull the car over, park, and behold the beauty. Pack your tent and sleeping bag and plan your camping trip . Or go day hiking on one of the countless trails.

There are hiking trails within Shenandoah National Park for both the beginner and experienced hiker. For those who want a more physically strenuous hike, try out Old Rag. This popular 9-mile hike features rock scrambles for all those adventurous folks . If you are looking for a shorter, less physically intense hike, try Dark Hollow Falls Trail. This light, 1.4-mile hike has waterfalls that will rejuvenate you. From hiking and rock climbing to fishing and camping, we love the outdoor activities that Shenandoah National Park provides. We know you will too because this is certainly one of the most serene weekend getaways from DC one could take.

15. Snowshoe, WV

In the winter, you will enjoy a weekend to Snowshoe Mountain Resort. Pack up your winter jackets , your hand warmers, your ski poles, and your thickest socks because you'll be heading up the chairlift in no time. Whether you are a pro skier or snowboarder or have never glided down the mountain before, you will be welcomed at Snowshoe. If you are a beginner you can rent skis or a snowboard and take a lesson. Or, go to Snowshoe Mountain Resort with a group of friends who can teach you along the way. Don't feel stable going down a snow-covered mountain on two metal slabs, or sideways as a snowboarder does? How about try going down the mountain on a tube? Snowshoe has a tubing park that is loads of fun. You'll fly down the mountain and love every minute of it. Snowshoe is certain to be your ideal winter weekend wonderland spot  if you're looking for some snowy weekend getaways from DC.

16. St. Michaels, MD

The town of Saint Michaels is located along the Chesapeake Bay. The Victorian homes and beach-town feel of the place will be a refreshing treat on your weekend getaway. To learn the history of this small coastal town, visit the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum during your stay. St. Michaels provides outdoor activities, including golfing, bicycling, sailing, and kayaking or canoeing on the bay. At the pier, purchase fresh crabs (or crab cakes), mussels, and shrimp at one of the local restaurants.

This spot on the Eastern Shore of Maryland is a secluded area, making it one of the best weekend getaways from DC for some rest and relaxation. The sunsets are something you will not want to miss either. The shining orange and red colors look magnificent with sailboats in the horizon. When you visit St. Michaels, you may even recognize St. Michaels from the movie Wedding Crashers. Visit the Inn at Perry Cabin to see the exact venue where the scene was filmed.

17. Stone Harbor, NJ

Stone Harbor is a laid-back, small town on the shore of New Jersey, perfect for those looking for weekend getaways from DC that provide the slow pace they're missing. It is contrary to the place you think of when you think Jersey Shore. Stone Harbor is very family friendly and quiet, as opposed to other beaches that line New Jersey. The area has beautiful beaches to lounge at, and water sports to try. Jet skiing and fishing are two of the big ones at Stone Harbor. There is also great live music at many restaurants in Stone Harbor. If you prefer to dine on the water, then go on a romantic evening cruise on the bay.

Stone Harbor is also located just a few miles north of Wildwood. Wildwood has a major boardwalk with all the classic games, prizes, roller coasters, French fries, and ice cream spots. A night at Wildwood can be a fun change of pace for those wanting a more lively scene for the evening. Overall, this easy-going town of Stone Harbor will allow you some space to breathe away from D.C. city life. Breathe in the salt air and dip your toes into the water as you settle in at Stone Harbor for a few days. With white sand, blue skies, and much to do (or not do), what more could you ask?

18. Virginia Beach, VA

The Virginia Beach Boardwalk is the main place to be. The boardwalk stretches long and far, perfect for early morning runners or bicyclists who want a view of the ocean as they exercise. You can rent individual bikes or group bikes and take a ride down the 3-mile-long boardwalk at any time of the day. You can also rent rollerblades if you want to pick up some skates and cruise down the boardwalk's panels. Live musical performances are frequent on the boardwalk, especially in the summer. Virginia Beach offers all of the typical ocean activities of boating, kayaking, fishing, jet skiing, and stand up paddle boarding as well. You can go dolphin watching or on a leisurely cruise along the serene waters too. So if a beachcation is what you're after, this is one of the weekend getaways from DC you need take.

19. Washington, D.C. (Staycation)

While we can vouch for the fact that these weekend getaways from DC are wonderful, there is an abundance of things to do, see, eat, and experience from right in the Capital itself. Stop by each of the monuments, visit the Spy Museum , get a bite to eat in Georgetown, observe the diverse plants and flowers within the U.S. Botanic Garden . There is the White House , the National Gallery of Art , the Air and Space Museum , the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History , and so much more.

If you have already visited many of these sites and are in the mood to do something more unconventional, how about exploring the local and ethnic food scene? There is cuisine from all over the world, right in your backyard. During your weekend staycation, you can “travel the world” via cultural cuisine. Visiting the monuments is the classic tourist thing to do, but have you ever visited them at night? With fewer people, a cooler temperature, and the monuments all lit up, you will have an amazing experience taking in the views. Another idea is to go to Union Market and survey the artisan products and tasty foods. Or visit Eastern Market and pick up local, fresh produce and handcrafted art too. Both markets are fun places to meet fellow locals during your staycation in Washington, D.C.

20. Williamsburg, VA

Williamsburg has a vast amount of history to tell you and show you. What better place to learn about the history of America, then from where it all began? There are history museums galore between Jamestown and Colonial Williamsburg. Come to Williamsburg for the weekend to learn about the history of colonial American in a hands-on setting. Or, if you are a fan of amusement parks , spend your whole day at Busch Gardens or Water Country USA .

As for shopping, the Williamsburg Premium Outlets have nearly every store you could want to shop in. Should you be into wine, the Williamsburg Winery is just 4 miles south of central Williamsburg and is a lovely place to spend your Saturday. History, entertainment, amusement parks, and shopping, Williamsburg has it all. It is especially perfect for those who love to go on family-oriented weekend getaways from DC, or who want to weave in history lessons between trips to Busch Gardens and other entertaining activities. The interactive nature of the area will be engaging and fascinating for kids to experience.

We all need a change of scenery sometimes. Even if you live in an already eventful place like Washington D.C. Whether you are searching for beach time or a city different than D.C. to explore, this list of the 20 best weekend getaways from DC is sure to have something for you. Washington, D.C. is a wonderful location to live because of its proximity to a number of beaches, mountains, and cities. Be it down the road 8 miles to Old Town Alexandria, or up the road 4 hours to Stone Harbor, choose from one of these weekend getaways from DC for the perfect escape. These destinations are all within driving distance which makes for a happy wallet and a fun road trip with friends. Create a driving playlist will all your favorite jams and sing along as you make your way onto your next adventure this weekend.

Related:  6 Cheap Weekend Getaways You Need This Winter

About The Author

Riley Loftus

Riley is a creative who is fascinated by the details of life. She feels most at home in an airport and cares most deeply about culture, exploring the world, and global justice. Riley also believes in the power of storytelling and in a love that has no limits. Keep up with Riley on her Instagram page where she contemplates grace and writes her raw thoughts on life, faith, and the world around her.

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25 Fun Day Trips From Washington DC For Families

Washington, DC has so many thing to do for families with young adults and kids. However, sometimes its nice to get out of the nation’s capital to experience some of the best family-friendly day trips. There is something for everyone, from natural world sights to historic sites. 

Best Day Trips Places In Washington DC For Families

City life can be busy, but if you and your family want to get away from the concrete jungle for a day, there are many places you can drive to. You can relax in quiet country areas, have thrilling adventures in theme parks, or learn about the United States’ historical past. Now, fasten your seatbelts because we’re about to leave the city boundaries and discover some of the most amazing spots within a short distance from Washington.

We have organized these from closest to furthest to make it convenient for your planning. 

Day Trips From DC For Families: 1 Hour Or Less

Here are some quick and easy day trips you can do with your family from Washington DC as part of your DC itinerary. . 

Mount Vernon – 30 Minutes From DC

Mount Vernon is the beloved residence and historic home of George Washington, the first President of the United States. The former residence of the nation’s First President is located roughly 15 miles south of Washington, D.C. and 8 miles south of Alexandria, Virginia. It can also be easily accessed by public transportation if you do not have a car. 

Dig into history as you wander the beautiful mansion. There’s much to see and do in Mount Vernon. Stroll through beautiful gardens that document Washington’s love for the outdoors. Take in breathtaking river vistas, learn about American history, and pay your respects at Washington’s grave. The estate often conducts historical events and activities, entertaining people of all ages.

National Harbor, Maryland – 30 Minutes From DC

The Maryland community of National Harbor was built on the banks of the Potomac River. There are many places to eat, shop, and have fun. This is a great day trip for families and it is also a very easy day trip for families. There is not much historical appeal but there is plenty to do and see. 

During holidays and special seasons the Gaylord Hotel in National Harbor has special events and things to do. It’s one of the more family friend hotels in the Washington DC area. Additionally, the famous Capital Wheel is a giant ferris wheel that is fun for all ages. If you do not have a car, you can access National Harbor via Water Taxi from the DC Wharf. Remember to check timings to make sure you can get there and back at a decent time. You can also opt to take the ferry there and then take a ride share back. 

Great Falls Park – 30 Minutes From DC

Great Falls Park is an easy day trip from Washington DC. One of the entrances to the park is located in Potomac , MD and is just 30 minutes outside of the city. While there are many places to hike in the DC area , this one is one of the most popular. 

Great Falls Park sits directly on the banks of the Potomac River. It is home to a few of the most spectacular waterfalls in the nation. Your family can take a boat ride down the river or go to the top of the falls for views that will steal your breath away. Picnic and play areas are also available for families. 

Great Falls Park is a great area to spend a day in the beautiful outdoors, whether you want to go hiking, boating, or just relax.

Old Town Alexandria

Old Town Alexandria – 30 Minutes From DC (or less)

Just across the river from Washington DC is Old Town Alexandria. This quaint part of the larger city of Alexandria is a great place for families to spend the day. Stroll through the historic streets and grab a bite to eat with your family at one of the many waterfront restaurants. If you are feeling energetic you can combine a visit to Alexandria with a visit to Mount Vernon or even National Harbor. The DC Water Taxi will also take you here if you do not have a car or if you feel like having a unique experience with your family. 

National Aquarium In Baltimore’s Inner Harbor

National Aquarium In Baltimore – 45 Minutes From DC

Anyone with even a passing interest in marine life should make the trip to Baltimore to see the National Aquarium. There is something for everyone among the approximately 20,000 creatures representing over 700 species. You may interact with some of the most fascinating animals on the planet, from sharks and rays to penguins and jellyfish. 

The preservation of marine life is the subject of several of the museum’s interactive displays. The National Aquarium is a fantastic venue for teaching people about the value of conserving marine ecosystems.

After visiting the National Aquarium, you can have lunch with your family along the Inner Harbor of Baltimore. There are many fun things to do an see in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor as well as many dining options. 

The location of Baltimore also makes it a great option when it comes to day trips from DC for families. The city is a short drive from Washington DC if you avoid high traffic times. If you do not have a car, the train from Union Station is also a quick and easy way to get to Baltimore.

Outlet Shopping – 30 Minutes To 1 Hour From DC

If you have young teens, they may enjoy a day of shopping at one of the many outlets in the DC area. Depending on which outlet you head to it can be either 30 minutes away or about 1 hour away from DC. 

The Tanger Outlets are home to nearly a hundred unique boutiques where you can discover deep discounts on designer goods. This is located near National Harbor and can be combined with a trip to this area. There are more than 30 restaurants in National Harbor area that serve a wide range of cuisines.

Leesburg Premium Outlets are another great option when it comes to great shopping deals. Some of the stores include Armani Outlet, BOSS Outlet, Burberry, Coach, Kate Spade New York, Michael Kors, Nike, Polo Ralph Lauren, Restoration Hardware, Tory Burch, Vineyard Vines, Under Armour, UGG, and Williams-Sonoma. It is located 17 miles west of Dulles International Airport and 35 miles from Washington, D.C.

Finally, Clarksburg Outlets in Maryland are also a popular destination for shopping. As the name implies, it is located in Clarksburg, Maryland and has more than 90 stores, including Coach, Kate Spade, Nike Factory Store, Polo Ralph Lauren Factory Store, Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th, Tory Burch, and Under Armour. It is conveniently located right off I-270 in Montgomery County, Maryland, and is just 30 miles north of Washington, D.C.

Six Flags America – 45 Minutes From DC

The amusement park Six Flags America is perfect for a day out with the kids. Over a hundred rides and attractions ensure everyone will have a good time. Various thrill rides are available, from roller coasters to water slides. 

Superman: Ride of Steel, one of the park’s tallest and fastest roller coasters, is only one of over ten rides available at Six Flags America. There are additional entertainment options, such as games and food. Come to Six Flags America and enjoy the rides and shows for yourself.

Visit Barrel Oak Winery – 1 Hour From DC

This winery is located in Delaplane, Virginia and is about an hours drive from the nation’s capital. This winery is known for being kid friendly and it is also one of the fewer wineries that serves kid friendly food most weekends. You can check their calendar to see which events are going on and if they are serving freshly made pizza during the time that you want to take a day trip. In addition, there’s plenty of open space for your kids to run around while you enjoy a wine tasting. 

Sugar Loaf Winery, Maryland – 1 Hour From DC

Sugar Loaf Mountain Vineyard is located in Dickerson, MD. The winery has a very welcoming and family-oriented atmosphere. There’s a special play zone for kids and a larger area for them to run around, jump, and play games. You can either buy snacks on-site or bring your own treats. There’s a large parking lot making it easy for you to visit with your children. It’s a great place to hang out for the day, enjoying wine and time with family.

Day Trips From DC For Families: More Than An Hour From DC

If you’re looking for even more options when it comes to road trips from DC, here are more places you can visit. Some are a bit further away and you may benefit from staying overnight. 

Annapolis, Maryland

Annapolis, Maryland – 1 Hour 15 Minutes From DC

Annapolis is great for a day trip from Washington DC. It is not too far and is a great place to walk around with your family. There are tons of cute stores and historical buildings to check out and the water views are great. In the warmer months, you can also book a sailing trip and enjoy the water. 

Some kid friendly activities here include Pirate Adventures on the Chesapeake, which offers pirate-themed cruises for children and Quiet Waters Park. This venue has playgrounds, walking trails, and a skate park. Some families may also enjoy visiting the United States Naval Academy. There are guided tours of the campus and museum available as well. 

King’s Dominion – 90 Minutes From DC

Kings Dominion is an amusement park located in Doswell, Virginia, approximately miles north of Richmond and 75 miles south of Washington, D.C. The park is owned and operated by Cedar Fair and covers an area of 400 acres. It has over 60 rides, shows, and attractions, including 13 roller coasters and a 20-acre water park called Soak City. Some of the park’s most popular rides include the Intimidator 305, the Dominator, and the Twisted Timbers roller coasters. Kings Dominion is also known for its seasonal events, such as Halloween Haunt and WinterFest 

Harpers Ferry – 90 Minutes From DC

The history at Harpers Ferry is more than just stories spoken over the campfire. Travel to Harpers Ferry in West Virginia and immerse yourself in the history of the American Civil War. People of all ages may enjoy themselves here as if they had entered a real-life history book.

Harpers Ferry’s historical importance is equal to its natural splendor. Walk the paths where historic conflicts occurred and take in the sights that mesmerized early settlers and troops. Its location makes this ancient city more tranquil on the river.

Gunpower Falls State Park – 90 Minutes From DC

Gunpowder Falls State Park is a public recreation area located in northeastern Baltimore County and western Harford County, Maryland. The park has a wide range of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, canoeing/kayaking, and camping. The Hammerman Area part of the park even has a beach and swimming area. For outdoor enthusiasts and families that like to be active a day here hiking can be the best way to spend time together. 

Luray Caverns – 2 Hours From DC

Luray Caverns are a fascinating subterranean realm with impressive structures like stalagmites and stalactites. The caverns and the unusual geology that formed them have a rich history, which you can learn about on a guided tour. 

The Great Stalacpipe Organ, built from 375 stalactites and played by tapping them, is the most significant musical instrument in the world. A trip to Luray Caverns is an adventure the entire family will never forget.

Luray Caverns is a 2 hour drive from Washington DC. If you are only interested in seeing the caves, a day trip is a great way to do it. There are other activities in Luray, Virginia that you can explore if you are interested in staying longer, from hiking to wine tasting . 

Take The Train To Philadelphia – 2 Hours From DC

Philadelphia is a great day trip from Washington DC. You can head there on an early morning train and have breakfast on the journey. Once you arrive there are so many things to explore. From the Philadelphia Art Museum where the famous Rocky steps are to Independence Hall, you will have plenty to see.

The historical significance of the building known as Independence Hall in Philadelphia makes it a great destination for a one-day trip. Visit this historically significant location and see the renowned Liberty Bell. It is a great city for educating and entertaining your family about the country’s history and independence struggle.

Shenandoah National Park – 2 Hours From DC

Shenandoah National Park is a fantastic place to go away and explore the magnificent Blue Ridge Mountains. Skyline Drive is a scenic route across the beautiful Shenandoah Valley that is well worth the time and effort to travel.

There are many fun things to do at the park. Explore beautiful terrain that is accessible to hikers of all skill levels. Bring a picnic and enjoy the peaceful setting. Take photos that capture the area’s beauty, or relax and enjoy the peace.

Shenandoah National Park is a perfect getaway because of its breathtaking scenery and many natural attractions. You will need to leave early to get out here so this may be best for families with teenagers or young adults who can mobilize quickly.

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania – 2 Hours 15 Minutes From DC

Gettysburg is famous for being the site of the Battle of Gettysburg, which was a pivotal event during the American Civil War. It was between the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia, commanded by General Robert E. Lee, and the Union Army of the Potomac, commanded by General George G. Meade.

The battle is considered the turning point of the Civil War and is known for its scale, intensity, and high number of casualties. It resulted in a Union victory and is considered one of the most important battles in American history.

It is also the location of the Gettysburg Address, a speech delivered by President Abraham Lincoln on November 19, 1863, during the American Civil War. The speech was given at the dedication of the Soldiers’ National Cemetery in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, four and a half months after the Union Army defeated the Confederate Army at the Battle of Gettysburg.

The speech is famous for its opening line, “Four score and seven years ago,” and for its emphasis on the principles of freedom, democracy, and equality. The Gettysburg Address is considered one of the most important speeches in American history.

Tilghman Island, Maryland – 2 Hours 15 Minutes From DC

Tilghman Island is a small island located in Talbot County, Maryland. The island is a working waterman’s village and is known for its historic vessels, charter fishing, great seafood, and unique lodging. It is located on the southernmost tip of Talbot County just past the popular town of St. Michael’s. 

There are a variety of things to do on Tilghman island. You can visit Tilghman Island during the day and then head to St. Michaels for dinner before heading back to Washington DC. If you are looking for a longer getaway to explore more family-friendly activities in this area, be sure to book an overnight stay at one of the adorable hotels here. 

Berlin, Maryland – 2.5 Hours From DC

Berlin, Maryland is a lesser known than its European namesake. It’s a small quaint town on the east coast of Maryland with plenty to do for families. You will need to leave early to get there so that you don’t spend your time sitting in traffic. It’s a great place to visit during one of the many events that they have. There is a car show that takes place as well as other fun events. Given the distance you may want to consider a weekend getaway and combining a visit to Berlin with a visit to nearby Ocean City, Maryland. 

Explore Charlottesville, Virginia – 2.5 Hours From DC

Charlottesville is an amazing place to visit for a day with your family. This quaint town is also home to the University of Virginia as well as many outdoor activities. 

The city offers a wide variety of family-friendly activities and attractions. It is home to several historic sites, such as Monticello (discussed below), and also has several museums and galleries, such as the Virginia Discovery Museum. This museum is specifically aimed at children. Also, Charlottesville has a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, wine tastings, and kayaking, as well as several parks and playgrounds. 

Finally, you can end your day in Charlottesville with dinner in the vibrant downtown area. Not only are there plenty of places to eat, but also there are cute stores to shop in. This is also a great place for a weekend getaway so consider staying here for a night or two so you have more time to explore many of the great things here. 

Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello – 2.5 Hours From DC

When you visit Monticello, it’s like taking a trip back in time to learn about Thomas Jefferson, one of the most influential men in the history of the United States. 

There are opportunities to take guided tours of the home, gardens, and grounds at this UNESCO World Heritage Site site. You should consider Jefferson since he was one of the United States’ founding fathers. 

The museum also displays about Thomas Jefferson and the period he lived in. Another option is hiking and taking in the sights along the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Busch Gardens – 3 Hours From DC

Busch Gardens in Williamsburg is the perfect place for a thrilling adventure. Exciting roller coasters will make your heart beat as you twist and spin through the air. Live shows can be fascinating and take you into the world of fun. 

There is an abundance of fun activities that the whole family may enjoy, especially those geared toward younger visitors. Explore the many themed sections, each leading to a new world of wonder and magic. 

If hunger strikes, you may choose from various restaurants serving you multiple delicacies. Busch Gardens creates the ideal day, packed with excitement and memories for visitors of all ages, from the most courageous adventurers to the youngest explorers. You can combine a trip to Busch Gardens with a visit to Luary Caverns and also Williamsburg Virginia. 

Colonial Williamsburg – 3 Hours From DC

Colonial Williamsburg in Virginia was the capital of the British colony of Virginia over 200 years ago. Today, it’s been preserved to look just like it did back then. The city was founded in 1632 and eventually became the capital of the English colony in 1698. 

King James I of England granted a charter to the Virginia Company in 1606. The King sent about 100 men to start a colony in Virginia with hopes of finding gold and other valuable products to bring back to the King. The members of the Virginia Company also wanted to find a water route to the Pacific Ocean. Visiting Colonial Williamsburg is a great way to learn about its importance to America in the 1700s. 

Colonial Williamsburg is a long drive from Washington DC. This is probably better as an overnight trip because it can take 3 to 4 hours to get there. However, for motivated history buffs, you can leave very early and make it there in time for lunch and then plan to head home after an early dinner. 

Rehoboth Beach – 3 Hours From DC

The beach in Rehoboth is also an option for a day trip with the kids. Especially on very hot days in Washington DC, heading to the coast is a great way to cool off. One may sunbathe, swim, and play on the sand at a beach. The whole family may have fun at various attractions, including amusement parks and arcades. 

The beach is an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy the sunshine. Besides Funland and Jungle Jim’s, the neighborhood has several other amusement parks. Several arcades nearby allow you to play games for tokens and win real money.

Although a visit to Rehoboth Beach from Washington DC is possible to do in a day, it is better done as a weekend trip from DC or at least an overnight trip. 

Ocean City, Maryland – 3 Hours From DC

Spend the day relaxing on the sand and surf at Ocean City Beach in Maryland. Because there are so many exciting things to do on the beach and in the water, it is an ideal destination for families with young children. 

Enjoy the water, try the food, and soak up the rays. Vacations at Ocean City will be full of fun and excitement for the whole family. There are also several amusements parks in the Ocean City area which makes it a very popular destination for families with children. 

Fun Day Trips From Washington DC For Families: Summary

Washington, DC, has plenty to do from the Lincoln Memorial to the Smithsonian Air And Space Museum. However, there are also various day trip options that are great for families. Whether it is educational, cultural, outdoor, or adventurous, you will find plenty of amazing day trips within a few hours of Washington DC. You can explore the small towns along the Chesapeake Bay like St. Michaels or head to a theme park like King’s Dominion. There’s something for everyone to enjoy in this area. So, gather your family and set out on a experience that you all will remember.

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31 Epic Day Trips from Washington, DC (By a Former Local)

Are you looking to break away from the Capital City for a day and explore some of the amazing sights nearby? Here are the top day trips from Washington, DC.

Washington, DC, is an ideal travel destination with so many things to do there plus so many additional destinations only a short drive away. If you’ve ever found yourself in Washington, DC, with a few days to spare, then I’m here to tell you that you can explore much more than the usual monuments and historical landmarks in DC.

I lived in Washington, DC, and Northern Virginia for two years and spent a lot of that time exploring much of the area.

This post includes affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. See disclaimer.  

Whether you are seeking a historical journey into America’s past or something more natural like incredible parks or beaches, there are plenty of exciting day trips from DC that will let you make the most out of your travels. In this article, I’m highlighting the very best places to visit outside Washington, DC, for an unforgettable and epic day trip.

Considering the area, there are naturally quite a few suggestions that are historical sites, but there are also day trip ideas that feature Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Delaware’s beautiful scenery, a beach town, major cities, and more.

There’s truly something for everyone on this list.

Want to see old shipwrecks up close? I’ve got you covered! No joke.

The day trip ideas in this article are arranged in order of distance from Washington, DC, from the closest to the farthest. All are less than a 3-hour drive from the U.S. capital. All distances are calculated from the Capitol Hill area.

Listed drive times are approximations. The time it takes you to drive to the suggested day trip destination will depend upon several factors including your exact starting point, the time of day, weather, etc.

And some of these day trip suggestions are rather close to each other, so you could even combine a couple of destinations, spending half a day at each. For example, I’ve easily done both Mount Vernon and Arlington National Cemetery in one day. Or add on Old Town Alexandria.

Get your free printable travel planner and plan to perfect trip.

Explore the Chesapeake & Ohio (C&O) Canal

Distance from Washington, DC: variable (the trail begins in Georgetown and ends in Cumberland, Maryland)

Approximate drive time: variable (depending on where you join the trail)

Biking or walking a section of the C&O Canal towpath in Maryland is an amazing way to spend a day outside Washington, DC.

The 184.5-mile long canal towpath offers day-trippers a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the region, with its lovely woodlands and captivating views along the Potomac River. Spots of interest along the towpath include the Maryland side of Great Falls, Antietam National Battlefield (see below), and Glen Echo Park.

Arlington, Virginia

Distance from Washington, DC: 5 miles

Approximate drive time: 10 – 15 minutes

Just a short drive from Washington, DC, Arlington, Virginia, is a good destination for a day trip. It is best known as the home of Arlington National Cemetery . There are more than 400,000 people buried at Arlington National Cemetery which has become one of the most visited sites in the Washington, DC, area.

If you have the chance, don’t miss out on witnessing the changing of the guard at The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier . The U.S. Army Honor Guard vigilantly guards it 24/7 with remarkable solemnity. It’s truly a sight that will leave a lasting impression.

Besides the renowned Arlington National Cemetery, travelers can also explore many other remarkable sights in Arlington, Virginia. The United States Air Force Memorial and US Marine Corps War Memorial (often called the Iwo Jima Memorial), as well as the 9/11 Pentagon Memorial , are all located there.

Alexandria, Virginia

Distance from Washington, DC: 8 miles

Approximate drive time: 15 – 20 minutes

If you’re looking for a day trip that’s close to Washington, D.C., Alexandria is a great place to go. It was voted one of Travel + Leisure’s 15 Best Cities in the United States (#9) and one of The South’s Best Cities on the Rise 2022 (#6) by Southern Living.

If you want to enjoy the outdoors, walk or bike along the scenic Mount Vernon Trail .

You can also take a stroll through the quaint streets of Old Town Alexandria or enjoy a scenic lunch cruise on the Potomac River . Old Alexandria is a lovely area, filled with remarkable historic buildings, unique shops, and delicious restaurants to explore.

Visit celebrated sites like the Alexandria Black History Museum, Carlyle House, and Gadsby’s Tavern Museum.

George Washington’s Mount Vernon

Distance from Washington, DC: 19 miles

Approximate drive time: less than 30 minutes

Mount Vernon is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a fun day trip close to Washington, DC. It was the home and property of George Washington, the first president of the United States.

The Mount Vernon Estate includes Washington’s Mansion, which is a National Historic Landmark, as well as several outbuildings, gardens, and walks.

The estate is located on the Potomac River (great view!), and you can tour George Washington’s house and see many other parts of the property including his final resting place.

On a few of the occasions when I’ve been there I’ve even seen the bedroom where he died. It was kind of amazing and creepy all at the same time.

Don’t miss out on the fascinating educational displays . They are an incredible way to gain more knowledge about Washington and provide a meaningful historical background of his era.

For a lovely lunch, try the Mount Vernon Inn restaurant . I recommend you make reservations ahead of time if you can. And they have a couple of great gift shops at Mount Vernon to help you find your perfect souvenir.

For more information about George Washington’s home, check out my best tips for visiting Mount Vernon .

See the very best of Mount Vernon with this private guided tour of George Washington’s estate . Choose from half-day or full-day options, and see Old Alexandria as well.

Great Falls Park

Approximate drive time: 35 minutes

Great Falls Park in Virginia is renowned for its stunning beauty. There are three overlooks for beautiful views of the Falls on the Potomac River all within a reasonable walk of the Visitor Center. The Park includes 15 miles of hiking trails including the popular River Trail .

This is a very popular park. On weekends and holidays there can be long lines to get into the park with wait times of up to an hour, so keep that in mind when making your plans.

If you’re interested in exploring the Maryland side of Great Falls, see more information about the C&O Canal National Historical Park above.

Manassas National Battlefield Park

Distance from Washington, DC: 30 miles

Approximate drive time: 40 minutes

Located less than an hour from Washington, DC, by car, Manassas National Battlefield Park historic site should be on your list of potential day trips from the Capital.

This site is one of the best battlefields near Washington, DC . Manassas, Virginia, was the site of not just one but two American Civil War battles just a little over a year apart.

The 5,000-acre park includes more than 40 miles of trails perfect for exploring the area on foot.

The park includes a series of routes that traverse the First and Second Manassas Battlefields, featuring interpretive markers along the trails. These markers provide insight into battle action in certain areas while giving visitors an understanding of both soldiers’ and civilians’ experiences .

Annapolis, Maryland

Distance from Washington, DC: 33 miles

Approximate drive time: 40+ minutes

I’d say that Annapolis, Maryland, is an underrated day trip destination. Perhaps it’s overlooked because it’s overshadowed by so many other options so close to Washington, DC.

Stroll through old colonial streets in the historic district. You’ll see lovely colonial-era row houses.

Tour the Maryland State House , once the home of the Continental Congress and the oldest state house still in use legislatively. It’s open to the general public every day except Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

You can also visit the campus of the U.S. Naval Academy (you’ll have to show ID) or go sailing on the Chesapeake Bay . 

North Beach, Maryland

Distance from Washington, DC: 35 miles

Approximate drive time: 50 minutes

North Beach in Maryland is a great day trip destination for anyone looking to have a day of fun in the sun. Enjoy a day at a classic Maryland beach town complete with a boardwalk .

Other fun things to do in the town include the Bayside history museum , birding, swimming, fishing, and shopping. Overlook Park is a haven for both its resident and migrating wildlife, offering the perfect refuge in its tidal marshlands.

Baltimore, Maryland

Distance from Washington, DC: 40 miles

Approximate drive time: 55 minutes

For those looking for a big city day trip from Washington, DC, that offers something unique and exciting, Baltimore is the perfect destination. Located just an hour north of the nation’s capital, this vibrant city is brimming with culture and history.

Top sites in the city include the National Aquarium, Fort McHenry (of Star Spangled Banner fame) National Monument and Historic Shrine, the Baltimore Museum of Art, the B & O Railroad Museum, and more.

And if you’re into baseball, like me, don’t miss your chance to see Oriole Park at Camden Yards.

Middleburg, Virginia

Distance from Washington, DC: 49 miles

Approximate drive time: 1 hour

If you’re searching for a picturesque Virginia day trip getaway, Middleburg is a perfect choice. This charming town located in the heart of horse country offers delightful boutiques and eateries that make it an ideal destination to explore.

Make sure to visit one of the many stores in town and purchase a souvenir created by a local artisan. You should also explore the National Sporting Library and Museum to gain insight into equestrian sports, which this area is renowned for.

Or, if you want to feel the wind in your hair, rent a bike and explore Middleburg’s natural landscape. Regardless of how you choose to spend your day here, there’s no doubt that this charming town will steal your heart as it did mine.

Mallows Bay Maryland

Distance from Washington, DC: 42 miles

Kayaking in Mallows Bay Maryland is the perfect day trip adventure for those wanting to explore the region.

But this isn’t just any bay on the Potomac River; this area is unique. Mallows Bay-Potomac River National Marine Sanctuary protects the more than 100 World War I-era wooden steamships, known as the “Ghost Fleet.”

The best way to see this unique “water museum” is by kayak. When the tide goes out, the ships reveal themselves and are important habitats for osprey, bald eagles, herons, and many fish and plants.

For the best experience viewing the wrecks, plan your visit to align with low tide. Paddling is recommended between May and September for ideal water and weather conditions.

Fredericksburg, Virginia

Distance from Washington, DC: 56 miles

Fredericksburg, Virginia, is a great day trip destination for those looking to explore U.S. Civil War history.

Located just an hour south of Washington, DC, Fredericksburg offers visitors a glimpse into America’s past with its numerous historical sites such as George Washington’s boyhood home at Ferry Farm and Mary Washington House , home of George Washington’s mother.

In my opinion, the biggest draw at Fredericksburg for history lovers is Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park .

The park actually manages four battlefields over several counties, the nearest to Washington, DC, being Fredericksburg. The others are Chancellorsville, Spotsylvania, and The Wilderness . The Park also includes the site of General Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson’s death .

South Mountain State Park, Maryland

Distance from Washington, DC: 66 miles

Approximate drive time: 1 hour, 15 minutes

Visiting South Mountain State Park is an amazing day trip adventure from Washington, DC, especially for hikers.

Stretching 40 miles along South Mountain’s ridge from Pennsylvania to the Potomac River, South Mountain State Park offers travelers an opportunity to explore a slice of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

The Appalachian Trail traverses the summit of the mountain, offering breathtaking panoramas from three notable vantage points: Weverton Cliffs, Annapolis Rocks, and High Rock. 

George Washington Birthplace National Monument

Distance from Washington, DC: 69 miles

Approximate drive time: 1 hour, 35 minutes

History lovers should think about making a day trip from Washington, DC, to George Washington Birthplace National Monument , especially if you’ve already seen Mount Vernon.

The site consists of a picturesque 550-acre park with trails and monuments that showcase his legacy, including a Colonial Revival farm .

George Washington’s family is honored and remembered in the Washington Family Burial Ground, where his father, grandparents, and great-grandparents are all laid to rest.

The park also offers many recreational activities to enjoy, such as hiking, fishing, and bird-watching. In addition, there’s a public beach and places to picnic .

Harpers Ferry, West Virginia

Distance from Washington, DC: 70 miles

Approximate drive time: 1 hour, 20 minutes

Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, is a day trip destination from Washington, DC, that should not be overlooked. Located less than an hour and a half away by car, this small town offers visitors several activities and attractions to explore.

There are plenty of fun things to do in Harpers Ferry such as taking a scenic hike along the Potomac River or exploring one of its many historical sites like John Brown’s Fort and Harpers Ferry National Historical Site.

Cross the river into Maryland and hike up to Maryland Heights to get beautiful views of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers. Note, this is not an easy hike and should not be attempted without bringing water. Seriously, folks. I did this hike spontaneously without water and to this day I have never been more thirsty than I was on that day.

Antietam National Battlefield

Approximate drive time: 1 hour, 30 minutes

American Civil War buffs will need to include Antietam National Battlefield on their list of “must-see” sites. Considered by many to be the best-preserved battlefield in the U.S., it commemorates the single bloodiest day in American history, when 23,000 Americans were killed, wounded, or went missing.

According to the National Park Service , “The Battle of Antietam ended the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia’s first invasion into the North and led Abraham Lincoln to issue the preliminary Emancipation Proclamation.”

Important sites at the battlefield include Bloody Lane, Dunker Church, Burnside Bridge, and Mumma Farm. Don’t miss the monument to Clara Barton , the founder of the American Red Cross, whose actions at Antietam made her a Civil War hero.

Shenandoah River State Park

Distance from Washington, DC: 82 miles

Sitting on the South Fork of the Shenandoah River, Raymond R. “Andy” Guest Jr. State Park encompasses 1,600 acres and 5.2 miles of beautiful riverfront scenery.

At this park, visitors can experience views of Massanutten Mountain and stunning Shenandoah National Park .

This riverside destination is a favorite among families, fishers, and especially canoeists due to its picnic area with shelters, trails for exploration, river access points, and a car-top boat launch. With more than 24 miles of trails , the park allows you to explore and adventure on foot, bike, or horseback.

Shenandoah National Park

Distance from Washington, DC: 85 miles

Approximate drive time: 1 hour, 40 minutes

One of the most scenic of the U.S. National Parks is located within the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia and less than two hours from Washington, DC. Shenandoah National Park features beautiful tree-lined hills, enchanting wooded hollows, breathtaking waterfalls, and a variety of wildlife.

Shenandoah National Park was founded in 1935. The park was completed around WWII, and by 1976, half of the park was proclaimed protected wilderness.

The 105-mile Skyline Drive winds itself around the center of Shenandoah National Park and connects to the Blue Ridge Parkway . The road is often closed during the winter months due to heavy snowfall. The road is also one of the most frequently traveled in the National Park System, so be sure to plan accordingly.

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

Distance from Washington, DC: 90 miles

Approximate drive time: 1 hour, 45 minutes

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, is a day trip destination from Washington, DC, that offers something for everyone. Located just under two hours away by car, this historic town is brimming with culture and history.

From its iconic Civil War sites such as the Gettysburg National Military Park to its quaint downtown shopping district , there’s plenty to explore. Whether you’re interested in taking a guided tour through the battlefields or exploring one of its many other historical sites, visiting Gettysburg is an unforgettable experience.

I’ll never forget standing on Little Round Top and then at the stone wall looking out over the area where General Pickett led his charge.

Top things to do in Gettysburg include touring the battlefield, exploring downtown, David Willis (where Abraham Lincoln put the final touches on his famous Gettysburg Address), Seminary Ridge Museum, Shriver House, Jenny Wade House, and more.

James Madison’s Montpelier

Distance from Washington, DC: 93 miles

Approximate drive time: 2 hours

Set in the heart of Orange County, Virginia, lies Montpelier, an estate belonging to former President James Madison and his wife Dolley. Spanning a total area of 2,650 acres this historical property has been carefully preserved for future generations to enjoy.

A 5,000-acre tract of land was initially granted to James Madison’s grandfather. In 1783, the property came to Madison who decided to begin constructing Montpelier four years later.

While visiting Montpelier , you’ll learn more about the house and James Madison. Unfortunately, the Madison family encountered substantial financial hardship that led them to sell most of their personal belongings. Consequently, many items present in the house now were bought strictly for restoration purposes.

As a National Historic Landmark since 1984 , Montpelier is owned and operated by the Montpelier Foundation. Their tours of both the house and grounds provide a quality educational experience in early American history.

Luray Caverns

Distance from Washington, DC: 97 miles

Luray Caverns is a great day trip destination for families. The largest caverns in the eastern United States are unlike any other, featuring ceilings towering 10 stories high.

In addition to the caverns, the Car & Carriage Caravan Museum, Shenandoah Heritage Village, and Toy Town Junction are all included in the admission price, making it a great value for families.

The caverns are open year-round , making them a great option for when the weather is bad or when you just want to get out of the city for a day.

Belle Isle State Park

Distance from Washington, DC: 108 miles

Approximate drive time: 2 hours, 25 minutes

Explore unique tidal wetland areas with a day trip to Belle Isle State Park’s seven miles of shoreline on the Northern Neck’s Rappahannock River.

At this park, there is a campground for overnight guests to stay in, three picnic shelters perfect for outdoor gatherings, and various trails available for walking or biking. Additionally, the park offers boat launches.

The varied ecosystems of the park are home to many predatory birds, including blue herons, osprey, hawks, and bald eagles. In addition, white-tailed deer, turkeys, and a multitude of smaller creatures such as groundhogs, rabbits, squirrels, moles, reptiles, and amphibians can be found here too.

Richmond, Virginia

Distance from Washington, DC: 110 miles

Visiting Richmond, Virginia, makes a great day trip from Washington, DC, especially for those who enjoy “collecting” state capitals. With its historical landmarks, parks, and cultural attractions it’s definitely a city worth visiting.

Top things to do in the Virginia capital include the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts , the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden , and browsing Carytown . Edgar Alan Poe enthusiasts should check out The Poe Museum .

Those looking to spend a day in beautiful surroundings might want to visit Maymont or Belle Isle Park in the heart of the city (not be confused with Belle Isle State Park).

Delightful Day Trips from Richmond, Virginia.

Trap Pond State Park, Delaware

Distance from Washington, DC: 112 miles

Approximate drive time: 2 hours, 20 minutes

Trap Pond State Park in Delaware is a day-trip destination that offers visitors breathtaking natural beauty to explore.

Paddling enthusiasts especially should take advantage of the opportunity to canoe or kayak the Terrapin Branch Water Trail . Get up close and personal with the Baldcypress trees and the diverse flora and fauna that live there. If you don’t want to navigate the area by canoe or kayak you could try a pontoon tour with park staff.

The area was used as an industrial logging pond in the late 18th century and is home to the northernmost, naturally occurring, stand of Baldcypress trees .

Distance from Washington, DC: 115 miles

Approximate drive time: 2 hours, 15 minutes

Monticello is one of the most famous and remarkable homes in America, and it makes a great day trip from Washington. Thomas Jefferson, the 3rd President of the United States, called Charlottesville, Virginia home. His house is open to visitors who wish to explore its beauty and learn more about his life.

The architectural masterpiece of Monticello was designed by Thomas Jefferson himself and constructed between 1768-1782. This iconic Neoclassical structure was named a National Historic Landmark in 1960.

When visiting Monticello start in the Visitor Center to see the amazing displays of the design phases Monticello went through. You’ll gain a greater understanding of Jefferson’s family life and what life was like on his estate.

Grab a yummy lunch at Monticello Farm Table . Their soups and sandwiches are scrumptious. Then you can make your way up the “mountain” (by shuttle or enjoy the walk) to explore the grounds and the mansion.

To secure an optimal tour time for the house, I recommend you purchase your tickets beforehand . Make sure to pick out a ticket that grants access to all areas of the property that you want to see since not every option provides access to all areas of the house.

Hershey, Pennsylvania

Distance from Washington, DC: 135 miles

Approximate drive time: 2 hours, 30 minutes

Located just two and a half hours away from Washington, DC, by car, this charming city is full of attractions to explore. From its iconic Hersheypark amusement park, Hershey Story Museum, and Hershey’s Chocolate World, to ZooAmerica and Hershey Gardens there are plenty of activities to enjoy.

But let’s face it. If you’re driving all the way to Hershey, Pennsylvania, from Washington, DC, you’re going for the chocolate.

Petersburg, Virginia

Petersburg, Virginia, sits on the Appomattox River and is full of rich history. The city is known for its many historical sites, including Petersburg National Battlefield .

The Battlefield preserves the history of the longest military event of the U.S. Civil War, the siege of Petersburg. The 9.5-month-long siege cut off Petersburg’s supplies, which led to the fall of Richmond (the capital of the Confederacy) and then the surrender of General Robert E. Lee.

Other sites to visit include the Centre Hill Mansion-Museum and Pamplin Historical Park .

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Distance from Washington, DC: 140 miles

Spending a day in Philadelphia is an experience like no other. The city is full of history, culture, and attractions that will keep you engaged for hours (or days!) on end.

From its iconic landmarks such as the Liberty Bell to exploring Independence National Historical Park , Philadelphia has something for everyone.

Other top things to do in Philadelphia include the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Reading Terminal Market, Congress Hall, the Benjamin Franklin Museum, the Betsy Ross House, and the Museum of the American Revolution.

Colonial Williamsburg

Distance from Washington, DC: 152 miles

If you have a passion for early American history, then visiting Colonial Williamsburg is an absolute must. Not only will it be a fascinating educational experience, but it’s also the world’s largest living history museum.

While I recommend spending at least a weekend at Colonial Williamsburg , you can still do a lot even if you only have one day in Colonial Williamsburg . 

Williamsburg was the capital of the Virginia Colony from 1699 to 1780 (when the state capital was moved to Richmond).

In the early 20th century, W.A.R. Goodwin, the rector of Bruton Parish Church astutely suggested to John D. Rockefeller Jr that Williamsburg, Virginia’s historic core should be carefully restored and preserved, including reconstructing some parts if necessary.

Present-day Colonial Williamsburg is a time capsule of the 18th Century, encompassing 85% of its original size and containing iconic landmarks such as Bruton Parish Church.

Jamestown, Virginia

Distance from Washington, DC: 160 miles

Approximate drive time: 2 hours, 35 minutes

If you’re planning a trip to Virginia’s Historic Triangle area, make sure to include J amestown Settlement and Historic Jamestowne on your itinerary.

Jamestown, founded in 1607, was the site of the first permanent English settlement in the New World. Jamestown Settlement is a living history museum that uses video, excellent exhibits, and living history to educate guests about the founding of Jamestown and what life was like there.

Just a stone’s throw from Jamestown Settlement is Historic Jamestowne , the actual home of the first permanent English colony in America on the James River. It is possible to visit both sites in one day.

Yorktown, Virginia

Distance from Washington, DC: 165 miles

Approximate drive time: 2 hours, 40 minutes

You really should consider adding a day trip visiting Yorktown to your itinerary. Historic Yorktown was the site of the last major battle of the American Revolution.

It was also where General Lord Cornwallis’ forces surrendered to George Washington (Cornwallis couldn’t actually manage to drag himself to Surrender Field that day). And as it goes in the musical Hamilton , the world turned upside down. 

If you’re planning a trip to Yorktown, I suggest starting your day at the American Revolution Museum . This will give you some valuable context before heading out to explore the battlefield. You could easily spend nearly one full day at Yorktown Battlefield alone. 

Final thoughts on day trips from Washington, DC

Washington, DC, is a great place to visit, but sometimes you just need to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

If you’re looking for a quick day trip that will still give you plenty to do, consider one of the options in this article. From historical sites to hiking and beaches, there’s something for everyone within just a few hours’ drive of DC.

So pack up the car and hit the road. Your perfect day trip adventure awaits!

Do you have a favorite day trip from Washington, DC?

Articles related to planning a day trip from Washington, DC

• Day trip essentials packing list
• Day trips in Virginia
• Essential overnight packing list

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Darcy Vierow is a busy professional and travel planning expert with years of experience maximizing travel with limited time and on a less-than-average salary. Her tips have been published by Forbes, MSN.com, Yahoo! News, Yahoo! Finance, Aol, Newsbreak and GOBankingRates. Read more about Darcy Vierow .

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8 best things to do in DC for families with kids of different ages

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As the nation’s capital,  Washington, D.C. , is a great destination for tourists craving American culture and history.

However, if you’re traveling with family, you may wonder which attractions are kid-friendly. For example, the National Archives Museum is a popular attraction, but it might be difficult to get kids to remain quiet inside and keep their hands to themselves.

Fortunately, Washington has plenty of other activities for kids and adults. Here are eight of our favorite attractions for people of all ages.

National Zoo

• Hours : 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Cost : Free, but advanced entry passes are required for all guests.
• Getting there : Three blocks from Woodley Park-Zoo/Adams Morgan Metro station or a 15-minute Uber from downtown. If you drive yourself, the zoo charges $30 for parking, so we recommend taking advantage of the plentiful street parking nearby.

Smithsonian’s Conservation Biology Institute, commonly called the National Zoo, is home to more than 2,000 animals. They are grouped along trails dedicated to their species, continent, country or region.

Along the Asia trail, you can see a clouded leopard, an Asian small-clawed otter, a sloth bear, a red panda and many more animals. Stars of the elephant trail include the 48-year-old Sri Lanka-born Asian elephant Kamala (meaning “lotus”), who arrived with Swarna (meaning “gold”) and her second calf, Maharani (meaning “queen”), from the Calgary Zoo about 10 years ago.

Along the American trail, you can see Andean bears and Amazon-area creatures such as the electric eel, piranha, poison dart frog, stingray, fish and coral.

One of the zoo’s main attractions is Xiao Qi Ji, a two-year-old giant panda. His name, which means “Little Miracle,” pays tribute to his mother, who, at 22 years old, became the oldest giant panda to give birth in the U.S.

Getting everyone out the door early on vacation can be difficult, but try to visit in the morning when the animals are usually more active.

Related: The perfect one-day field trip in DC for travelers of all ages

National Mall

• Hours : Most Smithsonian museums are open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 or 5:30 p.m.
• Cost : Free, but some require advanced entry tickets like the National Air and Space Museum and the National Museum of African American History and Culture . You’ll also need a timed entry ticket for the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum .
• Getting there : Three blocks south of the Metro Center station.

The National Mall is full of family-friendly activities. At the National Air and Space Museum, you can step inside historic planes and even try to pilot a virtual plane. There’s also an exhibit designated to speed, which explores the fastest land vehicles throughout American history.

The National Museum of Natural History is also a favorite among kids with massive dinosaurs, a giant squid, a butterfly garden and the massive Hope Diamond.

When you’re ready for a break from the museums, enjoy the green space on the National Mall. There’s lots of lawn space for kids to run around or play frisbee. Kids also love the Smithsonian carousel here.

Steer clear of the fast food trucks and costly museum cafeterias. Instead, stop for lunch in the downtown area (a few blocks north) or picnic on the lawn halfway through your visit.

Related:  The best times to visit Washington, D.C.

International Spy Museum

• Hours : 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday through Friday; 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday.
• Cost : $28.95 for an adult ticket (ages 13-64), $18.95 for a youth ticket (ages 7-12) and $25.95 for college students and military with proof of ID. Child tickets (ages 6 and under) are free.
• Getting there : The nearest Metro station is the L’Enfant Plaza stop, a five-minute walk away.

There is truly something for everyone in this immersive museum. Elementary-age and older kids will love assuming a spy identity and completing interactive missions throughout the museum. Younger kids will love the space to roam around and the abundance of photos and visual displays.

Older kids and adults will find much to geek out over as well. They will learn how spy tactics are used in cyber warfare and how spies use costuming to conceal their true identities.

There are also mini theaters throughout the museum that play videos of real former spies explaining their work, providing the perfect opportunity to gather and relax for a few minutes whenever necessary.

The average visit lasts between two and three hours, but you can explore freely at your own pace — ideal for those who have toddlers in tow.

National Postal Museum

• Hours : 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Cost : Free.
• Getting there : The nearest Metro station is Union Station, a five-minute walk away.

The quieter, more off-the-beaten-path National Postal Museum is a perfect spot to decompress and escape the crowds that converge on the more popular Smithsonians.

Kids tend to love vehicles, and one of the museum’s highlights is its large display of trucks, rail cars and aircraft, which the U.S. mail service has used throughout its history. There’s even a recreated rail car you can climb into and look around. Some exhibits have interactive elements where kids can identify counterfeit mail or write real postcards.

Older kids and adults will enjoy the impressive stamp collection and exhibits that spotlight how the mail system has been critical to our national safety and personal connection throughout American history.

Related: The best museums in D.C. you haven’t heard of

Gunston Hall

• Hours : 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
• Cost : $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, $5 for children and free for ages 5 and under.
• Getting there : A 35-minute drive from downtown. Parking is free.

The former home of George Mason (one of the Founding Fathers of the U.S.), Gunston Hall is a superb place to take children to learn about American history and our nation’s founding. The tours are fun, and our guide had lots of experience working with children.

For younger children, the gardens and grounds at Gunston Hall are great spaces to run around and observe the historical buildings. Kids can also participate in interactive workshops and activities depending on the season.

Older children can explore the history of the mansion and the Mason family. Tell them to pay close attention to the small details, such as the royal crown molding and Parisian wallpaper, which were exceptionally rare in the Virginia Colony. The mansion tour had various hands-on exhibits, and we loved the primary source quotes.

With fewer people than George Washington’s Mount Vernon, Gunston Hall is a must-see destination for families with kids interested in America’s history and foundation.

National Harbor

• Hours : 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
• Cost : Free to walk around.
• Getting there : A 20-minute drive from downtown D.C. You can also take a water taxi from the city for $40 round trip. Children age 2 to 11 cost $33 round trip.

National Harbor is another great family-friendly destination in the Washington, D.C., area. If you can, arrive by cruise from Washington or Alexandria, Virginia, so you can enjoy scenic river views.

The Capital Wheel is a 180-foot-tall Ferris wheel with beautiful views of the Potomac River and do wntown Washington, D.C., in the distance. It costs $15 for adults, $13.50 for seniors over 60 and $11.25 for children ages 3 to 11.

Steps from the Capital Wheel are pedal boats you can rent by the hour, and there’s a Build-a-Bear Workshop and Ben and Jerry’s. All of these attractions are within close walking distance to each other.

Kids also love playing on The Awakening, a 70-foot-tall Zeus-like statue emerging from the sand.

Nationals baseball game

• Hours : Check the Nationals schedule for home game dates and times
• Cost : Starts at $13 per ticket.
• Getting there : The nearest Metro station is Navy Yard station, a three-minute walk away.

Mix up your history experiences and visit a different kind of Washington, D.C., icon: Nationals Stadium. Kids of all ages will enjoy the music regularly pumping from the jumbo tron, crowd chants and snacks.

When any of your group gets restless, there’s plenty of space to walk around the stadium and even a spot for kids to practice their throwing skills. When you’re ready for lunch or dinner, don’t miss the iconic Ben’s Chili Bowl stand.

If the Nats aren’t playing a home game while you’re in town but have MLB fans in your group, you can still tour the stadium. Tours are at 10:30 a.m., 12 p.m., 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. on non-gamedays only. Tickets are $25 each.

If you’re not visiting during baseball season, check out a Wizards NBA game, a Commanders NFL game or a D.C. United MLS game.

Related: Redeem Capital One miles for MLB tickets

Afternoon tea

• Hours : 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, excluding holidays. Reservations required.
• Cost : $68 per adult, $45 per child (12 and under).
• Getting there : The nearest Metro station is the Foggy Bottom—GWU Kennedy Center station, an eight-minute walk away.

Head to The Ritz-Carlton for afternoon tea if you want to treat your crew to a pinkies-up afternoon excursion.

Adults will enjoy a selection of sweet and savory treats as well as a choice of tea and a glass of sparkling wine. Kids 12 and under can enjoy Teddy Bear Tea, which includes child-friendly bites with either tea or hot chocolate and a teddy bear to take home.

This is a bit of a splurge but is a great option if you’re celebrating something special or just want a chance to get dressed up and enjoy a lovely two-hour tea experience together.

Related: Next time you travel, take your kids to afternoon tea

Bottom line

Washington, D.C., is full of museums, historical attractions and fun outdoor spaces perfect for a trip with kids. All of the Smithsonian museums offer interactive exhibits and engaging activities for children.

Traveling with kids to the district is both fun and educational, as it can bring kids’ classes to life. There are countless opportunities to run, explore, learn and play.

SPONSORED:  With states reopening, enjoying a meal from a restaurant no longer just means curbside pickup.

And when you do spend on dining, you should use a credit card that will maximize your rewards and potentially even score special discounts. Thanks to temporary card bonuses and changes due to coronavirus, you may even be able to score a meal at your favorite restaurant for free. 

These are the best credit cards for dining out, taking out, and ordering in to maximize every meal purchase.

Editorial Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

The 26 best things to do in D.C. this weekend and next week

The final weekend of the National Cherry Blossom Festival brings two of its biggest events: a parade with floats, marching bands, giant balloons and Disney characters on Constitution Avenue NW, and the Sakura Matsuri Japanese Street Festival, with multiple stages of music, dancing and martial arts, as well as food and drink vendors and family activities. There’s much more to do: D.C. marks Emancipation Day with a parade, go-go music and fireworks at Freedom Plaza; the Kennedy Center throws a family block party based on the award-winning books of Jacqueline Woodson; Esther Perel brings advice for couples to Constitution Hall; the annual Spring Garden Market returns to the American Horticultural Society’s River Farm; and the Taylor Swift pre-album hype begins with a dance party and trivia night.

Thursday, April 11

Flowers After Hours at the National Gallery of Art

The National Gallery of Art’s popular National Gallery Nights after-hours series returns with a party celebrating “spring and all things floral.” Activities include creating wearable flower art, a blossom scavenger hunt, behind-the-scenes tours, pop-up talks, music by DJ Rustam, and bars serving wine and cocktails. All tickets were distributed in a raffle last week, but more tickets will be given out at the entrance to the East Building beginning at 5:30 p.m. (You don’t need tickets to watch dance performances or artist demonstrations on the Fourth Street plaza.) 6 to 9 p.m. Free; tickets required .

Jigger & Pony pop-up at Allegory

Even cocktail fans who’ve never been to Singapore might have heard of Jigger & Pony . No. 14 on last year’s World’s 50 Best Bars list ? Named best international hotel bar at Tales of the Cocktail’s Spirited Awards? The 12-year-old bar is noted for its playful originals and clever twists on the classics — its Velvet Negroni is so named because the staff tweaks the preparation and dilution to create a smoother texture and mouthfeel. Why are we hyping up a bar that’s almost 10,000 miles away? Because Jigger & Pony creative director Uno Jang and senior bartender Gabriel Gan are taking over Allegory, the bar tucked inside the Eaton. The event runs, the bar promises, “until we sell out of cocktails.” 8 p.m. Free admission .

‘Game Show: Chad and Pharrell’ at Shanklin Hall

Last week, after news broke that Chad Hugo was suing Pharrell Williams over the rights to the name “the Neptunes,” D.C. DJ and “Tiny Desk” producer Cuzzin B tweeted , “I can definitely tell the difference btwn a Pharrell beat vs a NEPTUNES beat.” The observation struck a nerve, and 7,000 likes and 227 quote tweets later, Cuzzin B is bringing his thoughts into a physical space. He’s hosting a panel discussion and listening session at Shanklin Hall, discussing the Neptunes’ legacy — together and apart — with DJs and producers Daniel Biltmore, Marc Nfinit and DJ Geena Marie at the Adams Morgan social club. 8 p.m. Free .

Friday, April 12

‘The Art of the Benshi’ film series at the National Museum of Asian Art

This touring film series stops at the Smithsonian after a run in Brooklyn and before heading to Chicago, Los Angeles and Tokyo. In a five-part series of “benshi” performances, or live orators to silent films, the art form returns more than a century after it began with classic, restored films. Three performers are joined by musicians, who will play new and historical scores. Films include the cult classic “A Page of Madness (Kurutta ichipeiji)” and the earliest surviving Japanese animated film, “The Dull Sword (Namakura gatana).” Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 7 to 10 p.m.; Sunday, 3 to 6 p.m. Free.

WoCo Fest 2024: Evolve at AMP by Strathmore and the Mansion at Strathmore

The three-day WoCo Fest 2024: Evolve celebrates music from female composers at Strathmore with a spate of performances, workshops and discussions. The festivities include Saturday at the Mansion, a day packed with discussions, food trucks and exhibitor booths, geared toward musicians but open to the public as well. (Tickets are pay-what-you-can with a suggested donation of $10.) Pianist Sarah Cahill performs at the end of the day, playing a program based on her “The Future Is Female” album trilogy, showcasing compositions spanning baroque composer Élisabeth-Claude Jacquet de La Guerre and contemporary composer Theresa Wong. Jazz legend Terri Lyne Carrington, a four-time Grammy Award-winning drummer, closes out the festival with a Sunday afternoon show at AMP by Strathmore, a lounge-like club serving food and craft cocktails in North Bethesda’s Pike and Rose neighborhood. Various times. $10-$48.

Commemorating Abraham Lincoln

One hundred fifty-nine years ago this weekend, Abraham Lincoln was assassinated while watching a play at Ford’s Theatre. The National Park Service and the theater remember our 16th president with events including guided walking tours covering the story of the assassination, the Lincolns’ love of theater in 1860s Washington and medical care the president received . Ford’s Theatre and the Petersen House (“The House Where Lincoln Died”) are open all day Sunday and Monday, with special performances of “One Destiny,” a two-man play about the events of April 14, 1865, on Monday morning . Check both organizations’ calendars, as they list events separately. Through Tuesday. Prices vary, though NPS tours are free.

Spring Garden Market at River Farm

River Farm, located on the Potomac River between Old Town Alexandria and Mount Vernon, is a joy to visit at this time of year, but it’s especially nice during the American Horticultural Society’s Spring Garden Market. More than 40 vendors set up to sell native plants, herbs, ceramics, gardening supplies and decor, dog treats, and much more. Beyond stocking up for your yard or windowsill, you can explore the property, which includes 25 acres of formal and wildlife-friendly natural gardens and an indoor art exhibit, or have a picnic overlooking the river. Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. $5 entry for those arriving on foot or bicycle; $20 per car (includes all occupants).

Blossoms and Starlight at Eastern Market

A new Taylor Swift album drops next week, if you hadn’t heard, and we expect there will be plenty of Taylor-themed dance parties and karaoke and trivia in the coming days. (Trivia, in fact, starts Wednesday.) The first event on our calendar is Blossoms and Starlight in Eastern Market’s North Hall. Tunes come from DJ Tony T, a.k.a. Tony Tomelden. He owns the Pug, the H Street bar that’s become ground zero for Swiftie listening parties, so he probably knows a thing or two. There will be a friendship bracelet-making station, though you can also bring your own to trade, and sequined outfits are “highly encouraged.” The event is open to all ages, but adult beverages will be available. Proceeds benefit Eastern Market’s 150th anniversary fund. 6 to 9 p.m. $20-$35 .

Saturday, April 13

National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade

Mickey and Minnie Mouse are the grand marshals of the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade, which fills Constitution Avenue with marching bands, giant balloons, floats and entertainment. The Sugarhill Gang, “American Idol” finalist Colin Stough and D.C.’s own Mambo Sauce are among the performers. The route stretches from the National Archives to the Ellipse, and viewing the parade from the sidewalk is free, though grandstand tickets are available for purchase. 10 a.m. to noon. Free; grandstand seats $25-$40.

Sakura Matsuri Japanese Street Festival

The Sakura Matsuri Japanese Street Festival expanded from one day to two in 2022 to celebrate its 60th anniversary, and the Japan-America Society of Washington D.C. is keeping the expanded format, packing Pennsylvania Avenue NW between Third and Seventh streets. The festival includes multiple stages with traditional and modern music; dance and martial arts performances; a J-pop talent competition; a children’s corner; a traditional marketplace; a “Taste of Japan” section with food and drink vendors, as well as beer gardens and sake pavilions; pavilions dedicated to topics such as technology and the regions of Japan; and hands-on cultural exhibits. Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. $15 for one day or $25 for both days; $20 admission on the day of the event. Free for children 12 and younger.

Pink Beats at National Landing’s Water Park

Pink Beats, the final installment of the Pink in the Park series at National Landing’s Water Park, is essentially a local music festival, starring the wonderfully crafted indie soul of Oh He Dead, the dance-floor-friendly R&B grooves of Wrizzards and the tuneful pop-rock of Broke Royals. Beyond the five acts performing, there are food and drink vendors and other activities. 4 to 9 p.m. Free.

‘An Evening With Esther Perel’ at DAR Constitution Hall

Troubled couples rely on therapist Esther Perel to get to the heart of their problems — and the audience of her “Where Should We Begin” podcast listens in, fly-on-the-wall style, to hear her pearls of wisdom. Now Perel is taking her show on the road for a national speaking tour called “An Evening With Esther Perel: The Future of Relationships, Love & Desire.” Get in the room with Perel at DAR Constitution Hall as she discusses how technology has shifted the nature of relationships in 2024 and how we can embrace and retain our humanity. 8 p.m. $103-$675.

In Style: Esther Perel will see you now

Jacqueline Woodson Block Party at the Kennedy Center

A National Book Award winner, four-time Newbery Honor winner, MacArthur fellow — the Kennedy Center’s education artist-in-residence is gifted with the written word. This weekend, you get to see what happens when Jacqueline Woodson throws a party. Inspired by her book “The Year We Learned to Fly,” this day of family-friendly activities includes double Dutch, break dancing and roller skating demonstrations; a stepping performance and workshop with Step Afrika!; chalk drawing and graffiti demos; music from Eastern High School’s Blue and White Marching Machine; and Woodson reading her book with help from musicians Toshi Reagon and Be Steadwell. Food trucks and vendors will be on-site. 1 to 5:30 p.m. Free.

NEA Jazz Masters Tribute Concert at the Kennedy Center

Each year, the National Endowment for the Arts honors America’s jazz greats with the Jazz Masters Fellowships . The 2024 class includes trumpet player Terence Blanchard, saxophonist Gary Bartz, composer and organist Amina Claudine Myers, and journalist, broadcaster and D.C. Jazz Festival Artistic Director Willard Jenkins. All four are honored during this concert at the Kennedy Center’s Eisenhower Theater: Bartz, Blanchard and Myers will perform with their own groups and make remarks; Jenkins is represented with a performance by the African Rhythms Alumni Quintet. The evening concludes with a tribute to D.C.’s own Duke Ellington. While all free advance tickets have been claimed, standby tickets will be available at the box office beginning at 7:15 p.m. The line for standby tickets begins at 5:30. 7:30 p.m. Free .

DC Brau’s 13th anniversary

Washington’s oldest brewery is now a teenager. DC Brau, which released the Public Ale to a thirsty city in April 2011, marks its 13th anniversary with a day-long party at its brewery in Upper Northeast. Look for a special lineup of beers — including the freshly rereleased Citizen Belgian pale ale — and a menu of tacos from Taco Man Fred. The jammy Americana of the Brahman Noodles and the Celtic tunes of the O’McPub Band provide the soundtrack, while Jinx Proof is on-site for souvenir tattoos. 1 to 9 p.m. Free .

All Hat, No Cattle at Jackie Lee’s

Heaven Forbid are D.C.’s hip urban cowboys: a quintet sporting large hats, bolo ties and boots, mixing original two-stepping tunes with covers of Vince Gill or Bobby Bare, all driven by the sultry or mournful sound of pedal steel. They play country songs, but they’re more likely to strike up “Guitars, Cadillacs” than some radio hit about a pickup. After a residency at the now-closed Public Option, Heaven Forbid is moving its monthly All Hat, No Cattle party to Jackie Lee’s in Brightwood, where the bar is taking out tables and chairs to make more room for dancing. The band’s sets begin at 8 and 10 p.m. Free .

Masters Costume and Cocktail Party at Duke’s Grocery Navy Yard

Break out your green jackets, red Nike Dri-Fit polos and camouflage bucket hats: The Masters are back, and Duke’s Grocery is hosting a viewing party and costume contest. Snack on pimento cheese or egg salad sandwiches and sip John Daly cocktails (an Arnold Palmer with added vodka) while watching the tournament on multiple TVs. Prizes for the best dressed include Duke’s-branded Titleist ProV1 golf balls and gift certificates. 3 to 7 p.m. Free .

Sunday, April 14

D.C. Emancipation Day at Freedom Plaza

In April 1862 — more than eight months before the Emancipation Proclamation — Congress passed the District of Columbia Compensated Emancipation Act, which freed all enslaved people in Washington, compensated their owners and provided funds for them to emigrate if they chose. Since 2005, the city has marked the anniversary with a parade and pomp. Freedom Plaza is again the center of attention, with a parade at 2 p.m.; a concert featuring Ginuwine, Kelly Price, jazzman Marcus Johnson and go-go stalwarts E.U. featuring Sugar Bear at 3 p.m.; and fireworks at 8:30 p.m. 2 p.m. Free.

Pages in the Park at Meridian Hill Park

Grab a book and a picnic for Pages in the Park, where you can spend 30 minutes mingling over a potluck meal before an hour of individual reading time. There’s also a book swap — bring any books you no longer want, and take a new one home. Extras will be donated. The event is hosted in the grassy area at the top of the park. 3 p.m. Free.

‘New Worlds: Women to Watch 2024’ at the National Museum of Women in the Arts

The National Museum of Women in the Arts tapped 28 emerging artists from across the globe for a show based on visions for creating a new world. See their alternative realities in “New Worlds: Women to Watch 2024,” the second major exhibition since NMWA reopened last fall after an extensive renovation. Visitors can tour the new gallery spaces and see seven works created specifically for the museum for its recurring “Women to Watch” exhibition series, including site-specific installations. Through Aug. 11. $16; $13 seniors and D.C. residents; free for ages 21 and younger and visitors with disabilities.

Paws and Petals Yappy Hour at Metrobar

One of the final events of cherry blossom season is this dog-friendly afternoon hang in Metrobar’s beer garden. Bring your four-legged friend for treats like puppuccinos and dog beers, while humans peruse vendors selling dog toys and merchandise, grab snacks from food trucks, and groove to a DJ. 1 to 4 p.m. Free .

Mezcal Night at Bar Charley

The Dupont Circle joint is partnering with Columbia Heights taqueria El Chucho and mezcal brand Siete Misterios for an evening dedicated to the spirit. Instead of usual Bar Charley fare, the ticket price will get you chips and salsa, a mezcal flight, and the first cocktail. 5 p.m. $30.

Monday, April 15

‘Selena’ Movie Night at Rhizome

Takoma Park nonprofit community space Rhizome hosts a free screening of the 1990s classic film “Selena,” complete with themed snacks. Free popcorn and Mexican hot chocolate will be on offer during the biopic of Selena Quintanilla-Pérez, the queen of Tejano music, which is screened the night before the late singer’s birthday. 7:30 p.m. Free; RSVP encouraged.

Wednesday, April 17

Taylor Swift Trivia at As You Are

Think you’re a real Swiftie — the kind who scours the liner notes, knows every Easter egg, finds hidden meanings in Instagram posts and has gone down too many Tumblr rabbit holes? Can you recite the Era Tour’s secret songs? Show how much you really know at As You Are’s Taylor Swift Trivia, which promises to be highly competitive but also a lot of fun. BYO friendship bracelets. 7 to 9 p.m. Free .

Witches Night Party at Dew Drop Inn

Walpurgis Night, the eighth-century celebration of Saint Walpurga held at the end of April, traditionally aimed to banish witchcraft — but Dew Drop is opening its doors to welcome them. Expect a “simple witchy ritual,” magic-themed drinks, tarot readings by Skye Miranda, astrology analysis and a drag performance by self-proclaimed “slasher flick rocker chick” Jane Saw. You can also make your own temporary tattoo — just make sure it complements your witch-inspired outfit. 7 p.m. Free.

De La Senne beer tasting at the Sovereign

De La Senne is one of the most acclaimed craft brewers in Brussels, and the beers that regularly make it to this side of the Atlantic are flavorful — no filtering or pasteurization — and on the lower end of the alcohol spectrum, such as the bitter, hoppy blonde Taras Boulba or the dry, citrusy Zinnebir pale ale. De La Senne’s beers are regulars on tap on the Sovereign, but this is a special night at the Georgetown Belgian beer bar: Brewery co-founder Yvan de Baets is visiting, bringing what the Sovereign calls “hyper-fresh” kegs of beer, plus rare bottles of Saison de la Senne and Wadesa #9 tripel, complex beers blended with lambic ales from Brussels neighbors Cantillon. Tickets include four-ounce pours of eight De La Senne beers and the talk with de Baets. 6 to 9 p.m. $50 .

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Biden Announces Student Debt Relief for Millions in Swing-State Pitch

During an appearance in Wisconsin, President Biden said 10 million borrowers could see debt relief of at least $5,000. The plan could help rally support among young voters.

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Biden Announces New Plan for Student Debt Relief

President biden announced a large-scale effort to help pay off federal student loans for more than 20 million borrowers..

Today, I’m proud to announce five major actions to continue to relieve student debt for more than 30 million Americans since I started my administration. And starting this fall, we plan to deliver up to $20,000 in interest relief to over 20 million borrowers and full forgiveness for millions more. [applause] I will never stop to deliver student debt relief and hardworking Americans. And it’s only in the interest of America that we do it. And again, it’s for the good of our economy that’s growing stronger and stronger, and it is, by freeing millions of Americans from this crushing debt of student debt. It means they can finally get on with their lives instead of being put — their lives being put on hold.

By Michael D. Shear

Reporting from Madison, Wis.

President Biden on Monday announced a large-scale effort to help pay off federal student loans for tens of millions of American borrowers, seeking an election-year boost by returning to a 2020 campaign promise that was blocked by the Supreme Court last year.

Mr. Biden’s new plan would reduce the amount that 25 million borrowers still owe on their undergraduate and graduate loans. It would wipe away the entire amount for more than four million Americans. Altogether, White House officials said, 10 million borrowers would see debt relief of $5,000 or more.

“While a college degree still is a ticket to the middle class, that ticket is becoming much too expensive,” Mr. Biden said during a speech to a small but enthusiastic audience filled with supporters. “Today, too many Americans, especially young people, are saddled with too much debt.”

Mr. Biden announced the plan in Madison, Wis., the capital of a critical swing state and a college town that symbolizes the president’s promise to make higher-education affordability a cornerstone of his economic agenda.

But it is a promise he has so far failed to achieve, largely because of legal challenges from Republicans and other critics. They accuse Mr. Biden of unlawfully using his executive authority to enact a costly transfer of wealth from taxpayers who have not taken out federal student loans to those who have.

Officials did not say how much the new plan would cost in coming years, but critics have said it could increase inflation and add to the federal debt by billions of dollars.

Mr. Biden said his new effort would help the economy by removing the drag of enormous debt from people who would otherwise not be able to buy a home or pursue a more economically sound future.

“We’re giving people a chance to make it,” Mr. Biden said. “Not a guarantee. Just a chance to make it.”

Mr. Biden’s announcement was a presidential do-over. In the summer of 2022, he put in motion a plan to wipe out $400 billion in student debt for about 43 million borrowers. That was blocked by the Supreme Court , which said he exceeded his authority. In the months since, Mr. Biden has waived small amounts of debt using existing programs. But now he is attempting a larger effort closer to the scale of his first try.

The original plan relied on a law called the HEROES Act, which the administration argued allowed the government to waive student debt during a national emergency like the Covid pandemic. The justices disagreed after Republican attorneys general and others challenged the debt waiver plan.

The new approach is different.

For months, Mr. Biden’s Education Department has been developing regulations using a long process authorized by the Higher Education Act. Instead of an across-the-board waiver of debt, the new approach targets five groups of borrowers: those whose loans have ballooned because of interest; borrowers who have been paying for decades; those who have economic hardship; people who qualify for existing debt relief programs but have not applied; and people whose loans come from schools that have since been denied certification or have lost eligibility for federal student aid programs.

Administration officials said because the new approach is based on a different law, it is more likely to survive the expected challenges. They said lawyers for the White House and the Education Department have studied the Supreme Court ruling and have designed the new program to make sure it does not violate the principles laid out by the justices.

But lawyers for those who oppose the approach are likely to argue that waiving the debt is unfair to those who already paid back their loans or never took out college loans in the first place. That argument helped sway the justices in the last case.

Neal McCluskey, the director of the Center for Educational Freedom at the Cato Institute, called the new plan “dangerous policy” that is unfair to taxpayers and would cause colleges and universities to raise their prices.

“The Constitution gives Congress, not the president, the authority to enact law, and the Supreme Court has already struck down a unilateral, mass student debt cancellation scheme by the Biden administration,” he said. “It would stick taxpayers with bills for debts other people chose for their own financial advancement.”

The legal challenges will likely take months to resolve, and that could leave the debt relief plan in limbo as voters go to the polls in November to choose between Mr. Biden and former President Donald J. Trump.

Members of Mr. Biden’s administration fanned out across the country on Monday to talk about the new plan, betting that it will rally support among voters who were disappointed that the court blocked the first one, which would have eliminated up to $20,000 in debt for tens of millions of borrowers. Vice President Kamala Harris held a round-table discussion with a teacher, a nurse and a social worker in Philadelphia. Miguel A. Cardona, the education secretary, spoke in New York City.

“We need you to stay in these jobs doing this work,” Ms. Harris said in the library of an elementary school. “And you shouldn’t have to make a decision about whether you serve or are able to pay your bills.”

But beyond the threat of legal action, the president faces steep obstacles just because of the calendar. The new plan has not yet been published in the Federal Register, which will kick off a required, monthslong public comment period before it can take effect. Officials said on Sunday only that they hoped some of the provisions would begin going into effect in “early fall” of this year.

Administration officials hope that the president’s supporters will give him credit for trying, even if many of the borrowers do not end up seeing any relief before they go to the ballot box. Andrew O’Neill, the legislative director for Indivisible, a liberal advocacy organization, praised Mr. Biden’s announcement.

“Progressives have led the fight for student debt cancellation, and Joe Biden has responded,” he said in a statement. “More than 30 million folks will now get relief from Biden’s programs. That’s a huge deal.”

White House officials have been scrambling for months to respond to the anger about student loans among the president’s base. In one poll released last month, more than 70 percent of young people said the issue of student loan forgiveness was “important” or “very important” to them as they make their decision in the 2024 election campaign.

Officials said the five groups of people targeted in the new plan will address most of the egregious issues that some borrowers have with their student loans.

People whose loans have grown beyond the amount they originally borrowed because of interest would have up to $20,000 of that interest wiped away, leaving them to repay only the amount they originally borrowed. People making less than $120,000 a year, or couples making less than $240,000, would qualify to have all of their interest forgiven.

Officials said that 23 million people would most likely have all of their interest-related balances waived from that provision.

About two million borrowers who already qualify to have their student loans waived under existing programs have not applied for relief. Under the new rules, the Education Department would be authorized to cancel the debt for those people without their having to apply.

People who took out federal student loans for undergraduate degrees and began repaying them more than 20 years ago would automatically have the debt canceled under the new plan. Graduate students who borrowed money and began repaying 25 years ago would have their debt canceled.

Officials said that about 2.5 million people would qualify under that rule.

People who borrowed money to attend colleges that have since lost their certification or their eligibility to participate in the federal student aid program would have their debt canceled. Officials did not say how many people that would affect. And people who are especially burdened with other expenses — such as high medical debt or child care — could apply to have their student loans forgiven.

Officials did not estimate how many people might qualify for what they called the “hardship” programs.

Nicholas Nehamas contributed reporting from Philadelphia.

Michael D. Shear is a White House correspondent for The New York Times, covering President Biden and his administration. He has reported on politics for more than 30 years. More about Michael D. Shear