The weekend is right around the corner and you’re getting the itch to escape the city for a little while. Where should you head? Whether you’re looking to do something special with an extra day in your 3 day weekend, or you just want to take off on a Saturday or Sunday, these are the DC day trips we recommend you check out first.
Baltimore
Distance from DC: 40 miles
Why You’ll Love It: Escaping one city for another might not seem like the getaway you’re looking for, but Baltimore is a city that feels both manageable and neighborhood-like. Enjoy great dining and waterfront views just a short drive from DC.
Things To Do On Your First Visit: You could easily turn this into a full weekend trip with all that Baltimore has to offer, but we suggest checking out the Inner Harbor, the National Aquarium, catching an Orioles game at Camden Yards, and spending a little time enjoying the charm of Little Italy.
Other Resources To Check Out:
Visit Baltimore
Things To Do In Baltimore
Top 10 Things To Do In Baltimore 2017
Baltimore Tourist Attractions
Gettysburg
Distance from DC: 80 miles
Why You’ll Love It: Washington, DC is filled with its own share of historical sites, but nothing quite compares to the sight and feel of Gettysburg, PA. Explore the battlefield and cemeteries, then head into the charming town center.
Things To Do On Your First Visit: There a number of ways to explore Gettysburg, including narrated bus tours, segway tours, bike tours and more, but we love the flexibility and freedom of the self-guided auto tour. This allows visitors to stop along the way to read plagues, check out some of the over 1,300 monuments, and pause to take in the beautifully haunting views. Afterward, head into town to refuel at one of the many restaurant options. If you’re feeling adventurous, stick around for a historic ghost tour!
Other Resources To Check Out:
Visit Gettysburg, PA
Places To Go In Gettysburg
The 10 Best Gettysburg Restaurants
Gettysburg Battlefield Tours
Annapolis
Distance from DC: 32 miles
Why You’ll Love It: If small town charm and historic architecture are your things, then Annapolis is a great option for you. According to TripAdvisor, Annapolis has more surviving 18th-century buildings than any other US city. Fans of the waterfront and sailing will be equally as pleased with a visit to the city known as America’s Sailing Capital, boasting miles and miles of Chesapeake Bay waterfront dotted with lighthouses and crab shacks.
Things To Do On Your First Visit: Pay respects to the history of this area by visiting US Naval Acadamy and the Maryland State House, then stroll through the historic district to soak up the charm. If you want to get your steps in while getting your zen on, head to Quiet Waters Park and enjoy the tranquil trails. If you’re looking for a less active form of relaxation, check out the Heritage Region Wine Tour or the Chesapeake Region Wine Tour.
Other Resources To Check Out:
Visit Annapolis
Where To Eat In Annapolis
Annapolis Boat Tours & Rentals
10 Things To Do In Annapolis
Monticello Wine Trail
Distance from DC: 117 miles
Why You’ll Love It: If the wine tours caught your eye in the last section, this trip will be worth the travel time. Dozens of wineries and scenic landscape awaits you just a couple of hours from DC. If Virginia doesn’t strike you as wine country, then take this opportunity to educate yourself about the history of wine making in this region – you may be surprised to learn that the tradition was inspired by Thomas Jefferson’s own love of grape growing and wine making.
Things To Do On Your First Visit: You can, of course, go the self-guided route when visiting the area’s many wineries, but we suggest a wine tour as the safest and most relaxing way to enjoy the day. If history is your thing, make time to visit the region’s namesake and Thomas Jefferson’s former home, Monticello. This 43 room mansion offers a glimpse into the design influences of the era as well as some of Jefferson’s own inventions, plus the gardens that surround the home are a gorgeous sight in and of themselves. End the day with some live music and nibbles at one of the vineyards while watching the sun set!
Other Resources To Check Out:
Monticello Wine Tours
Visit Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello
Upcoming Monticello Winery Events
Things To Do In Charlottesville, VA
Harper’s Ferry
Distance from DC: 66 miles
Why You’ll Love It: If you just can’t make your mind up about what the focus of your trip should be, Harper’s Ferry has a little bit of everything. The shining star is the national historic park with seemingly endless trails, viewpoints, and historical sites to take in while getting some exercise. If history is your thing, there are a number of historical sites to visit throughout the area. If you enjoy the charm and architecture of small, historic towns, head into the town center for some antique and boutique shopping. Looking for something more adventurous? Harper’s Ferry has you covered there too with rafting, zip lining, and more!
Things To Do On Your First Visit: Get your day started early with some light hiking along the C&O Canal or explore some historic sites throughout the National Historical Park, then head over to the Harper’s Ferry Adventure Center to partake in one of our favorite summer activities, flatwater tubing along the river (with a cold beer in hand). Finish the day off by heading into town for a bite to eat and to do a little window shopping.
Other Resources To Check Out:
Harper’s Ferry Recreational Activities
Harper’s Ferry Hiking Guide
Harper’s Ferry Restaurants
Things To Do In Harper’s Ferry
Looking for even more ways to explore what’s beyond the city? Check out this in-depth guide to the 100 best things to do in Maryland.