Guide to the best day trips from Washington DC

Washington DC is such an amazing city, but there are so many amazing places to explore all within a short drive from DC.

I have compiled a list of some of the best day trips from Washington DC on the blog. Most of these places are a short drive away, and some no more than a few hours.

 You can easily add a few places on our guide to the best day trip ideas from Washington DC to your DC weekend trip itinerary. Some places are an easy day trip, while others are the best weekend getaway from DC.

READ NEXT: Guide to visiting Washington DC

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Best historical day trips from DC

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OLD TOWN ALEXANDRIA 

Driving distance from DC: about 20 minutes

Another day trip idea from Washington DC is a visit to Old Town Alexandria. This historic town in Virginia is so worth the visit when planning a trip to DC. 

• Explore George Washington’s old stomping grounds and stroll through cobblestone streets, peruse through charming storefronts, and historic homes, and grab a bite at one of the many amazing restaurants in town.

• One of our favorite things to do in Old Town Alexandria is the Saturday farmers market, which features locally grown produce, baked goods, and yummy food.

• Don’t forget to visit the Waterfront, there’s always something going on here, and it’s the perfect place to relax and admire the Potomac River views.

READ MORE: Top things to do in Old Town Alexandria

Recommended hotel in Old Town Alexandria

MOUNT VERNON

Driving distance from DC: about 20 minutes

Just a short drive away from DC is George Washington’s estate at Mount Vernon. Explore our first President’s estate and get to know more about his life at home.

• Your admission ticket entitles you to a self-guided tour of his mansion, his estate, which includes his gardens, and a visit to George Washington’s tomb.

• You can also visit the museum at the end of your tour and learn more about George Washington with all the exhibits and films.

READ MORE: A visit to George Washington’s Estate at Mount Vernon

FREDERICKSBURG & SPOTSYLVANIA VA

Driving distance from DC: about 1hr 30min

Just a short drive away from DC is the Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania Civil War battlefields. If you are a Civil War history buff, then this is the perfect place to visit.

• Your first stop on your Civil War battlefield tour should be at the Fredericksburg Visitors Center. There are a few exhibits and a short film to watch to learn more about this time of our history.

• This is also where you can sign up for either a guided or self-guided tour of the Fredericksburg Battlefield. The only other Visitor’s center for this area is at Chancellorsville.

• Some other Civil War battlefields to explore in the area are Chancellorsville, Wilderness, Spotsylvania, and Manassas.

• Make sure to explore Fredericksburg’s historic downtown area. There are many shops and restaurants, plus we love the waterfront park complete with a playground for kids!

READ MORE: A visit to the Historic Battlefields in Virginia

HISTORIC TRIANGLE: Williamsburg-Jamestowne-Yorktown

Driving distance from DC: about 2hrs 30min

One of the best road trips from Washington DC is a visit to the Historic Triangle of Virginia.

• Learn more about some of the oldest towns in America, and our early colonial history at Colonial Williamsburg, a visit to Jamestowne Settlement in Virginia, and the American Revolutionary Museum at Yorktown.

• Purchase the America’s Historic Triangle ticket to gain entry into all three museums. The outdoor living history museums are some of the best, and we love the hands-on learning experiences.

READ MORE: Top things to do in Williamsburg Virginia

Recommended hotel in Williamsburg

GETTYSBURG PENNSYLVANIA

Driving distance from DC: about 2hrs

Learn more about our Civil War history with a visit to Gettysburg. This historic town is a short drive away from DC and is the best day trip for history lovers. 

Take a tour of the Gettysburg battlefield on your visit, or simply stroll through the charming town. There are lots of charming storefronts, museums, and restaurants to visit on your day trip from Washington DC.

READ MORE: A visit to Gettysburg Pennsylvania

Recommended hotel in Gettysburg

Best outdoor adventure day trips from DC

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GREAT FALLS PARK, VA

Driving distance from DC: about 30min

One of the best day trips from Washington DC is Great Falls Park. The park is less than an hour away, and you can either visit the Virginia or Maryland side. 

Great Falls Park is the perfect day trip from DC if you just need to get away and be outside. There are many hiking trails for all levels in both sides of the park, and many are kid-friendly so it’s the perfect family outing.

The River Trail is one of our favorites with lots of rocky outcrops to climb and the best Potomac River views. If you need more of a challenge then the Billy Goat Trail in the Maryland side of the park is the best option with great River views as well.

READ MORE: Guide to visiting Great Falls Park

ROCK CREEK REGIONAL PARK

Driving distance from DC: about 45min

Another great day trip option outside of DC is Rock Creek Regional Park in Maryland. Rock Creek Park is the perfect place for some outdoor therapy with miles of trails for you to enjoy.

• There are also many other activities including fishing, hiking, and boating on Lake Needwood and Lake Frank.

• If you’re in for some thrills, visit Go Ape near Lake Needwood for an interactive treetop adventure, which includes zip lines.

SHENANDOAH NATIONAL PARK

Driving distance from DC: about 1hr 30min

One of the best mountain getaways near DC is a visit to Shenandoah National Park. Just a few hours drive from DC, Shenandoah is the perfect weekend getaway from Washington DC for some relaxation.

• Reserve a cabin on one of the resorts on Shenandoah and enjoy the beautiful mountain views.

• You can also go hiking in one of the many trails on Shenandoah, some that lead to the most amazing vistas, and waterfalls.

• If you only have one day to visit Shenandoah, a drive through Skyline drive, admiring the mountain views is the best itinerary for the day.

READ MORE: Ultimate Guide to Shenandoah National Park with kids

HARPERS FERRY NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK

Driving distance: About 1hr.

One of the best day trips from DC is a visit to Harpers Ferry National Historical Park. Spend the day exploring the historic town, or go on a hike or bike along the trails.

• There are miles of trails to explore, including the Appalachian Trail and C&O Canal which criss-crosses through Harpers Ferry NHP.

• Park at the Visitors Center and take the free shuttles to Harpers Ferry. There are lots of dining options, a gift shop, and restrooms in town.

READ MORE: How to spend the day at Harpers Ferry NHP with kids

CUNNINGHAM FALLS STATE PARK

Driving Distance from DC: about 1hr 30min

Located in the picturesque Catoctin Mountains is Cunningham Falls State Park.

There are many opportunities for outdoor adventures which include swimming, hiking, fishing, and canoeing.

• Campsites and Camper cabins are available from April until October in both the William Houck Area and the Manor Area. Make a reservation online or by calling 1-888-432-CAMP.

• The park is divided into two separate areas. The William Houck area which is where the lake, falls, and camping area.
• The Manor area where the Scales and Tales Aviary, camping, and the historic Catoctin Iron Furnace is located.

• Hours are from 8 a.m. to Sunset, April-October / 10 a.m. to Sunset, November-March. Entrance fees are $3 per vehicle for Maryland Residents / $5 per vehicle for non-Maryland Residents

• There are lots of trails in the park, but the Lower Trail, which is an easy ½ mile (red blaze) is the shortest trail to access the Falls. Parking can be found along the Beach lots. 

• Location at 14274 William Houck Dr. Thurmont, MD 21788

NATURAL BRIDGE STATE PARK

Driving Distance: about 3hrs

Another great day trip idea from DC is a visit to Natural Bridge State Park. The park is a National Historic Landmark where you can see a 200-foot tall Natural Bridge that was carved out by Cedar Creek on a limestone gorge.

• Entrance is $9 per person 13 years and older / $6 per person 6-12 / FREE for kids under 6.

• The Park is open daily from 8 a.m. to dusk, weather permitting.
  Visitor Center – daily, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
  Trail Store – daily, 8 a.m. – dusk
  Base Camp exhibits area – weekends, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
  Food service – available weekends, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

• Start at the Visitors Center and navigate a stairway of 137 steps to see the Natural Bridge. It’s a fairly easy trail but accommodations for those with accessibility needs can be made upon request at the park’s Visitor Center or by calling (540) 291-1326

• There are 10 miles of hiking trails, including Cedar Creek Trail, which leads from the park’s Visitor Center under the bridge to Lace Falls with its 50-foot cascade.

• The Caverns at Natural Bridge is nearby and you can explore 34 stories of caverns underground, go gem mining, visit the rock shop, and more. Cavern tickets cost $20 for adults / $13 for kids 3-12 / FREE for 2 and under and is open daily from 10am-5pm.

Best coastal day trips from DC

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CHINCOTEAGUE ISLAND

Driving distance from DC: about 3hr 30min

One of the best weekend trips near Washington DC is a visit to Chincoteague Island in the Eastern Shores of Virginia.

• Made famous by the book “Misty of Chincoteague” Chincoteague Island is one of the most beautiful places we’ve visited close to Washington DC.

• Some of the best things to do on Chincoteague Island is a visit to the Assateague Island National Seashore to admire the Wild ponies, or go on a bird watching adventure in the Nature reserve.

• Kayaking, crabbing, and a day at the beach are just some of the other recreational activities to do here on Chincoteague Island.

• Make sure to reserve a weekend to explore this amazing barrier island, it’s just absolutely beautiful!

READ MORE: Guide to visiting Chincoteague Island

Recommended hotel on Chincoteague Island

CAPE CHARLES 

Driving Distance: about 4hrs

Another amazing day trip from Washington DC is Cape Charles in the Eastern Shores of VA. This charming town is such a hidden gem with a cute historic town, and an awesome beach perfect for families. 

• Don’t miss a photo-op with the Love Works sign that’s one of the most unique and creative signs we’ve seen so far located along the beachfront.

• There’s also a long fishing pier with some picturesque views of the beachfront as well.

• Take a stroll along Mason Ave. and peruse through the many boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants. We love the unique ice cream flavors at the Brown Dog Ice Cream shop.

• Take a stroll along the historic district and take in the beautiful Victorian, Colonial Revival, Craftsman, and Neo-classical homes dating from the 1880s to the early 1900s.

• If a nature walk is more your thing, Cape Charles is also home to the Savage Neck Dunes, and the Cape Charles Natural Area Preserve. Both located just a short drive away and is the perfect place for some tranquility.

KIPTOPEKE STATE PARK

Driving distance: about 4hrs

Kiptopeke State Park is close to Cape Charles and is another fun day trip from DC for outdoor recreation, and an amazing beach for families as well.  

• The park has cabins and lodges for rent, RV and tent camping, yurts, and a bunkhouse. Entrance fees cost $7 and Fishing Pier rates are $5 for adults and $3 for kids.

• There’s also a boat ramp, fishing pier, picnic areas, miles of hiking and biking trails, a playground, a bathhouse, and a swimming beach

• Rent a kayak at the pier and explore the concrete ships also known as the Kiptopeke Breakwater, located just off the shore which was used to protect the area during severe weather.

• These concrete ship ruins are now a bird sanctuary and you can explore them by boat and kayak.

READ MORE: Best Family Beaches in the DC area

LEWES DELAWARE

Driving distance from DC: about 3hrs

We love road-tripping through the East Coast, and one of our favorite discoveries is Lewes Delaware.

• Known as the first town in the first state, this quiet town in Delaware was founded in 1631 and was the site of the first European settlement.

• One of the best things to do here is a day of relaxation on Lewes Beach. The beach is perfect for little ones with its calm waters. You can also spend the day on a leisurely stroll exploring the historic town.

• Lewes is a walkable city, with restaurants, inns, and museums within a short walking distance of each other. Make sure to visit the Zwaanendael museum and explore the city’s Dutch History. 

READ MORE: Guide to some of the best day trip ideas from Philadelphia

ANNAPOLIS MARYLAND

Driving distance from DC: about 1hr

Just an hours drive away from DC is the historic town of Annapolis. Annapolis is the capital of Maryland and was the temporary national capital of the United States between 1783–1784.

• On your visit explore the historic district, which includes the 18th-century brick houses and the domed 1700s Maryland State House.

• Annapolis is also home to the US Naval Academy, and you can go on a tour of the sprawling waterfront grounds. 

READ MORE: Guide to visiting Annapolis Maryland

Recommended hotel in Annapolis

VIRGINIA BEACH

Driving distance from DC: about 3hr 45min

Another coastal city to visit on a day trip from Washington DC is Virginia Beach. There are so many fun things to do on a visit to Virginia Beach.

• Spend some time lounging on the beach and catch some rays, or rent a Surrey bike and explore the three mile boardwalk. There is also a fun aquarium you can visit, and lots of restaurants to choose from.

Recommended hotel in Virginia Beach

FORT MONROE NATIONAL MONUMENT

Driving distance: 3 hours

Another fun coastal day trip from Washington DC is to the Fort Monroe National Monument.

• You can add a stop here on your way to Virginia Beach. There’s so much history to explore here, plus there are some amazing beaches here as well.

• You can learn more about the Fort Monroe’s History at the Casemate Museum, or on one of the historic sites walking tour.

VISIT COLONIAL BEACH VIRGINIA

Driving Distance from DC: 1hr 30min

Another coastal day trip idea from Washington DC is Colonial Beach Virginia.

• This quaint riverside town has the second longest public beach along the Potomac River and was a popular resort town in the early to mid-20th century.

• You can spend the day lounging on the beach, kayaking, fishing, or go in search of some fossilized shark teeth. There are lots of restaurants and shops along the boardwalk to peruse.

• Plus you can visit the house that was once owned by Alexander Graham Bell, who maintained a summer home in the area.

• Nearby, you can visit where our first President was born at the George Washington Birthplace National Monument, and James Monroe’s Family Home site, which is the birthplace of President James Monroe.

Best City Break Day Trip ideas from DC

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BALTIMORE MARYLAND

Driving distance from DC: about 1hr

Baltimore is one of the most popular day trips from Washington DC. It’s only about an hour away, and it’s the best one day trip from DC.

• One of our favorite things to do in Baltimore is a visit to the Baltimore Aquarium, located in the Inner Harbor. The Aquarium houses several exhibits, which include a rain forest, an open ocean shark tank, and a dolphin pavilion.

• The Baltimore Children’s Museum is also worth the visit for the kids if you have more time. Make sure to load up on seafood while here, especially the crabs, which the city is known for.

PHILADELPHIA PENNSYLVANIA

Driving distance from DC: about 3hr 30min

Another one of the best day trips from DC is Philadelphia. This city was home to several key events in America’s history, including the American Revolution, and was the meeting place of our founding fathers. 

• Philadelphia is also where the Constitution and Declaration of Independence was signed, and you can go on a tour of Independence Hall to see where it all happened. 

• During the holidays, the city of Philadelphia hosts one of the most fun Christmas Markets, and it’s reminiscent to the ones in Germany.

READ MORE: Top things to do in Philadelphia

Recommended hotel in Philadelphia

NEW YORK CITY

Driving distance from DC: about 4hrs (depending on traffic)

I believe one of the best day trips from DC is a visit to New York City. We’ve visited so many times and we always find something new to explore!

• One of our favorite things to do in NYC is a stroll through Central Park. Central Park is an oasis in the middle of the city, and is something you should add to your NYC trip.

• For the best New York City views, get to the top of the Empire State building, or the Top of the Rock. We also love the views from the Vessel, which is NYC latest attraction.

• If you’re planning a Christmas visit to NYC, read our guide to Christmas in New York for all the fun holiday things to do in the Big Apple.

READ MORE: Ultimate Guide to visiting New York City with kids

Recommended hotel in New York City

Best day trip ideas from DC for kids

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HERSHEYPARK

Driving distance from DC: about 3hrs

A trip to Hershey Pennsylvania is the perfect day trip from Washington DC. 

• Spend the day getting your thrill on at Hersheypark, and make your own chocolate as well at Hershey’s Chocolate World. 

• Your HersheyPark ticket also gives you free admission to Zooamerica as well. The zoo covers 11 acres and is home to about 200 animals native to North America.

• After a day at the park, wind down with a visit to Hershey Gardens. We love the butterfly and Rose gardens here, as well as the fun children’s gardens.  

READ MORE: Guide to visiting Hershey Pennyslvania

INDIAN ECHO CAVERNS 

One of the most fun day trips for kids from DC is the Indian Echo Caverns. 

• Spend the day exploring the  underground caverns, while your visiting Hershey Pennsylvania. It’s just a short drive away, and it’s such a fun adventure for kids. 

• Your timed entry ticket takes you on a guided tour of the caverns, and it’s so much fun. Make sure to visit the petting zoo, and pan for gems.

• There is also a small playground perfect to keep kids busy while waiting for your tour. 

TURKEY HILL EXPERIENCE 

Driving distance from DC: about 3hrs

Located in Lancaster Pennsylvania, the Turkey Hill experience is the one do the best day trip ideas for kids in DC. 

• At the Turkey Hill experience, you can learn more about how ice cream is made, with many hands on exhibits for kids. You can even make your own ice cream concoction at the taste lab, which was so much fun. 

• The best part about visiting the Turkey Hill experience are the free ice cream and tea samples, as well as the make your own ice cream commercial, which the kids will love. 

LEGOLAND DISCOVERY CENTER 

Driving distance from DC: about 3hr 30min

The best day trip idea from DC for kids is a visit to Legoland Discovery Center in Philadelphia. 

• This indoor Lego play area is fun for kids (and adults). There are ten Lego themed play areas for kids, a 4-D Cinema, and a Lego Ninjago training camp. Plus you get to meet one of the Lego characters!

• Visit the website before your visit to see if there are any special events, and to purchase your tickets online.

READ MORE: Best day trips from Philadelphia

KINGS DOMINION 

Driving distance from DC: about 1hr 30min

Another fun day trip idea from Washington DC is a visit to Kings Dominion in Doswell Virginia.

• This theme park is perfect for the whole family. Some of the highlights are the Soak City Water park, the larger than life coasters, and the fun kids ride at Planet Snoopy.

• Kings Dominion is also open in the Fall during Halloween with the Great Pumpkin fest and Halloween Haunt, and at winter time celebrating the holidays during their WinterFest event.

BUSCH GARDENS 

Driving distance from DC: about 3hrs

One of the best weekend trips near Washington DC is a visit to Busch Gardens in Williamsburg Virginia. Busch Gardens is the best place to visit to get your thrill on, with so many fun attractions for the whole family.

• Busch Gardens is one of our favorite theme parks with it’s European theme. You can expect to find attractions, shows and foods specific to each country in Europe. One of our favorite is Germany for the food and beer.

• For the kids, Sesame Street World is the perfect place with all the fun kids rides and attractions. You can also meet with some of the Sesame Street characters on your visit.

• During the holidays, Busch Gardens hosts the annual Christmas Town event which is so much fun. The park is decorated with over ten million lights and it’s so spectacular! You can’t miss a visit to Busch Gardens on Halloween for their annual Howl-O-Scream event as well.

*Read our blog for more fun things to do in Williamsburg Virginia with kids.

Other Vacation ideas from Washington DC:

Weekend visit to Boston Massachusetts with kids

Day trip to Plymouth Massachusetts

Day trip to Salem Massachusetts

Guide to visiting the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando

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