20 Best Day Trips from DC Recommended by a Local

Find below a list of the best Day trips from DC recommended by a local who lives in and knows Washington DC and it’s surroundings! These day trips are great for couples, single travelers and also  families.

Best Day Trips from Washington DC

Washington D.C. is a great destination for a romantic getaway, corporate retreats, and family vacations. Riddled with museums, seasonal and year-round events, and free attractions, the city is bustling with history, culture, good food, and night life.

Visitors don’t need to go far to have fun, but if you’ve been to the DMV area before and have seen the Top Things to do in DC, or you have time to kill, we’ve compiled a list of 20 day trips from D.C. to choose from depending on your interests. Many of these attractions, if not all, can be reached by public transportation such as Amtrak or bus, but it’s more convenient and faster to rent a car.

There’s always something for everybody in the nation’s capital that are unique, educational, fun, and just beaming with history. And these day trips from Washington DC are no exception!

Find below our 20 Best day trips from Washington DC broken up into the following:

• Day Trips from DC to National Parks
• Day Trips from DC to Historical Sites
• Day Trips from DC to nearby cities/towns
• Day Trips from DC to nearby attractions

Day Trips from DC to National Parks

Below you can find a list of day trips from DC to some national parks definitely worth a visit.

1. Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park

This beautiful landscape was also the bloodiest setting of the Civil War’s climatic battle where more than 85,000 men wounded and 15,000 killed. Four major battlefields – Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Wilderness, and Spotsylvania – help visitors uncover the past with films, exhibits, and staff to provide guidance and information. You can find out whether your ancestor fought on one of these momentous battlefields and staff members will eagerly show you troop movement maps so you can trace your ancestor across the battlefield and follow his footsteps. There are tours and trails, sights to see, and abundant history to devour.
How to get there
More information

2. Shenandoah National Park

A stunning escape from the hustling and bustling of Washington, D.C, this park offers picturesque views, cascading waterfalls, and native animal dwellers. Families can bond over hikes, test their wilderness skills camping, enjoy the peace fishing brings, or simply take in the grand, natural beauty of the Shenandoah.

There are also interactive exhibits to help visitors learn more about the park. Visitors can also get a different scenic perspective either by driving or biking on Skyline Drive. At night, drown in the darkness with only the twinkling stars up above.

Other than historical landmarks, state festivals, and vineyards, among the must-sees when visiting the Shenandoah valley is the Blue Ridge Parkway, Humpback Rocks, Mabry Mill, Roanoke River Overlook, Devil’s Backbone, Blue Ridge Music Center, Natural Bridge, Fallingwater Cascades National Scenic Trail, Rocky Knob, Appalachian Trail, Virginia Creeper Trail, Crabtree Falls, and Luray Caverns.
How to get there
More information

3. Harpers Ferry

Harpers Ferry is a quaint and historic town in West Virginia that’s oozing of things to see and do for families of all ages. Here, visitors can bask in the stunning view of Maryland and Virginia from The Point, which is where the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers meet.

Children can also learn and visit John Brown’s Fort, which is an essential site in an 1859 abolitionist raid. Guided tours are offered by the park’s rangers. There are also museums and exhibits, living history workshops, bookshops, hikes and overlooks, and battlefields to explore.

Among the must-see spots are the Appalachian National Scenic Trail, Jefferson Rock, St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church, Harpers Ferry Station, and Split Rock Overlook.

Other activities include river rafting, ghost tours, Maryland Heights Trail, and just 10 miles away is the Antietam National Cemetery.
How to get there
More information

4. Antietam National Battlefield

The bloodiest day in American History was the Battle of Antietam where 23,000 soldiers were missing, wounded, and killed after twelve hours of combat. Park rangers are available at the museum, and they offer guided tours.

Visitors can also take a self-guided hike on the Cornfield, Final Attack, Bloody Lane, Union Advance, Antietam Remembered, Snavely Ford, and Sherrick Farm trails. The Newcomer House and Heart of the Civil War Heritage Area Exhibit and Visitor Center, along with Pry House Field Hospital Museum shed more light in the events that took place during the Civil War. This battlefield is beautiful and intimate. Definitely a must-see if you’re a big history buff.
How to get there
More information

5. Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge

Escape from D.C.’s traffic and crowds and head to Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge where your family can seek sanctuary among a diverse population of plants and animals. Maybe you can even spot an American bald eagle! You can drive, walk, run, kayak, follow land trails, water trails, and bike routes! If you are hoping to find unspoiled nature at its finest, you have definitely found the spot!

Within 5 miles of the refuge, you can visit many places that commemorates Harriet Tubman, a former slave and activist, such as the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park, Harriet Tubman Museum and Educational Center, and Harriet Tubman Birthplace Marker.

Within 10 miles, you can find Long Wharf Park, Spocott Windmill, Visitor Center at Sailwinds Park East, Choptank River Lighthouse, and Blackwater Adventures, a company that offers guided eco and history tours and rentals.
How to get there
More information

Day Trips from DC to Historical Sites

Below you can find some day trips to some amazing historical sites that you should definitely consider visiting.

6. Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello

Home to the third President of the United States and author of the Declaration of Independence, Monticello provides visitors a peak into Thomas Jefferson life, in-depth history lessons in plantation life and American Revolutionary period. This World Heritage Site is a museum, a historic house, a research institute, a presidential library, and an architectural masterpiece.

You and your family can do several hands-on activities and different tours including a highly recommended slavery tour that gives visitors an unbiased and informative insight into one of America’s darkest times in history.

Among other activities to do while in Charlottesville are visiting vineyards, checking out the historic downtown mall, tasting slow-cooked BBQ, going on civil war history tours, going horseback riding, and getting blown away by the beauty that is Charlottesville on a hot air balloon ride.
How to get there
More information

7. America’s Historic Triangle: Jamestown, Williamsburg, and Yorktown

One of the must-see historical destinations on the East Coast of the United States is America’s Historic Triangle. Comprised of Historic Jamestown, Colonial Williamsburg, and Yorktown, these significant spots take families on an outdoor living historical journey through reenactments, live presentations, dynamic gallery exhibits, immersive environments with live actors, and firings of musket and artillery.

If you think you haven’t gotten enough of this area, in the summer you can visit Busch Gardens Williamsburg and Water Country USA for thrilling rides and amusement park adventures. There’s also Governor’s Palace, Jamestown Glasshouse, James Fort Replica, Capitol Building, museums, parks, and hiking trails.
How to get there
More information

8. Middleburg

As with several little cities in Virginia, Middleburg is rich with history, natural beauty, charming streets, and Southern hospitality. The picturesque countryside and surrounding mountains provide a scenic backdrop for family photos and lots of memories to keep. Among the historic landmarks to visit are the Virginia Civil War Trail Markers, Mount Defiance – Battle of Middleburg, Red Fox Inn and Tavern and Aldie Mill. Other spots to see and do are National Sporting Library and Museum, vineyards and wineries, zipline, and Salamander Resort and Spa.

Not too far away from Middleburg are Lost Mountain and Sky Meadows State Park for hiking, breathtaking views, and horseriding. Finally, the Appalachian Trail which is located between Harpers Ferry and Middleburg.
How to get there
More information

9. George Washington’s Mount Vernon

Mount Vernon is located on the banks of the Potomac River about 20 minutes away from Old Town Alexandria by car, or about an hour away by public transportation. Mount Vernon is the first President of the United States George Washington and his wife Martha’s plantation and estate.

There’s plenty of space and trails here for children to run around and be free. They can see different animals such as hogs, chickens, sheep, and cattle. Watch your children’s eyes grow wide as they hear the musical demonstration of fife and drums, and its significance during the American Revolution.

Learn more about the Washingtons as you tour their mansion, visit the garden, the tombs, and the Pioneer Farm. Learn about the hundreds of enslaved men, women, and children, who also lived on the estate. Finally, take the free shuttle to visit the Distillery and Gristmill located not too far away from the mansion.

If you have time after your visit to Mount Vernon, head to Old Town Alexandria for a wide array of restaurants and shops on King Street. You can also visit the famous Spite House, one of the tiniest homes in America with just 320 square footage of space.

You can also visit Christ Church, which is an Episcopal church where George Washington and his family attended service. Then you can head over to the waterfront and the Torpedo Factory Art Center and admire and watch in action over 80 artists, 6 galleries, and learn from the Alexandria Archaeology Museum.

If you have older children or teens, it would be fun to rent bikes and bike around Old Town or along the Potomac river back to D.C.
How to get there
More information

Day Trips from DC to other Cities and Towns

Once you have visited Washington DC, there are some fantastic cities and towns not too far that you can visit on a day trip.

10. National Museum of the Marine Corps

This is a hidden gem of museums that pays homage to past, present, and future U.S. Marines. The exhibits are astounding and interactive. The kids will be in awe of the hands-on installations as they discover the life, sacrifices, and accomplishments of the brave men and women of the U.S. Marines.

One of the coolest things about this museum is that every Marine statue was cast from real-life Marines, who held those positions for hours – that’s how dedicated they are!

Within a two-mile radius of this museum, you can find refuge at the Prince William Forest Park, which has a rugged natural beauty full of trails, hikes, streams, and campsites. Little and big children will enjoy exploring and so will your four-legged friends.
How to get there
More information

11. Gunpowder Falls State Park

This park offers trails that are easy for families, young and old, and pets. Sections of the trail is by the river, open woodlands, and meadows. This park is ideal for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking. There are picnic grounds, playgrounds, and a swimming beach. You can cross water and still avoid getting wet when hopping on boulders.

You can stop at Jerusalem Mill and Village after visiting Gunpowder Falls State Park for a living history museum experience or Double Rock Park for more nature exploration. When you visit in autumn, stop by at Weber’s Cider Mill Farm to let kids get their wiggles out on steep slides, hayrides, and other fun farm activities, while you sip on fresh apple cider and munch on scrumptious baked goods.
How to get there
More information

12. Rocks State Park

This is quite a popular spot in Maryland. The 855 acres of forest and rocks mainly attract visitors to the King and Queen Seat that offers a breathtaking view.

There are also other trails and hikes, as well as fishing, and hunting. Several of the hikes and rocky areas are steep and not recommended for novice climbers, so be especially cautious with children. The Nature Exploration Area, which can be found in the Rock Ridge picnic area, has miniature rock climbing areas that are more suitable for little children. There’s also a digging spot named Deer Creek Beach.

Before you visit, plan and call ahead. In order to protect visitors and natural resources, when the park’s capacity is reached, it will be closed, and no additional visitors may enter the premises.

Near the Rocks State Park, families can visit Ladew Topiary Gardens, Liriodendron Mansion, and Eden Mill Nature Center.
How to get there
More information:

13. Goddard Space Flight Center

The Goddard Space Flight Center is an important NASA space research laboratory just 6.5 miles northeast of Washington, D.C. Home to the largest group of scientists, technologists, and engineers, who create spacecraft, new technology, and instruments to learn more about the Earth, the solar system, and our universe.

The Visitor Center offers families innovative and informative exhibits, as well as a free monthly program on Sundays where families can engage in exciting and fun activities.
How to get there
More information

14. Annapolis

About 10 miles away from the Goddard Space Flight Center is Annapolis, which is the capital city of Maryland. This charming waterfront town features the U.S. Naval Academy that boasts beaux arts architecture, a naval history museum, and monuments.

Visit the Maryland State House, the oldest U.S. state capitol still in use since 1772. Discover the Chesapeake Children’s Museum or get in tune with nature at the Sandy Point State Park. See The Tripoli Monument and explore the history of Annapolis through historic homes and quaint streets.

No matter the season you visit, Annapolis is sure to have something for your family. Whether it’s watching an authentic jousting competition at the Renaissance Festival or enjoying a dreamy live entertainment on a cozy night out to cruises, wine-tasting, tango classes, and art shows. Annapolis needs to be on your family’s itinerary when on the East Coast.
How to get there
More information

Lancaster County

Lancaster County brings about a homey feeling with family-style feasts, farmlands, and a small-town feel. There are several main attractions that are definite must-sees when you visit: Strasburg Rail Road and the Amish.

Families can go on a 45-minute ride on an authentic steam train on America’s oldest operating railroad. This charming setting also offers special events throughout the year such as Santa’s Paradise Express, Day Out with Thomas, Murder Mystery Dinner Train, and Easter Bunny Train among others.

Another train ride is the Middletown and Hummelstown Railroad that offers a 75-minute ride with live narration and singalongs. Your family can even turn your day trip into an overnight one when you spend the night at the Red Caboose Motel where your lodging is an authentic caboose.

Visit America’s oldest Amish settlement and take a step back in time as your family takes in a more slow-paced experience. Journey deep into the culture of the Amish with the Amish Village or the Amish Experience Farmlands Tour. Enjoy picturesque views when you go on one of the buggy rides.

There’s also Bird-in-Hand Farmers Market for fresh produce, delicious food, arts and crafts, wood furniture, and other knick-knacks. Stop by Intercourse for a fascinating visit of what’s considered the heart of where Amish and the locals conduct business.

Lastly, finish your day off with a hot air balloon ride.
How to get there
More information

Day Trips from DC to Beaches and Gardens

16. Assateague Island National Seashore

Assateague island is located on the East Coast mainly Maryland and Virginia and is the largest Mid-Atlantic region natural barrier island ecosystem that’s mostly untouched by human development.

Encompassing 37 miles of land and water, visitors can find peace and sanctuary, along with several recreational activities. Families can go camping, hiking, kayaking, beachcombing, surfing, swimming, snorkeling, fishing, bird-watching, and be amazed at awe-inspiring wild ponies.

How to get there
More information

17. Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge

The Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge is chiefly located on the Virginia part of Assateague island with some parts located on the Maryland side and Morris Island and Wildcat Marsh.

It covers 14,000 acres of wildlife preserve. In addition to the same family-friendly recreational activities that can be enjoyed in Assateague can be enjoyed here. There’s also a lighthouse that can be accessed from spring to fall.

And finally, in the summer, the most-awaited traditional Chincoteague festival dubbed “Pony Penning” takes place where the wild horses are gathered and swum from Assateague to Chincoteague and some are auctioned off.

How to get there
More information

18. Ocean City, MD

Other than the obvious beach adventures and the boardwalk, Ocean City offers free family activities every day of the week during the summer.

There are concerts, dance parties, movies on the beach, fireworks, family beach Olympics, skating, and sundaes in the park among others.

In the spring, bring kites and get soaring at the Maryland International Kite Expo. And when autumn comes around, visit family-friendly Beach Maze, and attend Halloween parties and parades.

Even in the winter, the nightlife gets dazzling on the boardwalk with the Winterfest of Lights that’s sure to put your family in the holiday spirit.

This beach gets crowded, but there’s plenty of space and things to do for everyone. Rent bikes and explore the area faster on wheels. Watch a magic show. Ride thrilling rollercoasters at Trimper’s Rides. Camp at Fort Whaley Campground. Splash around at the waterpark at Jolly Roger. The options are endless!
How to get there
More information

19. Rehoboth beach

Rehoboth is Delaware’s most visited city with the beach and the boardwalk, visitors of all ages are sure to have blast. Enjoy the sun right on the beach or engaging in water sports and recreation. Or rent bikes or walk along the charming boardwalk for delicious food and eclectic shops.

Your family can also take a break from the water, and enjoy fun and thrilling rides with nostalgic prices for all ages at Funland.

Not too far away from Rehoboth are other beaches that have fewer crowds, and therefore more space for your family. Go beach-hopping and check out Dewey beach, Lewes beach, and Bethany beach.

There’s also Fenwick Island State Park, where visitors can go fishing with a  fishing license, go swimming, surfing, and sailing.

Lastly, for trails and camping, your family can bond together at several National Parks in Delaware like Captain John Smith Chesapeake, Chesapeake Bay Gateways and Watertrails Network, First State, and Washington-Rochambeau National Historic Trail.
How to get there
More information

20. Brookside Gardens

One of the best things about the East Coast is how green and lush it is. Brookside Gardens is situated in Wheaton, Maryland, which is about an hour away from the National Mall by public transportation, or about 40 minutes away by car.

This garden is incredible and awe-inspiring no matter the season. In the spring, enjoy a wide variety of blooming flowers, annuals, and perennials, many of which can still be enjoyed even in the heat of the summer sun.

When autumn comes, stand in wonderment at the warm hues of orange, yellow, and red leaves. And in the winter, enjoy the popular Garden of Lights and Garden Railway Exhibit.

Visit Wheaton Regional Park less than a mile away for fun slides, a train, carousel, a nature center, and trails. For outdoor activities that include giant obstacle courses up in trees and ziplines, visit Go Ape Treetop Adventure Course and The Adventure Park.

If your family enjoys classical and contemporary concerts and art exhibitions, visit The Strathmore, a multidisciplinary arts center that showcases world class performing and visual arts. If you’re more into big-name artists and national acts, visit the Fillmore.
How to get there
More information

So many great Day Trips from DC!

These day trips from DC are among the favorite destinations for tourists and locals alike. Hop on a car and your family can even add the must-stop restaurants or cafes in your itinerary, and your trip just went from good to truly exceptional.

If you haven’t already, make sure you check out our other posts:
Free things to do in DC
Family friendly museums in DC
Things to do in DC for families

Let us know if you visit any of these during your travels, or let us know of any other places you can recommend for day trips from Washington DC!

Author: Regine Orme is a writer and mother of 3 young children living in DC. She traveled extensively before children, and now continues to do so with her family. They have been living in and exploring Washington, DC and it’s surroundings for the past 7 years.