The Best Places For A Day Trip If You're Staying In Washington, D.C., According To Reviews

Washington, D.C., is one of the most beautiful and historic regions in the country. It is home to world-famous attractions that are outstanding at night. If you're considering exploring beyond the National Mall and the White House, many destinations are within a reasonable distance and are well worth the trip. You'll find plush-sand beaches, cultural landmarks, and exciting big-city activities in Virginia, Maryland, and even some points beyond.

There's truly something for everyone. History buffs will discover the places that played vital roles in shaping the nation. Nature lovers can escape to mountains, beaches, and even underground caverns. Craving some quality time with the family? You'll find amusement parks, iconic attractions, and fascinating sights with enough offerings to keep adults and little ones entertained. There are even some quirky and offbeat options to satisfy those on the lookout for something just a little bit off the beaten path. 

While you can certainly enjoy many incredible budget-friendly activities in Washington, D.C., it's well worth venturing outside the city to see what's beyond the DMV (D.C., Maryland, Virginia). Whether for a complete change of scenery, fresh air in the country, or a glimpse of what life looks like away from the nation's capital, you'll find it all just a short drive away. Here are a few places visitors agree are worth the trip.

There's a reason it's known as Charm City! Baltimore brims with a unique energy. It's known as much for its iconic Inner Harbor as its delicious seafood — specifically crabs (the blue crab is the state's crustacean). If you're getting your start at the waterfront, you'll find plenty to squeeze into a day. The famed National Aquarium and Maryland Science Center are both here, as are many bustling neighborhoods featuring some of the best shopping and dining options in the state.

Among those is The Horse You Came In On, the renowned 1775 saloon in the Fell's Point district. Not only is it the oldest continually operating establishment of its kind in the nation, but it's also thought to be the last place Edgar Allen Poe visited before his death. If you're in town for the crab, a Redditor in the r/Baltimore subreddit rounded up three of the best known: "Without having to trek out to the county, the best places to eat steamed crabs in Baltimore proper are probably: Nicks Fish House, LP Steamers, and Captain James Landing. There are myriad good options for picking up crabs to take home, but these are the ones we frequent for eat-in."

Baltimore is about an hour's drive from D.C., give or take a few minutes, depending on traffic. Amtrak's trains travel from Union Station in the District to Baltimore Penn Station in as little as half an hour if you take the speedy Acela. The Northeast Regional reaches the city in about 40 minutes.

Annapolis is a friendly, charming town with a bit of an old-world quality. With buildings dating back hundreds of years, a bustling Main Street packed with one-of-a-kind boutiques and restaurants, cobblestone streets, and proximity to the waterfront, the city is relaxing and vibrant. Having spent quality time in the heart of the state's capital, I can confirm that it's one of the most walkable cities I've ever visited — and definitely one of the most enjoyable to wander at a leisurely pace. People love to visit Annapolis at Christmastime for that very reason!

There's a lot to see, from the historic Maryland State House dating from the 18th century to the lively City Dock overlooking the stunning Annapolis Harbor. For those intrigued by the city's past, the Historic Marker Program provides a fascinating glimpse at over 300 preserved properties. They feature architectural styles ranging from 18th-century Georgian designs to Colonials and Craftsmans popularized during the 20th century. Culture enthusiasts will appreciate the creativity that courses through the Annapolis Arts District, home to galleries, sidewalk artists, exciting annual festivals, and several music venues. 

Annapolis is an approximately 45-minute drive from D.C. You can also catch a bus from Union Station, but be mindful that there's only one bus with an 8:15 a.m. departure time. Those who prefer to ride the Metro (D.C.'s Metrorail service) can take the Orange Line to New Carrollton. From there, a car service or taxi can drive you to Annapolis in under half an hour.

In the course of a day, you can experience Colonial Williamsburg through the eyes of an 18th-century resident. Actor-interpreters roam the Historic Area, portraying everyone from merchants and shop owners to George Washington, James Madison, and many other lesser-known historical figures. Their sole goal is to educate tourists about the area's rich history. Enjoy guided tours of the Capitol, Courthouse, and Governor's Palace, or explore the community on foot at your own pace. Whether you're traveling with the family or visiting Williamsburg during a couple's trip, you'll find plenty to see and do.

Williamsburg is also home to several famed shopping establishments, including the adjacent Merchants Square and Williamsburg Premium Outlets, a vibrant mall located several minutes north of the Historic Area. Another beloved area is Busch Gardens, a lively European-themed park featuring distinct zones modeled after Germany, France, Italy, England, and more. It's home to the iconic looping Loch Ness Monster roller coaster and the famous Das Festhaus beer hall, among many other rides and attractions.

It can take about two-and-a-half hours (with traffic factored in) to drive to Williamsburg from Washington, D.C., so it's smart to leave early if you're visiting only for a day. If you prefer to travel via the Northeast Corridor, your train will arrive in a little over three and a half hours, with more departing as early as seven in the morning.

If you're craving time by the water's edge and looking for a traditional beach atmosphere complete with souvenir shops, rides, and a bustling boardwalk, Ocean City is the place to be. It's long been the go-to destination for high school senior trips and college spring break getaways, but there's a place for families here, too. The boardwalk is almost 3 miles long, and you'll find it all — cotton candy, museums, amusement parks, fishing, Ripley's Believe It or Not!, and so much more. Ocean City is also a pet-friendly destination with incredible dining options.

Those hoping to soak up local culture will find it at the Ocean City Live-Saving Station Museum, a fascinating spot tracing the area's history and showcasing the U.S. Live-Saving Service. (Pro tip: This is also a great spot to take photographs of Assateague Island.) If you're in the mood for something creative, visit the Art League of Ocean City Center for the Arts. With a gallery, a pottery studio, and classes, it's truly the city's haven for artists, enthusiasts, and even those mildly interested in creative activities.

Ocean City is a nearly three-hour drive from the District. Although it's an easy drive, it's possible you'll hit traffic, especially as you reach the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. A way to avoid the bridge is by solely taking the beltway, but it will add about an hour to your journey. Leave early enough, no matter which route you choose, to avoid the area's customarily heavy traffic jams.

Old Town Alexandria is the closest day trip location to D.C. on this list. It is well worth the visit if your ideal escape is a small town with a European-influenced atmosphere that seems straight out of a storybook. Offering exceptional views of the Potomac River, the town truly has everything — historic attractions, one-of-a-kind boutiques, locally-owned bistros, museums, architecture dating back centuries, and so much more.

Writing from personal experience, I can confidently say that you can effortlessly spend a full day in Old Town Alexandria. It's delightful just to walk around (wear comfortable shoes and thank me later). Make sure to stop at a sidewalk café, sip coffee by the water's edge, or wander around the Torpedo Factory Art Center. Old Town Alexandria has several unique sites, like the Spite House (a 7-foot-wide property known as the skinniest in the nation) and the famed George Washington Masonic National Memorial that towers over the city.

If you're staying downtown, your journey to Old Town is incredibly easy (Alexandria was once a part of the District!). Although you can drive and find parking in one of several public garages in town, it's typically easier and far less hectic to grab the Metro. You'll arrive in Old Town in less than 20 minutes. If you're in it for the scenery, a water taxi offers an interesting alternative, complete with narration and beautiful views of the D.C. area's most iconic structures. These include the Kennedy Center and the Washington Monument.

Not only is it one of the largest caverns in America, but Luray Caverns is also one of the most interesting naturally formed destinations near D.C. It's astounding to see the structure in person, with its magnificent stalagmites and stalactites, gargantuan stones, and walkways offering views of the dramatic drapery (known as Saracen's Tent). Giant's Hall, meanwhile, is home to the 47-foot double column that commands attention from every angle. Adjacent to the hall is the "cathedral" area, where the world's largest musical instrument — the Great Stalacpipe Organ — sits atop a platform.

The caverns draw some 500,000 visitors every year, and most have high praise for the experience. A Tripadvisor reviewer wrote, "Not to be missed! ... The caves are simply spectacular. They are quite extensive, and just walking along the paved walkways is incredible and all you need." Another Tripadvisor reviewer agreed, writing, "These caverns were the best I've ever seen ... Pictures cannot do it justice." Meanwhile, blogger Wander with Wonder noted, "I've visited a few caves in France, but Luray Caverns is the largest and most spectacular formation I have encountered."

Unlike most attractions, Luray Caverns is open daily year-round. It's under two hours by car from D.C., going straight down I-66 towards the Shenandoah Valley in Virginia. There are no public transportation options that go directly to Luray, although some multi-day guided bus tours travel to the area.

If quaint, small-town charm appeals to you, you will find it in spades in Middleburg. Located in Virginia's Loudoun County — in an area colloquially referred to as "Hunt Country" — the town brims with old-fashioned warmth and an inviting feel. You will see winding country roads, rolling green hills, and photo-worthy landscapes at every turn. Its most popular attraction is also a place where you can stay. Salamander Middleburg is an upscale 340-acre resort featuring award-winning dining and a world-class spa, both of which are available even if you aren't staying overnight. Just call ahead to reserve your spot, as priority for spa services is given to resort guests.

More than just a resort town, Middleburg feels worlds apart from the District with its Blue Ridge Mountains backdrop. The old-world buildings are well preserved, and over 160 are featured on the National Register of Historic Places. Key landmarks include the circa-1728 still-functional Red Fox Inn & Tavern and the early 19th-century Aldie Mil. Downtown Middleburg, meanwhile, is lined with unique boutiques and art galleries. It's a foodies' paradise, too, complete with farm-to-table establishments, wine bars, and stylish taverns that feel simultaneously upscale and homey.

In light traffic, it shouldn't take more than an hour to reach Middleburg from Washington, D.C. The drive quickly grows more scenic and peaceful as you venture away from the city. This a nice opportunity to take in some local scenery during the journey.

Theme park enthusiasts and families will enjoy an excursion to Doswell, where the famed Kings Dominion theme park is located. Since its inception in 1975, millions have streamed through the park gates to explore its 400-acre grounds and experience fun rides, attractions, and activities. The park is especially known for its popular Twisted Timbers steel and wood roller coaster and the 20-acre Soak City water park. There are plenty of relaxed rides, too, including PEANUTS Turnpike and Snoopy's Junction. Of course, you can also feast on standard theme park fare, from funnel cakes to hot dogs.

Doswell is a 20-minute drive north of Richmond, so if time allows, you could even fit in a visit to Virginia's capital city. The city is fascinating for history buffs, as many sites explore the region's Civil War past. Among the most interesting are the Civil War Trails, which trace the steps of soldiers in battle. The city is also home to Henricus Historical Park, a living history study featuring recreations of life in colonial Virginia. Also half an hour from Doswell is Henrico, home to the famed Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden. It's widely recognized by national publications as one of the nation's best gardens.

On a "good" traffic day, it should take less than two hours to reach Kings Dominion from the nation's capital. Leaving earlier in the day can help you avoid congested roadways, as can traveling on a weekday.

The beauty of Harpers Ferry is that it offers a little bit of everything. At the midway point where the Shenandoah River and Potomac River converge, the town features many historic sites. It was where abolitionist John Brown's raid occurred, precipitating the start of the Civil War. At Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, visitors can see John Brown's Fort. This was where Brown and his followers hid during the failed raid. Another important attraction is Bolivar Heights, where the first Civil War battle occurred. A Tripadvisor reviewer had high praise for the site, writing, "The national park is simply fantastic. Walking through the town, exploring the old buildings, and imagining life as it once was makes the experience feel almost like stepping back in time."

Adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts will find so much to see here, too, starting at the 6.5-mile Maryland Heights Trail. It is an ideal hiking spot dotted with scenery for spectacular photo-taking. Other highlights in town include Jefferson Rock, a scenic lookout on the Appalachian Trail, and St. Peter's Roman Catholic Church, dating 1833. Downtown Harpers Ferry features several quaint boutiques, art galleries, and a nostalgic candy shop.

Harpers Ferry is a little over an hour away from D.C. The drive takes you down George Washington Memorial Parkway and a couple of highways before you arrive. It's especially scenic, with incredible mountain views — which I can attest are worth stopping to photograph — and sweeping landscapes and countryside.

Virginia is one of the most prolific wine producers in the country, with hundreds of wonderful wineries. You don't even have to be much of an oenophile to enjoy these beautiful regions throughout the state. Among the most impressive are in central Virginia, home to the award-winning Monticello American Viticultural Area (AVA) and the impressive Monticello Wine Trail. You'll find over 40 wineries here alone. It can be a fun add-on whether you're traveling from D.C. or have an excursion planned to nearby Charlottesville. This city is one of the most charming college towns in Virginia. It's just a little over two hours from Washington, D.C.

Closer to D.C. are several Northern Virginia wineries in inviting and picturesque towns like Leesburg, Bluemont, Culpeper, and Middleburg. They're ideal if your goal is a shorter drive and more time spent sipping and exploring. The grounds at every Virginia winery we've visited are exquisite and worth admiring.

If you'd rather not drive at all, consider booking a wine tour. There are several options, all expertly planned out and helmed by skilled tour guides who provide rich insight and help you make the most of the experience. This can be a fun option if you're traveling with friends or simply want to enjoy a relaxed, luxurious day in a gorgeous setting without the hassle of driving and looking for parking.

A great deal of personal experience informed the selections in this article, coupled with research on travel forums and travel blogs. As the D.C. area plays such a vital role in American history, many of the day trip destinations feature world-famous sites. We took into account those that people are especially eager to see. We also extensively perused recent reviews on sites such as Reddit and Tripadvisor to determine what types of day trips people who come to Washington, D.C., hope to experience. 

With such diversity in the region, it was important to capture a variety of locations in different categories ranging from theme parks and the aforementioned historical sites to beaches and vineyards. Personal experience played a role there, too, as locals are well-informed of the area's most-visited destinations and recognize what makes them so special. Proximity to the city is also important. Personal experience influenced this part of the selection process, as well. Anything deemed too complex or lengthy of a drive was omitted, while more practical choices that could easily fit into a day's itinerary were included.