Washington DC has a lot to offer in terms of attractions, dining, and experiences. There’s always something to do there. However, sometimes you need to take a break from the city and escape the noise and traffic. Luckily, you’re not far from many other amazing locations. Skip the Netflix binging, save money on flights, and just jump in the car and check out one of these 15 adventures. They are definitely among the best unusual day trips in Washington DC and the surrounding area.

1. Catoctin Mountain Park
Catoctin Mountain Highway, Catoctin Mountain Hwy, Frederick, MD, USA
Bill Rulo/Google Maps




Get into nature and the mountains on this DC day trip! In north-central Maryland, Catoctin Mountain Park provides Washingtonians with a place to camp, fish, picnic, hike, and enjoy the majestic mountain scenery.
2. Assateague Island
Assateague Island, United States
Flickr/Navin75
At Assateague Island, sandy beaches, wild ponies, horseback riding, water sports, and camping grounds all live in one wonderful place. This island, shared by both Virginia and Maryland, is one of the most unique things to do around Washington DC.
3. Take a ride at an amusement park
Flickr/Jeremy Thompson
Get wild at one of the many amusement parks within a few hours of Washington DC. Head south towards Busch Gardens, or Kings Dominion, or Water Country USA in Virginia. Or head up to Hershey Park in Pennsylvania or Six Flags America in Maryland. No matter which one you choose, you'll be sure to have chosen one of the best places for fun!
4. Ladew Topiary Gardens
Ladew Topiary Gardens, 3535 Jarrettsville Pike, Monkton, MD 21111, USA
Flickr/american_rugbier
A very little-known but beautiful day trip is to the Ladew Topiary Gardens. There are 15 themed "garden rooms" set on 22 acres of this Maryland property. You can also tour the old Manor House and Butterfly House. When searching for "getaway spots near me," this one will certainly appear toward the top of the list.
5. Rehoboth Beach
Rehoboth Beach, DE, USA
Flickr/Rob Pongsajapan




Rehoboth Beach is a little over a two-hour drive from Washington DC. Get your fill of boardwalks, mini golf, ocean waves, and arcades at this fun beach destination. The adventures here will make you agree that it is among the best day trips near Washington DC.
6. Colonial Williamsburg
Williamsburg, VA, USA
Flickr/Joe Ross
Actors in period costumes depict day-to-day Colonial life in Williamsburg. The town is a historic district with museums, restored stores and homes, live reenactments, and plenty of history. Searching for "day trips near me?" This one is a goodie!
7. St. Michael's
Saint Michaels, St Michaels, MD 21663, USA
Flickr/F Delventhal
Known for a variety of festivals, St. Michael's in Maryland is a historic town a few hours from Washington DC. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of Chesapeake Bay, a rich history, water sports, fine art galleries, and waterfront restaurants.
8. Loudoun County Wineries
Loudoun County, VA, USA
Glenn Devery/Goolge Maps
Northern Virginia’s Loudoun County Wineries are quickly growing in popularity. While here you can get in a bike ride, enjoy impressive views while sipping wine, relax and unwind at a spa, or do a little shopping.
9. Frederick
Frederick County, VA, USA
Flickr/Ron Cogswell
Historic and trendy, Frederick has it all. This historic town has gorgeous views, a thriving Main Street, hiking trails, battlefields, and great bars and restaurants. Head there on a weekend and shop at one of their popular art fairs.
10. Havre de Grace
Havre de Grace, Havre De Grace, MD 21078, USA
Flickr/Patrick Nouhailler




In Northern Maryland, Havre de Grace is a quiet little town along the Chesapeake Bay and Susquehanna River. It’s an excellent place to find antiques, see the wildlife, view the oldest lighthouse in Maryland, and enjoy delicious restaurants in the downtown area.
11. Harpers Ferry
Harpers Ferry, WV 25425, USA
Flickr/Nicolas Raymond
Harpers Ferry is a picturesque historic town in West Virginia. Visitors enjoy hiking trails, battlefields, historic museums, living history workshops, and a quaint downtown area. There is so much to see, making it one of the unique things to do around Washington DC.
12. Charles Town Races
Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races, 750 Hollywood Dr, Charles Town, WV 25414, USA
Flickr/Joe Loong
If you’re looking for somewhere to play, Charles Town Races in West Virginia is your spot! You can find horse racing, a large casino with plenty of games, and first-class live entertainment just a few hours away from Washington DC.
13. Shenandoah Valley
Shenandoah Valley, Virginia 22802, USA
Flickr/ kirybabe
If you’re looking for nature, adventure, and space, look no further than the Shenandoah Valley. Nestled between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Appalachian Mountains, Shenandoah has hiking, biking, white water rafting, tubing, caverns to explore, and beautiful scenes. As far as looking for "getaway spots near me," the Shenandoah Valley has got it all!
14. Gettysburg
Gettysburg, PA 17325, USA
Flickr/Pablo Sanchez
Even if you’re not a Civil War buff, you’ll love visiting Gettysburg. Watch a demonstration on the famous field where the Battle of Gettysburg was fought, go on a ghost tour, or get in a round of golf, all while enjoying the quaint scenery.
15. Annapolis
Annapolis, MD, USA
Flickr/Charlie Stinchcomb
An hour away from Washington lies charming Annapolis. Home of the United States Naval Academy, this seaside town off the Chesapeake Bay offers boating, sailing, historic sights, delicious restaurants, and plenty of seafood options.

Were we right? Aren’t these wonderful gems among the best Washington DC day trips? Have you already been to any of them? We’d love to see your photos and hear about your experiences there.

For another great day trip to add to your list, consider Cape Henlopen State Park.

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More to Explore

Best day trips in Washington DC

Lysa Allman-Baldwin | July 27, 2022

Is the Billy Goat Trail a kid-friendly hike for a day trip?

Yes! The Billy Goat Trail is not only kid-friendly, it is one of the best hikes near DC. The trail offers three different sections that lead to the Great Falls by hiking along the Potomac River. Because each section offers a different level of difficulty, you can choose the one that best suits your kiddo, and let’s face it, the adults in the group too!

Where can I go wine tasting in the Washington DC area?

 

There are a variety of excellent wine-tasting spots in the Washington DC area. From reds to whites, blush, and dessert wines, you’ll find something to suit your fancy. One of the most popular in the area is called Stone Mountain Vineyards. Located in Virginia, the winery is one of the highest vineyards in that state, resting at a lofty 1,700 feet! And as you might guess, the views are spectacular! In addition to tastings, at certain times of the year, they offer tours of the wine caves where this delicious libation is made.

I’m looking for a romantic bed and breakfast inn in the DC area.

It won’t take long to find one because DC is home to several fantastic and romantic bed and breakfast inns, such as:

  • The American Guest House
  • Swann House
  • Ivy Mansion B&B
  • Apple Tree Inn

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