From the thrill of roller coasters at Six Flags to the fascinating history of Philadelphia’s Liberty Bell and the beauty of the Chesapeake Bay, there is so much to see just outside the nation’s capital.
Whether you seek family-friendly fun, historical exploration, or a chance to reconnect with nature, the surrounding destinations offer something for everyone. Get inspired by this list of our favorite 29 day trips from D.C. and get ready for a fantastic adventure! And to ensure a safe and comfortable travel experience, Greenvans offers comfortable and reliable D.C. van rentals.
1. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
First up on our list of great day trips from D.C. is Shenandoah National Park. It’s the perfect getaway for nature lovers and active road trippers. Spend a day hiking beneath the Appalachian Trail’s towering chestnuts and red oaks, spotting white-tailed deer and bobcats, and discovering waterfalls like those at Dark Hollow.
The drive from D.C. to Shenandoah brims with natural beauty and hidden gems. Stop for a stroll along the vibrant streets of Old Town Alexandria or make a pit stop for an underground tour of Luray Caverns. Don’t miss a detour to Skyline Drive, a scenic route that runs along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Travel time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Best for: A day trip
2. Baltimore, Maryland
Embark on a fun-filled family weekend trip to Baltimore, the closest major city to D.C.! The waterfront area is home to an array of must-see attractions, including behind-the-scenes tours at the National Aquarium. Learn about the solar system and the human body at the Maryland Science Center. Historians should see the Historic Ships in Baltimore, a bevy of floating museums including the USS Constellation, the only surviving ship from the Civil War. And after all the fun, take a stroll along the Inner Harbor to enjoy street performances and delicious seafood.
Turning this adventure into a longer road trip? Take advantage of the convenience of a rental van with stops along the way. Stretch your legs on the historic streets of Annapolis, Maryland’s capital, where the United States Naval Academy is located. Immerse in nature at Neck National Wildlife Refuge, covering 25,000 acres of the Eastern Shore and providing a habitat for various wildlife species, or simply enjoy the beauty of driving along the shimmering Chesapeake Bay.
Travel time: 50 minutes
Best for: A weekend getaway
3. Annapolis, Maryland
Pile into your spacious van for a quick drive to Annapolis. Maryland’s charming capital is brimming with colonial streets and well-preserved architecture. Take a guided tour of the U.S. Naval Academy, one of the country’s most prestigious institutions before a seafood feast at Annapolis City Dock. If you’re traveling during the holiday season, don’t miss these amazing Annapolis winter festivals, like their annual Polar Bear Plunge!
Driving along the Chesapeake Bay is entertaining enough, but why not make it really special with a stop to see the 17-mile bridge at Sandy Point State Park? Go for a short hike or bring along some snacks for picnicking near the sandy beach.
Travel time: 35 minutes
Best for: A day trip
4. Richmond, Virginia
One of our team’s day trips from D.C. is Richmond for its vibrant history and culture. Visit historical sites like the Virginia State Capitol and the American Civil War Museum before sparking your creative brain at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. For families traveling with kids, there are entertaining craft workshops and educational programs at the Science Museum of Virginia. If the weather is nice, go kayaking on the James River or bike along the Virginia Capital Trail.
Driving from D.C. will take you past Fredericksburg, known for its historic downtown and Civil War battlefields. It’s an excellent midway point to get out and explore for a few hours on the drive south from the nation’s capital.
Travel time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Best for: A day trip
5. New York City, New York
The Big Apple is always a good idea! With the endless stream of things to see and do in the city, the hardest part is narrowing it down. Catch a Broadway show, stroll through Central Park, and visit world-renowned museums like the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Museum of Modern Art. There is dining to fit every palette, from Indian to Italian, to food carts and open-air markets. If your road trip falls around the holidays, explore these New York Christmas trip ideas.
Rent a van and embark on an epic drive from D.C. to New York. Stop in Philadelphia to see Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. If you’re looking for something quieter, Princeton is about 90 minutes outside of New York City. Stroll the impressive university campus and take a self-guided tour of Princeton Battlefield State Park, the site of the 1777 Battle of Princeton during the American Revolutionary War.
Travel time: 3 hours 50 minutes
Best for: A weekend getaway
6. Ocean City, Maryland
If you’re looking for a lively coastal destination to escape the city vibes of D.C., head south to Ocean City. Spend an afternoon with your family on the bustling boardwalk, where you can shop, chow down on funnel cake and french fries, and hit amusement parks like Jolly Roger and Trimper’s. Relax on the beach or take a short drive to Assateague Island, an untouched wilderness with plenty of trails to hike and bike.
While en route to Ocean City, enjoy the convenience of renting a van with short visits to coastal towns like St. Michaels and Cambridge, known for their quaint town centers and historic charm.
Travel time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Best for: A weekend getaway
7. Williamsburg, Virginia
A D.C. road trip to Williamsburg offers the best of multiple worlds: action, education, and nature. Let’s start with Colonial Williamsburg, where you and your travel companions can dive into the past admiring restored buildings, witnessing 18th-century reenactments, and partaking in interactive experiences. When you’ve had your fill of traditional artisanry, head to Busch Gardens for exhilarating rides and live shows.
The drive from D.C. to Williamsburg is a beautiful one, especially along the 23-mile-long Colonial Parkway. Not only will you roll alongside rivers, tidal estuaries, and serene forests in a comfortable van, but you’ll also have the chance to visit significant sites of American history such as Jamestown Island and the Yorktown Battlefield.
Travel time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Best for: A weekend getaway
8. Charlottesville, Virginia
The perfect weekend getaway for history lovers and wine enthusiasts can be found in Charlottesville. The pedestrian-only downtown is a lovely assortment of old theaters, boutique shopping, cozy eateries, and tree-lined streets. Wander the University of Virginia campus, known for its architecture and historical significance.
Even for those who aren’t keen on sightseeing, the sprawling former estate of Thomas Jefferson, Monticello, is a quick drive from the center of town and worth a trip. When you’ve exhausted the sites, unwind at Barboursville Vineyards or Jefferson Vineyards, enjoying regional wine tastings and peaceful views.
On a road trip from D.C. to Charlottesville, you’ll have the chance to stop at Shenandoah National Park. The hiking trails here are the ideal place to stretch your legs. You won’t have to force yourself back in the van, though, as the views while driving through the Blue Ridge Mountains are nothing short of spectacular.
Travel time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Best for: A weekend getaway
9. Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Beach makes for a whimsical weekend trip from D.C. and is ideal for all types of travelers. The beaches are clean and vast, the downtown boardwalk is vibrant, and the city overflows with shops, restaurants, and entertainment. Children will like a visit to Virginia’s Aquarium & Marine Science Center while adults might like a stop at Back Bay’s Farmhouse Brewing Co. for a taste of Virginia Beach’s craft beer.
While on the road, stop halfway in Richmond for a meal downtown or a hike along the James River. War history enthusiasts may want to check out Norfolk, where the USS Wisconsin battleship is located.
Travel time: 3 hours
Best for: A weekend getaway
10. Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
If you like history, you’ll love Gettysburg, known for being the site of a pivotal Civil War battle. Gettysburg National Military Park offers tours to gain deeper insights into the battle’s significance. The town’s rocky past makes it an optimal place for a spooky ghost tour, where local guides introduce you to the town’s “oldest” residents. A van rental will give you and your clan access to Pennsylvania’s serene countryside, where you can explore attractions like the Eisenhower National Historic Site.
The ride from D.C. to Gettysburg is dotted with charming towns and local wineries. Plan a stop in Thurmont, MD, for its dramatic views and nearby wineries like Catoctin Breeze Vineyard or Springfield Manor Winery & Distillery.
Travel time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Best for: A day trip
11. Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia
Nestled at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers is Harper’s Ferry, a well-preserved 19th-century town with a picturesque setting. Visitors can explore historic sites like John Brown’s Fort and the Harper’s Ferry National Historical Park. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike the Appalachian Trail or partake in family-friendly river activities like kayaking, tubing, and fishing.
A van rental also gives you access to Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, where you can head out for a hike on Maryland Heights Trail. Close by are attractions like C&O Canal National Historical Park, Shepherdstown in West Virginia, and the charming town of Boonsboro, MD, which showcases the renowned Turn the Page Bookstore.
Travel time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Best for: A day trip
12. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
If you’re traveling with family, friends, or your partner, a weekend in Philadelphia is a guaranteed hit. Enjoy the vibrant food scene in Rittenhouse and a drink at the ultra-modern Comcast Building’s rooftop. If you’re traveling with children, surprise them with mini golf in Franklin Square after a visit to the Franklin Institute. Traveling around the holidays? Discover the best Christmas lights in Philadelphia.
Renting a van for your road trip from D.C. to Philadelphia gives you the freedom to journey through the Pennsylvania countryside. Just a short drive away are attractions worth exploring, like Amish Country in Lancaster, Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, and Winterthur Museum and Garden in Wilmington, DE.
Travel time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Best for: A weekend getaway
13. Frederick, Maryland
Frederick — just an hour from D.C. and set amid wineries, mountains, and orchards — will surprise you. Explore a historic battlefield in the morning before a craft beer tasting at Brewer’s Alley Restaurant, Frederick’s original brew pub. Both romantic and family-friendly, the lively downtown is lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and cutting-edge dining establishments. Visit the National Museum of Civil War Medicine to learn about the medical practices of the past or catch a show at Weinberg Center for the Arts, operating since 1926.
In addition to all the in-town fun, the Catoctin Mountains are just 20 miles away. Nature enthusiasts and active travelers can hike, swim, and picnic at Cunningham Falls State Park, a great way to spend a day. Stop by Thurmont, a lovely Americana-style village near the presidential retreat at Camp David.
Travel time: 50 minutes
Best for: A day trip
14. Chesapeake Bay, Maryland
For an unbeatable day trip from D.C., check out the Chesapeake Bay. Enjoy boating, sailing, or kayaking on its calm waters before a family feast of delicious seafood, from fresh crabs to oysters.
You’ll love visiting small towns like St. Michaels, known for its picturesque harbor and maritime history. See the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, which offers exhibits, boat rides, and hands-on activities. On your drive back from St. Michaels to D.C., stop in Assateague Island for a glimpse of the wild ponies for which the island is famous.
Travel time: 1 hour
Best for: A day trip
15. Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Lancaster is a jewel set inside Pennsylvania’s Amish country. Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting farmhouses, taking buggy rides, and exploring the well-preserved Amish Village. Have lunch at Central Market, the town’s vibrant shopping center, and stop by roadside stands for fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts. Don’t miss attractions like the Amish Farm and House or the Strasburg Rail Road for a glimpse into the area’s rich history and heritage.
Renting a van for a trip through the rolling hills, farms, and covered bridges in Pennsylvania Dutch country is a memorable experience for you and your family. Having a vehicle means you can easily combine your trip to Lancaster with a visit to Philadelphia, just an hour and a half away.
Travel time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Best for: A weekend getaway
16. The Poconos, Pennsylvania
The Poconos is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. Enjoy a variety of activities like skiing at Camelback Mountain, hiking the Appalachian Trail, or exploring the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. The region overflows with unique seasonal festivals, including the Pocono Garlic Festival over Labor Day or September’s Shawnee Celtic Festival, complete with bagpipes and sheep herding.
Take a mini road trip to the town of Jim Thorpe, known for its Victorian architecture and train rides, and Honesdale, the birthplace of the American railroad. While driving from D.C. to the Poconos, consider stopping in Bethlehem to visit the Bethlehem Steel stacks. Plan on staying a bit longer? Discover more things to do in the Poconos.
Travel time: 3 hours 40 minutes
Best for: A weekend getaway
17. Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
For an ideal weekend trip from D.C. in summer, take a ride to Rehoboth Beach. It’s a coastal paradise of pristine beaches, a lively boardwalk with amusement rides, and great shopping options like the Tanger Outlets. Active travelers will like nearby Lewes for its charming historic district and proximity to the hiking trails at Cape Henlopen State Park. Dewey Beach is well known for its nightlife scene and a great place to hang out with friends.
Driving to Rehoboth Beach from D.C. means you can take a quick stop in Annapolis, a worthwhile visit for its history, waterfront views, fresh seafood, and a tour through the United States Naval Academy.
Travel time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Best for: A weekend getaway
18. Deep Creek Lake, Maryland
Deep Creek Lake is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, at any time of year. Enjoy boating, fishing, and swimming in the summer, or hit the slopes for skiing and snowboarding in the winter. Driving through the Allegheny Mountains offers breathtaking views of rolling hills and dense forests, as well as several scenic overlooks to enjoy along the way. Walk over the historic 80-ft. stone arch bridge, constructed in 1813, at Casselman River Bridge State Park or hike the wooded trails in Savage River State Forest.
Travel time: 2 hours 50 minutes
Best for: A weekend getaway
19. St. Michaels, Maryland
One of the Eastern Shore’s most appealing small towns is St. Michaels for its historic homes and lovely waterfront. Explore the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, browse through boutique shops, or indulge in fresh seafood at Chesapeake Landing restaurant. If you like to be on the water, there are plenty of boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding opportunities on the Miles River.
A leisurely drive through Maryland’s Eastern Shore offers picturesque views of farmlands and visits to quaint towns like Easton and Oxford. There are also wineries with tastings, farms where you and the kids can pick fresh produce, and secluded beaches for relaxing in the sun.
Travel time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Best for: A weekend getaway
20. Atlantic City, New Jersey
What do Frank Sinatra, Miss America, and boardwalk fries all have in common? Atlantic City! Southern New Jersey’s glitziest destination boasts sandy beaches, an iconic boardwalk, and world-class casinos. While many activities here are adult-oriented, Atlantic City is family-friendly too, with attractions like the Steel Pier amusement park and the Atlantic City Aquarium. Bike the boardwalk, visit Lucy the Elephant in nearby Margate, and fill up on everything from pizza to oysters on this lively weekend getaway.
The eastern coast of New Jersey is brimming with cute towns. Rent a van and take your family on a shoreside road trip, stopping in Cape May for its Victorian architecture, Ocean City for its famous boardwalk, and the coastal marsh at Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge.
Travel time: 3 hours
Best for: A weekend getaway
21. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Pittsburgh, PA, is a happening city known for its diverse cultural districts and museums. The Strip District offers a bustling food scene, while the Cultural District boasts theaters and galleries. Explore the Andy Warhol Museum or the Carnegie Museum of Art for an artistic experience. Take a ride on the Duquesne Incline, a historic cable car offering panoramic city views.
On a road trip from D.C. to Pittsburgh, consider detouring to Gettysburg, known for its pivotal Civil War battle. Mount Pleasant is a small town with a big history of glassmaking and sits close to Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural masterpiece Fallingwater, located about 70 miles southeast of Pittsburgh in Laurel Highlands.
Travel time: 3 hours 40 minutes
Best for: A weekend getaway
22. Cape May, New Jersey
A delightful weekend getaway from D.C. for all ages is Cape May. Admire the city’s Victorian architecture while strolling through the historic district, learning local tales on an evening ghost tour. Want some sun? The beaches here are expansive and ideal for a day of sunbathing and swimming. Cape May is also a paradise for birdwatching due to its proximity to wildlife refuges and migratory routes. Don’t miss the Cape May Lighthouse and, if you’ve brought the little ones along, the zoo.
It’s also a great jumping-off point for a scenic drive along Ocean Drive. This route takes you from Cape May to Ocean City, NJ alongside the blue Atlantic, salt marshes, and busy fishing ports. Take a day trip to Corson’s Inlet State Park in Ocean City and return in time to watch the dramatic sunset at Sunset Lake in Cape May.
Travel time: 3 hours 20 minutes
Best for: A weekend getaway
23. Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina
If you’re always on the hunt to learn something new, Raleigh-Durham, also known as the Research Triangle, is for you. The most dynamic region of North Carolina is home to museums like the North Carolina Museum of Art and the Museum of Natural Sciences, both of which offer a host of interactive exhibits. Visit the Joel Lane House, the 18th-century home of the “Father of Raleigh” and learn about Duke Homestead’s role in the tobacco industry. Hungry? Dive into popular dishes like Carolina-style barbecue, fried chicken, and biscuits after your exhibit tour.
A drive through Virginia and North Carolina is a beautiful display of rolling hills, small towns, and scenic byways. If you’re taking a road trip from D.C., spend an afternoon or an overnight in Williamsburg, VA, known for its colonial heritage, and Asheville, North Carolina, famous for its arts scene and the Biltmore Estate.
Travel time: 3 hours 50 minutes
Best for: A weekend getaway
24. Bethany Beach, Delaware
Take a weekend away from the hustle and bustle of D.C. with a serene, family-friendly escape to Bethany Beach. Here you will find long, quiet beaches for swimming and relaxing as well as a lively boardwalk lined with shops, dining, and lots of rides and games.
Take advantage of your rental van and explore neighboring beaches and state parks along Delaware’s coast. Kids will love a visit to Rehoboth Beach and its mile-long boardwalk. Wildlife enthusiasts can birdwatch at Gordon’s Pond. Fenwick Island State Park, Cape Henlopen State Park, and Delaware Seashore State Park each offer unique coastal experiences and outdoor recreational opportunities that your entire family is sure to enjoy.
Travel time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Best for: A weekend getaway
25. Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville is a city renowned for its natural beauty, cultural attractions, and thriving arts scene. It’s a great destination for families, friends, and couples looking for something both romantic and active. Start your trip with a visit to the Biltmore Estate, the grand mansion and gardens built by the Vanderbilt family. Then, move on to explore numerous galleries and art studios.
If you’re traveling as a group of friends, be sure to check out the many live music venues. Craft beer lovers can’t miss a pint at Highland Brewing, Asheville’s original craft brewery. There is also hiking, rafting, and exploring to be done at the nearby Pisgah National Forest.
Driving along the Blue Ridge Parkway offers a breathtaking ride through the mountains, where you can make stops at overlooks and hiking trails. Take the Cherohala Skyway for the scenery and factor in a mid-way break at Roanoke, VA, or Raleigh, NC.
Travel time: 6 hours 40 minutes
Best for: A weekend getaway
26. Newport, Rhode Island
A popular destination for couples seeking a romantic getaway, Newport also boasts family-friendly activities like beach outings and trolley tours of its opulent mansions. See the Vanderbilt’s Breakers mansion before strolling the Cliff Walk. The stunning ocean views make it an ideal background for a family photo.
For those who like the water, consider one of the many sailing excursions on the Atlantic. We suggest a drive south to the port of Galilee to see Finback whales in the summer, an experience that you and your companion will never forget!
The coastline of Rhode Island is known for sweeping views dotted with opulent mansions and crashing waves, easily seen from both Ocean Drive and Ten Mile Drive. A drive from D.C. gives you a chance to see some of the Northeastern Corridor’s most popular cities, from Philly to New York to New Haven!
Travel time: 6 hours 40 minutes
Best for: A weekend getaway
27. Boston, Massachusetts
One of the greatest cities for seekers of history and culture is certainly Boston. If you’re interested in American history, walk the two-and-a-half-mile Freedom Trail that passes the Paul Revere House and Faneuil Hall. If you prefer art, head to the Museum of Fine Arts.
Children will be happy spending an afternoon amongst marine life at the New England Aquarium. Speaking of kids, why not sign the family up for a Duck Tour? The land and sea tour is a unique way to see Boston and is guaranteed to leave everyone smiling. Finally, catching a baseball game at Fenway Park is one of the most iconic experiences you can have, so check the schedule before hitting the road!
If you’re planning a road trip around Boston, drive to see the coastal beauty of Newport, RI, and its turn-of-the-century mansions, and Salem, MA, the site of the infamous witch trials. Boston was marked as one of the best places to spend New Year’s — so if you can plan your trip around December 31, even better!
Travel time: 6 hours 50 minutes
Best for: A weekend getaway
28. Hershey, Pennsylvania
Sweeten your vacation with a family adventure to Hershey, where you’ll have your fill of chocolate-themed attractions. Hershey Park is a wonderland of rides and entertainment, a great place to bond with your little ones. When you’re ready for dessert, head to Chocolate World for chocolate-making tours and delicious tastings. Need to burn off that sugar high? Hershey Gardens is a grand showcase of rare trees and colorful flowers, as well as a Butterfly Atrium that you can walk through!
Hershey pairs nicely with nearby Lancaster, giving you the chance to embark on a scenic road trip through the Pennsylvania Dutch countryside en route to Amish Country. There are lots of unique activities for families to do, like taking a buggy ride, visiting Amish farms, and trying traditional foods. Downtown Lancaster offers a diverse mix of markets, shops, theaters, and restaurants.
Travel time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Best for: A weekend getaway
29. Niagara Falls
In 2014, Niagara Falls was declared one of the Seven Natural Wonders of North America, and for good reason. The thunderous marvel that straddles the US-Canadian border is a sight to behold. While it often attracts new couples and honeymooners, it’s also an amazing destination for families who can sign up for boat tours like the Maid of the Mist.
Surrounding parks like Niagara Falls State Park and Queen Victoria Park offer hiking and picnicking. Renting a van for your trip to Niagara gives you space to bring along hiking boots and picnic essentials, ensuring an unforgettable day together.
If you’re looking for a stop between Niagara Falls and Washington D.C., consider Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater. Once you arrive in upstate New York, drive along the Niagara Scenic Parkway for views of the Niagara River, the falls, and the gorge.
Travel time: 6 hours 50 minutes
Best for: A weekend getaway
Common questions about day trips from D.C.
Planning a road trip from Washington D.C. is sure to drum up a few uncertainties. Read through our list of frequently asked questions, highlighting popular stops between D.C. and Niagara Falls, D.C. and New York, as well as other major nearby cities.
Where should I stop between Niagara Falls and Washington D.C.?
Between Niagara Falls and Washington, D.C., consider stopping at Gettysburg National Military Park in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. This historic site commemorates the famous Civil War battle and offers guided tours and lovely landscapes. Fallingwater in Mill Run, Pennsylvania is another fascinating stop. In keeping with the theme, the house designed by Frank Lloyd Wright is built over a waterfall and offers guided tours.
Where should I stop between D.C. and New York?
Between D.C. and New York, you should consider stopping in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Visit Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and the Museum of the American Revolution. Dive into its top-rated food scene and walk around Rittenhouse Square or South Street. Additionally, Baltimore, Maryland is worth a visit for its vibrant waterfront, historic sites, and delicious seafood. Both cities offer a unique blend of culture, history, and culinary delights, perfect for families, friends, or couples traveling together in a van!
What major cities are close to D.C.?
Major cities close to D.C. include Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Richmond. In Philadelphia, you can immerse yourself in American history by exploring Independence National Historical Park and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Baltimore offers attractions like the Inner Harbor, the National Aquarium, and the historic Fort McHenry. Richmond, the capital of Virginia, boasts a rich history, with highlights such as the Virginia State Capitol and the Edgar Allan Poe Museum.
It’s time to pick up your van in D.C. and set out on your road trip!
Washington D.C. is an excellent starting point for a dynamic road trip that will fulfill the desires of all kinds of travelers. Whether you choose to explore historical sites, marvel at architectural wonders, or enjoy vibrant city life, there is something for everyone within a short drive from the nation’s capital.
So pack up your 15-passenger van rental and get ready for an epic adventure creating unforgettable memories with the people you love most on the open road!
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