There are so many great options when it comes to finding the best weekend trips from Washington DC. In this article, we organized the easy weekend trips from DC that are driving distance, as well as those you can get to easily by train or plane. Let’s dive to the best weekend trips from DC by car first.
Weekend Trips From Washington DC: By Car
If you have a car, there are so many great places that are a short drive away. Let’s take a look at the best weekend road trips from DC by car.
Frederick, Maryland
Frederick is a charming historical town about 1.5 hours from Washington DC depending on the traffic. You can also access Frederick by taking the train from Union Station.
Charming Frederick makes for an easy weekend getaway from Washington DC
Frederick is famous for having a charming little downtown area. You can walk around, enjoy great food and get some happy hour drinks. If you enjoy trying local wine, there are many wineries near Frederick to check out during your weekend here.
Driving Time To Frederick: 90 Minutes
Deep Creek Lake, Maryland
If you enjoy being outdoors, then drive up to Deep Creek Lake. This lake in the middle of Maryland is beautiful all year round. In the summer, it is much cooler than the DC area. In the winter, you can enjoy activities like skiing and snow tubing.
Rent a house on Deep Creek Lake for your next weekend trip from DC
Driving Time To Deep Creek Lake: 3 Hours
Lake Anna, Virginia
Lake Anna is a great weekend getaway from Washington DC. It is only about a 2 hour drive away. The lake is surrounded by beautiful forests and hills, making it a peaceful place to visit. There are lots of outdoor activities including boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, and biking.
Rent a lake house and enjoy some quality time here with friends and family for a weekend. For those who want to camp, you can also camp at Lake Anna for the weekend.
Beautiful and calm Lake Anna makes for a great weekend trip from DC
Lake Anna State Park has sandy beaches, picnic spots, and trails. You can also visit nearby wineries and historical sites. It’s a perfect place to relax and have fun with family and friends.
Driving Time To Lake Anna: 2 Hours
Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
Looking to escape the heat? Rehoboth Beach is nearly 8 to 10 degrees cooler than the nation’s capital. It is about a 3 hour drive from Washington D.C. so the best times to leave are as early on Friday as possible to beat the weekend beach traffic.
Sunset over Rehoboth Beach
In addition to beach activities, you can also enjoy some good food in this part of Delaware. If you want a more laid back scene, check out nearby Lewes Delaware as well as Cape Henlopen State Park.
Driving Time To Rehoboth Beach: 3 Hours
Leesburg, Virginia
If you don’t want to travel too far, then spend a weekend in Leesburg Virginia. Enjoy the food scene here which often pairs foods with wines from local wineries. Some places even have educational programs about wine and winemaking. When it comes to quick and easy wine tasting escapes, Leesburg is a solid choice.
Historic courthouse in Downtown Leesburg
You can also leave the immediate downtown area and do some exploring locally. Check out some wineries or go shopping at the Leesburg Outlets. If you feel like having a spa experience check out the Spa at the Landsdowne Resort which is not far from the downtown area.
Driving Time To Leesburg: 50 Minutes
Bethany Beach, Delaware
When the capital city gets too hot, drive out to Bethany Beach. Enjoy beautiful beaches and panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Staying here in the prime summer season can be quite expensive so do your best to plan ahead.
Mornings at Bethany Beach
Driving Time To Bethany Beach: 3 Hours
Ocean City, Maryland
Another beach destination that is about a 3 hour drive from DC. It’s the perfect place to escape the heat, enjoy some golf, or check out some of their waterfront dining. There are also tons of activities for families and kids in Ocean City including several amusement parks. Or, just grab an ice cream and stroll down the boardwalk. It is also much cooler here than in DC!
Beach and amusement parks in Ocean City Maryland make for a great weekend getaway
When visiting Ocean City, if you have time, there are several other places that are just a stone’s throw away from here to explore. For example, the charming town of Berlin has historic homes and also was the filming site for Julia Roberts movie Runaway Bride. Assateague Island is also a great time and can be done as a day trip from Ocean City.
Driving Time To Ocean City: 3 Hours
Assateague Island
If you are near Ocean City, Maryland, head to Assateague Island which is famous for its wild horses. If you want to bring your car onto the island (there are only a limited amount of cars allowed each day), you will need to get a pass ahead of time. Planning your trip out carefully is important before visiting this part of Maryland.
Assateague horses on the beach at sunset
The island itself does not have much in terms of food and facilities as it is a National Park. Be sure to bring snacks, food and whatever else you may need to enjoy your day here. If you prepare properly, this is one of the best road trips you can take from Washington DC.
Driving Time To Assateague: 3 Hours
St. Michael’s, Maryland
St. Michaels is a charming little town on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. It is just 90 minutes from Washington DC, but can be more depending on traffic. It is a great place to enjoy water views and enjoy some good food. The focus in this small town is relaxing and enjoying a slower pace of life.
A perfect weekend getaway to St. Michaels includes some time out on the water
At one point in time, the place to stay here was the Inn At Perry Cabin, which is a luxury resort. Now there are more options when it comes to accommodations. Check out The Wildset Hotel as well as St. Michael’s Harbor Inn.
For those interested in sightseeing, you can visit the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum. If you want to see some historic sites you can drive a little further to Cambridge Maryland.
Driving Time To St Michaels: 1.5 to 2 Hours
Tilghman Island, Maryland
Just a stone’s throw away from St. Michaels is Tilghman Island. Enjoy a short scenic drive through St. Michaels and onto the quiet island. This quiet destination tons of natural beauty and is a great option when it comes to finding romantic getaways from DC.
In addition to enjoying fresh seafood, there are many activities you can enjoy on Tilghman Island. It can also easily be combined with a weekend trip from DC to St. Michaels.
Driving Time To Tilghman Island: 1.5 to 2 Hours
Cambridge, Maryland
Cambridge, Maryland is a great place for history buffs to visit. History enthusiasts will be interested to know that this colonial town was founded in 1684 and it is one of the oldest towns in Maryland.
This part of Maryland is famous in American History because Harriet Tubman, one of the key figures in the Underground Railroad is from this part of Maryland. There is a museum honoring her life and legacy in Downtown Cambridge.
Learn about the life and legacy of Harriet Tubman in Cambridge Maryland
You can stay in downtown Cambridge or choose a hotel that is just outside the downtown area. The Hyatt At Chesapeake Bay is a good choice for anyone looking for a hotel with many amenities. You can check out the WanderDC YouTube video on this popular hotel here: https://youtu.be/3jggHF_6rVQ
Driving Time To Cambridge: 2 Hours
Shenandoah National Park
Shenandoah National Park is famous because of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s one of the best places near Washington DC for great hiking and scenic views. While you are in the Shenandoah Valley, check out the nearby town of Luray.
Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park
Luray is famous for the Luray Caverns. However, many people don’t know that there are many activities to do in Luray including visiting wineries and other attractions. In Shenandoah, Skyline Drive is 105 miles long. You will have a very scenic driving route to explore this area.
Driving Time To Shenandoah: 2 Hours
Colonial Williamsburg
If you enjoy historical charm, drive down to Colonial Williamsburg. This small town has a rich history and also is where the William and Mary College Campus is. Check out the school and stay in a small historic hotel.
Governor’s Palace in Colonial Williamsburg
You can visit this small historic town on its own or pair it with a trip to Newport News which is just a few miles further south. Busch Gardens is also right here and can be fun to visit with children.
Driving Time To Williamsburg: 3 Hours
Newport News, Virginia
Head south of Washington DC to Colonial Williamsburg and Newport News. While this destination can also be accessed by train, you will have more freedom to explore if you have a car. If you have children, visiting Busch Gardens is also a good reason to do a weekend treat to this part of Virginia.
Evening in Newport News
Driving Time To Newport News: 3 Hours
Cape May, New Jersey
Cape May is best reached by car. When leaving from Washington DC, it’s best to leave early as traffic in the summer months can build really quickly.
Cape May is a charming little beach town. It has many historic buildings that have been preserved and some that have been turned into cute places to stay. Although summer is the busiest time of year, Cape May is truly a year round destination.
Charming Victorian architecture in Cape May
The spring and fall are particularly great times to visit because the weather is still pleasant and the majority of the crowds have left. Restaurant reservations are also much easier during this time and the traffic is more tolerable.
Driving Time To Cape May: 3 Hours 15 Minutes
Annapolis, Maryland
Annapolis is a city that you can visit over and over again. There is so much growth happening that you will see new restaurants and shops opening up all the time.
Beautiful waterfront setting in Annapolis Maryland makes for a great weekend getaway from Washington DC
In terms of activities, be sure to visit the United States Naval Academy and take a sailboat out on the water. Enjoy waterfront dining as well as some of the charming restaurants in the Eastport part of Annapolis.
Driving Time To Annapolis: 1 Hour
Weekend Trips From Washington DC: By Train
The Amtrak and local trains out of Union Station make it convenient to take a weekend trip to several of the surrounding areas. Here are some of the best weekend trips from DC by train.
Charlottesville, Virginia
Charlottesville in Virginia is great for history buffs and nature lovers. Here you will find a walkable downtown area with historic sites as well as many great wineries. You can enjoy the stunning views and enjoy some great cuisine in this city.
For anyone who wants to learn more history, you can also plan to visit Monticello. Monticello is the historic home of Thomas Jefferson. He was the 3rd President of the United States. It is about 4 miles from the downtown area so you will need to get a ride share over there or book a tour since you are arriving by train.
Monticello was the home of former US President Thomas Jefferson
Depending on the specific date you plan to travel there are anywhere between 2 and 4 trains between DC and Charlottesville. The journey is between 2.5 and 3 hours.
Train Time To Charlottesville: 2 Hours 30 Minutes
Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia
Harper’s Ferry in West Virginia is a historic town that is located where the Potomac River meets the Shenandoah River. Driving here and train are both good options. History buffs will enjoy going back in time at Harpers Ferry National Historical Park.
There is a direct train from Union Station that goes to Harper’s Ferry in the afternoon. You can spend one or two nights here and then take the local train back. There is also an Amtrak but the frequency is much lower. Stay in downtown Harper’s Ferry so that you have easy access to historical sites.
Train Time To Harper’s Ferry From Union Station: 1 Hour 10 Minutes
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia has so many things to do and it is a quick 2.5 hour train ride from Washington DC on the Amtrak. Visit the Philadelphia Museum Of Art where you can run up the famous Rocky Steps and also check out the Liberty Bell inside Independence Hall.
Independence Hall in Philadelphia
When it comes to exploring different neighborhoods, Philadelphia has tons to offer. Some of the most popular areas of Philadelphia are Old City, Rittenhouse Square, and Fishtown. For amazing Italian food, check out South Philly.
For those who love the outdoors, there are many outdoor activities too. You can take a walk along Kelly Drive and enjoy the water views as well as visit the Philadelphia Zoo. This historic city has something for all ages.
Train Time To Philadelphia: 2 Hours 20 Minutes
New York City, New York
Who doesn’t love a quick weekend trip to NYC. Train is definitely the way to get here because you avoid having to sit in traffic. Spend a couple nights enjoying the great restaurants, checking out museums, and doing some shopping.
If you would rather be outside, then be sure to take a walk through Central Park and then head south to South Street Seaport. From here you can make your way west and enjoy “Little Island” which is NYC’s floating park.
Check out Little Island in NYC for your next weekend getaway from DC!
Train Time To New York City: 3 Hours 30 Minutes
Baltimore, Maryland
Anyone who lives in DC knows that Baltimore is a quick and easy trip by train or car. If you have children, they will enjoy a visit to the National Aquarium. For scenic views while dining, head to the Inner Harbor. Charm City has really exploded in terms of new places to dine as well as stay. If you are interested in art, be sure to visit the Walters Art Museum.
Train Time To Baltimore: 45 Minutes
Richmond, Virginia
Richmond is easily accessible by train and car. Here you can visit the American Civil War Museum, the Edgar Allen Poe Museum, the Virginia Museum Of Fine Arts and the Virginia State Capitol.
Train Time To Richmond: 2 hours
Weekend Trips From Washington DC: By Plane
If you really want to get away, Washington DC has 3 major airports with several nonstop flights. There are many fun and unique places that make for great weekend trips from DC. Let’s take a look at the best weekend trips from Washington DC by plane.
Montreal, Canada
Looking for a taste of Europe but without the long flight? Well, the flight to Montreal is just only 1 hour and 45 minutes from Washington DC, and there are several direct flights available throughout the day.
Old Montreal makes for a perfect romantic weekend getaway from Washington DC
Especially in the hot and humid DC summers, Montreal is much cooler and makes for a wonderful change of pace. Walk the cobblestone streets, enjoy some of the awesome restaurants, and check out some of the historical sites. Don’t forget your passport!
Flight Time To Montreal: 1 Hour 45 Minutes from DCA
Flight Time To Montreal: 1 Hour 55 Minutes from IAD
Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville is a charming city with great restaurants in the center of town and great hiking in the surrounding areas. It makes for a great romantic getaway or even a fun family trip. There are many things to do including miles of trails for anyone who wants to hike.
If you had more time, you can certainly take a road trip here. However, if you only have a weekend to explore, flying is the best use of your time.
A quick non stop flight to Asheville is an easy weekend getaway from Washington DC
One famous place to visit is the Biltmore Estate. You can explore the grounds as well as the massive historical home. For anyone really wanting to immerse themselves in the experience, you can plan ahead and book a room there also.
Flight Time To Asheville: 1 Hour 30 Minutes from DCA
Fire Island, New York
One of the best ways to get up to certain parts of New York is taking a Southwest flight out of BWI to Islip Airport. Long Island MacArthur Airport is just 5 miles from the Sayville Ferry Port. Once you land, take a taxi or ride share to the ferry and enjoy a quick ferry ride to Fire Island. There are no cars allowed on the island so public transportation is the way to go.
Getting here is a little more adventurous by public transportation since it requires a few changes. But, for the right person who enjoys it, the journey is half the fun.
Flight Time To Islip New York: 1 hour
Taxi To Sayville Ferry Port: 15 minutes
Ferry To Fire Island: 30 Minutes
Nantucket, Massachusettes
Outdoor enthusiasts will love a quick weekend trip from DC to Nantucket. The flight from DCA is short with 3 to 4 non stop flight options daily. It makes for one of the best weekend getaways from DC especially during the hot weather.
Flight Time To Nantucket: 1 Hour 40 Minutes from DCA
Nantucket Island is a great weekend getaway from DC
Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusettes
Not far from Nantucket is the charming island of Martha’s Vineyard. You can fly direct here from Washington DC as there are many non stop flights a day.
Beautiful beaches at Martha’s Vineyard
You may be wondering how you will get around if you are flying into Martha’s Vineyard and do not have your car. Luckily, in the summer, the public buses run very frequently and they cover all the major parts of the island. In addition, biking is very popular on the island and it is an eco friendly way to explore the scenic beauty of the island.
Flight Time To Martha’s Vineyard: 1 Hour 40 Minutes from DCA
Bermuda
Did you know that during the summer months, there are non stop flights to Bermuda from the D.C. area. If you want a feel of the Caribbean that can be accomplished in a weekend, certainly explore this as an option. The luxury Rosewood Hotel has beautiful guest rooms and the Loren is also a popular place to stay.
Beautiful beaches are just a two and a half hour flight away from DC
Flight Time To Bermuda: 2 Hours 30 minutes from DCA
Amelia Island, Florida
Fly into Jacksonville and then take a 30 minute taxi over to Amelia Island. Enjoy the beach, playing golf, and the scenic beauty. There are also many cute restaurants in the area.
Flight Time To Jacksonville: 2 Hours
Weekend Trips And Getaways From DC: Summary
When it comes to the best weekend getaways from DC, there are plenty of options. If driving, Chesapeake Bay escapes are a popular weekend choice. Specifically, consider visiting the small towns of St. Michaels and Cambridge on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Also, the pristine beaches in Delaware are great because they are also much cooler than the hot capital city.
If you want to take a train, head to Charlottesville and enjoy history alongside trying the booming local wine. Other destinations that make for a great weekend getaway from DC are Philadelphia, Harper’s Ferry, and Richmond, which are all easily accessible by quick train ride.
Finally, if you want to escape the D.C. Area by flight, there are many short non stop flights from DC for a quick weekend getaway. Some options include Montreal, Asheville, and Nantucket. So while, the National Mall and the White House are great, sometimes you need to get out of the D.C. area and explore a little more. Enjoy your weekend travels!
