14 Best Day Trips from Washington, DC: Easy Getaways Near the City
Table of Contents
14 Best Day Trips from DC
- Mount Vernon, Virginia – Just 30 minutes from D.C., Mount Vernon is the historic home of George Washington. You can tour the mansion, explore the beautifully landscaped grounds, and learn about the life of America’s first president.
- Great Falls Park, Virginia – About 30 minutes from D.C., Great Falls Park offers breathtaking views of the Potomac River and impressive waterfalls. There are hiking trails, picnicking areas, and opportunities for kayaking, making it a great outdoor escape.
- Alexandria, Virginia – Only about 15 minutes from D.C., the historic district of Alexandria offers cobblestone streets, charming boutiques, waterfront dining, and a collection of museums. You can stroll along King Street, visit the Torpedo Factory Art Center, or relax at the Old Town waterfront.
4. Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia – Just across the river from D.C., Arlington offers a solemn and historical experience. You can visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the John F. Kennedy gravesite, and the Arlington House.
5. Annapolis, Maryland – About 45 minutes from D.C., Annapolis is a charming waterfront town known for its naval academy and colonial architecture. You can tour the United States Naval Academy, stroll along Main Street, or take a scenic boat ride on the Chesapeake Bay.
These day trips offer a mix of history, culture, outdoor adventure, and relaxation, making them great escapes from the hustle and bustle of D.C.
Plan Your DC Trip!
Honestly, there’s nothing like a trip to Washington, DC. It is the perfect destination for families. If a museum or monument isn’t holding your kids attention, there’s always another one you can check out- and it’ll most likely be free!
If you’d like a little guidance for your itinerary, see our 4-Day Itinerary. It was designed with young kids in mind and hits a lot of the most popular sights in Washington, DC such as:
The White House
National Museum of American History
National Air & Space Museum
Ford’s Theater
National Children’s Museum
and so much more!
Free Family Road Trip Starter Kit
🎶 Ready to hit the road with magic in the speakers?
Don’t forget to grab our FREE Family Road Trip Starter Kit — packed with printable checklists, kid-approved games, and snack ideas for your next adventure!
🎒 Includes:
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Packing checklist
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I Spy game
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Travel Bingo boards
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Snack list
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Activity ideas
Save a Pin & Start Planning Your Adventure!
For future reference, save our “14 Best Day Trips from DC.” Pin one of the images below to Pinterest. Go ahead and follow 5 Suitcases on Pinterest while you’re at it!
If you’re planning a trip to Washington, DC, be sure to check out our 4 day itinerary and our list of 15 Must See Places in Washington, DC. You can also learn how to visit the White House, and we’ll help you navigate the Metro.
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