After calling this city home for the last ten years, we know that there is a lot to love about Washington, DC, but everyone needs an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city from time to time. And since local travel has made a complete and total comeback over the last few years, it’s high time that we share our favorite Mid-Atlantic East Coast road trips from Washington, DC.
From beachy little boroughs, to charming mountain towns to neighboring metropolises, there are so many bucket list-worthy places that lie just a short drive from the Nation’s Capital. So load up the car, and hit the road to explore these nine incredible destinations that are all under five hours from Washington, DC.
Baltimore, MD
With tons of restaurants serving the freshest seafood, unique shops, museums, an aquarium, historic and trendy bars alike, and an amazing nightlife scene all within walking distance of downtown, you will be planning your next trip before you’ve even left.
Berkeley Springs, WV
If you’ve heard of Berkeley Springs, West Virginia, you may know that it’s home to America’s First Spa. People have visited for centuries to “take the waters” and reap the healing benefits of the area’s mineral springs. But beyond the springs, there is so much more here to explore. So if a weekend of hiking, mountain biking, stargazing, and warm springs soaking is your kind of getaway, an escape to Berkeley Springs is calling you.
DelMarVa Peninsula
DelMarVa: is made up of three states and one epic coastline. No matter what floats your beach-going boat, the Delmarva Peninsula has something for everyone to enjoy – which makes the region perfect for your next summer getaway!
Happy Valley, PA
Nestled in Central Pennsylvania (just six hours max from 35% of North America’s entire population) and known for being home to Penn State University, is a group of valleys collectively known as Happy Valley. But the area offers far more than just tailgates and textbooks. With 750,000 acres of public land, dozens of hiking and biking trails, six state parks, four state forests, and miles of streams stocked with fish, Happy Valley is an outdoor adventurer’s paradise that deserves a spot at the top of your bucket list.
Harpers Ferry, WV
Harpers Ferry is a common trip for DMV residents to make at least once, but if you haven’t already done so, we’ve curated the perfect day just for you! It’s packed with history, nature – and our favorite brewery on the East Coast.
Jim Thorpe, PA
Jim Thorpe is, without a doubt, the quaintest small town that you’ve never heard of and may just be one of Pennsylvania’s best-kept secrets. If you’re looking to hike, bike, chase waterfalls, or ride a dreamy steam train, Jim Thorpe is the place for you!
Luray, VA
If you’re looking for the perfect East Coast mountain getaway, look no further than Luray, Virginia. This little town, situated to the west of the Blue Ridge Mountains, hosts spectacular views, historic caverns, breweries, and easy access to some of the region’s most popular hikes.
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Richmond, VA
This little city is full of history, art, nature, trendy cafes, craft breweries, and great food. What more could you ask for on your mini getaway?
Tucker County, WV
Nestled in the Allegheny Mountains of Tucker County, West Virginia, is Blackwater Falls State Park. A place that turns into a snow-covered wonderland each winter. With its quiet trails, frozen waterfalls, and serene vistas, this park offers the potential of both a relaxing and idyllic retreat or an adrenaline-packed getaway.
Williamsburg, VA
This Virginia city is filled with amusement parks, historic towns, wineries, and restaurants, and is the perfect escape for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
York, PA
York is yet another hip little town that you’ve never heard of, and Seth and I just so happened to grow up here. Spend a weekend in our hometown and see for yourself just how cool Downtown York really is.
We hope our round-up of quick getaways from Washington, DC has sparked your travel bug and helped inspire an upcoming weekend road trip!
Where is your favorite getaway on the East Coast? We are always looking for new places to explore!
