6 magnificent day trips from Washington, DC

04.04.2024 - 19:29 / lonelyplanet.com

The USA's capital is full of cultural and historical attractions but the gems that lie just beyond the city limits are equally extraordinary.

From tucked-away hiking trails to neighboring cities with different rhythms, these are some of our favorite day trips from Washington, DC.

Travel time: 1 hour and 30 minutes

One of the greatest joys of living in the DC area is how quickly you can find yourself in the beauty of Shenandoah National Park. Within the 311-square-mile preserve are cascading waterfalls, breathtaking viewpoints and caverns galore.

Challenge yourself by hiking Old Rag Mountain or keep it lowkey with a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Drive just an hour further to visit one of Virginia’s greatest wonders, the Natural Bridge.

If small towns are your vibe, check out Elkton, where you can sip on tea or try spaghetti ice cream (don’t worry, there’s no tomato sauce involved) at Elkton Creamery and Tea Room. After you've worked up a thirst, head across the train tracks to indulge in a cold brew at the Elkton Brewing Company. Not far away is Luray, a town with cozy Nordic-style cabins and miles of underground stalactites and stalagmites on display at Luray Caverns.

How to get to Shenandoah Valley from Washington, DC: Your best option is to get here by car. From DC, the two closest entrances are the Front Royal Entrance Station off I-66 and Thornton Gap Entrance Station off Highway 211. You must purchase an entrance pass to access the park and the private vehicle fee is $30.

Visit more of the USA's incredible national parks

Travel time: 2 hours

Trade the current nation’s capital for the former one and enjoy a day of urban exploring – Richmond does not skimp on history and culture. Sample hand pies and BBQ while learning about the history of the city on a walking tour of one of its oldest neighborhoods, Church Hill. Rest your weary feet and take a short cab ride to the Museum District where you can surround yourself with unique modern and contemporary art at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.

Belle Island on the banks of the James River is a true urban island escape, perfect for those looking for an outdoor refuge. Then take a wander through Maymont – a 100-acre estate with a peaceful Japanese garden, a Romanesque-style mansion and some friendly goats. End your day with an irresistible taste of soul food at family-owned Mama J’s in the historically black Jackson Ward neighborhood.

How to get to Richmond from Washington, DC: Hop on Amtrak’s Northeast Regional line, which will drop you in the heart of Richmond’s main street in about two and a half hours. Or grab a 90-minute Flixbus from Union Station.

From majestic mountains to romantic valleys, here's where else you should go in Virginia