Washington, D.C.’s Top 10 : Excursions from Washington

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  1. Annapolis, Maryland

    This
    enticing city on the Chesapeake Bay is one of the great sailing centers
    on the East Coast as well as being home to the US Naval Academy. It has
    a bustling business district and numerous historic houses, such as the
    home of William Paca, the governor who signed the Declaration of
    Independence.

    • Rte 50

    William Paca House

    • 186 Prince George St

    • Open 10am–5pm daily




    William Paca House, Annapolis

  2. Harpers Ferry, West Virginia

    Before
    the Civil War, John Brown carried out his famous raid against
    government troops here, protesting the legality of slavery in the United
    States. The picturesque little town around the old Potomac waterfront
    has been preserved and is filled with exhibits about the history of this
    important industrial, shipping, and military center. This is a fine
    place to hike, and picnics on the riverfront are popular.

    • Rte 340




    John Brown’s fort, Harper’s Ferry

  3. Skyline Drive, Virginia

    This
    delightful winding road passes 107 miles (170 km) through the mountain
    and valley scenery of Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park. Numerous
    hiking trails to isolated peaks, waterfalls, and rare forest
    environments begin from the main highway.

    • Off Rte I-66

  4. Baltimore, Maryland

    Called
    “Charm City” by its residents and promoters, Baltimore offers museums
    of art, industry, baseball, science, railroads, and marine trade along
    with historic sites from every American period. Its phenomenal National
    Aquarium is among the finest in the world. The historic Lexington
    Market, established in 1782, is still going strong with over 140 food
    vendors.

    • Rte I-95




    Baltimore

  5. Chincoteague and Assateague, Virginia

    Assateague
    Island is famed for its wild ponies. The pony swim and auction, held on
    the last Wednesday and Thursday of July, is a major attraction. The
    Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge is paradise for bird-watchers and
    nature buffs. The local seafood is first-rate, and the ice cream made
    here is justifiably famous.

    • Off Rte 13

  6. Middleburg

    In
    the heart of Virginia hunt country, Middleburg is a captivating little
    town. Its seasonal farmers market, local horse races, and its antique
    shops, galleries, and fine restaurants draw visitors from all over.

    • Rte 50

    Farmers Market

    • mid-May–mid-Nov: Sat




    The Red Fox Inn, Middleburg

  7. Fredericksburg, Virginia

    This
    city on the Rappahannock River offers colonial homes, moving Civil War
    sites, and a downtown filled with shops and restaurants. A marked
    walking tour lays out milestones in the city’s history.

    • Rte 1

  8. Frederick, Maryland

    Noted
    for its bridges, Frederick is a city steeped in the memory of
    19th-century life and the Civil War. In addition, it has an exceptional
    artistic and cultural life.

    • Rte I-270

  9. Manassas Battlefield

    This
    Civil War battlefield is where Confederate and Union soldiers fell by
    the thousands fighting for conflicting visions of the nation’s future.
    Manassas experienced two pitched battles, the first an opening
    confrontation of untested troops, the second a bloodbath. Guided tours
    are available.

    • Off Rte I-66

  10. Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

    The
    three-day battle of Gettysburg in 1863 was the bloodiest of the Civil
    War, killing over 51,000. Lincoln’s famous address dedicating the
    cemetery here expressed determination to persevere in maintaining the
    Union and began to put the great conflict in perspective. The Gettysburg
    National Military Park is among the most visited sites on the East
    Coast.

    • Rte 15