Ready for your next weekend getaway from DC? Only an hour and a half drive west of Washington, DC Chesapeake Bay boasts quaint beaches, beautiful scenery, and a charmingly odd concentration of antique shops.
Why Chesapeake Bay Is The Perfect Day Trip From DC
Outdoor activities abound. From bike riding, fishing, frisbee, and volleyball to flag football, swimming, hiking, or a scenic driving tour — there’s more to do than you’ll have time for in one weekend.
If you’re buried in deadlines and starting to resent the hustle and bustle of city life, it may be time for a staycation.
Trade your air conditioning for the hum of nature with these day and weekend trip ideas that are well within your reach.
Nature Walks & Hiking in Chesapeake Bay
If you’re looking to take a hike or bicycle ride, it is only a half hour drive from the city and has trails at every level of difficulty, including the Billy Goat Trail (if you’re looking for more of a challenge and a bit of a climb).
About an hour and a half’s drive from DC is the larger Shenandoah National Park, with even more trails including a stretch of the Appalachian Trail.
Shenandoah also allows for cycling, fishing, horseback riding, rock climbing, and camping. Of course, if physical exertion is not in the cards for your precious days off (and who could blame you), pack a lunch and blanket for a midday picnic.
Go Apple Picking
A sixth generation farm, the fruit at Stripling Orchard has grown for almost 200 years. The peaches are available from mid-July through mid-August and apples from mid-August through early November.
Beginning in September, the orchard offers fresh cider and breath-taking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
At Hartland, you’ll pick raspberries, cherries, blueberries, peaches, apples, and pumpkins. Call before heading over to ensure fruit availability.
Swimming & Beaches
As DC in the summer can serve up oppressive humidity, a weekend beach trip may be more in order than a hike. Complete with a boardwalk and a plethora of free weekend activities like Sundaes in the Park, fireworks, and free movies on the beach Ocean City is just two hours and forty-five minutes from DC.
Virginia Beach, better for a weekend than a day trip, is three and a half hours from DC. Go for the amusement parks, go-karts, boat rides, and all you might expect from a seaside resort town.
Originally a spiritual center, Rehoboth Beach is now referred to as the “Nation’s Summer Capital.” The seacoast is a mecca for leisure activity and known for being a close-knit seaside town.
Chincoteague & Assateague Islands
Wild ponies, boat tours, and so much more.
With hotels as low as $59, you might spend less on an entire weekend than you would on a night on the town. So hop in a car, grab your significant other or 2 of your closest friends, and head west.
Whatever you choose to do, take some time for yourself in a place less paved.
See you at the Bay.
