Top 5 Weekend Getaways from Washington, D.C.
Considered to be among the most significant cities in the world, Washington D.C., the capital of the United States of America, is a city that almost everyone has at least heard of. Commissioned by George Washington himself, the city’s primary most highlight is Pennsylvania Avenue that houses two of the most iconic landmarks of America – the White House and the Capitol Building. Home to several such monumental attractions including the Lincoln Memorial, the Capitol Building, the Washington Monument, and the National Museum of Natural History, the city has a lot to offer within and around.
While there is no dearth of things to see and activities to do here in the city, we bring you the top 5 weekend getaways from Washington, D.C. for a quick break:
New York
Whether you fancy the jazz scene at Harlem, the shopping frenzy at Fifth Avenue, or a stroll at the F.R.I.E.N.D.S. fame Central Park, the City of New York is bound to steal your heart. The largest and the most affluent American city for over two centuries, NYC sees over 65 million tourists annually. You definitely shouldn’t miss the fabulous landmarks such as the Empire State Building, the Museum of Modern Art, and of course, the Brooklyn Bridge.
Best Time to Visit: The most suitable time to visit the city is either in the spring from April to June or during the holiday season of November and December.
How to Reach: New York is one of the most well-connected cities in the US which has direct and connecting flights as well as trains, buses, and driving routes from literally any part of the country.
New York City, also known as New York or simply NYC, is not only one of the most famous cities in the USA but also the world. Home to several Hollywood celebrities, an unwavering style quotient and a plethora of activities and attractions, the city sees over 65 million visitors each year.
Ocean City
A spectacular coastal resort town, Ocean City is known for its eventful nightlife and amazing amusement parks where you can enjoy various adventurous rides with your family and young children. The historical edifices and monuments scattered around the city are as interesting as the other sites, including St. Paul’s by-the-sea Protestant Episcopal Church, Ocean City beach, and Jolly Roger Amusement Park. If you are here during June, don’t miss out on the Brine Beach Lax Festival that takes place in the second week of the month.
Best Time to Visit: The most suggested time to visit Ocean City is from late May to early September, but be prepared to face a little humidity and a bit of heat once in a while.
How to Reach: The easiest way to travel between the state capital and Ocean City is by self-driven car. The drive takes around three and a half hours and costs $19 to $27 in fuel.
Old Town Alexandria
A Nationally acclaimed Historic Town, Old Town Alexandria is a friendly little neighborhood settled on the banks of the Potomac River in Virginia. Housing more than two hundred boutiques, restaurants, museums, and other attractions, the beautiful town has a lot to offer to everyone. History buffs would love to take a walk downtown to appreciate the many stunning 18th and 19th-century edifices. King Street Mile, also known as one of the “Great Streets” of the country, is where all the action takes place. Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum, and the Torpedo Factory Art Center are a few other interesting sights to visit.
Best Time to Visit: April to early June is regarded as the most recommended time to visit here.
How to Reach: There are multiple ways to travel between D.C. and the town – buses, subways, taxis, and self-driven cars. All take between 15 mins to under an hour and cost under $10.
Harpers Ferry
Tucked between the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains and the Shenandoah River in Jefferson County, West Virginia, Harpers Ferry is a quintessential town with a plethora of attractions to offer. A short drive from the capital city, the town provides ample opportunities for tubing, kayaking, swimming, hiking, zip-lining, as well as rock climbing. If you are not an adrenaline junkie though, you could explore other popular sights here such as John Brown’s Fort, The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, and Harpers Ferry National Historical Park.
Best Time to Visit: While you could visit here throughout the year, many tourists prefer coming here during mid to late spring or during autumn.
How to Reach: A direct train between Harpers Ferry and Washington, D.C. takes approximately an hour and a half and costs between $7 to $35.
Philadelphia
Popularly known as “Philly”, Philadelphia is the largest city in Pennsylvania and is recognized all over the world for its rich history. Home of the historic international symbol of freedom, the Liberty Bell, the city has a lot to offer its visitors. Whether you wish to race up the “Rocky Steps”, tour the birthplace of the United States a.k.a. Independence Hall, or enjoy an authentic meal at one of the country’s oldest farmers’ markets, Philly has it all.
Best Time to Visit: March to May is the best time to visit the city. Spring is the most suitable time to spot the cherry blossoms.
How to Reach: There are direct flights, buses, and trains between the two famous cities. Taking the train for an hour and a half is by far the most convenient option, and at $30 to $100, it is also the cheapest.
Philadelphia, popularly known as Philly, is the largest and the most famous city in the US state of Pennsylvania. Famous for its impressive history that is on display at the Liberty Bell, the city is the birthplace of American Independence s declared on July 4, 1776.
