Many appealing communities offer scenic and pleasant places to explore near Washington, D.C. Let’s look at some of the most charming towns and cities within a few hours of D.C.
Harpers Ferry, WV
Harpers Ferry is a charming West Virginia community on the Potomac River along Maryland’s border. This scenic city has an extensive history, excellent museums, and historical sites. Outdoor enthusiasts would enjoy the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains and The Point, where you can spot where the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers meet.
Annapolis, MD
Annapolis, Maryland’s capital city, is a charming and historic community on the Chesapeake Bay. Annapolis is known for its maritime legacy, which is still going strong to this day as the home of the United States Naval Academy. Annapolis has colorful buildings that have been standing for generations that house local shops and restaurants. It also boasts incredible architecture, world-class museums, and busy waterways filled with impressive watercraft.
Ocean City, MD
While a bit of a drive from D.C., Ocean City is well worth the journey. This scenic Maryland destination brings tourists to its large stretches of sandy shores along the Atlantic Ocean. It has a classic East Coast beach town atmosphere, with a busy three-mile-long boardwalk lined with amusement park rides and carnival games. It also has delicious seafood restaurants, excellent waters for boating and fishing, and thriving commercial areas.
Ellicott City, MD
Ellicott City has a fascinating history stretching back hundreds of years. It is home to the oldest surviving train station in the U.S. and has incredibly well-preserved buildings that date back over a century. The heart of the community, Old Ellicott City, is a vibrant downtown area home to shops, galleries, restaurants, and museums. This is also where many of the city’s numerous festivals and events are held.
Leesburg, VA
Leesburg is a charming city founded in the mid-18th century. The downtown area, filled with cafes, breweries, bars, and dining hotspots, is one of the driving attractions of Leesburg. With brick-lined sidewalks and classic-looking storefronts, Leesburg has a timeless all-American appeal.
Manassas, VA
Manassas is a pleasant city in Northern Virginia known as the site of multiple Civil War battles. This history is honored in the Manassas Museum and monuments throughout the city. Manassas is a charming suburban environment, with long, winding residential streets and leafy public parks. The historic downtown area has delicious eateries and busy local businesses.
Milton, DE
If you prefer charming small towns to bustling big cities, then Milton might be an idyllic destination for you. Milton is a tiny Delaware community that is home to around 2,600 residents. The city is located just seven miles from the vast Delaware Bay and nearby wilderness areas, including the Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge.
