Washington DC is the capital of the United States of America and is a city like no other. It is famous for its authentic local flavor, great neighborhoods, and numerous memorials and monuments. Spend the morning in this city by visiting the contemporary exhibits and farmers’ markets while afternoons can be spent visiting some of the most iconic attractions such as the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial. Go to the famous John F. Kennedy Center in the evening to catch a show before returning to your hotel. Plan your vacation well in the national capital by checking out the different types of accommodations and the best places to eat before coming here. If you have time in your hands, go for a memorable road trip, get your favorite snacks. Check out our list of the best road trips from Washington DC, USA.
1. Columbus, Ohio
Get set for an exciting road trip from Washington DC to the city of Columbus! The capital city of Ohio is a great getaway for several reasons. Satisfy your culinary cravings with delicious crème puffs and genuine bratwursts in a German Village or visit the Short North Arts District if you are an art lover. Entertainment and sports lovers should definitely explore the Arena District. If you are traveling with your family, make sure that the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium features on your travel itinerary. It is one of the city’s top things to do with its impressive collection of animals. Take a stroll in the downtown North Market to get acquainted with the local culture. Local vendors come to the market and sell an array of items, starting from fresh flowers and soft homemade bread to little eateries selling Italian, Vietnamese, Indian, Sushi, German, Nepalese, and BBQ food options.
2. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
A beautiful city on the Atlantic Coast, Myrtle Beach is a great option for a scenic road trip from Washington DC. This city is a popular vacation destination for a string of gorgeous beaches, as well as, elegant golf courses. The beachfront boardwalk of Myrtle Beach is dotted with restaurants, stands selling souvenirs, and arcades. Also, visit the famous amusement park called the Family Kingdom Amusement Park with your little ones, when you are here, and take them to one of the tallest Ferris wheels called the SkyWheel.
3. Nashville, Tennessee
Take the Ridge Parkway/Skyline Drive, which is regarded as the simplest picturesque route between Nashville and Washington DC. Downtown Nashville is a bustling area while the entire city has remnants of rich culture and history that you must explore when visiting here. Also, there are some great local restaurants in the capital city of Tennessee, where you can appease your taste buds. The outlying neighborhoods are dotted with several well-stocked bars where you can enjoy a drink or two. In short, the city has everything to assure you of having a great time.
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4. Chicago, Illinois
Another recommended road trip from Washington DC would be to Chicago, the capital city of Illinois. It offers everything one expects from any major city such as bustling shopping districts, excellent museums, as well as happening nightlife venues among others. When you are keen on learning more about this vibrant city, spend some time in the city’s Grant Park. You can begin your vacation in the city with an educational river cruise. The tour offers valuable insights into the famous skyscrapers of Chicago such as the Tribune Tower and Willis Tower. Save some money so that you do not miss out on some of the best activities in the city, such as watching your favorite game at the Wrigley Field. Shopaholics can indulge in window-shopping at The Magnificent Mile.
Washington Tour Guide
Annie Leguennec
My name is Annie. I am a local Tour guide based in Philadelphia enjoying fully what the city has to offer with its deep history, street arts, murals, architecture, traditional food, black history, Farmer Markets, green space, a melting pot of neighborhoods and its great locals. I am looking for to welcome you and show you this incredible city where you will gain a better understanding of the city's rich heritage and its continuing legacy as the birthplace of the United States of America. Book my tour. Explore and learn about this unique city where you will walk on the footsteps of our America's founding Fathers. My tours are conducted in English, French and Italian.
Tours by Annie
Washington Tour Guide
Stephanie Eley
I'm a graduate of ITMI, International Tour Management Institute and 17 years as a licensed Tour Director and Program Director. My expertise began in NYC and Washington, DC where I'm a licensed guide and has expanded to Europe, South America, Cuba and the Western / Southwestern National Parks of the US. I'd love to introduce you for a day or a week to Denver, Colorado and the 4 corners region of the US: Colorado, Utah, New Mexico and Arizona! Let's GO!! stepheley@gmail.com
Tours by Stephanie
5. Grand Rapids, Michigan
While the road trip from Washington DC to Grand Rapids, Michigan, is about an 11-hour drive, the road is pretty good and so you can enjoy a great journey. On your way, you can visit places like Pittsburgh and Cleveland, if you wish for a stopover. The culinary scene in the city is quite well-known and so are its breweries. Grand Rapids is Michigan’s second-largest city and it has been gaining immense popularity over the last couple of decades. There are various sightseeing options here, including Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, Meyer May House: and The Fish Ladder Sculpture.
6. Indianapolis, Indiana
On your road trip from Washington DC to Indianapolis, which is approximately a 10.5-hour drive, you can stop at places such as Harpers Ferry, Morgantown, Wheeling (West Virginia), Zanesville, Columbus, and Richmond (Indiana) to enjoy a comfortable and relaxed journey. Indianapolis is the capital of Indiana and it is known for several events and exhibits like the Indianapolis Museum of Art, Speedway, Children’s Museum Zoo, and historical sites. The city also boasts an excellent culinary scene, courtesy of its fresh local dairy products and meat.
7. Louisville, Kentucky
Play your favorite music as you embark on this exciting road trip from Washington DC to Louiseville, Kentucky. It happens to be the state’s largest city and was named after the French king called Louis XVI. The major claim to fame of the city is its Kentucky Derby Horse Race, which is an annual event. The event is held on the first Saturday in the month of May each year, and it allures several thousand visitors who visit the city to attend this much-awaited event. If you wish to know more about this race, explore Kentucky Derby Museum. Louisville Zoo is the perfect place to be with your children.
8. Niagara Falls, New York
A road trip from Washington DC to Niagra Falls will take you about 7.5 hours via the Interstate 83 Highway. The city is not only famous for exploring the world-famous falls but there are plenty of other exciting activities to do here. Visit Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino to try your luck or explore Oakwood Cemetery, which is the resting site for all those families who are associated with the city’s growth and well-being. Your visit to the city of Niagra Falls will be incomplete if you do not come to Old Falls Street. The street is known for its family-friendly activities, shopping centers, restaurants, and plush hotels.
9. Detroit, Michigan
You can reach Detroit from the city of Washington DC via I-76 W Highway and I-80 W Highway. The entire road trip will take you a driving time of about 8 hours and 6 minutes. Stock your car with your favorite tidbits so that there is never a dull moment on the way. Foodies will be glad to know that the city has a great culinary scene to entice its residents and tourists alike. Also, there are a lot of things to experience here, including attractions like One Campus Martius, Guardian Building, Belle Isle and more.
10. Boston, Massachusetts
The driving time between Boston and Washington DC is around 7 hours and 22 minutes if you take the I-95 N Highway. So, sit back and relax as you enjoy your favorite music while traveling and stop in between. There are so many attractions that the city offers, including its innumerable museums, harbor islands, brewery visits, and more. Hit one of the famous bars of the city in case you want to hang around with your loved ones.
Enjoy a memorable road trip from Washington DC
Road trips are a unique experience as there is so much to see and do on a long drive. If you are traveling to the national capital, there are some exciting destinations you can drive down to. Follow our list of the top road trips from Washington DC and enjoy an unforgettable vacation with dear ones.
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