Despite its relatively small size, Maryland is a state that doesn’t disappoint when it comes to historical landmarks, picture-perfect landscapes, and relaxing country roads that wind for miles through forests, mountains, rivers, and farmlands.  

There’s nothing better than taking an afternoon or weekend to explore somewhere new, and Maryland is full of hidden gems just waiting to be discovered, all easy road trips from Washington DC.

Add these six scenic drives in Maryland to your calendar and embark on your next family adventure.  

6 Scenic Drives In Maryland 

1. Scenic Drives in Maryland:  Mountain Maryland Byway – Keysers Ridge to Cumberland  

• Distance: 193 miles 
• Time needed: 5-7 hours/2-3 days 

Experience the sweeping beauty of Maryland’s Western Mountains as you travel along the Mountain Maryland Byway. You can add this to your Maryland road trip itinerary, carve out an afternoon, or even take a day to explore miles of natural beauty.  

Begin your drive at Keysers Ridge, one of Maryland’s most scenic mountain peaks. From there, you can access a vast area of state parks and state forest land near Grantsville or take a winery tour in Friendsville. White-water rafting enthusiasts will also love the opportunities along the Youghiogheny River.  

The Wisp Resort in McHenry is an adventure lover’s paradise. The resort offers a wide range of winter activities, such as snowboarding, skiing, and snow tubing. In the summer, fly through the air on a tree-top zipline tour, or hit a few rounds of golf. There are also multiple state parks along the route, such as Deep Creek Lake State Park and Swallow Falls State Park.  

There is something for everyone along this, making it one of the best Maryland scenic routes to visit year-round.

Pro Tip: Are you a serious hiker? If so, try hiking to the top of Backbone Mountain, Maryland’s highest point!  

When to go: Mountain Maryland Byway has something to offer visitors during every season, depending on your interests.  

2. Scenic Drives in Maryland: Chesapeake and Ohio Canal  – Hancock to Cumberland (MD 144 & MD 51) 

• Distance: 57 miles 
• Time needed: 2 hours/1 day 

This section of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Scenic Byway is the perfect way to spend a long afternoon, or you can easily spend the day exploring all that Hancock and Cumberland offer. There are plenty of sightseeing and outdoor activities to enjoy, making it an ideal route for families and individuals alike.  

The Paw Paw Tunnel is one of the highlights of your route. This historic tunnel is an engineering marvel, cutting through over 3,000 feet of rock. If you enjoy biking, be sure to visit the nearby Green Ridge State Forest. It has miles of off-road biking opportunities and is also renowned for its wildlife.  

End your drive in Cumberland, where endless culinary options await you. The 1812 Brewery and Queen City Creamery & Deli are just a few delicious options. After enjoying your meal, make time to visit the C&O Canal National Historical Park and Canal Place Heritage Area. You can take a boat tour, go shopping, or walk the Great Allegheny Passage Trail.  

When to go: We recommend taking this Maryland scenic drive in late spring, summer, or early fall. 

3. Scenic Drives in Maryland: Historic National Road  – Baltimore, MD to Keysers Ridge, MD 

• Distance: 170 miles 
• Time needed: 4-6 hours/2-3 days 

Famously known as “The Road That Built the Nation,” this portion of the Historic National Road stretches from the busy city streets of Baltimore to Pennsylvania’s state line.  There is much to see and do along the route, and you can easily spend a long weekend exploring the sights.  

If you’re beginning your drive in Baltimore, you’ll start along Lombard Street, the original start of the National Road. Boston’s Inner Harbor holds the perfect mix of shopping and dining spots. Visit historic sites like the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad Museum before traveling west to charming towns like Catonsville and Oella.  

Set aside a few hours to explore the iconic town of Frederick, where you can wander down Main Street, admire the century-old architecture, and take a tour of the National Museum of Civil War Medicine. If you wish, get some rest and relaxation at one of Frederick’s bed and breakfasts before moving on.  

Nature enthusiasts will love taking a detour to hike or bike through Fort Frederick State Park before reaching Cumberland, another town full of exciting things to see and do. You can ride a steam-powered train on the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad, visit the Toll Gate House in LaVale, and cross the Casselman River Bridge.  

When to go: You can travel the Historic National Road at any time of year.  

4. Scenic Drives in Maryland: Antietam Campaign  – White’s Ferry, MD to Sharpsburg, MD  

• Distance: 126 miles 
• Time needed: 3-4 hours/1-2 days 

Step back in time and journey over the historical land where the Battle of Antietam, a major Civil War conflict, was fought. You can easily make this drive in one day, and it’s the ideal way to spend a late summer or fall day walking in the footsteps of the thousands of both Union and Confederate soldiers.  

In September 1862, Confederate soldiers crossed into Maryland near White’s Ferry, where they fought against the Union in Poolesville. There, you can access several Civil War exhibits inside the John Poole House. As you travel north a few miles, you’ll reach the Monocacy National Battlefield, also known as the site of “The Battle That Saved Washington.”  

After driving through Frederick and beyond Braddock Heights, you’ll encounter South Mountain Battlefield Park, where intense battles were fought three days before the Battle of Antietam. This area is home to many historically significant buildings, and you can also take a tour of the Antietam National Battlefield.  

Pro Tip: December’s Antietam Memorial Illumination is a sight to behold, with 23,000 lights placed along a five-mile driving route.  

When to go: This Maryland scenic byway is enjoyable any time of year, and it’s worth checking out annual events happening in the area.  

5. Scenic Drives in Maryland: Old Main Streets  – Emmitsburg, MD to Mount Airy, MD (US 15, MD 77, MD 75 & MD 26) 

• Distance: 85 miles 
• Time needed: 2-3 hours/1-2 days 

If we could use one word to describe this Maryland scenic byway, it would be “local.” Winding country roads connect Emmitsburg, Westminster, and Mount Airy, where you’re invited to savor the local fare, explore local shops, and visit several local vineyards. We suggest spending a day (at least) to experience all that Old Main Streets has on offer.  

If you enjoy learning about local history, add the National Shrine of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton in Emmitsburg to your must-see list. As you travel south along US 15, stop for a hike or a picnic at Catoctin Mountain National Park or Cunningham Falls State Park. You can also view several mid-19th-century bridges in the area.  

Wine enthusiasts will love touring the three vineyards in Mount Airy, and this storybook hamlet is the perfect romantic getaway for couples. Next, you’ll head north to New Windsor and Uniontown. Take walking tours of Civil War-era homes, admire Victorian architecture, and browse local antique shops.   

When to go: Although you can travel the Old Main Streets any time of year, it’s the most fun to browse local shops and vineyards in summer and fall, when you can enjoy the Maryland scenery at its best. 

6. Scenic Drives in Maryland: Mason and Dixon Scenic Byway – Westminster, MD to Appleton, MD (US 15, MD 97, MD 25, MD 136, US 1 & MD 273)  

• Distance: 143 miles 
• Time needed: 3-5 hours/1-2 days 

You might have heard of the Mason-Dixon Line, but this rural Maryland scenic byway brings the story to life. This winding drive south of the Pennsylvania border is full of pastoral farmlands and historical sites that capture the purpose and spirit of 19th-century Americans.  

You’ll begin your journey in Westminster, where early farmers got their start, and Civil War soldiers stopped on their march to the Battle of Gettysburg. As you travel on, make sure to stop in Manchester, where you can sip the fruit of the vine at a family-owned vineyard.  

The Torrey C. Brown Rail Trail is another interesting stop. This 20-mile stone-dust path was once a railroad bed that ran from Hunt Valley to the Mason-Dixon Line. Pro Tip: Rent bikes from a local vendor to bike the length of the trail. After that, move on to the Conowingo Hydroelectric Plant, one of the nation’s biggest hydroelectric generating stations. It spans the Lower Susquehanna River, where you can also fish for small-mouth bass and watch for local wildlife.  

From there, you’ll move on to the rural area between Harkins and Appleton. These towns are well-known for their farm stands, hayrides, and corn mazes in the fall. If you’re traveling with kids, make sure to visit Rising Sun. They can see the many species of animals at Plumpton Park Zoo and even feed the giraffes!  

When to go: We recommend exploring this Maryland scenic byway in the summer and early fall, as the fall foliage is splendid to view!  

Explore More of the East Coast

Looking to enjoy more scenic drives and family vacations on the East Coast? You may want to check out the following:

Interesting Scenic Drives in New Jersey
Pennsylvania’s Spectacular Scenic Drives
Incredible Delaware Scenic Drives
Easy Driving Vacations From NJ

© Family Road Trip 2026

The post 6 Scenic Drives in Maryland You Won’t Want to Miss  appeared first on Family Road Trip.

One of the best things about living in or near Washington, D.C., is how close it is to so many other fascinating destinations on the US east coast. The beauty is you can take countless Washington DC day trips that only take one or two days at a time.  

Whether you love history, art, museums, and nature or are looking for family-friendly DC day trips, there’s something for everyone. Many popular locations are only a few hours away at most, so you can leave in the morning, spend a day exploring, and return home in the evening.  

Are you ready for your next adventure? Read on to discover the best day trips from DC and start planning your next trip!  

Best Road Trips from Washington D.C.  

1. Monticello, Virginia   

Distance from Washington D.C. ~ via I-95 S (2 hours 18 minutes) 

Experience the ideal Washington, D.C. weekend getaway when you visit Monticello in Charlottesville, Virginia. This architectural masterpiece was the home of Thomas Jefferson, the third president of the United States and author of the Declaration of Independence.  

There are many exciting things to see and do at Monticello, which is why we encourage you to spend at least one full day there. First, take a tour through the house itself, which Thomas Jefferson built and rebuilt over the span of 40 years. Experience breathtaking scenery, such as the “nickel view,” which has been engraved on the nickel since 1938!  

Many other experiences also await you, like Jefferson’s famous botanical gardens, the Life of Sally Hemings exhibit, interactive tours through the slaves’ quarters, and more. Visitors can explore the house and grounds on their own with an audio tour or take a guided tour with a professional guide. 

Admission Fee: Fees vary based on the type of tour you prefer – you can find all ticket information here. 

Pro Tip: Set aside at least three hours to explore all that Monticello offers. Since you will be spending a good portion of your time outside, we recommend that you avoid going during the heat of summer.  

2. Richmond, Virginia 

Distance from Washington D.C. ~ via I-95 S  (1 hour, 45 minutes) 

Visiting Richmond is another one of our favorite Washington DC day trips, as it’s filled with diverse activities for both individuals and families. There are endless historical sites, museums, restaurants, and activities for all to enjoy.  

If you’re traveling with kids, spending a day at King’s Dominion is a must. This all-inclusive theme park has more than 60 rides (including a 4D spin coaster), a 20-acre water park, and more. Richmond also has many outdoor activities, such as rock climbing, hiking the 52-mile Virginia Capital Trail, or white water rafting on the James River.  

History buffs will love visiting iconic landmarks like Malvern Hill Battlefield, Henricus History Park (where Pocahontas lived), and the American Civil War Museum. You can also walk the Richmond Slave Trail, explore the Hanover Courthouse, Hanover Tavern, and much more.  

Going on a day trip from DC doesn’t mean you have to spend lots of money. There are many free and inexpensive destinations in Richmond for families to experience, like Ashland Berry Farm, Belle Isle, and numerous parks and museums.  

3. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia 

Distance from Washington D.C. ~ via I-66 W (1 hour, 40 minutes) 

One of the best Washington DC day trips you can take during the fall is to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. The temperatures are crisp from late September through November, and the foliage is gorgeous – one of the best US National Parks to visit in the fall. Vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows frame every walking path and transform the park into an autumn wonderland.  

Shenandoah National Park has much to offer, regardless of when you decide to visit. The 300-square-mile area is filled with breathtaking panoramic views on Skyline Drive. This 105-mile Virginia scenic drive takes you the length of the entire park and offers numerous photo opportunities along the way. There are also tumbling waterfalls to discover and miles of hiking trails for both amateur and experienced hikers.  

If you’re planning on spending a few days in Shenandoah, there is no shortage of places to stay. This popular east coast national park has many different campgrounds, cabins, and lodges in various locations, perfect for both small and large groups.  

Park Entry Fees: $30 for single vehicle/$15 per individual person (on foot or bicycling)  

4. National Aquarium, Maryland 

Distance from Washington D.C. ~ via I-95 N (1 hour, 9 minutes) 

Visit one of the nation’s top three aquariums in Maryland and take a journey to an underwater world! The National Aquarium in Maryland is only about an hour away (depending on traffic), and it’s the perfect option for families who are looking for day trips near DC.  

Children will love interacting with thousands of different species in spectacular habitats, including sharks, dolphins, crocodiles, exotic fish, birds, and more. As you walk through the aquarium, you can participate in interactive animal exhibits, lessons from sealife experts, and 4D films. There are also special tours during the week and at different times throughout the year.  

Take a break and stop at one of the aquarium’s two restaurants for a bite to eat. Or you can enjoy a meal at a nearby restaurant – just make sure you get your hand stamped before you leave!  

Admission Fee: $39.95 for adults, $29.95 for children (ages 3-11), and free for children (ages two and under)  

Pro Tip: Don’t miss the award-winning Blacktip Reef, an exhibit that features fascinating creatures, including whiptail rays, zebra sharks, blacktip reef sharks, and others.  

5. Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park, Maryland 

Distance from Washington D.C. ~ via I-270 N & I-70 W (1 hour, 17 minutes) 

Become one of over 5 million visitors that experience the wonders within this historical national park each and every year. If you’d like to spend a day trip from DC out in nature, you’ll love this scenic drive in Maryland. There are over 180 miles of recreational, educational, and historical attractions to enjoy.  

You and your family can visit the C&O Canal Park year-round, and you can even bring your dog with you for the day! The park has more than 600 points of interest, so there is always something new to explore, whether you’re interested in hiking, camping, or sightseeing. One of the most popular trails is Section A of the Billy Goat Trail.

If you plan on staying the night, why not spend it in a historical lockhouse? Each of the seven lockhouses can sleep up to 8 people, but choose wisely – some lockhouses have all the amenities, and others lack electricity and heating. If you wish to avoid the 1800s experience, we recommend avoiding those!  

Park Entry Fee for Great Falls: $20 per vehicle/$10 per person on-foot or bicycling  

Pro Tip: Arrive early in the day to avoid crowds. 

6. Antietam National Battlefield, Maryland 

Distance from Washington D.C. ~ via I-270 N (1 hour, 27 minutes) 

Antietam National Battlefield is a must-see for those interested in America’s Civil War. On September 17, 1862, over 23,000 soldiers died on what is known as the bloodiest day in American history. Antietam is now a national park that offers its visitors many exciting and educational experiences. 

Begin your visit at the newly renovated visitor center, which is open year-round. The visitor center features a small exhibit and gift shop. Next, explore Dunker Church and walk down Bloody Lane, where Union and Confederate soldiers fought for almost four hours over a 1000-yard portion of Sunken Road.  

You can also stroll across Burnside Bridge, climb to the top of the Observation Tower, and explore Philip Pry Farm. If you visit during the summer or on weekends during the spring and fall,  the Newcomer House and the Pry House Field Hospital Museum are also accessible.  

Admission Fee: $10 per individual/$20 per vehicle  

7. Ocean City Beach, Maryland 

Distance from Washington D.C. ~ via US-50 E (2 hours 52 minutes) 

Voted one of the nation’s Top 10 Beaches by TripAdvisor, Ocean City Beach features 10 miles of beautiful shoreline. It’s an excellent destination for families, where all can enjoy swimming, boating, and sunbathing. Ocean Beach’s waves are also popular with surfers, and your kids will also enjoy boogie boarding!  

Ocean Beach also has much to offer aside from its gorgeous beaches. You can bike or walk along the three-mile boardwalk, which is lined with various stores, arcades, and eye-catching amusements. You can also find many free activities during the summer, like fireworks, movies, concerts, and ice cream. 

If you have extra time, enjoy a bite to eat at one of Ocean City’s many delicious restaurants. Savor fresh seafood and boardwalk fries near the beach, or sip a cold craft beer at one of the local brewpubs. If you enjoy rollerblading or skateboarding, you can visit Ocean City Skate Bowl Park or Northside Park.  

Pro Tip: There is so much to see and do in Ocean City, so plan your trip in advance and make it an overnighter if you can! 

8. Loudoun County, Virginia 

Distance from Washington D.C. ~ via VA-267 W (57 minutes) 

Loudoun County is a wine-lovers paradise, with over 40 wineries and tasting rooms less than an hour away from D.C. It’s also home to around 30 craft breweries, cideries, and meaderies. You can easily spend several days savoring all that Loudoun County offers, and it’s well worth a few repeat trips.  

Loudoun County is also one of the best Washington DC day trips for nature enthusiasts, containing beautiful parks like Morven Park, Ball’s Bluff Battlefield Regional Park, and Ashburn Park. Of course, there’s something for history lovers as well, including the National Sporting Library & Museum, Winmill Carriage Museum, Oatlands Historic House and Gardens, and more.  

If you’re traveling in the fall, why not take the Loudoun Fall Farm Tour? This free self-guided driving tour takes you to unique places like Blooming Hill Lavender Farm, Double 8 Alpaca & Llama Ranch, and the Loudoun Heritage Farm Museum.  

We hope you’ve found something in this selection of Washington DC day trips your family will enjoy. Let us know all about your plans in the comment section below! 

© Family Road Trip 2026

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