Day Trip in Washington DC

A trip through the United States capital city can be a whirlwind of historical landmarks and sightseeing. Washington DC day trips offer views of some of the most prominent buildings in United States history, and Washington DC day tours can also be incredibly informative. Since there is so much to see in the city, Washington DC day trips through the downtown and historic districts have been broken into two separate day trips.

The Capitol

Start at the Capitol Building, and leave time to enjoy the structure thoroughly. Next, head over to the Supreme Court building, followed by the Library of Congress, the Folger Shakespeare Library and Garden, the US Botanic Garden, and the National Gallery of Art. After enjoying some lunch, spend the rest of the afternoon at the National Postal Museum and Union Station. You can also save your tour of the Washington Monument for last. Moonlight Tours of the monument are available nightly, and many travelers feel that the monument is actually most impressive when viewed by the evening light.

Smithsonian

Washington DC day trips for travelers interested in checking out the famous Smithsonian Museum can center on the enormous museum and all of the thousands upon thousands of artifacts housed in its archives. Although this may take much of a day, travelers can also visit the nearby Hirshhorn Museum Sculpture Garden, the National Air and Space Museum, and National Archives on their Washington DC day tours. Washington DC day tours can also continue along to the International Spy Museum, if you still have energy left from the busy day.

Annapolis

A perfect day trip from Washington DC, the city of Annapolis features more than 1,500 restored and preserved buildings. A walking tour of the area is often the best way to see all of the great downtown attractions in the city. On this day trip from Washington DC, be sure to stop by the Chase Lloyd-House, the Hammond-Harwood House, the William Paca House, the State House and the U.S. Naval Academy. There is also some unique shopping to enjoy in Annapolis, including the Pennsylvania Dutch Farmers Market and the Annapolis Harbour Center.

Harpers Ferry

A popular day trip from Washington DC is a trip to Harper’s Ferry. Located in West Virginia, Harpers Ferry is the historic site of John Brown’s attempt to incite a slave riot. Although the attempt was unsuccessful, the town remains a memorable site for this reason and many others. The Gettysburg National Park and Antietam National Battlefield are both located nearby and are favorites for touring, as well. Mother Seton’s Shrine and the Rose Hill Manor are also popular attractions in Harpers Ferry.

Although there is quite a lot to fit into a trip to Washington DC, a trip to almost anywhere in the area will be well worth the time taken to get there.