Beltway Getaways: Day Trips and Weekend Escapes around Metro D.C.

By Britt Siminitz Washington, D.C., tends to inspire thoughts of monuments and museums, but for those in search of something beyond the expected—and beyond the city limits—the nation’s capital is perfectly situated for a surprisingly diverse range of memorable day trips and weekend getaways. View the Winter 2024 issue. Beaches, mountains, and charming little towns await D.C. residents and visitors, most within an hour’s drive and many within the DMV—the tristate-like area comprising D.C., MD, and VA. Below are a few standouts. HORSE COUNTRY HAVEN At the foot of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, Middleburg is a storybook small town in Virginia horse country —wine country too—with plenty for visitors any time of year, including the Red Fox Inn & Tavern (standing since 1728) and the luxe equestrian-themed Salamander Middleburg , a resort and spa opened a decade ago by BET co-founder Sheila Johnson but designed to resemble a venerable Virginia Piedmont mansion. Steps away is Market Salamander , a noteable gourmet shop and cafe. “Middleburg is an adorable, historically horsey little town. Jacqueline Kennedy and Elizabeth Taylor rode in Middleburg back in the day,” says Emili Vesilind, a Northern Virginia resident and frequent visitor. Red Fox Inn & Tavern Salamander Middleburg Resort and Spa. COASTS AND TOASTS On the Maryland side of the DMV lies Calvert County , a tidewater peninsula bordered by the Chesapeake Bay and the Patuxent River. The state’s smallest county could easily be mistaken for a summer destination, with its coastal vibe and beaches. But this is also wine and farm country , which provides ample reason to make the one-hour drive from D.C. in any season. “Calvert County has the best of both worlds—coastal living and a rich agricultural history with local farms and vineyards,” says resident Megan Vereb. “Residents and visitors can enjoy farmers markets, sunset cruises, holiday boat parades, wine tasting, and more.” Visit Calvert Cliffs State Park to marvel at towering cliffs thought to have formed 10 million+ years ago. The tranquil off-season is ideal for a trail walk at the base. Beach and cliffs on the Chesapeake Bay at Calvert Cliffs State Park, Maryland. (Photo: JON BILOUSSHUTTERSTOCK) HEAD FOR THE MOUNTAINS Though not within the DMV, Whitetail Resort in Mercersburg, PA, and Liberty Mountain Resort in Fairfield, PA, offer winter sports galore just a 1.5-hour drive from D.C. A season pass includes access to both resorts. Liberty is 20 minutes from Gettysburg , so those who don’t care to hit the slopes can enjoy the town’s historic attractions.