Need a quick escape from the city? Come along as I venture beyond Baltimore to discover day trips filled with waterfront charm, historic landmarks, and relaxing nature escapes—all just a short drive from the city’s bustle. "Whether you're into history, small-town charm, or scenic shorelines, Baltimore is surrounded by day trip gems that are easy to reach and full of character."
If you are in a hurry, I recommend:
Unique Day Trips from Baltimore:
1. Washington DC - 1 hour from Baltimore
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Location:
Washington, D.C.Highlights:
If you’re even thinking about a meaningful day trip or weekend getaway from Baltimore, we’d say—head straight for Washington, D.C.. Just a short drive away, it’s the perfect place to dive into American history while enjoying big-city vibes.Recommended For:
History buffs, museum lovers, families, foodies, and anyone seeking culture, learning, and entertainment all in one stop.What I Love: ♥
Iconic monuments around every corner, free museums, vibrant dining scenes, and the feeling that you’re walking through the chapters of a history book.- See historic sites like The White House, The Washington Monument, The Lincoln Memorial, and Ford’s Theatre.
- Explore powerful exhibits at The Smithsonian museums, The National Holocaust Museum, and the United States Botanic Gardens.
- Stroll through the charming downtown and shop, dine, or catch a live show at one of many cultural venues.
- Take a guided tour of the Pentagon, or venture out to Mount Vernon or the Historic Congressional Cemetery.
Distance from Baltimore:
Expect the drive to take around 1 hour depending on traffic.How to Get to Washington, D.C.:
Take I-95 South or the MARC Train from Baltimore Penn Station to D.C.’s Union Station for a car-free alternative.2. American Visionary Art Museum - 1 hour from Baltimore
© American Visionary Art Museum
Location:
Baltimore, MDHighlights:
If you’re craving something colorful, surprising, and deeply human, don’t miss the American Visionary Art Museum (AVAM) . It’s one of those rare places that makes you feel inspired, delighted, and maybe even a little transformed.Recommended For:
Creative souls, families, art lovers, curious travelers, and anyone who appreciates the power of raw, visionary creativity.What I Love: ♥
Ever-changing exhibits, a focus on self-taught artists, hands-on workshops, and the museum’s quirky, joyful energy.- Discover art by visionary, self-taught creators in rotating exhibits pulled from AVAM’s permanent collection and traveling shows.
- Join workshops, classes, and thought-provoking special events designed for curious minds of all ages.
- Host unforgettable private events—weddings, corporate gatherings, or fundraisers—in one of the museum’s uniquely artistic spaces.
- Arrive by land or take the scenic route via Baltimore’s water taxi system for an extra bit of fun.
Distance from Washington, D.C.:
About a 1-hour drive from central D.C., making this an easy day trip for visitors coming from the capital.How to Get to AVAM:
From downtown Baltimore, head toward the Inner Harbor and follow Key Highway to 800 Key Highway. The museum is accessible by car, public transit, or water taxi.3. Annapolis - just 45 minutes from Baltimore
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Location:
Annapolis, MDHighlights:
Looking for a quick escape that’s charming, historic, and full of waterfront fun? Annapolis is just the spot—close to Baltimore, but it feels like a world away.Recommended For:
History lovers, sailing enthusiasts, families, and couples looking for a scenic Chesapeake Bay getaway.What I Love: ♥
Political history that shaped the nation, stunning waterfront views, lively festivals, and access to unique cultural experiences all year round.- Tour historic landmarks like The Maryland State House and the United States Naval Academy to get a true taste of America’s roots.
- Explore history, science, and culture at Annapolis’ many museums and visitor centers.
- Sail or kayak on the Chesapeake Bay, or just relax with a harbor view and some fresh seafood.
- Attend seasonal festivals and specialty tours that bring Annapolis’ vibrant local culture to life.
Distance from Baltimore:
Expect the drive to take around 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic.How to Get to Annapolis:
From Baltimore, take I-97 South directly to Route 50 East toward Annapolis. Follow signs into the historic downtown and waterfront area.4. Antietam National Battlefield - 1 hour and 30 minutes by car
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Location:
Sharpsburg, MDHighlights:
If you're in the mood for a powerful, thought-provoking day trip, we highly recommend Antietam National Battlefield. It’s a deeply moving site where history feels tangible and every step tells a story.Recommended For:
History lovers, Civil War buffs, educators, families, and anyone interested in America’s past and its turning points.What I Love: ♥
Well-preserved grounds, sobering landmarks like Bloody Lane and Burnside Bridge, and a visitor center filled with insightful exhibits and context.- Walk the historic battlefield where over 23,000 soldiers fought and died in just one day—September 17, 1862.
- Visit key landmarks including Dunker Church, Bloody Lane, Burnside Bridge, and the Antietam National Cemetery.
- Learn about the battle’s pivotal role in U.S. history through the visitor center’s exhibits and interpretive programs.
- Note: Some historic buildings are only open seasonally—mostly during summer and weekends—so check ahead if you want to go inside.
Distance from Baltimore:
About 1 hour and 30 minutes by car, depending on traffic.How to Get to Antietam:
Take I-70 West from Baltimore, then follow MD-65 South toward Sharpsburg. Follow the signs for Antietam National Battlefield once in town.Romantic Day Trips from Baltimore:
5. Appalachian Trail Museum
© Appalachian Trail Museum
Location:
Gardners, PAHighlights:
Want to step into the rich history of one of America’s most iconic hiking trails? The Appalachian Trail Museum is a hidden gem nestled in Pine Grove Furnace State Park that blends outdoor beauty with inspiring stories.Recommended For:
Outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, families, history lovers, and curious travelers exploring the Appalachian region.What I Love: ♥
A trail shelter built by Earl Shaffer, thousands of trail photos, kid-friendly discovery zones, and the cozy, rustic vibe of a 200-year-old grist mill.- See historic exhibits chronicling the Appalachian Trail, including hiker photos and memorabilia from Harpers Ferry and beyond.
- Visit the Earl Shaffer shelter and explore the research library to dive deeper into trail lore.
- Hike the trail sections near the museum and bring the kids to enjoy the interactive Children’s Discovery Area.
- Explore the nearby Pine Grove General Store, Ironmasters Mansion, and Old Mill for a full day of park and cultural experiences.
- Browse digital archives and exhibits online if you can’t make it in person.
Distance from Baltimore:
Around 1 hour and 45 minutes by car.How to Get to the Appalachian Trail Museum:
From Baltimore, take I-83 North to US-15 North. Follow signs to Pine Grove Furnace State Park. The museum is located at 1120 Pine Grove Road, directly across from the Pine Grove General Store.6. Assateague State Park - 2 hours and 45 minutes by car
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Location:
Assateague Island, MDHighlights:
If your family loves the outdoors, beach days, and maybe spotting a wild horse or two, Assateague State Park is the ultimate coastal escape. It’s where natural beauty and family fun meet on Maryland’s only oceanfront state park.Recommended For:
Families, nature lovers, beachgoers, wildlife watchers, paddlers, and anyone who enjoys active time by the water.What I Love: ♥
Wild horses roaming free, endless outdoor activities, scenic trails, and the peaceful blend of ocean, marsh, and forest.- Spot wild horses in their natural habitat as you explore the island’s beaches, marshes, and forests.
- Enjoy outdoor fun like hiking, biking, kayaking, fishing, clamming, and swimming right off the Atlantic shore.
- Visit two visitor centers: Toms Cove on the Virginia side and the Assateague Island Visitor Center near the Verrazano Bridge in Maryland.
- Camp overnight right near the dunes—perfect for starry skies and sunrise walks on the beach.
Distance from Baltimore:
Around 2 hours and 45 minutes by car.How to Get to Assateague State Park:
Take US-50 East to MD-611 South toward Assateague Island. Cross the Verrazano Bridge and follow signs into the park. The Maryland visitor center is right before the bridge entrance.7. Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge - 2 hours by car
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Location:
Cambridge, MDHighlights:
Need a peaceful nature escape with serious wildlife-watching potential? Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge is a hidden gem on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, perfect for spotting bald eagles, paddling through marshes, or simply soaking in the stillness.Recommended For:
Birders, photographers, nature lovers, families, cyclists, and anyone who enjoys quiet beauty and rich biodiversity.What I Love: ♥
Massive flocks of migrating birds, eagle nests live-streamed at the visitor center, and the rare chance to see Delmarva fox squirrels in the wild.- Explore diverse habitats—marsh, shallow water, and forest—across 1/3 of Maryland’s tidal wetlands.
- Spot bald eagles, osprey, herons, and other wildlife from the upper deck observation area or while walking several scenic trails.
- Visit the nature-rich visitor center featuring exhibits, a library, and nest cams, plus a butterfly garden and gift shop.
- Enjoy activities like hunting (with permit), fishing, crabbing, biking, and guided environmental education programs.
Distance from Baltimore:
About 2 hours by car.How to Get to Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge:
Take US-50 East toward Cambridge. Once in town, follow signs south on MD-16 and Key Wallace Drive. The refuge is located at 2145 Key Wallace Drive.Family Day Trips from Baltimore:
8. Calvert Cliffs State Park
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Location:
Lusby, MDHighlights:
Feel like digging up a little adventure? Calvert Cliffs State Park is the perfect blend of science, nature, and sandy beach fun—just right for curious kids and fossil-hunting grown-ups.Recommended For:
Families, amateur paleontologists, hikers, swimmers, and anyone who enjoys combining outdoor play with prehistoric wonders.What I Love: ♥
Fossil-filled beaches, towering cliffs from 20 million years ago, and the peaceful trails through marsh and woodland terrain.- Hike the Red Trail to the beach where you can hunt for fossils of sharks, whales, stingrays, and even giant bird species.
- Relax on sandy shores, swim in the bay, or cast a line in designated fishing spots.
- Play on a unique playground built from recycled tires—great for younger visitors to burn off energy.
- Explore 13 miles of trails through tidal marshes, woodlands, and freshwater habitats teeming with wildlife.
- Picnic under shaded shelters or camp overnight with youth groups for a more immersive outdoor experience.
Distance from Baltimore:
About 1 hour and 45 minutes by car.How to Get to Calvert Cliffs State Park:
Take I-97 South to MD-2 South, then connect to MD-4 South toward Lusby. Follow park signs to the entrance off of MD-765.9. Cape May - 2.5 to 3 hours by car from Baltimore
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Location:
Cape May, NJHighlights:
Craving a breezy beach getaway with storybook charm and serious dining cred? Cape May is the perfect mix of historic elegance, seaside fun, and coastal relaxation.Recommended For:
Couples, families, architecture lovers, spa-goers, beach bums, and foodies seeking an upscale-yet-laid-back coastal escape.What I Love: ♥
Victorian charm everywhere you look, gorgeous beaches, world-class oceanfront dining, and relaxing bike rides through the historic district.- Tour the Cape May Historic District, a stunning collection of preserved Victorian architecture listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
- Relax on some of the cleanest, most charming beaches on the Jersey Shore, or unwind at a local spa.
- Ride a trolley or rent a bike to explore the town, lighthouse, museums, and boutique shops with ease.
- Stay in cozy B&Bs, seaside hotels, or charming guest houses to make it a full weekend retreat.
Distance from Baltimore:
About 2.5 to 3 hours by car, depending on route and ferry connections.How to Get to Cape May:
Drive via I-95 North and the Garden State Parkway, or take the scenic route using the Cape May–Lewes Ferry. Public transit options include buses and regional flights into nearby airports.10. Chesapeake Beach - 1 hour and 15 minutes from Baltimore
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Location:
Chesapeake Beach, MDHighlights:
Want a quiet seaside town with history, charm, and splashy family fun? Chesapeake Beach is a breezy, bayside escape just under an hour from Baltimore and full of waterfront activities and small-town warmth.Recommended For:
Families, boaters, history lovers, festival-goers, and anyone looking for a low-key day by the bay.What I Love: ♥
Bay views, the fun-filled water park, a rich rail-era history, and friendly vibes from Chesapeake Beach and neighboring North Beach communities.- Learn about the town’s resort history at the Chesapeake Beach Railway Museum, originally tied to the Chesapeake Bay Railway Company.
- Play at the Chesapeake Beach Water Park—perfect for cooling off with the kids during summer months.
- Enjoy boating and fishing from the full-service marina or take a relaxing stroll through Veterans Memorial Park.
- Dine at oceanfront restaurants with bay views and catch seasonal festivals that bring the community together.
Distance from Baltimore:
Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes by car.How to Get to Chesapeake Beach:
Take I-97 South to MD-2 South, then continue on MD-260 East straight into Chesapeake Beach. Ample parking and walkable streets make it easy to explore once you arrive.📔 I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
- Q: What is Baltimore known for?
- A: Baltimore is one of the most iconic cities in America, known for its harbors, John Hopkins Hospital, and deep-rooted American history dating back to its settlement in the early 17th century.
- Q: What makes Baltimore a great place to stay for a visit?
- A: One of the best things about Baltimore is how easy it is to take a day trip to other great places around the city during your extended stay.
Best Time for Day Trips from Baltimore, Maryland
- April to June – Ideal for mild weather, blooming gardens, and waterfront adventures.
- September to October – Perfect for fall foliage, scenic drives, and vineyard tours.
- July & August – Warm summer days great for beach trips, boating, and historical tours.
- November – Enjoy cooler weather and fewer crowds at cultural and historical sites.
- December to March – Cold but great for cozy getaways, indoor museums, and festive events.
Plan Your Trip