A Guide to My Favorite D.C. Weekend Getaways

Virginia Wine Country (About an hour drive from D.C.)

About an hour outside of D.C. is my favorite weekend getaway, wineries galore! Loudoun County alone has over 50 wineries to choose from, with my favorite being Stone Tower. Leesburg’s downtown area is the most picturesque area with fantastic dining and boutiques. Start your day at Buford’s Biscuits and end with dinner at Lightfoot. Another option is to stroll over to Middleburg and spoil yourself at the Salamander Resort and Spa. Whether you spend time at the spa, or just want to sit out on the lawn with some wine, the Salamander does not disappoint!

Baltimore, Maryland (About an hour drive from D.C.)

I lived in Baltimore for about four years, and there is a lot “Charm City” has to offer. Whether going to the National Aquarium, catching an Orioles game at Camden Yards or visiting Fort McHenry, Baltimore makes for an enjoyable weekend trip. Spend the night at either the Four Season Baltimore or the Sagamore Pendry Baltimore for a view of the harbor. No trip to Baltimore is complete without a crab cake, so make sure to get one from Pappas Restaurant!

Annapolis, Maryland (About an hour drive from D.C.)

Take a stroll down King St and enjoy the boutiques and restaurants the downtown area has to offer. Maryland’s state capital is home to the Naval Academy and the Capitol with the longest continuous legislative usage. Grab a homemade pop-tart from Iron Rooster or a sandwich from the famous Chick & Ruth’s before spending the afternoon sailing on the Chesapeake Bay. Spend the night with a balcony room overlooking the water at the Annapolis Waterfront Hotel.

Richmond, Virginia (About a two hour drive from D.C.)

Down 395 is Virginia’s State Capital, Richmond. For any history lovers, the Capital of the Confederacy is rich in Civil War museums and exhibits. For all the foodies, Richmond has many amazing southern restaurants, as well as over 30 craft breweries. If you want to shop, you do not want to pass up an opportunity to walk the streets of Carytown. A stay at the historic Jefferson Hotel completes this getaway!

Williamsburg, Virginia (About a three hour drive from D.C.)

Want to know what it was like to live in colonial times? Then you cannot miss Colonial Williamsburg! As the world’s largest living history museum, you can explore the amazingly preserved town and learn how people in the 18th century lived. Go on a ghost tour or shoot a musket. Eat at a tavern that has existed for hundreds of years. Then sleep at the Williamsburg Inn and indulge in the elegance that awaits you there!

The Omni Homestead (About a four hour drive from D.C.)

The Omni Homestead is the country’s oldest resort and has seen the likes of 23 Presidents, including George Washington. The Homestead is a destination in itself! This year-round resort offers over 20 activities to fill your time. Whether you want to enjoy horseback riding, hiking, golfing, relaxing at the spa and hot springs, or simply sitting by the large fireplaces in the lobby sipping on a drink, there is something for everyone. It might be a little further than some of the other options, but you will love every minute spent here!