With school ending for seniors on May 26th, graduation on June 7th, and beach week on June 10th, we are left with an awkward gap of time where most aren’t starting a job or going away, but have a lot of time on their hands. This can be the perfect time for a day trip. Below are some destinations within a short ride from Bethesda that are sure to be plenty of fun without the bore of a long trip. 

Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia

This historic city at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers is home to artifacts from abolitionist John Brown’s famous raid, scenic bridges, train tracks, a major stopping point on the Appalachian trail, and some of the region’s best hiking trails. The best part is you don’t even need to drive! Simply hop on the MARC Brunswick line train at either Silver Spring or Kensington and hop off one hour later!

Annapolis, Maryland

Our state capital, Annapolis, is famous for the state house, the Chesapeake Bay, and the Naval Academy. In addition to these, going to the closest beach at Sandy Point State Park and a crab cake at one of the city’s many waterfront seafood restaurants makes Annapolis worth the short hour visit. 

Skyline Drive, Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Famous Skyline Drive, which bisects Shenandoah National Park, is a famous winding road through the Blue Ridge and Appalachian mountains within the park. While most roads traverse mountains by going around them, Skyline Drive is known for cutting right through the belly of the range. Simply get on skyline drive in Fort Royal, Va, and drive until you feel like getting off. Of course, make sure to stop at the scenic outlooks and hiking trails too! Senior Luka Djurkovic, who visited the park, recalls “I liked Shenandoah a lot, especially the trails running by the creeks where there were some natural water slides.”

Charlottesville, Virginia

On the opposite end of Shenandoah National Park is Charlottesville, VA. This medium-size city is home to one of the largest (and most aesthetically pleasing) pedestrian streets in the country, founding father and third president Thomas Jefferson’s famed homestead Monticello, and the University of Virginia’s famously beautiful campus. This destination is a great choice for those without cars, as Amtrak offers regular service between Union Station and Charlottesville.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Just a two-hour train ride or car ride up I-95, you’ll find Philadelphia. Although many of you may have gone on the history field trip exploring the Old City where the Constitutional Convention was held and the Liberty Bell was cracked, Philadelphia holds so much more. Philadelphia is an amazing food city, known for water ice, pretzels, cheesesteaks, and amazing Italian food in South Philly. After exploring Center City and checking out grandiose City Hall, make sure to take the Broad Street line down to the sports complex to catch a game with Philly’s famously passionate sports fans!