You don’t need a flight, a long weekend, or even a car to get away this summer. From waterfront cities to mountain views and charming small towns, there are plenty of easy day trips and weekend getaways to take across Virginia, DC, and Maryland; often in a few hours by train or transit!
Whether you’re planning a quick day trip or a relaxed overnight stay, these car-free getaways make it easy to explore more while spending less time in traffic and more time enjoying your summer.
We’ve pulled together a few easy-to-reach destinations—plus how to get there—so you can spend less time planning and more time enjoying your trip.
Easy Places to Go This Summer
Fredericksburg, VA | 1.5 – 2 hours
- From DC: 53 miles
- From Fairfax: 45 miles
- From Frederick: 93 miles
How to get there: Amtrak, Virginia Railway Express (VRE), Greyhound
Fredericksburg’s historic downtown is full of local boutiques, coffee shops, and restaurants– all within walking distance of the train station. Walk the popular canal path loop along the Rappahannock River or through the University of Mary Washington’s campus. If you’re interested in history, there are plenty of nearby Civil War sites and landmarks you can visit. It’s a great choice for a slower-paced day without needing a detailed plan.
Richmond, VA | 2 – 2.5 hours
- From DC: 108 miles
- From Fairfax: 101 miles
- From Frederick: 148 miles
How to get there: Amtrak, Bus
Richmond offers a little bit of everything—art, food, outdoor space. If you want a museum day, visit the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Virginia Museum of History and Culture, The Black History Museum and Cultural Center, and the Science Museum of Viriginia.
Browse vintage shops, grab a drink at a local brewery, or visit one of the many music venues. For outdoor lovers, the James River offers trails, scenic views, and even kayaking. It’s a good mix of city energy and laid-back exploring depending on what interests you.
Charlottesville, VA | 2.5 – 3 hours
- From DC: 117 miles
- From Fairfax: 100 miles
- From Frederick: 130 miles
How to get there: Amtrak, Bus
Looking for a more elevated escape? Charlottesville offers mountain views, wineries, and a walkable downtown. It’s a great place to slow down and take a break from the usual pace of life near a city. Spend time shopping at the Downtown Mall, visit nearby historic sites like Monticello, or check out local shops and wineries. If you want to be outside and active, there are also plenty of hiking and mountain biking trails.
Pro tip: A free trolley runs between the University of Virginia and the Downtown Mall.
Annapolis, MD | 1 – 1.5 hours
- From DC: 33 miles
- From Fairfax: 57 miles
- From Frederick: 70 miles
How to get there: Bus
Annapolis is the kind of place that makes you forget you’re still close to DC.
Step off the bus and into a vibrant bay town with sailboats docked everywhere, people in sundresses and boat shoes, and live music drifting out of restaurants. This is the place for crab cakes, oysters, and anything you can eat within view of the harbor—ideally with a drink in hand while boats pass by. It’s also home to the United States Naval Academy, which you can walk through and explore, adding a bit of history to your day without going out of your way
Pro tip: They have a free circulator shuttle. But once you get there, you probably won’t need it, since the city is very walkable.
Harpers Ferry, MD | 1.5 – 2 hours
- From DC: 64 miles
- From Fairfax: 54 miles
- From Frederick: 22 miles
How to get there: MARC
Harpers Ferry is ideal for anyone looking to spend time outdoors. The town’s location at the meeting point of the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers creates incredible views and easy access to hiking trails. It feels far removed from the region’s busier pace, even though it’s just a short transit trip away.
If you’re up for being active, there are several hikes with scenic overlooks that are well worth the steps. Prefer something more relaxed? The town itself is easy to explore; grab a drink, walk along the river, or spend some time watching people float by. Either way, it offers a refreshing change of pace and a chance to step away from your usual routine without traveling far.
Old Town Alexandria, VA | 30 minutes – 1 hour
- From DC: 8 miles
- From Fairfax: 18 miles
- From Frederick: 52 miles
How to get there: Metro, Bus
Old Town Alexandria is one of the quickest ways to switch up your scenery without going far. A short Metro ride brings you waterfront views, historic streets, and plenty of dining options. Grab a drink by the water, browse local boutiques, or walk King Street and see where you end up. It’s perfect for a spontaneous afternoon or evening without needing a car!
Pro tip: The free King Street Trolley runs every 15 minutes between Alexandria City Hall/Market Square and the King St – Old Town Metrorail station.
Ready to go?
You don’t have to travel far to feel like you’ve taken a real break this summer. Whether you’re chasing waterfront views, mountain air, or a walkable historic town, there’s a car-free getaway just a short ride away.
Before you head out, check Tysons Central Connect’s transportation resources for nearby transit options, routes, and trip planning tools. A little planning can go a long way to make your staycation smooth, simple, and stress free.
Happy exploring!