Now that it’s summer vacation, it can be hard to find ways to fill the days and keep the kids from getting bored. If a change of scenery is what you need, load the family in the car and head to one of these nearby day trip destinations, where there are ample opportunities for educational, family-friendly entertainment.
Baltimore
Drive time from Dulles: About 1 hour, 15 minutes
Head out of Virginia for a day in Baltimore, where you can explore all that Charm City has to offer. Have a science-obsessed kiddo in tow? The Maryland Science Center has fun, hands-on exhibits that teach kids of all ages about physics, chemistry, nature, and more.
Afterward, take a stroll around the water at the Inner Harbor to watch the boats. There are plenty of options for dining in the area, especially if you’re looking for the seafood for which Maryland is famous. Head to Faidley’s Seafood in Lexington Market for a jumbo lump crabcake. In Federal Hill, Annoula’s SoBo Café has comfort food and vegetarian and gluten-free options, while Cross Street Market has choices for any palate. The Choptank in the Broadway Market in Fells Point has crabs and other fresh catches.
End the day surrounded by marine life at the National Aquarium, where kids and adults alike can be enthralled by the tanks full of sharks, fish, jellyfish, and more. For an unforgettable day, spend the night at the aquarium during one of its sleepover tours, offered on Fridays and Saturdays.
Williamsburg
Drive time from Dulles: About 2 hours, 40 minutes
Step back in time with a journey to Colonial Williamsburg, the “world’s largest living history museum,” during this day trip. There are over 300 acres of the historic city to explore, and lots to learn about Virginia’s colonial history. Talk with historic reenactors as they practice age-old trades like woodworking, shoemaking, and blacksmithing.
Stop for an American brunch or lunch at Traditions or head to one of the historic taverns like King’s Arms for a hearty meal that fits the theme.
For more summer fun that will appeal to the thrill-seekers in the family, go to nearby Busch Gardens. The European-themed park has roller coasters, other park rides, and games. Or beat the heat instead at Water Country USA, Busch Gardens’ sister park with water slides, pools, and more.
Charlottesville
Drive time from Dulles: About 2 hours, 15 minutes
The Virginia Discovery Museum in Charlottesville is a great way to get kids aged 1 to 8 to explore and learn new concepts. There are several play areas across 6,000 square feet, where kids can practice literacy skills, fine motor skills, and learn about science.
Or, for a day trip geared toward Virginia’s history, take a tour of Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello. As you tour the grounds and gardens, you’ll learn about the third president’s life, the estate’s architecture, and the history of enslavement on the estate.
Then, head to the historic downtown mall, where there are ample options for dining and shopping in a lively, walkable area.
Richmond
Drive time from Dulles: About 2 hours
The commonwealth’s capital is the place to go for education and culture, without a full day of driving. Little ones will love the Children’s Museum of Richmond, a play-based museum with exhibits inspired by everything from farms to trains to banks. The Science Museum of Virginia makes for a perfect second stop, with its interactive exhibits and lab spaces for STEM-minded visitors.
As part of your day trip, soak in the sun with a stroll around the Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens’ 50 acres of landscaping, or head to Belle Isle for views of the James River and trails for hiking and biking. Pack a picnic and enjoy it in the park.
Before heading into NoVA, stop by Carytown for a bite to eat and some shopping. You’ll find casual dining options like Zorch Pizza and The Daily Kitchen & Bar.
Feature image courtesy National Aquarium
