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- 18 Small Towns Near Washington D.C. You'll Love Visiting
Summary
- There are numerous small towns near Washington, D.C. that offer a break from the city's hustle and bustle. These towns have unique features including historical landmarks, outdoor adventure, shopping, and dining.
- Ellicott City, Maryland, Occoquan, Virginia, and Gettysburg, Pennsylvania are just a few examples of charming small towns near Washington, D.C. Each town offers its own attractions such as historical sites, waterfront views, and eclectic shops.
- Travelers looking for a more relaxed and scenic experience can visit towns like Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, St. Michaels, Maryland, and Cambridge, Maryland. These towns offer outdoor activities, museums, and a small-town atmosphere.
Travelers who have never visited Washington, D.C. may think that its numerous monuments and neoclassical buildings are the only attractions worth exploring. However, there are so many more awesome things to discover in DC than that. The nation's capital actually boasts more than people may think, ranging from top-notch restaurants to colorful shops to incredible museums, arts & entertainment, and many other fun things to see and do.
The regions surrounding the city are brimming with charming small towns with unique features, including historical and popular US landmarks, cultural attractions, outdoor adventure, entertainment, shopping, and more. These are small towns near Washington D.C. that tourists will love visiting.
UPDATE: 2023/08/31 23:12 EST BY MARIA BOU INK
18 Small Towns Near Washington D.C. You'll Love Visiting
Tired of the hustle of bustle of the metropolis? This list was updated to provide people with towns to visit near Washington D.C. so they can relax, learn more about U.S. history, and enjoy scenic views.
18 Ellicott City, Maryland
The oldest train station in the United States and the last still in operation grist mill in Maryland are both located in Ellicott City, a mesmerizing and historic town in Howard County. The close town to D.C. provides a distinctive place for dining and shopping.
Walking is possible through the primarily commercial downtown of Old Ellicott City, which is located in the valleys of the Patapsco and Tiber rivers. This U.S. town was founded in 1772 by three Quaker brothers who managed Ellicott's Mills.
- Distance from Washington D.C.: about 39 miles
17 Occoquan, Virginia
Early colonists relied on the river for transportation and trade, so they established the town of Occoquan near the Occoquan River in Northern Virginia. It existed as an industrial village with tobacco warehouses and a grist mill for more than 175 years.
The town now includes restaurants, antique stores, and a boat port, making it an intriguing area to explore. The environment in Occoquan is great, cozy, and welcoming. The downtown area is walkable, filled with quaint shops, and has a beautiful shoreline. It's a terrific area to obtain the small town, hometown feel while yet being commutable to Washington, D.C.
- Distance from Washington D.C.: about 24 miles
16 Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
Gettysburg is best known for its active participation as a battlefield in the Civil War, which travelers can visit from Washington D.C. The Gettysburg Battlefield allows visitors to travel back in time and experience the accomplishments made during the Civil War.
The National Park Service has helped preserve the historic buildings that have stood for all. There are self-guided tours that vacationers can use to have the scene brought to life by one of the guides. Apart from the monuments, Gettysburg is a quaint town near DC with antique shops, fantastic restaurants, art galleries, and countryside.
- Distance from Washington D.C.: about 86 miles
15 Harpers Ferry, West Virginia
With a tiny population of a few hundred residents, Harpers Ferry is one of the most charming towns vacationers can visit from Washington D.C. It boasts numerous historical buildings, landmarks, monuments, and an enchanting downtown area with lots of things to explore, making it one of the small historic towns near Washington DC perfect for those seeking something less touristy.
Located at the meeting point off Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers, the charming town got its name from an 18th-century ferry that transported people and cargo across the river. Some of the top places to explore include the Harpers Ferry National Historic Park and the Appalachian Conservatory. This place is full of fun activities for outdoor enthusiasts too.
- Distance from Washington D.C.: about 68 miles
14 St. Michaels, Maryland
St. Michaels is known for being one of the top tourist destinations for bicycling, sailing, and eating oysters. Within the town, vacationers can explore its wineries, enjoy fishing, visit some of the best historic landmarks, and peruse its colorful shops.
One can also enjoy seeing some of the most impressive art pieces from the Chesapeake Bay at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum. The museum offers amazing exhibits and educational programs about the area's culture and history.
- Distance from Washington, D.C.: about 79 miles
Travelers who love oysters should definitely add Charleston in South Carolina to their itinerary, as it's a haven for this particular seafood. Discover when and where to eat oysters in Charleston before heading to this top US city!
13 Cambridge, Maryland
Located in Dorchester County, Cambridge traces its first settlement to 1684, making it one of Maryland’s oldest cities. The town played a crucial role during the Civil War, as it was one of the major stop locations.
Its main street, which is Maryland Main Street, is brimming with incredible dining spots, beautiful shops, and some of the city’s most iconic attractions. Vacationers looking for unforgettable outdoor adventures can head to the nearby Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, a wonderful home to migrating birds in the Chesapeake Bay (which may be becoming a US National Park!).
- Distance from Washington D.C.: about 86 miles
12 Annapolis, Maryland
Dating back to 1695, Annapolis is the capital of Maryland but doesn't have a big-city vibe. Instead, it has a small-town feel, with plenty of fun activities to experience. The town's dining scene is one of the best, and eating some delicious Maryland Blue Crabs is a must-do.
In this one of the most beautiful small towns near DC, vacationers can spend some time exploring its local eateries, shops, and galleries, and then take advantage of the outdoor opportunities. Boasting one of the best waterfronts in the United States, Annapolis has always been referred to as one of the prettiest towns in the US, so it's no surprise that it's among the cute towns near DC attracting discerning tourists.
- Distance from Washington D.C.: about 39 miles
11 Berlin, Maryland
Located a few miles west of Maryland’s Ocean City (which also offers plenty to do), Berlin is known as one of the coolest small towns in the United States. Apart from being located nearest to Assateague Island National Seashore, Berlin's Main Street features gorgeous art galleries, beautiful restaurants, unique shops, and some of the most impressive historic sites, 47 of which are listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
Horseracing enthusiasts shouldn't leave the town without visiting the Calvin B. Taylor House Museum, where they will explore an interesting exhibit about famous horses from Berlin.
- Distance from Washington, D.C.: about 135 miles
10 Fredericksburg, Virginia
Located about an hour south of Washington, D.C., Fredericksburg, Virginia is a charming small town and is a significant part of American history. It became one of the locations for Civil War battles and home to a major port from the colonial period, George Washington.
There is a lot to experience in this historic town near DC, including battlefields, museums, children’s activities, and outdoor adventures, including hiking trails and water sports.
- Distance from Washington D.C.: about 53 miles
9 Winchester, Virginia
Located in the gorgeous hills of Shenandoah Valley, Winchester has a long beautiful history connected to the Civil War, and landmarks and buildings date to the era. Some of the top places to learn this fascinating history are the city's Old Town, the Museum of Shenandoah Valley, and Glen Burnie House. There are plenty of fun activities for nature lovers, thanks to the surrounding countryside and mountains. One can go horseback riding, explore the lakes, or visit one of the beautiful farms.
Head to the pedestrian mall in the heart of Winchester's historic downtown to find a thriving shopping and dining scene. Visit in May for the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival, when this small town near Washington DC really comes to life
- Distance from Washington D.C.: about 75 miles
8 Leesburg, Virginia
Leesburg is the county seat of Loudoun County and was once the region's commercial hub. It has become one of the top destinations and has something for everyone.
From shopping at the Leesburg Corner Premium Outlets to a fantastic culinary scene to numerous recreational activities. There are several wineries nearby, and exciting events are held there from time to time. Its historic District is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and is considered one of Virginia's best-preserved and most impressive downtowns.
- Distance from Washington D.C.: about 41 miles
7 Chestertown, Maryland
When it comes to scenic towns near Washington DC, this one is hard to beat. Located along the beautiful banks of the Chester River on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, Chestertown was established in 1706 and is one of the most charming college towns in the state.
The town's Historic District boasts incredible colonial residences and many gorgeous spots that take travelers back in time. It is the county seat of Kent County and has a variety of beautiful restaurants, shops, churches, and some of the best family-friendly events, such as the Chestertown Tea Party Festival.
- Distance from Washington D.C.: about 75 miles
6 Middleburg, Virginia
From the first moment one steps foot in this charming Virginia town, it will be immediately obvious why Middleburg is referred to as 'the Nation's Hunt and Horse Capital'. The equestrian influence abounds around every corner, from business names to the jodhpur-clad patrons inside. Horse enthusiasts should visit the National Sporting Library and Museum, which provides amazing insight into the town's equine history.
Stroll around the postcard-perfect downtown and enjoy fantastic shopping and dining. Located in the heart of Virginia wine country, Middleburg is also surrounded by an array of excellent wineries and vineyards. Stay at the highly acclaimed Salamander Resort for a luxurious weekend escape from Washington D.C.
- Distance from Washington D.C.: approximately 45 miles
Travelers with a penchant for a glass of vino are in luck; this town is ideally situated for enjoying a trip to the wine trail in Northern Virginia's wine country.
5 Little Washington, Virginia
With a population of less than 85 residents, Little Washington is a small town with a big personality. Home to multiple bed and breakfasts, the five-star Inn at Little Washington has been luring visitors to the area since opening its doors in 1978. It now boasts three Michelin stars, which is the highest number a restaurant can receive.
Stroll through downtown and discover some great boutiques, galleries, antiques, and wineries. Tucked into the foothills of the ultra-special Blue Ridge Mountains, the countryside has plenty to offer for nature enthusiasts as well. Top-notch hiking surrounds the town, especially Old Rag Mountain.
- Distance from Washington D.C.: approximately 18 miles
4 Vienna, Virginia
A nearby suburb of Washington D.C., visiting Vienna is a breeze thanks to its metro access. There are three wonderful parks in Vienna, including the impressive Meadowlark Botanical Garden. Here visitors will find the only Korean Bell Garden in the Eastern United States, as well as an enchanted Winter Walk of Lights over the holiday season.
Wolf Trap, the only National Park for the Performing Arts, draws an incredible variety of musical acts in its multiple outdoor amphitheaters from May - September. The park's natural areas are open year-round for visitors to enjoy. After working up an appetite, head downtown and choose from the many drinking and dining options on offer.
- Distance from Washington D.C.: approximately 17 miles
3 The Plains, Virginia
Another horse-centric town located about an hour from Washington D.C., The Plains is known for polo, especially its twilight series that runs all summer long. The lively environment is fun for all ages, with tailgating, music, food & drinks, and kids' activities accompanying the excitement of the polo matches. Check it out every Saturday night from May - September in Great Meadows.
Polo aside, this quaint country town offers a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Strolling through the one-stoplight downtown, visitors will feel like they've traveled back to a bygone era. Enjoy the slow pace of life with an extended brunch or rent a bike and explore the surrounding countryside.
- Distance from Washington D.C.: approximately 52 miles
2 Front Royal, Virginia
The charming town of Front Royal is located just over an hour west of Washington DC. Coined the 'Canoe Capital of Virginia', outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy loads of fun on the Shenandoah River. A gateway to Shenandoah National Park and Skyline Drive, visitors will quickly see what makes the Blue Ridge Mountains so special. Be sure to visit the mind-blowing Skyline Caverns and nearby Luray Caverns for a truly memorable experience, or hike along the famous Appalachian trail that passes through the area.
As if that wasn't enough, Front Royal's historic downtown boasts great dining options, unique shops, street art, and more. The area is also home to several excellent wineries and breweries, as well as multiple golf courses. Visitors can even hop on iconic Route 66, which traverses this beautiful small town near DC.
- Distance from Washington DC: approximately 70 miles
1 Frederick, Maryland
Another one of the historic towns near Washington DC, Frederick Maryland boasts an expansive 40-block historic district with over 200 specialty shops. While strolling along the picturesque streets, visitors will find boutiques, antiques, art galleries, wineries, breweries, distilleries, and an array of dining options.
History buffs will love visiting Frederick, as the town was frequented by George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, and a slew of other US presidents and historical figures. There are an impressive variety of museums, Civil War battlefields, historic sites manned by knowledgeable curators, and more. Outdoorsy types will be in their element too - there are hiking, biking, camping, horseback riding, and nature programs for all seasons in this quaint town near DC.
- Distance from Washington DC: approximately 45 miles