In northern Virginia, there are many different day trips that you can take. You can explore the history at Arlington National Cemetery, visit the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, or take a cavern tour through Luray Caverns. There are many different options for day trips in northern Virginia, so you can easily find something that interests you.
If you’re looking for some ideas for day trips, here are our recommendations:
1. Shenandoah National Park
Shenandoah is an enormous park with hiking trails (from grueling climbs to kid-friendly strolls) and multiple campsites. Its hiking trails cover part of the Appalachian trail, and the fall color is stunning.
2. Luray Caverns
The Luray Caverns are the biggest and most popular caverns in Virginia. They are also the most commercialized.
A day trip to Luray is a great way to spend time with family or friends. The tour takes about an hour and a half, and there are plenty of photo opportunities throughout.
Some of the best things to do in the Luray Caverns include admiring the stalactites and stalagmites, exploring the mirror pool, and learning about the history of the caverns.
3. Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center
The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center is a world-renowned aviation museum located in Chantilly, Virginia. The museum is named after its benefactor Steven F. Udvar-Hazy, an entrepreneur and business executive who has donated significant funds to the museum.
The Udvar-Hazy Center features not just aircraft, but also items from the Space Shuttle and Concorde programs on display. In addition to its extensive collection of aircraft, the center also houses several interactive exhibits which allow visitors to explore various aspects of aviation history.
The Udvar-Hazy Center is one of two branches of the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum (the other being located on the National Mall in Washington D.C.), and it is considered one of the premier aviation museums in the world.
The center sees over 1 million visitors annually, making it a popular destination for tourists visiting Northern Virginia during winter months when indoor activities are necessary.
4. Historic Jamestowne
Finally, Historic Jamestowne is another great attraction worth visiting when you’re down by the dock at Tidewater Park in Hampton Roads.
5. Great Falls Park
One popular park for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts is Great Falls Park. Located just minutes from Washington, DC, Great Falls Park offers stunning views of the Potomac River and its famous waterfalls.
The park has a variety of hikes and trails to choose from, as well as plenty of activities for visitors who want to enjoy nature at its finest.
6. Prince William Forest Park
If you’re looking for another great option for exploring the outdoors, be sure to check out Prince William Forest Park. This park is located in Triangle, VA and features over 37 miles of hiking trails, including a 12-mile scenic drive.
Visitors can also enjoy camping, fishing, horseback riding, and other activities while they’re here.
7. Dirt Farm Brewing
Outdoor enthusiasts will love Dirt Farm Brewing, which is located right next to the Appalachian Trail and has some pretty amazing views.
8. Purcellville Virginia
Purcellville Virginia also offers many other fun activities for travelers such as horseback riding and cross country skiing.
9. Arlington National Cemetery
If you’re looking for an interesting day trip from Northern Virginia, Arlington National Cemetery is a great option. It’s located right near the Lincoln Memorial and can easily be accessed by bus or on foot.
The cemetery is quite large, at 600 acres, so it’s best to walk around and explore at your own pace. Arlington National Cemetery can be quite moving, especially if you visit with children – make sure to check the website beforehand to find a gravesite that might interest them.
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Conclusion
There are many different day trips that you can take from northern Virginia. There are many different options and you can easily find something that interests you. No matter what you decide to do, you are sure to have a great time.