Day Trips from Baltimore
← All Baltimore day tripsDay Trips from Baltimore: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Baltimore, MD. Winding back roads, dramatic overlooks, and picture-perfect byways that make the drive itself the destination. Drive times and route info included.
12 scenic drives near Baltimore
Old Main Streets: Maryland Scenic Byway
Emmitsburg, MD 21727
Just 1 hr 13 min from Baltimore, rated 5.0 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic Overlook
George Washington Mem Pkwy, Arlington
Just 59 min from Baltimore, rated 5.0 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Scenic Overlook
Belleville, PA 17004
Just 2 hrs 40 min from Baltimore, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic overlook
Schnecksville, PA 18078
Just 2 hrs 35 min from Baltimore, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
View Point
Columbia, PA 17512
Just 1 hr 10 min from Baltimore, rated 4.9 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
The Pinnacle Overlook
Holtwood, PA 17532
Just 1 hr 19 min from Baltimore, rated 4.9 stars by 1,147 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Range View Overlook
VA 22747, USA
Just 2 hrs 22 min from Baltimore, rated 4.9 stars by 327 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Signal Knob Overlook
VA 22630, USA
Just 2 hrs 1 min from Baltimore, rated 4.8 stars by 466 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Overlook 2
VA 22102, USA
Just 59 min from Baltimore, rated 4.8 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Valley View Overlook
Newmanstown, PA 17073
Just 1 hr 48 min from Baltimore, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Rocky Ridge Park Hawk Watch North
PA 17406, USA
Just 1 hr 6 min from Baltimore, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic Overlook
Hancock, MD 21750
Just 1 hr 45 min from Baltimore, rated 4.7 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from Baltimore
What are the best scenic drives near Baltimore, MD?
The best scenic drives near Baltimore include national scenic byways, state route back roads, and lakefront highways with dramatic views. Check the destinations above for top-rated scenic stops along these routes.
How long are the scenic drives from Baltimore?
Most scenic drives near Baltimore range from 1-4 hours one way. Many can be done as a loop or combined with stops for hiking, dining, or small-town exploring to fill a full day.
What is the best time of year for scenic drives near Baltimore?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Baltimore, with spectacular foliage. Spring wildflower season and summer green are also beautiful. Winter drives can be dramatic but check road conditions first.
What should I bring on a scenic drive from Baltimore?
Bring a full tank of gas, snacks, water, and a camera. Cell service is unreliable on many scenic routes, so download maps beforehand. Pack layers since temperatures at overlooks can be cooler than in the city.
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