Day Trips & Weekend Getaways
Best Day Trips & Weekend Getaways from Baltimore, MD
Baltimore is Maryland's waterfront heart, with access to the Chesapeake Bay, Appalachian foothills, and a rich mix of historic sites.
The Chesapeake Bay Bridge and Annapolis are perfect water-focused escapes from Baltimore.
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Popular Interests
or browse all12 destinations near Baltimore
Devil's Den
Sickles Ave, Gettysburg
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.9 by 2.8k+ visitors) · 1 hr 19 min from Baltimore · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
The Pinnacle Overlook
Holtwood, PA 17532
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.9 by 1.1k+ visitors) · 1 hr 19 min from Baltimore · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Longwood Gardens
Kennett Square, PA 19348
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.9 by 31.5k+ visitors) · 1 hr 27 min from Baltimore · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Little Sister Falls
MD 20854, USA
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · well rated (4.9 stars) · 58 min from Baltimore · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Kisses Fountain
Hershey, PA 17033
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · well rated (4.8 stars) · 1 hr 39 min from Baltimore · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
The Butterfly Atrium at Hershey Gardens
Hershey, PA 17033
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.8 by 1.6k+ visitors) · 1 hr 38 min from Baltimore · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
National Harbor Stonehenge Overlook
MD 20745, USA
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · well rated (4.8 stars) · 57 min from Baltimore · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Olewine Nature Center
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 0.5k+ visitors) · 1 hr 30 min from Baltimore · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Meadowlark Botanical Gardens
Vienna, VA 22182
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.8 by 4.3k+ visitors) · 57 min from Baltimore · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Hidden Oaks Nature Center
Annandale, VA 22003
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 0.6k+ visitors) · 1 hr from Baltimore · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Penn's Cave and Wildlife Park
Centre Hall, PA 16828
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 4.9k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 48 min from Baltimore · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
National Harbor
Oxon Hill, MD 20745
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.7 by 2.6k+ visitors) · 56 min from Baltimore · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best day trips from Baltimore, MD?
The best day trips from Baltimore include state parks, historic towns, scenic drives, wineries, and outdoor recreation. Our page shows top-rated destinations with real drive times, Google ratings, and budget estimates so you can pick the right trip for your schedule and interests.
How far should I drive for a day trip from Baltimore?
Most great day trips from Baltimore are between 1 and 3 hours away. Under an hour gets you local parks and nearby towns. Two to three hours opens up state parks, lakefront destinations, and small cities worth a full day of exploring.
What are cheap things to do near Baltimore?
Many of the best day trips near Baltimore are free or low-cost. State parks, hiking trails, scenic drives, and small-town Main Streets are all great options. Check the budget estimates on each destination card above to plan a trip that fits your wallet.
What is the best time of year for day trips from Baltimore?
Spring and fall are ideal for most destinations near Baltimore, with mild weather and smaller crowds. Summer is great for beaches and water activities. Winter works well for indoor attractions like museums, historic sites, and food-focused trips. Check the seasonal notes on each card for specific timing tips.
Are there weekend getaways near Baltimore?
Yes. Many destinations within 2-4 hours of Baltimore make excellent overnight trips. Look for spots with multiple activities, good dining, and nearby lodging. Use the "Plan This Trip" button on any card to start building an itinerary, or check our drive-time pages for destinations at specific distances. If you need a car, compare rental options to find the best deal.
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