Washington, DC — Several affordable road trips within a day’s drive of Washington offer spring break escapes for students attending George Washington University, Georgetown University and other area colleges.
With thousands of students living and studying across Washington campuses, nearby destinations throughout the Mid-Atlantic provide travel opportunities that often require little more than a few hours on the road, according to regional tourism agencies.
One of the most popular drives heads west to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. The park’s Skyline Drive runs along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering scenic overlooks, hiking trails and wildlife viewing areas.
Students also frequently travel east to Ocean City, Maryland, a coastal destination known for its boardwalk, beaches and Atlantic Ocean views.
Another common getaway is Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, where the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers meet. The historic town features Civil War landmarks, hiking trails along the Appalachian Trail and scenic overlooks above the river valleys.
Travelers looking for a city experience often head north to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where visitors explore historic landmarks including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell and the walkable streets of Old City.
Farther south, Virginia Beach offers miles of public shoreline, waterfront parks and a long oceanfront boardwalk along the Atlantic coast.
Washington’s location along major East Coast highways places mountains, beaches and historic cities within reach of a manageable road trip.
For younger travelers and college students managing tight budgets, these destinations provide opportunities to explore the Mid-Atlantic while staying within driving distance of Washington’s university campuses.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input.
All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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