Best Summer Ever: 100+ Things to Do in the DC Area
Our guide on creating the #BestSummerEver
By Cheryl Thompson, Carissa DiMargo and Sophia Barnes ••
Can’t bear to brave the Bay Bridge? Here’s where to go instead when you want a dose of nature in summer.
This is what we've been waiting for: the season of rooftop happy hours, beach weekends, outdoor festivals and trying not to let Popsicles drip on our work attire. If you're ready for everything the season has to offer, dive into our guide on making this the #BestSummerEver.
15 Regional County Fairs: Monster Trucks, Dizzying Rides, Fried Stuff
County fairs are a summertime essential pretty much everywhere, and the DMV is no exception. The fun kicks off with the Fauquier County Fair (July 11-14) -- with goat yoga! -- and goes straight on through to the start of fall with the St. Mary's County Fair (Sept. 20-23) and the D.C. State Fair (Sept. 23). Pick one of these 15 county fairs and celebrate all summer long.
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County fairs are a summertime essential pretty much everywhere, and the DMV is no exception. Celebrate with tons of food, unusual contests, live entertainment and carnival rides all summer long.
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Prince George's County Fairn When: Sept. 6-9n Where: Show Place Arena (14900 Pennsylvania Ave., Upper Marlboro)n
Enjoy the carnival rides, compete for best jam in the county and pet farm animals at the Prince George's County Fair. Past events have included a beautiful baby contest, photography and fine arts competitions and a flower show.
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Anne Arundel County Fairn When: Sept. 12-16n Where: Anne Arundel County Fairgrounds (1490 General's Highway, Crownsville)n
Past events have included the Arundel's Got Teen Talent, comedy magic shows and cute kid contests. Naturally, you'll also find plenty of carnival rides and fair food.
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Charles County Fair When: Sept. 13-16n Where: Charles County Fairgrounds (8400 Fairground Road, La Plata)n You can expect old-fashioned fun like pig races, antique tractor displays, lawnmower racing and a carnival full of rides. Fun for kids includes clowns, a farm and a "driving" school.
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Great Frederick Fairn When: Sept. 14-22n Where: Frederick Fairgrounds (797 East Patrick St., Frederick)n The Great Frederick Fair has hosted landscaping competitions, cake auctions, garden and farm demos and more. Explore agricultural exhibits, meet up with farm animals and watch antique car and carriage parades.
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St. Mary's County Fair When: Sept. 20-23n Where: St. Mary's County Fairgrounds (42455 Fairgrounds Road, Leonardtown)
nThe St. Mary's County Fair hosts competitions around raising livestock, crafting home art, gardening and 4-H departments. Explore arts and crafts and meet up with rabbits, sheep and livestock on display.
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D.C. State Fairn When: Sept. 23n Where: Waterfront Metro Station (375 and 425 M streets SW)n
Enjoy most of the fun of a county fair right in the city, although don't expect carnival rides here. Arts and crafts vendors, a pet parade, contests -- including best homebrew, best donuts, best mumbo sauce and best compost (yes, you read that right) -- and food vendors converge for a day of fun to showcase the area's "agricultural and artistic talents." The fair's been held in many different locations since its first annual event in 2010, and this year is back at the Southwest Waterfront.
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Ice cream might be a classic summer food, but who said there's no such thing as a summer donut? Astro Doughnuts & Fried Chicken, which has locations in both D.C. and Falls Church, is offering August flavors such as the Sangria, Banana Guava "Smoothie" and Key Lime Pie.
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The iconic Irish brewery recently opened their only U.S. outpost just south of Baltimore, and you can take a self-guided tour for free. But the real treats obviously come from the taproom, where six-ounce glasses set you back just $2.50. They have at least nine made-in-America varieties available.
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Prepare your portal gun for Aug. 9. Drink Company's newest 7th Street NW venture is all about famed Adult Swim show "Rick and Morty." Fans can expect sci-fi-themed decor and themed cocktails, including the Morty's Mind Blower and Pickle Rick Back. Drinks cost between $12 and $15, but entry to the pop-up bar is free.
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Crab festivals abound this summer. The the Chesapeake Crab, Wine & Beer Festival is headed to National Harbor on Aug. 18. Brookland’s Finest in D.C. is again hosting its weekly Crab Boils this summer, featuring a prix fixe menu of steamed Maryland blue crabs with beer pairings from local breweries. The menu will be available Tuesdays during crab season for $35, with D.C. Brau beers in August.
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If you're seeking something more than just your standard snow cone, the Korean shave ice dessert Patbingsoo is perfect for sharing and comes with chopped fruit, fruit syrup and more sweet treats. You can find Patbingsoo in Korean bakeries like Shilla Bakery or Siroo Juk Story, which both have multiple locations in the D.C. area. More interested in adult beverages? The St. Regis on 16th Street NW offers two "adult snow cone" cocktails, the Peach Melba Snow Cone (Belvedere peach vodka, lemon, lavender sugar, fresh peach and a micro flowers garnish) and the Pomegranate Crush Snow Cone (lemon, fresh pomegranate, Pama liquor, Ketel One Citron and fresh mint).
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Alexandria Summer Restaurant Week is coming up Aug. 17-26 -- and yes, that includes two weekends. You can indulge without breaking the bank as 50+ local restaurants offer deals. New in 2018, brunch specials are rolling out at $15 or $22 per person at 15 spots, including Chadwicks (pictured). You can also score $35 dinners for two and $35 three-course dinner specials; some locations are also offering $15 or $22 lunch specials. Mia's Italian Kitchen and Café 44 are new participants this year; returning champs include Hank’s Pasta Bar, BRABO and Vermilion.
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Truckeroo at the Bullpen adjacent to Nats Park offers two more chances this summer to catch the monthly(ish) food truck fest: Aug. 10 and Sept. 28. See participating trucks here.
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Dreaming of a Caribbean vacation? The Colada Shop’s rooftop deck and vibrant decor transport you to Little Havana without leaving the District. The tropical inspired cocktail menu includes pouched drinks like rum mules and pitchers of mojitos and sparkling pineapple sangria.
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Corn dogs, cheese steaks, fried Oreos.... Hey, it's summer, so the calories don't count (right?). Take your pick of more than a dozen regional county fairs. The fun kicked off with the Fauquier County Fair in July and continues all the way into early fall with the St. Mary's County Fair (Sept. 20-23) and the D.C. State Fair (Sept. 23).
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Find tips and burger recipes to make your backyard barbecue sizzle.
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From smoothies to fruit pizza, there are many delicious ways to snack on nature's bounty. South Block Juice serves up Instagram-worthy acai bowls topped with various fruits and granola.
50+ Free and Cheap Things to Do
Looking for things to do in D.C. without a big budget hit? We've got you covered. We've rounded up a list of fun free & cheap things to do, ranging from iconic monuments to beautiful nature to outdoor markets.
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There are so many free and cheap things to do around the District.
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The cherry blossoms won't be back until spring, but the Tidal Basin is a beautiful walk any time of year. Do a loop around the water and you'll see the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial and the Thomas Jefferson Memorial.
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You can bike, run or stroll through the lilies at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens, where you'll spot marsh birds, lily pads and some gorgeous flowers. It's a National Park and free to visit.
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Summer and fall are outdoor movie season in D.C. Here's a roundup of the summer movies.
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Swing on the pier, attend an event stroll along the water or browse D.C.'s fish market at the waterfront development in Southwest.
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More than 400,000 former service men and women are laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery. Any day of the year, the public is welcome to visit the site. President John F. Kennedy's grave is there, marked by an Eternal Flame. You can also visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and witness the ceremonial changing of the guards at least every hour.
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In the middle of the Potomac River, you’ll find a park that feels miles away from a city. Head to the middle and you’ll find one of D.C.’s less obvious monuments, the Teddy Roosevelt memorial.
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A number of senators, representatives and even the legendary first FBI director J. Edgar Hoover were buried in the cemetery.
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When it gets chilly outside, the U.S. Botanic Garden stays balmy and green. Explore a tropical rainforest, a reconstructed Jurassic landscape, rare and endangered species, orchids and more.
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Housed in a gorgeous building, the National Museum of Women in the Arts highlights the works of female artists. Usually, an adult ticket costs $10 (free if you’re under 18). On the first Sunday of each month, the museum hosts a community day and admission is free.
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The Freer|Sackler galleries display Asian art and artifacts. As with all Smithsonian museums, it's free to visit. The museum also hosts film screenings featuring classic and new movies.
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D.C.’s Union Market features a handful of places to eat, drink and shop. The hub includes more than 40 vendors and hosts events throughout the week. The market is open to the public from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. during the week and from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekends. It's closed on Mondays.
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From the Potomac River to 14th Street, you'll find monuments to America's greatest leaders and largest wars. The Washington Monument, which is closed for construction but still viewable from the outside, marks the eastern edge. Walk west and you'll find the epic World War II memorial, where you can snap a picture with the pillar representing your state. The D.C. War Memorial, somber Vietnam Veterans Memorial, haunting Korean War Veterans Memorial and some smaller monuments are found on either side of the Reflecting Pool. The imposing Lincoln Memorial towers over the western edge. You'll find other monuments circling the Tidal Basin, just south of the Reflecting Pool.
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Hang out and marvel at the towering columns at the National Building Museum's Great Hall. If you have children, the open grounds provide plenty of room for playtime.
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Situated near Dupont Circle, but a few blocks away from the rush of Connecticut Avenue, the curved Spanish Steps make for a perfect post-brunch walk.
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Celebrate and learn about the contributions of African Americans through artifacts, interactive exhibits and events at the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
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D.C. can seriously accommodate beer lovers. You can find free tours at 3 Stars Brewing Company, DC Brau, Right Proper Brewing Company and Atlas Brew Works. (Looking for fun stuff outside of the city? See our guides for Northern Virginia here and for Maryland here)
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Retrace the steps of Nicholas Cage -- but don’t steal the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, Bill of Rights or any of the other historical documents. The museum is open daily and is free.
This not-so-secret corner of Rock Creek Park is where hundreds of pounds of stones that used to make up America's Capitol Building have been dumped. You can still see some intricate designs. It's near the Rock Creek Park Horse Center — hunt for the Capitol Ruins on Google Maps for an exact location. (Looking for fun stuff outside of the city? See our guides for Northern Virginia here and for Maryland here)
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Rangers offer free guided tours daily of the home of one of history’s most tireless activists. Frederick Douglass lived the last 17 years of his life at Cedar Hill, a now-historic D.C. home.
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This haunting and unique statue offers a place to honor the thousands of of men who lost their lives when the Titanic sank.
This lesser-known memorial outside the National Academy of Sciences honors Einstein and his greatest contributions to physics. Look down and you'll see the skies: the floor is doubles as a star map!
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Eastern Market (225 7th Street SE) is a farmer's market, bazaar and upscale food court all rolled into one. Inside, a number of restaurants sell crab cakes, groceries, freshly cut meats and more. Vendors outside sell unique soaps, clothing, decor and art. You'll find the market open Tuesdays through Sundays. On Sundays, a bustling flea market sets up on 7th Street SE. Across C street, Capitol Hill Books (657 C St. SE) is packed to the gills with literary treasures (and hilariously tongue-in-cheek signage).
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D.C. boasts a robust distillery scene, which one booze-maker said is because it’s the only city in America where you can make and serve alcohol in the same establishment. If you’re in Northeast, Jos. A Magnus & Co., Republic Restoratives and New Columbia Distillers offer free tours, usually on Saturdays. Check with the distillery before heading over.
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Stroll (or bike, if you’re comfortable in traffic) down Massachusetts Avenue from Woodley Park through Dupont Circle, and you’ll pass embassies from every continent. Try to guess the flags as you pass. Each May, they open their doors to the public for free.
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Museums suited to every interest line the National Mall — and all of the Smithsonians are free to visit. The Smithsonian Castle serves as the visitor's center. The Air and Space Museum showcases spacecraft from the Wright era to the space age. For art, check out the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, the National Gallery of Art and the Freer Sackler gallery. History buffs will love the American History Museum, Natural History Museum, National Museum of the American Indian and the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
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You’ve heard the tale: In 1804, Aaron Burr and Alexander Hamilton entered into a duel that ended in Hamilton’s death. Now, you can see the firearms for yourself among letters and portraits detailing the remarkable life of the former Secretary of the Treasury.
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The Basilica of the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception (400 Michigan Ave. NE) may be D.C.'s most underrated tourist spot. Right off the Brookland station on the Red Line sits one of the 10 largest churches in the world, according to the Basilica's website. If you visit, tour the outside and the lower crypt. But do not miss the upper church, where the ceilings are covered in intricate murals.
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No trip to D.C. is complete without a half-smoke, and the original is housed at Ben’s Chili Bowl. Adorned with a mural celebrating African-Americans legends including The Obamas, Dave Chappelle, Dick Gregory, Mayor Muriel Bowser, News4's own Jim Vance, Chuck Brown's daughter, Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton and Cora Masters Barry. Chili dogs start at $4.40; the Original Chili Half-Smoke is $5.95.
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From the Capitol's old Corinthian columns to photography classes to an azalea collection, the arboretum has more to see than just trees — and yes, it's free.
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D.C.'s Chinatown is small and always bustling. At the intersection of 7th and G streets Northwest, the Friendship Archway and decorated 6-way crossing make great photo opportunities. Stop and listen to the buskers playing music or singing throughout the neighborhood. If you're hunting for Asian flavors, Chinatown Express offers a $6.95 lunch special where you watch the chefs make food. Wok and Roll, China Boy, Penny Whisky and Reren Lamen & Bar are neighborhood favorites. If you like ramen, Daikaya is well-loved among locals and Bantam King serves up tasty bowls alongside fried chicken.
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Watch millions of dollars make their way through the printing press at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. Free, 40-minute tours are offered year round, but you’ll need a ticket from March 5 to Aug. 21.
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This church-turned-brilliantly colored art space hosts several free events a month (with cash bars, of course) and gallery viewings on Saturdays and Sundays. It was formerly called the Blind Whino.
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The Highlights Tour allows you to explore the details of the Cathedral's dramatic art and architecture with a guided tour tailored for first-time visitors. Reservations not required for individuals or families, and the tour is free with admission into the church. You can also look on from the outside, where you can see some very unique architectural flair.
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At the Anderson House, a free museum that focuses on all things related to the American Revolution, you'll find antique tapestries, sculptures, portraits and more.
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AFI Silver Theater has plenty of unique choices. The center has two stadium theaters and numerous events. If you’re looking for a movie that hasn’t been in theaters for a while, or a screening of a classic flick, this could be the place where you find it. Ticket prices vary.
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D.C.’s free zoo is one of the world’s best.
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With two locations open and another coming soon, one of D.C.'s favorite independent bookstore offers more than paperbacks and hardcovers. Many of the stores’ guest speaker events are free, but you can also stop by to pick up a new release or grab coffee and a snack at The Den coffeehouse and wine bar (Connecticut Avenue location only).
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You can scope out the architecture or, if you get there early, watch the judges hear a case. The Supreme Court does not offer guided walking tours, but you can visit public portions of the building.
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The Embassy of Canada Art Gallery is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is free to the public. Murals, paintings and more with Canadian ties are on display. The gallery rotates its exhibits, so you’ll be able to visit twice and see different works.
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Whether you’re looking for breakfast, dinner or somewhere to see a show, H Street has plenty of options. You can head to Dangerously Delicious Pies for a delectable slice, Bullfrog Bagels for a New York-style bagel or Granville Moore’s for mussels and other pub-type food. There are performances to see at the Atlas Performing Arts Center and live shows at the Rock and Roll Hotel. On Sept. 15, 2018, the streets will be full for the H Street festival, the biggest neighborhood celebration in D.C.
If you have a plane-lover in your group, head to Gravelly Point for a picnic and skywatching.
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Contact your representative for a tour inside the Capitol, a massive complex connected by underground tunnels. The Supreme Court is nearby, and the neighborhood has colorful homes and the Folger Shakespeare Library, which says it features the world's largest Shakespeare collection, gardens, art and more. Admission is free, but shows are not.
D.C.'s natural oasis boasts hiking trails, picnic areas and more to explore. Space-lovers should make sure to check out the planetarium, which hosts programs on Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday.
Stroll near the waterfront, sip coffee in some of D.C.'s favorite caffeine stops, window shop or just soak in the quaint architecture. Hoof it through the hilly Book Hill Park (1500-1600 blocks of Wisconsin Avenue NW) for incredible views.
D.C. is among the fittest cities in America, possibly because of the bounty of free workout classes. You can find lists of free workouts on Fitverse or The November Project.
There are dozens of talks daily on art, international politics, the environment, history and any other topic you can think of in the city. Most of them are hosted by museums, think tanks and nonprofits for free. CultureCapital.com curates a large list, and you can also check in with major organizations that cater to your interests, including the CATO Institute, Heritage Foundation, Brookings Institute and the Smithsonian.
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Capital Bikeshare Rentals start at $2 for an hour of rides, and new dockless bikeshare companies start at $1 per ride. Wear a helmet and cruise one of the city’s many bike lanes, or head over to Rock Creek Park for a dose of nature.
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Music lovers can go for the free daily performances, but anyone can enjoy the roof deck overlooking the Potomac River.
Free, one-hour walking tours are offered regularly Monday through Friday. With a valid, official ID card, you can sign up for a library card which allows you to access special reading rooms.
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Hit up two museums in one building at the National Portrait Gallery — home to the presidential portrait hall —and Smithsonian American Art Museum, which hosts treasures ranging from gorgeous landscape paintings to mesmerizing folk art.
Top 10 Beaches Within Driving Distance of D.C.
No, Waikiki isn't on the list -- we're looking at the best beaches within an easy drive of the DMV. While we've got to give nods to summertime staples such as Rehoboth and Ocean City, we've also got some more off-the-beaten path ideas. Get ready to vacuum the sand out of your car.
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We feel like the islands of Assateague (which has land in both Maryland and Virginia) and Chincoteague, Virginia, end up on a lot of Top 10 lists — but there are wild ponies! On the beach! Set up your tent for beach-front camping. (Just be sure to hide your food from the ponies.) On Assateague's Virginia side, you can join a nature cruise to see the wildlife refuge. One note of warning, though: This is an untamed area, so bring along that mosquito repellent. DISTANCE: 170 miles from downtown D.C.
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Sandy dunes open up to 70 miles of mostly undeveloped beaches at Cape Hatteras National Seashore. The open-ocean waves are great for surfing or boogie boarding, or you can visit historic lighthouses. Drive to the southern end and you’ll find Ocracoke Beach, which Dr. Beach declared one of the best in the nation. Beach driving and bonfires are allowed here with a proper permit. DISTANCE: 330 miles from downtown D.C. to Hatteras Island Visitor Center
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You'll find pretty much everything you need from a seaside town in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. We're talking go-karts, mini-golf, hang-gliding, boardwalk games and rides for kids — plus frozen custard, obviously. Rehoboth is also home to some fantastic farm-to-table restaurants, so if boardwalk cuisine isn't your thing, you will definitely still be quite happy here. Dewey Beach offers a slightly quieter atmosphere from busier, more crowded cousin Rehoboth. DISTANCE: 120 miles from downtown D.C.
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We're putting Cape May and Wildwood, New Jersey, together because it's easy to do both in a single weekend. On the southernmost point of New Jersey's barrier islands, Cape May is famous for its eye-popping Victorian mansions and B&Bs (and the historic tours that go along with them). Its neighbor to the north, Wildwood, offers a more typical shore experience on a larger scale than its Delaware counterparts, with a different kind of retro via its 1950s-era motels. You'll also find the requisite boardwalk, tons of rides and two water parks. Just "watch the tram car, please."DISTANCE: 185 miles from downtown D.C.
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Ocean City, Maryland, is a destination that kids (or your own inner child) will love. Go for water slides, boardwalk rides and haunted houses, or head to the water to parasail, kayak, surf or, you know, just swim. You can also catch free concerts and movies many nights during summer. DISTANCE: 145 miles from downtown D.C.
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Southern Shores, Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills and Nags Head are among the most easily accessible towns in North Carolina’s Outer Banks if you’re coming from the D.C. area. Swim, surf, charter a boat or go fishing off the Avalon Pier. There are also historic sites devoted to the lost colony on Roanoke and the Wright Brothers’ first flight. DISTANCE: 270 miles from downtown D.C.
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Aside from outdoor activities from fishing to kayaking to dolphin watching, Virginia Beach also offers a boardwalk full of rides and restaurants, plenty of festivals, bars, clubs and breweries, plus the Virginia Aquarium and the Military Aviation Museum. DISTANCE: 210 miles from downtown D.C.
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Bethany Beach markets itself as a "quiet resort," offering a more serene option away from the party-hardy bustle of some other spots. There's a limited number of bars, but plenty to do in the way of water sports, a farmers' market, a water park, pirate mini-golf, a boardwalk and movies on the beach. Catch free live music at the Boardwalk Bandstand on weekend nights. You can find something to do in Bethany right up until the end of summer when the town famously bids goodbye to the season with a jazz funeral. DISTANCE: 125 miles from downtown D.C.
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That other Ocean City (the one in New Jersey) offers plenty of family-friendly fun, with a boardwalk that — although often crowded — features a ton of rides and all the old faves when it comes to shore food, including pizza and fried Oreos. What else could you want? DISTANCE: 192 miles from downtown D.C.
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Craving fresh seafood? Tilghman Island, a traditional watermen’s village just off the mainland, has just what you're looking for. Sit down for waterfront dining on the Chesapeake Bay and spend the night at a cozy B&B. One note of warning: If you're looking to swim, you'll be disappointed, because there's no swimming area, but you can still sail, fish, kayak or paddleboard. If you absolutely must swim during your trip, consider an inn with a pool, such as the Black Walnut Point Inn. DISTANCE: 90 miles from downtown D.C.
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Headed to the beach? Tag NBC Washington in your photos on Instagram.
The beaches on this list are open to visitors in 2021, but be mindful of local rules on masking. Be aware that some businesses may have different hours or capacity rules. Here's information from the states of Delaware, Maryland and Virginia.
The best way to protect yourself against COVID-19 is to get vaccinated, health experts say.
50+ Concerts Coming to the D.C. Area This Summer
Craving live music? Us, too. Good thing there are tons of shows to look forward to this summer. Coming up soon: Neko Case and Ray Lamontagne (June 20) at Merriweather Post Pavilion, Reba McEntire (July 1) at Wolf Trap, and Ms. Lauryn Hill (July 8) at Jiffy Lube Live.
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L-R: Wiz Khalifa, Diana Ross, Billie Eilish
New Kids on the Block
New Kids on the Block are returning to Washington, D.C.! The legendary boy band will be here in 2019 — and they're not coming alone. Special guests on the tour include Salt-N-Pepa, Tiffany, Debbie Gibson and Naughty by Nature. Tickets for VIP packages and fan club members went on sale Oct. 9. Tickets opened for the rest of the public Oct. 12.
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Courtesy: Backstreet Boys DNA World Tour
Backstreet's back July 12 at Capital One Arena, alright? And DC can count themselves lucky: This is the boys' first U.S. stop after an extensive European tour.
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10 Road Trip Ideas: Places to Cool Off
Summer's swelter has arrived! Whether you're looking for the best local water parks or want to get out in nature, check out our picks on the top 10 places to cool off within 100 miles of D.C., from tubing near Harpers Ferry to stand-up paddleboarding to slithering down natural slides in Virginia.
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The water adventures at Hurricane Harbor at Six Flags America (13710 Central Ave., Upper Marlboro, Maryland) range from beginner-friendly to... intimidating. Case in point: On the 132-foot funnel known as the Tornado, all you have to cling to is a four-person raft! (Good luck not screaming). You'll also find a huge variety of slides, a water park version of a half-pipe, a lazy river and a "beach." DISTANCE: 16 miles from downtown D.C.
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Looking for outdoor adventures? Take a quick drive to the Harpers Ferry area, where you can enjoy a variety of expeditions with Harpers Ferry Adventure Center or River & Trail Outfitters, including rafting, tubing, canoeing or kayaking. Each river trip is led by trained guides. DISTANCE: 68 miles from downtown D.C.
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Have you tried stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) yet? It's a challenging but fun combination of canoeing, kayaking and surfing, and it comes with the chance to build your balance skills, too. At Black Dog Paddle, which has locations in Richmond, Charlottesville, Fredericksburg and more, you can enjoy a scenic river paddle while getting a pretty good workout as well. Call 804-57-STAND to check on dates, times and rates. DISTANCE: A bit further away than we'd promised -- roughly 125 miles from downtown D.C., depending on the location you pick. If you need closer-in SUP'ing, try the Key Bridge Boathouse.
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SplashDown Waterpark (7500 Ben Lomond Park Drive, Manassas, Virginia) is home to a 770-foot lazy river, a sand beach, a lily pad and log walk, two fast cannonball slides, two four-story slides and more. DISTANCE: 35 miles from downtown D.C.
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When was the last time you bodysurfed on a massive wave? If "never" was your answer, the Great Waves Waterpark at Cameron Run Regional Park (4001 Eisenhower Ave., Alexandria, Virginia) may be the place to go. You'll also find speed slides, a wave pool, batting cages, fishing, miniature golf and a kids' zone. DISTANCE: 15 miles from downtown D.C.
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Enjoy a refreshing sea breeze not far from home at Chesapeake Beach (Maryland's western shore). Stroll the the boardwalk, enjoy the beach or check out the Chesapeake Beach Water Park. At the end of your day, stop by a roadside market for fresh fruits and veggies on the way home. DISTANCE: 35 miles from downtown D.C.
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Soak City at Kings Dominion (16000 Theme Park Way, Doswell, Virginia) is a great option for a day or weekend trip when it's way too hot to hit the coasters. You'll find more than a dozen water activities, including a wave pool, slides, and a massive water playground that's still fun when you're a grownup. DISTANCE: 75 miles from downtown D.C.
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Bohrer Park (512 S. Frederick Ave., Gaithersburg, Maryland) offers a variety of slides -- including one that's an impressive 250 feet long -- and a main pool with activity areas. The kids' area offers plenty of shallow-water fun and a "raindrop" water umbrella. DISTANCE: 28 miles from downtown D.C.
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Want to skip the water parks? Go canoeing, tubing or kayaking with Shenandoah River Outfitters instead, and stay cool in a (mostly) shaded setting in Luray, Virginia, which offers campgrounds and cabin rentals if you'd like to spend a weekend away. DISTANCE: 100 miles from downtown D.C.
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When is a five-hour hike in the summer OK? When there's plenty of waterfalls and natural pools to cool you off. Get your workout in at White Oak Canyon and Cedar Run (Etlan, Virginia). See a PDF map from the National Park Service here.DISTANCE: 90 miles from downtown D.C.
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Didn't see your fave spot listed? Look for it in our other galleries: n• Top 10 Beaches n• 10 Places to Swim If You Want to Avoid Bay Bridge Traffic n• Top 10 Day Trips n• Top 10 Virginia Getaways n• Top 10 Maryland Getaways n• Top 10 Weekend Getaways
10 Places to Swim If You Want to Avoid Bay Bridge Traffic
You don't have to go far to get some sun and go for a swim with family and friends. There are tons of lakes, reservoirs and watering holes less than 2 hours away from D.C. Here's where to go when you want to swim in a natural body of water... but you can't bear to brave the Chesapeake Bay Bridge traffic.
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Plunge into a fresh-water quarry via rope swing or spend the afternoon swimming in one of two pools at Beaver Dam Swim Club. If you need a break from the water, hit up one of the club's basketball or volleyball courts, or use the club's grilling facilities to make up your own feast. You can bring your own food and drinks, but alcohol is not allowed. See admission fees here. Where: 10820 Beaver Dam Road, Cockeysville, Maryland Opens: Open starting Sunday, May 26 Hours: Weekends and holidays 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; weekdays 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Distance from D.C.: 57 miles
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You can swim or fish (or both) at the surprisingly close Lake Anna, one of Virginia's larges freshwater lakes. Other nearby attractions include vineyards, antiques shops, golf, historic sites and the Kings Dominion theme park. If you're just day-tripping, be sure to arrive early because the parking area closes once it hits capacity, but you'll also find plenty of nearby lodging. nWhere: 6800 Lawyers Road, Spotsylvania Courthouse, Virginia nOpens: Saturday, May 25 n Hours Weekends and holidays 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; weekdays from May 27 to Aug. 9, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; hours TBD from Aug. 11 to Labor Day nDistance from D.C. 84 miles
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Sink your toes into the sand or take a dip in the water at the pristine waterfront of North Beach on Maryland's western shore, south of Annapolis. Looking for some exercise? Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard at the Welcome Center. (Note: No lifeguards are on duty, so swimming is at your own risk.) See beach fees here. Special events include monthly movies on the beach. nWhere: 9023 Bay Ave., North Beach, Maryland nOpen: The beach and bathrooms are open year-round from dawn until dark. nDistance from D.C. 34 miles
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Float along the pristine Shenandoah River for gorgeous views of downtown Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, after renting an inner tube from the Harpers Ferry Adventure Center (37410 Adventure Center Lane, Purcellville, Virginia). While there, you can also go ziplining, rafting or take a ropes course. Lodging is available on the grounds via cabins and riverside or mountain-top camping. Hours:See all hours here. Distance from D.C.: 64 miles
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The James River Park System (including Pony Pasture Rapids Park, pictured) runs along both sides of the James River as it passes through Richmond, which the city says makes it the only U.S. city to have Class IV white water rapids right in the middle of downtown. Enjoy kayaking, tubing, hiking, rock climbing, swimming and nearly any other outdoor activity you might want. nWhere: Pony Pasture Rapids, 7200 Riverside Drive, Richmond, Virginia nSwimming information:Go here nDistance from D.C.: 111 miles
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Hunting Creek Lake at Cunningham Falls State Park has three designated swimming areas where you can cool off. Looking to extend your stay? Make it a weekend getaway by renting a nearby camper cabin. Where: William Houck Campground, 14039 Catoctin Hollow Road, Thurmont, Maryland Opens: Memorial Day, May 27 Hours: 11 a.m.- 6 p.m. Distance from D.C. 70 miles
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Stroll the boardwalk at swim in the bay at the nearby Chesapeake Beach on Maryland's western shore, south of Annapolis. Note: There's no lifeguard at the beach, so swim at your own risk. See beach fees here. Looking for more active fun? Head to the Chesapeake Beach Water Park, which opens for the 2019 season on Saturday, May 25. nHours: Bay Front Park (Brownie's Beach) is open 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. See admission fees here.nDistance from D.C.: 35 miles n CORRECTION: May 24, 2017, 5:05 p.m.: An earlier image incorrectly showed North Beach instead of Chesapeake Beach. This slide has been updated with an image of Chesapeake Beach.
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Watch a stunning sunrise over the Chesapeake Bay or spend a day out on the water with a boat rental. Grills and picnic tables next to the beach at Sandy Point State Park make this the perfect spot for an afternoon cookout. nWhere: 1100 E. College Parkway, Annapolis, Maryland nOpens: Memorial Day nHours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays; 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. weekends and holidays nDistance from D.C.: 37 miles
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Virginia's Northern Neck region offers multiple beaches, quaint inns and plenty of shops. If you're in search of a swim, consider Windmill Point (good for families and weaker swimmers), Hughlett Point (surrounded by forests and a good spot to launch kayaks or paddleboards), Belle Isle State Park (which also offers cabins and camping) or Colonial Beach (a town great for fans of water sports). Distance from D.C. Mileage varies on your specific destination. Colonial Beach is 63 miles from D.C., while Hughlett Point is 123 miles.
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The star attraction of the 3,000-acre Rocky Gap State Park is Lake Habeeb, which offers two public beaches surrounded by the scenic Evitts Mountain. Camping, cabins, and hot and cold food are also available. Where: 12500 Pleasant Valley Road NE, Flintstone, Maryland Distance: 131 miles nNOTE: Stock image
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Didn't see your fave spot listed? Look for it in our other galleries: • Top 10 Beaches • Top 10 Day Trips Less Than 100 Miles From DC • Top 10 Weekend Getaways • Top 10 Virginia Getaways • Top 10 Maryland Getaways
