If you are looking for a way to spend a free day – consider a day trip to one of these towns for a quick and fun filled getaway.
St Michaels, Maryland
St. Michaels was named as one of the Top 10 Best Small Coastal Towns in America by USA Today. It is located on Maryland’s Eastern Shore and is the perfect venue for a day trip.
Whether you want to participate in the many water activities, enjoy lunch or dinner on the waterfront or visit the many shops in town – you can plan a full day in St. Michaels.
If you plan on staying overnight, consider the Inn at Perry Cabin, which is a luxury resort right on the water. They offer a multitude of spa treatments and guests can take advantage of complimentary bicycles, kayaks and paddle boards to explore the area.
Visit the St. Michael’s Museum to learn the history of St. Michaels and join one of the docent led walking tours or venture out on a self-guided tour.
Take the opportunity to enjoy the local, fresh seafood while in town. Make a point to stop in at the Chesapeake Landing Restaurant which has a huge selection of fresh seafood on its menu. They also house a seafood market where you can pick and take home fresh seafood.
Before leaving town stop in at Eastern Shore Brewing and taste one of their in-house brewed beers. It is the oldest brewery on the eastern shore.
Visit the St Michael’s webpage to plan your visit.
Harpers Ferry, W.Va.
If you love the outdoors, Harper Ferry is the perfect day trip.
For those who love to hike, Harpers Ferry National Historic Park is a must see. It is home to more 22 miles of trails, including the Appalachian Trail with great panoramic views. You can also access and hike the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park. The park offers a variety of hikes from easy to strenuous to accommodate all experience levels.
If you are not an avid hiker there are plenty of outdoor activities to keep you busy including whitewater rafting, tubing, kayaking and fishing. And if you are not interested in sports, there is plenty to do in the downtown area with many shops and restaurants to explore.
If it is your first trip to Harpers Ferry, plan to take the nightly evening ghost tour. The tour entails a 2 hour walk around the historic town while your tour leader takes you by the sites and buildings that have had ghostly phenomena reported over the years.
Grab lunch at The Rabbit Hole Gastropub. It is dog friendly, offers outdoor seating and a full menu.
On your way out of town wet your whistle at Beans in the Belfry Cafe which is housed in a restored historic church. They offer up delicious coffee drinks and breakfast, lunch and dinner is served all day.
Winchester, VA
Winchester is known as the home of General Stonewall Jackson’s headquarters in 1861 and the home of Pasty Cline.
If you are a foodie you will love this day trip. Old Town Winchester is home to more than 30 restaurants and cafes. The town also hosts 60 shops as well as several museums and historical sights.
Things to consider doing while in Winchester:
- Stop in at Espresso Bar and Cafe to get caffeinated for your day. They serve pastry, soup and sandwiches.
- Visit the Museum of Shenandoah Valley for an afternoon of beauty. The museum is surrounded by seven acres of gardens known as the Glen Burnie Gardens and is open for self guided tours. The museum has a variety of rotating exhibits in four galleries.
- For lunch – stop in at Union Jack Pub and Restaurant located in the historic Union Bank Building. The building was restored to its original decor and provides a great, eclectic atmosphere for guests. After lunch, head upstairs to Chasin’ Axe – an indoor axe throwing lounge housed in the restaurant.
- Visit the James Charles Winery for a wine tasting. You can do a private tasting, reserve a firepit or sit at a vintner’s table where a wine consultant will match wines with Charcuterie food as you overlook the beautiful Shenandoah Valley.
- Visit the Discover Winchester website to plan your trip.
