Most people don’t equate roads in DC with rejuvenation and relaxation. But there is one exception to that rule and it’s the George Washington Memorial Parkway. This roads offers travelers beautiful views and scenic overlooks and connects a number of fascinating and beautiful historic sites. When you need to escape, the George Washington Memorial Parkway will take you away from it all.
The George Washington Memorial Parkway is more commonly referred to as the GW Parkway. It’s a 25 mile long park that stretches along the Potomac River, along Northern Virginia and into DC.
So whether you are looking to just relax and unwind with some fantastic views or explore the different attractions around DC, take the George Washington Memorial Parkway and get away from it all!
There is no shortage of things to do in Washington DC. Although small, DC is full of history, culture, art, sports, delicious restaurants, fun bars, and plenty of shopping. You can have any type of adventure you want in Washington DC and if you live here, or even if you are just visiting for a few days, we came up with 21 things for your Washington DC bucket list. Don’t miss out on everything DC has to offer!
Play in DC’s front yard! Relax, picnic, people watch, and soak in the culture and history of the surrounding memorials, monuments, and political buildings.
The charming streets of Georgetown provide tons of shopping and elegant row homes that are Instagram-worthy. This is one of the best Washington DC vacation ideas.
Explore the world without ever leaving DC every May at Passport DC, a month-long event that highlights DC’s diplomatic community and international scene.
The Air and Space Museum gives visitors a look at the past and future of air and spacecraft in the country and it has the largest collection of aircraft and spacecraft in the world.
The International Spy Museum is truly one of the coolest museums in the entire city. Learn about the secret history of spies and go on a mission of your own! In my opinion, this is one of the best things to add to your list of things to do in Washington DC.
DC is known for its traffic so most people don’t associate driving with relaxation around here. But if you travel farther outside the city, you will enjoy peaceful winding back roads that will provide you with incredible views and an enjoyable trip! If you are looking for the best driving route around Washington DC these are the seven best back roads around DC.
The George Washington Memorial Parkway is one of the most gorgeous drives around the area. You can hop on the parkway just across the bridge from the District in Arlington and take it past gorgeous views of the Potomac to Great Falls.
Learn more about the George Washington Memorial Parkway in this video from Through My Lens:
The Route 50 West in Northern Virginia will take you out to the rolling hills of Middleburg. You’ll drive by stretches and stretches of countryside dotted by wineries and farms. Stop in at one of the many small towns along the way for shopping or a bite to eat.
Located in Rock Creek Park, Beach Drive is a spectacularly beautiful drive. Whether you go in the fall when the leaves are turning colors or in the spring when you are surrounded by green, Washingtonians can escape the hustle of the city without going far.
Another Virginia byway that is ideal for a country drive. This route will take you through the open and uncluttered Virginia landscape. In the fall, the views are breathtaking. There is even a hidden castle to spot along the way.
This ride, which you can get to by Route 15, takes you south toward the Appalachian Trail. You’ll pass cute towns, past farms, and vineyards with the outline of the mountain ranges in the distance.
Route 7 in Northern Virginia drives out to Loudoun County. Once out there, you can cruise by charming towns like Purcellville, gorgeous open land, miles of trees, hills, and endless countryside.
There are many scenic drives near Washington DC like this early fall drive along Route 7 in Northern Virginia that you'll see in this video from Trekker in USA:
The best driving route around Washington DC doesn't have to be a boring interstate loop. These backroads are both beautiful and peaceful. What is your favorite scenic drive around Washington DC?
