While Silver Spring, Maryland, offers an outstanding variety of things to see and do, it's sometimes nice to escape the city and explore someplace new. The next time you're looking for something fun to do, consider heading out on one of these great day trips from Silver Spring.
Solomons Island
Solomons Island proves you don't have to drive across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge to enjoy some time at the beach. This quaint island is located about an hour and 20 minutes southeast of Silver Spring on Maryland's western shore. If you want to learn some history and enjoy a lovely view of the area, head to the beautifully restored Cove Point Lighthouse. The lighthouse is situated close to Calvert Cliffs State Park, which offers sandy beaches, interesting fossils, and plenty of spots for fishing.
St. Michael's
If you do decide to drive across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, make plans to head to St. Michael's, Maryland. This seaside town is an hour and 30 minutes from Silver Spring and the perfect destination for a laid-back day trip. One popular attraction in St. Michael's is the
Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, which houses an impressive collection of Chesapeake Bay vessels and artifacts. The small coastal town is also known for its fresh seafood restaurants, water cruises, and seasonal festivals.
Luray Caverns
Not only will you find plenty of fun things to do above ground near Silver Spring, you'll also discover some fascinating things to explore below ground. Located one hour and 50 minutes west of Silver Spring in Luray, Virginia,
Luray Caverns is the largest caverns in the eastern part of the country. Take a tour of the stunning caverns to see a variety of geological wonders, including columns, stalactites, stalagmites, mirrored pools, and more. The caverns are also home to the one-of-a-kind Great Stalacpipe Organ, which makes actual music by gently tapping on stalactites.
Baltimore
If you're looking to have a little excitement on your day trip, you can't beat some time in Baltimore, Maryland. This city has something for everyone to enjoy. Art lovers will want to spend the day at the Baltimore Museum of Art, and history lovers won't want to miss an opportunity to explore Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine. If you're traveling with kids, Baltimore's Inner Harbor is a must. Here you'll find the National Aquarium, major sports stadiums, the Maryland Science Center, and plenty of great places for shopping and dining.
Charlottesville
Charlottesville, Virginia, located about two hours southwest of Silver Spring, is a historic city with plenty of youthful energy. The city is in the heart of Virginia's wine country, and you'll find numerous wineries worth visiting. If you're not interested in wine tasting, you can check out the shopping and dining at Downtown Mall, tour Thomas Jefferson's impressive Monticello, or visit one of the museums on the University of Virginia campus.
The next time you're interested in a quick escape from Silver Spring, you know you'll have an exciting time when you head out on one of these day trips.