Nestled amidst lush greenery and picturesque landscapes, Great Falls, Virginia, offers residents a perfect blend of small-town charm and proximity to exciting destinations. Here’s a curated list of weekend trips from Great Falls, VA, that promise unforgettable experiences, all within a few hours’ drive.
Shenandoah National Park: A Nature Lover’s Paradise
Distance: Approximately 75 miles (1.5-hour drive)
Shenandoah National Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering miles of trails, breathtaking vistas, and abundant wildlife. The Skyline Drive, a 105-mile scenic route, winds through the park and provides countless overlooks perfect for capturing panoramic views.
Hiking enthusiasts can explore trails ranging from the beginner-friendly Limberlost Trail to the challenging Old Rag Mountain. Don’t miss Dark Hollow Falls, one of the park’s most accessible and stunning waterfalls. For an overnight stay, campgrounds and nearby lodges, like Skyland Resort, provide comfortable accommodations. Our Property Collective agents have short and mid-term vacation rental homes available in that area, too! Explore our Vacation Rental Portfolio and book your stay today!
Shenandoah National Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering miles of trails, breathtaking vistas, and abundant wildlife. The Skyline Drive, a 105-mile scenic route, winds through the park and provides countless overlooks perfect for capturing panoramic views.
Hiking enthusiasts can explore trails ranging from the beginner-friendly Limberlost Trail to the challenging Old Rag Mountain. Don’t miss Dark Hollow Falls, one of the park’s most accessible and stunning waterfalls. For an overnight stay, campgrounds and nearby lodges, like Skyland Resort, provide comfortable accommodations. Our Property Collective agents have short and mid-term vacation rental homes available in that area, too! Explore our Vacation Rental Portfolio and book your stay today!
Harpers Ferry, WV: Where History Meets Adventure
Distance: Approximately 50 miles (1-hour drive)
Located at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers, Harpers Ferry is a small town rich in history and natural beauty.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do, from kayaking on the rivers to hiking the Maryland Heights Trail, which offers sweeping views of the town below. Harpers Ferry is also a section of the Appalachian Trail, making it a great stop for avid hikers.
Located at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers, Harpers Ferry is a small town rich in history and natural beauty.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do, from kayaking on the rivers to hiking the Maryland Heights Trail, which offers sweeping views of the town below. Harpers Ferry is also a section of the Appalachian Trail, making it a great stop for avid hikers.
Annapolis, MD: A Waterfront Retreat
Distance: Approximately 60 miles (1-hour drive)
Known as the sailing capital of the U.S., Annapolis offers a coastal getaway filled with nautical charm. Stroll along the historic streets lined with 18th-century buildings or visit the United States Naval Academy for a guided tour.
The Annapolis City Dock is the perfect place to relax, grab a bite, or enjoy a scenic boat tour. Seafood lovers will delight in fresh catches at local favorites like Cantler’s Riverside Inn. A sunset cruise or a walk along the waterfront is a perfect way to end your day in this charming city.
Known as the sailing capital of the U.S., Annapolis offers a coastal getaway filled with nautical charm. Stroll along the historic streets lined with 18th-century buildings or visit the United States Naval Academy for a guided tour.
The Annapolis City Dock is the perfect place to relax, grab a bite, or enjoy a scenic boat tour. Seafood lovers will delight in fresh catches at local favorites like Cantler’s Riverside Inn. A sunset cruise or a walk along the waterfront is a perfect way to end your day in this charming city.
Luray Caverns: Underground Wonders
Distance: Approximately 80 miles (1.5-hour drive)
For a unique and awe-inspiring experience, visit Luray Caverns, the largest cave system in the eastern United States. Discover towering stalactites, stalagmites, and the Great Stalacpipe Organ, which produces music by tapping on natural rock formations.
The surrounding area offers additional attractions, including the Luray Valley Museum and Car & Carriage Caravan Museum. Combine your visit with a hike in nearby Shenandoah National Park for a weekend that balances underground exploration with outdoor adventure.
For a unique and awe-inspiring experience, visit Luray Caverns, the largest cave system in the eastern United States. Discover towering stalactites, stalagmites, and the Great Stalacpipe Organ, which produces music by tapping on natural rock formations.
The surrounding area offers additional attractions, including the Luray Valley Museum and Car & Carriage Caravan Museum. Combine your visit with a hike in nearby Shenandoah National Park for a weekend that balances underground exploration with outdoor adventure.
Middleburg: The Heart of Horse Country
Distance: Approximately 25 miles (30-minute drive)
Middleburg is a quaint town that offers a serene escape, especially for those who appreciate equestrian culture and fine wines. Known as the nation’s horse capital, Middleburg hosts events like steeplechase races and polo matches.
Stroll through the charming downtown area filled with boutique shops and art galleries. If wine is your passion, visit nearby vineyards such as Greenhill Winery & Vineyards or Boxwood Estate Winery. For a relaxing overnight stay, the Salamander Resort & Spa offers luxury accommodations in the heart of the countryside.
Middleburg is a quaint town that offers a serene escape, especially for those who appreciate equestrian culture and fine wines. Known as the nation’s horse capital, Middleburg hosts events like steeplechase races and polo matches.
Stroll through the charming downtown area filled with boutique shops and art galleries. If wine is your passion, visit nearby vineyards such as Greenhill Winery & Vineyards or Boxwood Estate Winery. For a relaxing overnight stay, the Salamander Resort & Spa offers luxury accommodations in the heart of the countryside.
Richmond: A City of Culture and Creativity
Distance: Approximately 110 miles (2-hour drive)
Richmond combines historical significance with a vibrant arts scene, making it an ideal destination for a weekend trip. Explore the city’s rich past at the American Civil War Museum or the Virginia State Capitol, designed by Thomas Jefferson.
Art lovers will enjoy the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, which houses an extensive collection of works from around the world. The city’s culinary scene is also worth exploring, with farm-to-table restaurants and craft breweries providing a taste of Richmond’s creative energy.
Richmond combines historical significance with a vibrant arts scene, making it an ideal destination for a weekend trip. Explore the city’s rich past at the American Civil War Museum or the Virginia State Capitol, designed by Thomas Jefferson.
Art lovers will enjoy the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, which houses an extensive collection of works from around the world. The city’s culinary scene is also worth exploring, with farm-to-table restaurants and craft breweries providing a taste of Richmond’s creative energy.
St. Michaels, MD: A Coastal Escape
Distance: Approximately 90 miles (2-hour drive)
For a relaxing weekend on the Chesapeake Bay, head to St. Michaels, a charming waterfront town known for its maritime history. The Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum offers insights into the region’s seafaring heritage, while local shops and galleries provide a leisurely way to spend your afternoon.
Consider a stay at the Inn at Perry Cabin, a luxurious retreat offering waterfront views and fine dining. Whether you’re kayaking along the bay or enjoying fresh seafood, St. Michaels promises a rejuvenating coastal experience.
For a relaxing weekend on the Chesapeake Bay, head to St. Michaels, a charming waterfront town known for its maritime history. The Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum offers insights into the region’s seafaring heritage, while local shops and galleries provide a leisurely way to spend your afternoon.
Consider a stay at the Inn at Perry Cabin, a luxurious retreat offering waterfront views and fine dining. Whether you’re kayaking along the bay or enjoying fresh seafood, St. Michaels promises a rejuvenating coastal experience.
Deep Creek Lake, MD: Outdoor Adventure and Relaxation
Distance: Approximately 150 miles (3-hour drive)
If you’re looking for a weekend filled with outdoor activities, Deep Creek Lake is worth the drive. The largest freshwater lake in Maryland, it offers year-round recreation, from boating and fishing in the summer to skiing and snowboarding at nearby Wisp Resort in the winter.
The surrounding state parks, such as Swallow Falls State Park, feature hiking trails and picturesque waterfalls. Cozy cabins and lakeside rentals make for a comfortable retreat after a day of adventure.
Great Falls, VA, is ideally situated for exploring some of the most exciting and picturesque destinations in the Mid-Atlantic region. Whether you’re in the mood for outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, or coastal escapes, these weekend trips offer something for everyone.
Pack your bags, hit the road, and discover the diverse and delightful getaways just a short drive from home. With so many options at your fingertips, your next memorable weekend is just around the corner.
If you’re looking for a weekend filled with outdoor activities, Deep Creek Lake is worth the drive. The largest freshwater lake in Maryland, it offers year-round recreation, from boating and fishing in the summer to skiing and snowboarding at nearby Wisp Resort in the winter.
The surrounding state parks, such as Swallow Falls State Park, feature hiking trails and picturesque waterfalls. Cozy cabins and lakeside rentals make for a comfortable retreat after a day of adventure.
Great Falls, VA, is ideally situated for exploring some of the most exciting and picturesque destinations in the Mid-Atlantic region. Whether you’re in the mood for outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, or coastal escapes, these weekend trips offer something for everyone.
Pack your bags, hit the road, and discover the diverse and delightful getaways just a short drive from home. With so many options at your fingertips, your next memorable weekend is just around the corner.
Learn More About Moving to Great Falls, VA
Great Falls, VA is an exceptional place to call home, offering a combination of luxury living, stunning natural beauty, and top-rated schools. Its proximity to Washington, DC, and access to outdoor recreation make it a perfect location for those looking to balance the best of both worlds. If you’re considering moving to Great Falls, reach out to Property Collective today. The team at Property Collective can provide expert guidance on finding your dream home in this prestigious community and help make your move to Great Falls a seamless experience.
