When you want a getaway without really leaving town, these are the ‘burbs for you.
D.C. is a hub for food, culture and entertainment. But that energy doesn’t stop at the city limits. In fact, the D.C. ‘burbs are packed with fun things to see and do. And if you’re craving a vacation but don’t want to hop on a plane or drive for hours, consider a D.C. suburb staycation.
Here are 10 D.C.-area hotspots perfect for people looking to live the vacation life without ever leaving home.
#1. Hyattsville, MD
Whether you love craft beer, coffee or art, Hyattsville has something for you. Less than 10 miles from the heart of D.C. (and just across the District line) you’ll find this small town with two can’t-miss local breweries: Franklins and Streetcar 82 Brewing Co. If you’re more into mead, they have that, too.
But before your brewery crawl, stop by Vigilante Coffee for some coffee and Instagram pics (we love the vibes here). Check out Busboys and Poets, a unique restaurant and community space where you can attend an author talk or open-mic poetry performance. Consider planning your visit around the annual Arts Festival held in Downtown Hyattsville each fall.
#2. Rockville, MD
The Rockville area has long been associated with shopping and the modern Pike & Rose retail development in neighboring North Bethesda only adds to that reputation. In addition to name-brand shops, you’ll also find a bowling alley, live music venue and farmers market. And if you have a four-legged friend, bring them along for the staycation. Bark Social is the perfect place to sip beer and let your dog play.True Respite Brewing Company is another popular spot to grab a drink in the nearby town of Derwood. But if your ideal staycation includes something more active, book a pass at Rockville’s Movement climbing gym or hit the trails from the Croydon Creek Nature Center. For a bite to eat before leaving town, head to the unassuming Bob’s Shanghai 66.
#3. Wheaton, MD
Consider yourself a foodie? Plan a staycation for Wheaton. Here you can eat your way around the world without leaving The DMV. There’s Los Chorros for Salvadorian fare, El Pollo Rico for Peruvian and Mi La Cay for Vietnamese classics. If you get to town early, don’t skip Nick’s Diner for an old-school American breakfast with Greek influences.
For some fresh air, make your way to Wheaton Regional Park where you can explore the beautiful 50-acre Brookside Gardens.
#4. Annandale, VA
This D.C. suburb is known for its Koreatown so get ready for all the BBQ you can eat. There’s the 24-7 Honey Pig Korean BBQ, the cozy Oegadgib and the beloved Han Gang Restaurant, just to name a few. To satisfy your sweet tooth, grab a pastry at Shilla Bakery & Cafe or Breeze Bakery Cafe.
If you visit during the summer, keep an eye on the Spotlight by Starlight lineup. This free community event brings a variety of musicians and dancers to the Mason District Park amphitheater on select nights.
#5. Gaithersburg, MD
Gaithersburg sits less than 30 miles north of DC and offers plenty of fun-in-the-sun staycation opportunities. If you’re a Montgomery County resident you can take advantage of Gaithersburg’s water park during the week. Otherwise, head to Seneca Creek State Park for a scenic picnic or hike along the 14 miles of trails. Boat rentals are also available if you want to get out on the water.
For a great brunch in town, make a reservation at Barking Mad. With a menu that includes everything from breakfast pizzas to shrimp and grits, it’s always a crowd pleaser.
#6. Silver Spring, MD
No matter what you’re looking for in a staycation, there’s something fun to do in Silver Spring. History buffs can explore the National Museum of Health and Medicine and culture enthusiasts can see what’s on at the AFI Silver Theater or The Fillmore. If you’re looking for a drink, head to the Denizens Brewing Co. or Silver Branch (check out their calendar for up-to-date info on trivia and comedy nights).
And nature lovers can hike or bike along the Sligo Creek Trail. Woodside Urban Park is also a great spot for a low-key picnic.
#7. Bethesda, MD
Bethesda has everything you need for a suburbs staycation. Shop til you drop at Bethesda Row or book a table at one of the many top-notch eateries in town. Woodmont Grill, Guardado’s, Barrel and Crow and La Panetteria are just a few hotspots we could mention.
For a night on the town, there’s the Round House Theater for live performances and the Landmark Theater for blockbuster and indie films. Glen Echo Park is also a cultural institution in town. This outdoor venue hosts free concerts, dance nights, art exhibits and more.
#8. Easton, MD
Although this is a bit further from D.C., it can make for a great staycation if you’re in a nearby suburb. And if you’re considering settling here, it’s perfect for remote workers or anyone who only needs to commute to D.C. on occasion. Not to mention Easton has been ranked “the 8th Best Small Town in America”, so it’s worth exploring for anyone looking for a charming getaway.
Easton puts on a ton of events, like ghost tours, arts festivals, holiday events and so much more. You can also see what’s on at the historic Avalon Theater or plan to stop by the Academy Art Museum. Visit the Easton Amish Market if you’re looking for a piece of handmade furniture to add to your new home. For an upscale meal, there’s Hunter’s Tavern but for something more casual check out Rude BBQ.
#9. Falls Church, VA
Just across the Potomac, you can explore the charming town of Falls Church. Start with breakfast at Cafe Kindred (poutine anyone?), Rare Bird Coffee or Northside Social before taking a self-guided walking tour of the town’s historic sites. If you want to step inside one of these historic spaces, take a tour of the Cherry Hill Museum.
Round out your staycation with a drink at the Solace Brewing Outpost or farm-made ice cream from Lil City Creamery.
#10. Upper Marlboro, MD
Upper Marlboro offers a laid-back staycation for outdoor enthusiasts. Spend your time exploring the 7,000-acre Patuxent River Park where you can go kayaking, fishing, hiking and birdwatching.
Rosaryville State Park is another beautiful spot to escape into nature. Hike or bike along the scenic trails before stopping by the historic Mount Airy Mansion (one of the oldest homes in the state). If you want to dig into more local history, the 18th-century Darnall’s Chance House also offers tours. For a sweet and refreshing treat to end the day, plan to visit Houey’s Shaved Ice.
Ready to explore the D.C. suburbs? Let’s chat! We’ll help you map out a town tour so you can dig in and find the right town for you.