Family-Friendly Day Trips: Plan a Staycation in the Mid-Atlantic U.S

If you're a resident of Washington D.C., Maryland or Virginia, a staycation is a great way to enjoy quality time with your family without spending much money – or going far. With historic museums, ambient harbors and action-packed amusement parks, day trips around the Mid-Atlantic region can help you discover a whole new world practically at your doorstep.

1. Learn about our nation's history.
As our nation's capital, Washington D.C. offers a wealth of museums, monuments and memorials that celebrate and honor our nation's rich history:

• Government buildings: A trip to D.C. wouldn't be complete without a tour of must-see road trip destinations like the White House, the Capitol Building where the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives meet, and the Library of Congress – the largest library in the world.
• Monuments & memorials: Visit historic landmarks like the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery.
• Museums: Tour extraordinary museums like theSmithsonian, National Museum of American History, National Geographic Museum, National Gallery of Art and so many more to get your fix of history, art, culture and the sciences for free or at budget-friendly prices.
• Historical sites: Transport yourself back in time to the Revolutionary War when you visitColonial Williamsburg, a town steeped in patriotic history. Full of historic reenactments, museums and tours, you'll get a feel for how the colonists lived and learn about the important war that shaped the future of our country. Other noteworthy stops include Mt. Vernon (16 mi south of D.C.), the estate of George Washington, and Monticello (115 mi south of D.C.) - home to Thomas Jefferson.
  
  

2. Explore the big city.
With its own share of large metropolitan areas, opportunities abound for popular road trip destinations across the Mid-Atlantic region. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Washington D.C.: More than a home to our government and historic landmarks, D.C. is alive with plentiful shopping in Georgetown. Or, kick back and enjoy fine dining options, theatre through "pay what you can" shows, the Washington Opera or Ballet, and the city's diverse festivals. The kids will also love a trip to the National Zoo or Aquarium where exotic creatures live and play.
• Baltimore: Shop the historic Broadway Market, take a stroll through the Cylburn Arboretum, catch a ball game, or visit the eerie gravesite of Edgar Allen Poe. Also, check out Inner Harbor, a downtown waterfront that offers ample eateries, shops and attractions. Or, visit Fort McHenry where our national anthem was penned during the War of 1812.
• Richmond: Explore the Revolutionary and Civil War sites that dot this capital city of Virginia. A true melting pot of cultures, you'll also discover an array of ethnic cuisine from Dominican to Mediterranean. Or, spend the evening at the historical Byrd Theatre, which was built in 1928 and specializes in second-run movies and cultural events at affordable prices. 
  
  

3. Become one with nature.
For the avid nature lover, the Mid-Atlantic region is rich with parks, freshwater lakes and rivers galore that offer ample opportunity for hiking, camping, kayaking, canoeing and fishing.

• Potomac: Relax and get away when you take a scenic boat tour along the river. You can also canoe, kayak, swim or fish for largemouth bass, bluegill and more.
• Chesapeake Bay: Covering an impressive 64,000 square miles, this Bay offers unlimited activities: golfing, fishing, sailing - you can even take a horse-drawn carriage ride.
• Shenandoah National Park: Hike and explore the Appalachian Trail or Old Rag Mountain, camp under the stars, or explore one of Shenandoah's nine breathtaking waterfalls. The fish are plentiful and the trails for horseback riding let you take in scenic views of the nature that surrounds you.
  
  

4. Relax at the beach.
If you're craving a fresh ocean breeze, try a staycation to one of the area's many pristine beaches. The Mid-Atlantic boasts several sandy beaches where you can find relaxation and family-friendly activities year-round:

• Virginia Beach: Spanning 35 miles, take your pick from one of three beach areas: Chesapeake Bay, Sandbridge or resort beaches. Relax and soak up some sun, enjoy an afternoon of biking or rollerblading, or take in the live music and performers from one of the quaint outdoor cafés.
• Ocean City: From scenic golf courses toshopping on the boardwalk,Ocean City offers something for everyone.The boardwalk has plenty else to offer, where you can indulge in Maryland crab cakes and fresh saltwater taffy or fun rides and arcades. You can also enjoy movie night on the beach and picturesque bonfires complete with storytellers.
  
  

5. Play in the water, ride through the sky.
For thrill-seeking adventure, consider one-tank trips to some of the Mid-Atlantic's finest amusement and water parks.

• Busch Gardens: Choose from a plethora of exhilarating rollercoasters and rides for the whole family, or opt for one of the many entertaining shows or concerts.
• Water Country USA: With over 30 water rides and attractions, it's easy to have some fun in the sun. Themed to the 1950s and 60s, Water Country USA offers enough rides, shows and attractions to keep the entire family entertained for hours.
  
  

Prepare for your next staycation with reliable auto insurance coverage
Keep your car, passengers and yourself protected on your next day trip with helpful driving safety tips. Also, be sure to review your auto insurance coverage before leaving. If you need to update your coverage, consider getting a quote from a company like Nationwide Insurance. Options like Roadside Assistance can give you peace of mind knowing you're protected when on the road.