Catch one of 60 new plays and musicals in their early stages of development by dozens of local theater companies. This year's theme is focusing on the human journey. It's free, but you may want to get there early to grab a seat. Doors open 30 minutes before each show. The full schedule is available on the Kennedy Center website.
Celebrate Labor Day with a family-friendly parade in Kensington. Schools, equestrian groups, dance groups and floats will complete the parade. Check out a map of the route on the city's website. Afterward, you can eat, shop and play games at a festival.
This mountain in Shenandoah is a challenge — but a rewarding one. Here's our guide of do's and don'ts to making the hike (Important: Bring water and show up early!)
Abby Vesoulis
Make sure to bring at least two liters of water per person. I encountered several people along my journey to the top who did not have enough water and were getting dizzy. There is no water available on the trail.
Abby Vesoulis
Bring snacks that have high levels of protein and salt. Protein gives you energy -- the National Park Service says most injuries occur when hikers are tired. Salt keeps you from getting dizzy, when paired with plenty of water. I brought along nuts, grapes, popcorn and a cheese stick.
Abby Vesoulis
Wear a sweat-wicking shirt or tank top, but bring a light jacket in case the morning is cold. I also recommend wearing thick pants or leggings that are not made of cotton. Cotton leggings can easily tear during a scramble over rocks. And wearing shorts will cause your legs to get scratched up when climbing over the boulders.
Abby Vesoulis
Experienced hikers recommend getting to the trailhead by 7 a.m. The hike could take as long as eight hours, and you must complete it in daylight. Also, it is highly recommended that this trail only be attempted in dry conditions. Water or ice will make the rocks treacherous.
Abby Vesoulis
When at the summit, climb the boulders with confidence, but not arrogance. I saw overly-confident people narrowly avoid falling as they jumped to boulders that were arguably too far away. Hikers who are too nervous psyched themselves out and also made mistakes. Several people are airlifted off the mountain every year, according to the National Park Service. It is vital hikers are aware of their surroundings and climb with care.
Abby Vesoulis
Most hikers can finish the trail within five to seven hours, but plan to spend a few hours -- yes, I said hours -- at the top. You worked hard to get there, and the views cannot be duplicated -- even in photos.
Abby Vesoulis
Climbing Old Rag Trail gave me confidence and empowered me to take on new challenges. I hiked one of Virginia's most difficult and sought-after trails with little experience. Many hikers reach the rock scramble and turn around, but I didn't.
Plus, the burger I ate once I finished the trail tasted extra good.
Whether you're feeling like a trip to Kings Dominion, want to hike Great Falls or descend into Luray Caverns, there are lots of great day trips in the commonwealth:
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Satisfy your inner history buff at the home of the first president and first lady. Of course there's colonial-era buildings, farms and reenactments, but also plenty of special events. The estate will hold a Revolutionary War Weekend this May 5-6, a spring wine festival and sunset tour May 18-20, a birthday celebration for Martha Washington on June 2, and plenty more (see all upcoming events here). The nearby trail is also great for biking and running. DISTANCE: 21 miles from downtown D.C.
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When spring hits the D.C. area, everyone wants to enjoy the beautiful weather. This huge national forest offers hiking, fishing and plenty of gorgeous views. The North River Ranger District is closest to D.C., but the 66-foot Cascade Falls are worth the longer drive. DISTANCE: 240-295 miles from downtown D.C.
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If you've ever had a cool dream about flying and woke up disappointed, well, there's always skydiving. Jumping out of a plane two miles high is a total adrenaline rush. Google users rated Skydive Orange one of the best skydiving centers in Virginia; it offers packages for everyone from first-timers to experienced divers. DISTANCE: 84 miles from downtown D.C.
Courtesy of the Omni Homestead
Vacations in Virginia often come with a side of history, and the Omni Homestead is no different. Case in point: Thomas Jefferson once soaked in the resort's hot springs every day for three weeks, according to the resort's website. You can soak in the hot springs for a day yourself, or stay at the resort for an upscale weekend trip. The resort was founded in 1766, making it the first resort in America. Bonus: It's located between Shenandoah and George Washington and Jefferson National Parks. DISTANCE: 214 miles from downtown D.C.
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Spring is the season to visit the roller coasters and carousels at King's Dominion. The park is now open weekends in spring, and is open daily from March 30 through April 8 for spring break. (It'll stay open daily starting in late May.) New this season: the wooden coaster Twisted Timbers. DISTANCE: 86 miles from downtown D.C.
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Subterranean stalagmites (the ones that grow from the ground) and stalactites (the ones you might hit your head on) are the main attraction in this natural wonder that's millions of years old. The grounds at Luray Caverns also feature an "Alice in Wonderland"-style garden maze and an aerial ropes course. DISTANCE: 95 miles from downtown D.C.
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This D.C.-area classic is near the city, beautiful, and offers kayaking, hiking, guided tours and more. Take a picnic to Great Falls and enjoy the weather. DISTANCE: 17 miles from downtown D.C.
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At Fort Valley Ranch, you can see spring from horseback, western-style. Go on a guided trail ride, or bring your own horse (if, of course, you're lucky enough to have one... and if you are, can we hang out with you?). The ranch also offers getaway packages, wagon rides and special events. DISTANCE: 97 miles from downtown D.C.
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You can catch a drag race or a NASCAR race, or enjoy some go-karting at Dominion Raceway in Woodford, Virginia, but the spot also hosts live music at their Groove Music Hall. Upcoming events include a tribute to funk bands (March 31) and a Cinco de Mayo bash (May 5). DISTANCE: 65 miles from downtown D.C.
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Looking for even more fun close to home? Check out our Top 10 Maryland Day Trips for Spring.
Explore a new-to-you spot in Maryland: Ride the Capital Wheel at National Harbor, hop on the mountain coaster in the Deep Creek Lake area, or stroll and shop your way through Annapolis or Frederick. Find ideas for Maryland trips here:
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National Harbor in Oxon Hill, Maryland, is the perfect option when you want to feel like you're on vacation... but you're still only 20 minutes from home. Take a ride on the Capital Wheel for sweeping views of the Washington Monument, Potomac River, National Cathedral and more; explore the gorgeous indoor gardens of the Gaylord National Resort; try your luck at the MGM Grand, and shop at everything from stylish boutiques to the Tanger Outlets. Dining options are abundant, from southern comfort foods to Italian to seafood to fast casual. DISTANCE: 10 miles from downtown D.C.
Wisp Resort
Set in the scenic Allegheny Mountains in Garrett County, the Deep Creek Lake area offers a variety of activities for year-round fun. Deep Creek is home to many popular campsites and state parks, and it's perfect for outdoor activities such as fishing, golfing, hiking and biking (plus snow sports in the winter). You'll find plenty of comfortable places to stay, including abundant short-term rental homes and the well-known Wisp Resort, home to the popular Wisp Mountain Coaster (pictured), as well as ropes courses and ziplines. DISTANCE: 180 miles from downtown D.C.
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The historic city of Annapolis serves up maritime history, quaint architecture -- the place is 350 years old -- and not-to-be missed dining options on West Street. Have a pirate adventure, catch a concert at Rams Head Tavern, or visit the Annapolis Maritime Museum. You can even go cruising on the scenic Chesapeake Bay to escape from land for 40 minutes or more. DISTANCE: 32 miles from downtown D.C.
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In the mountains of Western Maryland, Catoctin Mountain Park in Thurmont features easy strolls and strenuous climbs along 26 miles of trails. Presidential retreat Camp David resides within the park, although it is not open to the public. Visitors can enjoy a number of outdoor activities including camping, fishing, horseback riding, rock climbing, picnicking, orienteering and ranger programs. DISTANCE: 66 miles from downtown D.C.
Terrapin Adventures
No need to spring for that jungle vacation. You can swing through the trees at Terrapin Adventures, which offers ziplining, rope climbing, a giant swing and more. All challenge courses take you high in the sky, 30-40 feet in the air (under the supervision of trained professionals, of course). Other outdoor activities include horseback riding, rock climbing and windsurfing. The center operates year-round, rain or shine. DISTANCE: 25 miles from downtown D.C.
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Stroll and shop throughout historic downtown Frederick. Stop in a variety of secondhand shops to spruce up your home (or yourself). Tucked between shops is the National Museum of Civil War Medicine. End your day with a trip to "Top Chef" runner-up Bryan Voltaggio's Volt, where the Victorian décor compliments the unique dining experience, or try local trendy spots like Cafe Nola or The Orchard. Stroll along Carroll Creek and explore Baker Park if time allows. DISTANCE: 50 miles from downtown D.C.
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Antietam National Battlefield in Sharpsburg is the site of the bloodiest single-day battle in American history. It was General Robert. E. Lee's Confederate Army's first invasion of the North and led Abraham Lincoln to issue the preliminary Emancipation Proclamation. Today, visitors can take walking or car tours of the battleground, or experience the rural landscape by taking a self-guided hike on one of the area's 10 trails. Find admission fees online here. DISTANCE: 70 miles from downtown D.C.
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Six Flags America in Upper Marlboro is now open Fridays through Sundays; it will change to a daily schedule starting May 25. Filled with exhilarating attractions, including the Apocalypse and the BATWING Coaster, the park offers a day of thrills and fun. Tickets are available at a discount if you order early. DISTANCE: 20 miles from downtown D.C.
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Whether you're a history buff, fan o' beer, or just enjoy a good day trip, you’ll find something fun in Baltimore. Eat up or bar hop along the Inner Harbor, catch an Orioles game at Camden Yards, or visit the world-class Baltimore Aquarium or the eerily historic Edgar Allan Poe House. Also, be sure to check out Fort McHenry, where Francis Scott Key wrote "The Star-Spangled Banner," and the B&O Railroad Museum, the "birthplace of American railroading." DISTANCE: 40 miles from downtown D.C.
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Explore Calvert Cliffs State Park in Calvert County. Follow the 1.8-mile Red Trail through forests and marshlands, across boardwalks and dirt paths to reach the water view, where massive cliffs meet the Chesapeake Bay. Skim the beach near the cliffs for fossils of prehistoric species including sharks, whales, rays and seabirds. Aside from going fossil hunting, visitors can also swim and sunbathe during the warm weather. DISTANCE: 58 miles from downtown D.C.
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Looking for even more fun close to home? Check out our Top 10 Virginia Day Trips for Spring.
We know heading to the shore can be a traffic nightmare. So we've rounded up the places you can go without suffering the Bay Bridge:
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Plunge into a fresh-water quarry via rope swing or spend the afternoon swimming in one of two pools at Beaver Dam Swim Club. If you need a break from the water, hit up one of the club's basketball or volleyball courts, or use the club's grilling facilities to make up your own feast. You can bring your own food and drinks, but alcohol is not allowed. See admission fees here. Where: 10820 Beaver Dam Road, Cockeysville, Maryland Opens: Open starting Sunday, May 26 Hours: Weekends and holidays 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; weekdays 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Distance from D.C.: 57 miles
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You can swim or fish (or both) at the surprisingly close Lake Anna, one of Virginia's larges freshwater lakes. Other nearby attractions include vineyards, antiques shops, golf, historic sites and the Kings Dominion theme park. If you're just day-tripping, be sure to arrive early because the parking area closes once it hits capacity, but you'll also find plenty of nearby lodging. nWhere: 6800 Lawyers Road, Spotsylvania Courthouse, Virginia nOpens: Saturday, May 25 n Hours Weekends and holidays 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; weekdays from May 27 to Aug. 9, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; hours TBD from Aug. 11 to Labor Day nDistance from D.C. 84 miles
Beth Brown, News4
Sink your toes into the sand or take a dip in the water at the pristine waterfront of North Beach on Maryland's western shore, south of Annapolis. Looking for some exercise? Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard at the Welcome Center. (Note: No lifeguards are on duty, so swimming is at your own risk.) See beach fees here. Special events include monthly movies on the beach. nWhere: 9023 Bay Ave., North Beach, Maryland nOpen: The beach and bathrooms are open year-round from dawn until dark. nDistance from D.C. 34 miles
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Float along the pristine Shenandoah River for gorgeous views of downtown Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, after renting an inner tube from the Harpers Ferry Adventure Center (37410 Adventure Center Lane, Purcellville, Virginia). While there, you can also go ziplining, rafting or take a ropes course. Lodging is available on the grounds via cabins and riverside or mountain-top camping. Hours:See all hours here. Distance from D.C.: 64 miles
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The James River Park System (including Pony Pasture Rapids Park, pictured) runs along both sides of the James River as it passes through Richmond, which the city says makes it the only U.S. city to have Class IV white water rapids right in the middle of downtown. Enjoy kayaking, tubing, hiking, rock climbing, swimming and nearly any other outdoor activity you might want. nWhere: Pony Pasture Rapids, 7200 Riverside Drive, Richmond, Virginia nSwimming information:Go here nDistance from D.C.: 111 miles
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Hunting Creek Lake at Cunningham Falls State Park has three designated swimming areas where you can cool off. Looking to extend your stay? Make it a weekend getaway by renting a nearby camper cabin. Where: William Houck Campground, 14039 Catoctin Hollow Road, Thurmont, Maryland Opens: Memorial Day, May 27 Hours: 11 a.m.- 6 p.m. Distance from D.C. 70 miles
Megan McGrath, NBC4
Stroll the boardwalk at swim in the bay at the nearby Chesapeake Beach on Maryland's western shore, south of Annapolis. Note: There's no lifeguard at the beach, so swim at your own risk. See beach fees here. Looking for more active fun? Head to the Chesapeake Beach Water Park, which opens for the 2019 season on Saturday, May 25. nHours: Bay Front Park (Brownie's Beach) is open 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. See admission fees here.nDistance from D.C.: 35 miles n CORRECTION: May 24, 2017, 5:05 p.m.: An earlier image incorrectly showed North Beach instead of Chesapeake Beach. This slide has been updated with an image of Chesapeake Beach.
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Watch a stunning sunrise over the Chesapeake Bay or spend a day out on the water with a boat rental. Grills and picnic tables next to the beach at Sandy Point State Park make this the perfect spot for an afternoon cookout. nWhere: 1100 E. College Parkway, Annapolis, Maryland nOpens: Memorial Day nHours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays; 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. weekends and holidays nDistance from D.C.: 37 miles
Bill Crabtree Jr., Virginia Tourism Corporation
Virginia's Northern Neck region offers multiple beaches, quaint inns and plenty of shops. If you're in search of a swim, consider Windmill Point (good for families and weaker swimmers), Hughlett Point (surrounded by forests and a good spot to launch kayaks or paddleboards), Belle Isle State Park (which also offers cabins and camping) or Colonial Beach (a town great for fans of water sports). Distance from D.C. Mileage varies on your specific destination. Colonial Beach is 63 miles from D.C., while Hughlett Point is 123 miles.
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The star attraction of the 3,000-acre Rocky Gap State Park is Lake Habeeb, which offers two public beaches surrounded by the scenic Evitts Mountain. Camping, cabins, and hot and cold food are also available. Where: 12500 Pleasant Valley Road NE, Flintstone, Maryland Distance: 131 miles nNOTE: Stock image
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Didn't see your fave spot listed? Look for it in our other galleries: • Top 10 Beaches • Top 10 Day Trips Less Than 100 Miles From DC • Top 10 Weekend Getaways • Top 10 Virginia Getaways • Top 10 Maryland Getaways
It may be Labor Day, but summer's swelter just isn't letting up. Here are some awesome places you can check out to cool down within 100 miles of D.C.:
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The water adventures at Hurricane Harbor at Six Flags America (13710 Central Ave., Upper Marlboro, Maryland) range from beginner-friendly to... intimidating. Case in point: On the 132-foot funnel known as the Tornado, all you have to cling to is a four-person raft! (Good luck not screaming). You'll also find a huge variety of slides, a water park version of a half-pipe, a lazy river and a "beach." DISTANCE: 16 miles from downtown D.C.
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Looking for outdoor adventures? Take a quick drive to the Harpers Ferry area, where you can enjoy a variety of expeditions with Harpers Ferry Adventure Center or River & Trail Outfitters, including rafting, tubing, canoeing or kayaking. Each river trip is led by trained guides. DISTANCE: 68 miles from downtown D.C.
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Have you tried stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) yet? It's a challenging but fun combination of canoeing, kayaking and surfing, and it comes with the chance to build your balance skills, too. At Black Dog Paddle, which has locations in Richmond, Charlottesville, Fredericksburg and more, you can enjoy a scenic river paddle while getting a pretty good workout as well. Call 804-57-STAND to check on dates, times and rates. DISTANCE: A bit further away than we'd promised -- roughly 125 miles from downtown D.C., depending on the location you pick. If you need closer-in SUP'ing, try the Key Bridge Boathouse.
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SplashDown Waterpark (7500 Ben Lomond Park Drive, Manassas, Virginia) is home to a 770-foot lazy river, a sand beach, a lily pad and log walk, two fast cannonball slides, two four-story slides and more. DISTANCE: 35 miles from downtown D.C.
Cameron Run
When was the last time you bodysurfed on a massive wave? If "never" was your answer, the Great Waves Waterpark at Cameron Run Regional Park (4001 Eisenhower Ave., Alexandria, Virginia) may be the place to go. You'll also find speed slides, a wave pool, batting cages, fishing, miniature golf and a kids' zone. DISTANCE: 15 miles from downtown D.C.
Megan McGrath, NBC4
Enjoy a refreshing sea breeze not far from home at Chesapeake Beach (Maryland's western shore). Stroll the the boardwalk, enjoy the beach or check out the Chesapeake Beach Water Park. At the end of your day, stop by a roadside market for fresh fruits and veggies on the way home. DISTANCE: 35 miles from downtown D.C.
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Soak City at Kings Dominion (16000 Theme Park Way, Doswell, Virginia) is a great option for a day or weekend trip when it's way too hot to hit the coasters. You'll find more than a dozen water activities, including a wave pool, slides, and a massive water playground that's still fun when you're a grownup. DISTANCE: 75 miles from downtown D.C.
Bohrer Park
Bohrer Park (512 S. Frederick Ave., Gaithersburg, Maryland) offers a variety of slides -- including one that's an impressive 250 feet long -- and a main pool with activity areas. The kids' area offers plenty of shallow-water fun and a "raindrop" water umbrella. DISTANCE: 28 miles from downtown D.C.
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Want to skip the water parks? Go canoeing, tubing or kayaking with Shenandoah River Outfitters instead, and stay cool in a (mostly) shaded setting in Luray, Virginia, which offers campgrounds and cabin rentals if you'd like to spend a weekend away. DISTANCE: 100 miles from downtown D.C.
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When is a five-hour hike in the summer OK? When there's plenty of waterfalls and natural pools to cool you off. Get your workout in at White Oak Canyon and Cedar Run (Etlan, Virginia). See a PDF map from the National Park Service here.DISTANCE: 90 miles from downtown D.C.
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Didn't see your fave spot listed? Look for it in our other galleries: n• Top 10 Beaches n• 10 Places to Swim If You Want to Avoid Bay Bridge Traffic n• Top 10 Day Trips n• Top 10 Virginia Getaways n• Top 10 Maryland Getaways n• Top 10 Weekend Getaways
Hear ye! Hear ye! Don your best 15th-century garb and grab a turkey leg at the Maryland Renaissance Festival. Performances, including jousting, music, science demos and Shakespeare, are plentiful. Check out the schedule in advance so you don't miss your favorite thing. Tickets are discounted through Sept. 9; they cost $19 for adults.
