Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Alexandria, Virginia and Darnestown, Maryland

Alexandria, Virginia, and Darnestown, Maryland, are two beautiful locations that everyone should visit. From Alexandria's cobblestone streets to Darnestown's rolling hills, there's much to see and do. Taking a road trip from Alexandria to Darnestown is an incredible way to see the sights and experience what each place has to offer. The halfway point between the two is McLean, VA, which has its own unique charm. In this article, we will explore the top things to see and do on a road trip from Alexandria, VA, to Darnestown, MD, and discover some fascinating facts along the way.

Top Five Things to Do

Visit the George Washington Masonic Temple

The George Washington Masonic Temple is a must-visit location when in Alexandria. As the largest Masonic temple in the world, this beautiful building has impressive architecture and history. Visitors can take a guided tour through the temple, with glimpses into the grand halls, meeting rooms, and museum exhibits. This temple was the location for many George Washington celebrations, including the National Bicentennial Celebration of his birth. Visitors can see the replica of George Washington's apron, which he wore during the laying of the cornerstone.

Interesting Fact: This temple was constructed in the early 20th century, and the building cost in 1932 was $2.7 million.

Explore the National Inventors Hall of Fame and Museum

The National Inventors Hall of Fame and Museum, located at the US Patent and Trademark Office in Alexandria, is a fascinating place to visit for both adults and children. The museum celebrates inventors and their inventions, showcasing their creative work and how they have impacted the world. The museum features interactive exhibits and hands-on displays, allowing visitors to jump into an inventor's shoes and see how their innovation works.

Interesting Fact: The Hall of Fame Induction honors inventors for their achievements, from past to present, with notable inductees such as Thomas Edison, Albert Einstein, and George Washington Carver.

Have Fun at the Great Falls Park

Great Falls Park is an excellent place to visit for outdoor enthusiasts. The park has beautiful scenic trails, picnic areas with stunning views of the Potomac River, and plenty of opportunities for hiking, fishing, and kayaking. The park is also home to the Great Falls, where the Potomac River narrows as it passes through the rocks. Visitors can view the falls from various overlooks or hike down to the river for a closer look.

Interesting Fact: The Great Falls Park spans over 800 acres, with the Potomac River as its centerpiece.

Tour the Glenstone Museum

The Glenstone Museum is a private, contemporary art museum located in Potomac, MD. The museum exhibits an impressive collection of modern art, including works by famous artists such as Jeff Koons, Ellsworth Kelly, and Michael Heizer. Visitors can take a guided tour of the museum's galleries to view the artwork up close. The museum's outdoor sculpture park is also worth exploring, as it adds a different dimension to the viewing experience.

Interesting Fact: The Glenstone Museum was founded by Emily and Mitchell Rales, and the museum's architecture and landscape were designed with careful consideration to the art on display.

Visit the C & O Canal National Historical Park

The Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park is a fascinating destination for history buffs. This park showcases the history of the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal and the Industrial Revolution, with exhibits detailing how canal boats were once used to transport coal and goods upstream. The park also offers a glimpse of the past with historic demonstrations such as blacksmithing, woodworking, and cooking over an open fire. Visitors can walk the towpath, ride a bike, or take a boat ride on the canal.

Interesting Fact: The C & O Canal National Historical Park spans 184.5 miles, and the canal operated from 1831 to 1924.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a road trip from Alexandria, VA, to Darnestown, MD, is an enjoyable way to explore the area, with plenty of diverse activities and amazing sights along the way. From the historic sites in Alexandria to the beautiful Great Falls Park, the art-filled Glenstone Museum, and the fascinating exhibits at the National Inventors Hall of Fame and Museum, and C & O Canal National Historical Park, there's something for everyone. The drive takes approximately one hour and one minute, covering around 35 miles, but plan for additional time to visit all these fantastic destinations. Don't miss out on these exciting experiences!