Points of Interest between Ashburn, Virginia to Chevy Chase, Maryland

picture of Ashburn, Virginia

Best Things To Do on a Road Trip From Ashburn to Chevy Chase

Traveling by car is an exciting way to explore new destinations and experience the beauty of nature along the way. If you’re planning a road trip from Ashburn, Virginia, to Chevy Chase, Maryland, you’re in for a treat. The route is filled with scenic views, historic landmarks, and fun activities. This article will highlight the top five things to do on your road trip, as well as some interesting facts about each location.

The trip from Ashburn to Chevy Chase is approximately 30 miles, with the halfway point being Fairfax, Virginia. Fairfax is a fascinating city that boasts of important historical landmarks like the Civil War Interpretive Center, which offers an intriguing insight into the Civil War. Take a stroll through the historic district of Fairfax or have a picnic in one of its beautiful parks while enjoying the picturesque scenery.

Top Five Things To Do

1. Sky Zone Trampoline Park

Sky Zone Trampoline Park located at Sterling, Virginia provides endless joy for families and friends. With over 17,000sqft of free jumping trampolines it’s impossible for you to have a dull moment. Visitors can try out gravity-defying acrobatics and experience the thrill of jumping into a giant foam pit. Sky Zone is the perfect stop for fun and exciting activities with family and friends.

2. Great Falls Park

The Great Falls Park in Virginia is a perfect place to get in touch with nature and experience awe-inspiring scenery. The park offers great opportunities for hiking, biking, and kayaking, as well as wildlife viewing. Visitors can take in the stunning views of waterfalls as they walk along the trails. It's worth noting that the national park charged an entrance fee to help support the maintenance of the trails.

3. Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center

The Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center is a must-visit destination for history buffs and aviation enthusiasts in Virginia. The museum has over 150 aircraft on display, including the Space Shuttle Discovery and the Enola Gay. The center also has interactive exhibits and simulators for visitors to enjoy. Notably, the museum is home to The Donald D. Engen Observation Tower which offers a 360-degree view of Dulles International Airport and the surrounding area.

4. Smithsonian National Zoological Park

The Smithsonian National Zoological Park is located in Washington DC and is the perfect place to spend an afternoon with your family and enjoy a walk through the Zoo's 163-acre park. Here you will get a chance to see a wide variety of wildlife from all around the world. The park is home to two giant pandas that are popular with visitors to the zoo. The National Zoo has free admission and is open daily from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.

5. Glen Echo Park

Glen Echo Park in Maryland is a fun and family-friendly destination that offers art exhibits, theater performances, and outdoor activities. This 220-acre park is home to several attractions like the antique Dentzel Carousel, one of the few still remaining in the country. The Park offers several art programs and also has an Adventure Theatre-MTC, children's theater.

Interesting Facts About Each Location

  • Sky Zone Trampoline Park was the world’s first indoor trampoline park when it was founded in 2004.
  • The Great Falls Park was once home to a canal system that connected the Chesapeake Bay with Ohio and Erie Canal though it was abandoned in 1924.
  • The Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center is named after Steven F. Udvar-Hazy, an American aviation pioneer, and an entrepreneur who founded International Lease Finance Corporation (ILFC).
  • The Smithsonian National Zoological Park was founded by a biologist named William T. Hornaday as a way to save American bison from extinction.
  • Glen Echo Park had been an amusement park until 1968. Today it is administered by the National Park Service and is known as a living cultural arts center that is enjoyed by residents of the D.C. metropolitan area.

Conclusion

The road trip from Ashburn, Virginia, to Chevy Chase, Maryland, is filled with exciting places to visit and fun activities to do. Travelers have the opportunity to experience the beauty of nature while also learning about history and culture. The route is about 30 miles long, and it takes approximately one hour to complete. So, pack up your car and be prepared to explore the various cities along the way – the Sky Zone Trampoline Park, the Great Falls Park, the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, the Smithsonian National Zoological Park, and the Glen Echo Park. Your road trip is sure to be an unforgettable experience.