Top Five Places to Visit Between Brandywine, Maryland and Washington, District of Columbia

Are you planning a road trip from Brandywine, Maryland to Washington, D.C and looking for some interesting places to visit? Here is a list of the top five places to visit for a memorable journey.

Exploring the Route and the Halfway Point: Clinton, MD

A drive from Brandywine, Maryland to Washington, D.C covers approximately 25 miles and takes around 40 minutes via US-301 S and I-495 E. Along the route, there are several exciting places to stop and explore.

As you drive, consider making a stop midway through the journey in Clinton, MD. Clinton is a historic town with a population of around 35,000 residents. During the civil war, Clinton played an important role in supplying the Union Army with artillery and other supplies.

One interesting place to visit in Clinton is Surratt House Museum, a historic house that is now a museum dedicated to telling the story of the conspiracy to assassinate President Abraham Lincoln. The museum is open from Thursday to Sunday and it offers fascinating guided tours that bring to life the tragic events surrounding the assassination of President Lincoln.

1. National Harbor

The first stop on this list is National Harbor, a lively waterfront spot on the banks of the Potomac River. National Harbor is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

One standout attraction is The Capital Wheel, a 180-foot-tall observation wheel that provides stunning views of the surrounding area. You can also take a scenic boat ride on the Potomac River, shop at the Tanger Outlets, or enjoy live music and performances at the outdoor plaza.

2. Alexandria's Historic Old Town

Located around 10 miles from Washington, D.C, Alexandria's Historic Old Town is a charming historic district that is worth exploring. The tree-lined streets are dotted with colonial-era buildings, art galleries, museums, and restaurants.

One of the must-see attractions in Old Town is the Torpedo Factory Art Center. This former torpedo factory was converted into an art center that now houses more than 82 studios and six galleries. You can see artists at work, and even purchase some of their works to take home with you.

3. Hillwood Estate, Museum, & Gardens

Next on the list is Hillwood Estate, Museum, & Gardens, a beautiful historic home in northwest Washington, D.C. The estate was once the home of Marjorie Merriweather Post, a wealthy philanthropist and socialite.

Today, the estate is open to the public and visitors can explore the beautifully landscaped gardens and tour the mansion to see its art collections and luxurious décor. Highlights include the Fabergé eggs, Russian Imperial Porcelain, and French furniture.

4. The National Mall

The National Mall is a sprawling public park that is home to many of the iconic landmarks and museums in Washington, D.C. From the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial to the Smithsonian Institution and the National Museum of African American History and Culture, the National Mall has something for everyone.

One tip for visiting the National Mall is to rent a bike to explore the sights. You can rent a bike from one of the many bike rental companies on the National Mall or bring your own.

5. The Wharf

Last but not least is The Wharf, a vibrant waterfront neighborhood on the banks of the Potomac River. The Wharf is home to a variety of restaurants, shops, and attractions, including a concert venue, a distillery, and an ice rink.

One of the most popular activities at The Wharf is kayaking on the Potomac River. You can rent a kayak from Boating in DC and paddle along the river while taking in the scenery.

Conclusion

There you have it - the top five places to visit on a trip from Brandywine, Maryland to Washington, D.C. Whether you want to explore historic districts, take in scenic views, or visit world-class museums, there is something on this list for you. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and explore the best of what the area has to offer.