Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Cascades, Virginia and Travilah, Maryland

Cascades, Virginia and Travilah, Maryland are the perfect starting points for an exciting road trip, filled with adventure and beautiful scenery. The route between these two locations offers stunning views of landscapes, charming towns, and attractions for all ages. And don't forget about the midway point, Tysons, VA, which is filled with shopping and dining experiences. Here are the top five things to do on this road trip:

Hiking at the Great Falls Park

Great Falls Park is a natural wonderland located just half an hour's drive from both Cascades and Travilah. Visitors can hike along the Potomac River, take in breathtaking views of the waterfalls and wildlife, and even go rock climbing. This park offers fun for all ages, with trails ranging from easy to strenuous. It is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature.

Interesting fact: Great Falls Park is located along one of the nation's first canals, the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. The canal was used for transporting goods between DC and Ohio in the early- to mid-1800s.

Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum

The National Air and Space Museum is located in Chantilly, Virginia, just a 20-minute drive from Cascades. Here, visitors can explore the wonders of aviation and space travel through interactive exhibits, displays, and artifacts. The museum features aircraft and spacecraft, including the Apollo 11 command module, Saturn V rocket, and an IMAX theater. It is a great destination for anyone interested in science, history, or just looking for an engaging time.

Interesting fact: The National Air and Space Museum is the most visited museum in the Smithsonian Institution and has over 53,000 artifacts in its collection.

Arlington National Cemetery

Arlington National Cemetery is a must-visit stop located just a 45-minute drive from Travilah and Cascades. This cemetery is the final resting place of over 400,000 fallen servicemen, including President John F. Kennedy and the crew of the Challenger space shuttle. Visitors can watch the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, learn about the history of the cemetery, and pay their respects to those who have served our country.

Interesting fact: Arlington National Cemetery was originally the property of Robert E. Lee, but was confiscated from his family during the Civil War. Today, it is one of the most respected military cemeteries in the world.

The National Mall

The National Mall is one of the United States' most iconic locations, filled with famous landmarks and memorials. It is located in Washington, D.C., just 30 minutes from both Travilah and Cascades. Visitors can take a stroll around the reflecting pool, admire the Lincoln Memorial, and visit the Smithsonian museums. The National Mall is a great destination for history buffs or anyone who wants to experience the nation's capital.

Interesting fact: The National Mall was originally envisioned as a grand avenue that would stretch from the Capitol building to the Potomac River. Today, it is an area of over 300 acres, including 11 museums and memorials.

Visit the C & O Canal National Historical Park

The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, or C & O Canal, is a historical landmark and destination that is just over an hour's drive from Travilah and Cascades. This canal once transported goods between Washington, D.C. and Ohio, but now is a scenic destination for recreational activities. Visitors can hike or bike along the canal, take a relaxing boat ride, and learn about the history of the canal.

Interesting fact: The C & O Canal was designed to be a "slack water" canal, which means it used a series of dams, locks, and canals to artificially raise the water level for easy transportation of goods.

Conclusion

This road trip from Cascades, Virginia and Travilah, Maryland offers a mix of history, nature, and adventure that will appeal to all age groups. Take your time exploring the sights and sounds of the trip's halfway point, Tysons, VA, or dive into the exciting destinations that are scattered along the route. With so many options for entertainment, it's easy to see why this road trip is one of the most popular in the area. The trip can take anywhere from a full day to weekend depending on how much time visitors spend in each stop.