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5 Day Trips from Baltimore to Take with the Whole Family

Baltimore, also known as "Charm City," is an American city in Maryland and the site of the Baltimore Inner Harbor. This seaport has been a historically significant trade post over the last two hundred years. The city's rich history is highlighted in the American National Anthem. The "Star-Spangled Banner" was originally a poem written by Francis Scott Key about the Battle of Baltimore during the War of 1812.

Baltimore is situated by the Patapsco River on the Western shores of the Chesapeake Bay in Western Maryland. Residents of this city adore Baltimore culture and the city's unique landmarks. So, this article caters to families residing in the downtown Baltimore area to suggest close-to-home day trips.

Just in the state of Maryland, there are many options for full-day family-friendly road trips to get out of the city. Bucket list destinations around the Baltimore metropolitan area offer everything from small towns with essential landmarks to state parks for outdoor activities. Families from Baltimore, MD, don't have to travel too far to feel like they've strayed from their regular routine and into a fantastic family getaway. Before the journey out of Baltimore, readers must consider the following travel guide to find the best day trips for the whole family.

5 Day Trips from Baltimore for the Whole Family

5. Washington, D.C.

The capital dome illuminated after dark in Washington DC

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Last but not least, families heading out of Baltimore for the day are within an hour's drive from Washington DC. History buffs will rejoice to know that landmarks like The White House, the Washington Monument, Mount Vernon, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Smithsonian Museum can all be found in the nation's capital. Visitors should seek out guided tours at each location to get a complete education and understanding of this city named after George Washington.

When traveling to these places, families from Baltimore will have the best day with their loved ones. All of these travel destinations can be visited in just one day. Otherwise, families can plan multi-day trips to see these places around Baltimore. Enjoy traversing the United States of America!

4. Ohio Canal National Historic Park

Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park in Georgetown Washington DC

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The Ohio Canal National Park is made up of Washington DC, Maryland, and West Virginia. This national historic park sits on the Potomac River. It offers tourists options like kayaking, hiking miles of trails, and wildlife observation.

RELATED: Wild Horses Roam Maryland's Beautiful Assateague State Park

3. Close-By Coastal Communities

Atlantic city,new jersey,usa. 09-04-17: Atlantic City Boardwalk at sunset

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Baltimore is just a couple hours' drive away from beach towns in New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia. Shore towns with beautiful beaches and bustling boardwalks are all within reach. Tourists often head to coastal communities like Cape May, Lewes, Ocean City, Assateague, and other towns on the Eastern Shore.

2. Frederick, Maryland

Frederick is a city and the county seat of Frederick County in the U.S. state of Maryland. It is part of the Baltimore-Washington Metropolitan Area

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Frederick, Maryland, receives visitors from many areas near Baltimore, Maryland, Washington DC, and Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. This area is a prominent travel destination due to the historic Civil War-era buildings, shopping boutiques, art galleries, performance theaters, and museums. What's more, travelers often come here to participate in outdoor activities like hiking or biking the Appalachian Trail, sightseeing in the wildlife preserve and state park, or touring the area's wineries.

1. Annapolis, Maryland

Annapolis, Maryland, USA downtown cityscape on Main Street.

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Annapolis, Maryland, is the state capital of the "Old Line State." As such, this city is an excellent choice for families looking to road trip out of Baltimore. Annapolis is home to historic landmarks like the Maryland State House and the United States Naval Academy.

After touring the city, visitors of Annapolis should seek out recreation areas like Sandy Point State Park on the Chesapeake Bay. This region is excellent for fishing, boating, swimming, and more. This zone lies across the water from other similar destinations like Kent Island and St. Michaels on the Eastern shores of the bay.

Any family-friendly road trip ideas of your own? Share your adventure at our Wide Open Roads Facebook!

READ MORE: Why This Maryland State Park Has Visitors Ditching Their Phones