Road Trip from Carney, Maryland to Herndon, Virginia
Are you craving a change of scenery? Do you want to get out and enjoy the great outdoors? Take a road trip! The route from Carney, Maryland to Herndon, Virginia is a beautiful drive through the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States.
Fun fact: Did you know that Maryland is known as the "Old Line State" because of its famous Maryland Line troops that fought in the Revolutionary War?
At the halfway point of the trip lies College Park, Maryland, home to the University of Maryland.
The trip from Carney, Maryland to Herndon, Virginia is 85 miles and can take around one and a half hours depending on traffic. The drive is pleasant, full of quaint towns, rolling hills, and beautiful green spaces.
Here are the top five places to visit along the route:
National Museum of Natural History, Washington D.C. - A visit to the National Museum of Natural History is a must for anyone passing through D.C. This museum has something for everyone, including dinosaurs, Hall of Human Origins, Ocean Hall, and much more. Make sure to check their website for current exhibitions. Point of interest recommendation: "The Hope Diamond" - located in the National Gem Collection, this 45.52 carats blue diamond is a must-see.
Great Falls Park, McLean, Virginia - Just a few miles from Washington D.C., is the Great Falls Park. Spanning across Maryland and Virginia, this park is home to stunning waterfalls and a great place to spend the day hiking or having a picnic with family and friends. Point of interest recommendation: Bring binoculars to spot the bald eagles that nest in the area.
Historic Downtown Leesburg, Virginia - Craving a small-town experience? Historic Downtown Leesburg should be your next stop. With over 200 boutiques, shops, and restaurants, you will find something for everyone. Walk along the streets and marvel at the historic buildings, some of them dating back to the Civil War era. Point of interest recommendation: Visit the Leesburg Farmers Market on Saturdays from 8 am to 12 pm.
Manassas National Battlefield Park, Virginia - Take a step back into history at the Manassas National Battlefield Park. This park is the site of the first and second battles of Bull Run, two significant battles of the Civil War. Walk the trails, explore the historic buildings, and learn about the history of the area. Point of interest recommendation: Rangers are available to provide guided tours and answer any questions you might have.
Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, Chantilly, Virginia - This magnificent aircraft museum is located close to Dulles Airport. The Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center is a branch of the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum and houses an impressive collection of aircraft and spacecraft, including the Space Shuttle Discovery. Point of interest recommendation: Don't miss the observation tower, where you can watch planes take off and land at Dulles Airport.
In conclusion, the road trip from Carney, Maryland to Herndon, Virginia is a fantastic way to spend a day exploring the beauty of the Mid-Atlantic region. With plenty of museums, parks, and historic landmarks to visit along the way, you won't be disappointed. Remember to take your time, enjoy the scenery, and don't forget to stop for a bite to eat. Safe travels!