Top Five Places to Visit Between Catonsville, MD and Arlington, VA

If you're embarking on a road trip between Catonsville, Maryland and Arlington, Virginia, you're in for a treat! Along the way, you'll find plenty of picturesque towns, historic sites, and charming shops and restaurants. Here are our five favorite places to visit on this journey:

College Park, MD: The Halfway Point

As you travel south from Catonsville, you'll pass through a number of suburbs and small towns. One of the highlights of the journey is College Park, Maryland, home to the flagship campus of the University of Maryland. This vibrant college town has an abundance of dining and entertainment options. Stop by the Board and Brew for a coffee or sandwich, or visit The Original Ledo Restaurant for a famous Maryland-style pizza. If you're traveling with kids, visit the nearby College Park Aviation Museum, where you can learn about the history of flight and even take a virtual reality flight!

Alexandria, VA: Historic Charm

One of Virginia's oldest and most historic towns, Alexandria is filled with Colonial-era architecture and cobbled streets. A stroll along King Street will take you past dozens of cute shops, including The Hour, a cocktail boutique that stocks everything from vintage glassware to artisanal bitters. For history buffs, the Old Town starts at the famous Gadsby's Tavern, a public house that hosted visitors like George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and John Adams. You can even take a guided tour of the 18th century tavern and learn about what tavern life was like in early America.

Mount Vernon, VA: Presidential History

Just a few miles south of Alexandria is Mount Vernon, the beloved home of George Washington. This historic plantation is now a National Historic Landmark and museum and provides a glimpse into the life of the nation's first president. Explore the grounds, see the famous gardens, and visit the education center to learn more about Washington's life and the history of the plantation. For a unique perspective, take a boat tour down the Potomac River, which departs from Mount Vernon's dock.

National Harbor, MD: Shopping and Entertainment

About halfway between Alexandria and Arlington, you'll find the sprawling National Harbor complex. This waterfront destination has something for everyone, from outlet shopping to fine dining to family entertainment. Stroll along the scenic harbor or take a ride on the Capital Wheel, a giant Ferris wheel that offers stunning views of the Potomac River and the surrounding area. For a bite to eat, check out the Fish Market, an open-air seafood spot that's been a fixture in the area for over 50 years.

Arlington, VA: Military History

Your journey ends in Arlington, Virginia, just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C. Home to the famous Arlington National Cemetery, this city is steeped in military history and culture. Visit the cemetery to pay your respects at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the gravesites of fallen soldiers, or explore the nearby Air Force Memorial, which offers panoramic views of the city. For a unique experience, take a guided tour of the Pentagon, the headquarters of the United States Department of Defense.

In conclusion, the trip between Catonsville, Maryland and Arlington, Virginia is filled with history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're a history buff or a shopaholic, there's something for everyone along this route. So, pack your bags and hit the road – the journey is sure to be unforgettable!