##Road Trip from Chantilly, VA to Ocean City, MD
Are you itching for a weekend road trip and don't know where to go? Take a drive from Chantilly, Virginia to Ocean City, Maryland, and discover some hidden gems along the way.
Did you know that the route from Chantilly to Ocean City takes you through the Eastern Shore, which is the largest area of coastal plain in the United States?
Queenstown, MD is the halfway point of the journey. In this charming small town, you'll find plenty of antique shops, local artisans, and cozy cafes.
The road trip from Chantilly to Ocean City is approximately 135 miles long and should take about 2 hours and 45 minutes of driving time. It's the perfect distance for a weekend getaway without feeling too rushed.
###Top 5 Places to Visit
- Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum's Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center If you're a fan of aviation and space travel, this museum is a must-see. It's the companion facility to the main Air and Space museum on the National Mall in Washington, DC, and is home to some of the most iconic aircraft and spacecraft in history. Highlights include the Space Shuttle Discovery, a Concorde supersonic airliner, and the Enola Gay, the B-29 bomber that dropped the atomic bomb on Hiroshima.
Point of Interest: Don't miss the observation tower for a great view of Dulles International Airport and the surrounding area.
- Assateague Island National Seashore If you're a nature lover, you'll want to spend some time on Assateague Island. This 37-mile-long barrier island is home to wild horses, pristine beaches, and a host of other wildlife. Take a hike on one of the many trails, go kayaking, or just relax on the beach.
Point of Interest: Keep your eyes peeled for the wild horses - they're a highlight of any visit to Assateague Island.
- Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum Learn about the maritime history and culture of the Chesapeake Bay at this fascinating museum. You'll see historic boats, exhibitions on boatbuilding and seafood harvesting, and hands-on activities for kids and adults alike.
Point of Interest: Take a sail on one of the museum's historic boats for an immersive experience.
- Ocean City Boardwalk No trip to Ocean City is complete without a visit to the boardwalk. With its carnival games, amusement park rides, and delicious snacks, it's a classic American boardwalk experience.
Point of Interest: Don't miss the famous Thrasher's French Fries - they've been a boardwalk staple since 1929.
- Assateague Lighthouse This historic lighthouse is located on Assateague Island and has been guiding ships safely to shore since 1867. Climb to the top for a stunning panoramic view of the island and the surrounding waters.
Point of Interest: Keep an eye out for Fire Island, the next lighthouse up the coast.
###Point of Interest Recommendations
- Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum's Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center - Take a photo in front of the Space Shuttle Discovery.
- Assateague Island National Seashore - Take a guided kayak tour to explore the marshes and waterways.
- Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum - Try your hand at crabbing and taste some freshly caught blue crabs.
- Ocean City Boardwalk - Take a ride on the Ferris wheel for a bird's-eye view of the boardwalk.
- Assateague Lighthouse - Visit in the evening for a chance to see the lighthouse's beam sweep across the night sky.
##In Conclusion Embarking on a road trip from Chantilly, Virginia to Ocean City, Maryland is a great way to explore some of the hidden gems of the Eastern Shore. With a mix of historic landmarks, natural wonders, and amusement park fun, there's something for everyone along this scenic route. The trip should take around 2 hours and 45 minutes of driving time, making it the perfect distance for a weekend getaway.