The Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Charles Town, West Virginia and Alexandria, Virginia

When it comes to road trips, the route between Charles Town, West Virginia and Alexandria, Virginia is filled with stunning natural beauty, historic landmarks, and cultural attractions that will leave any traveler feeling satisfied. The journey between these two destinations will take about an hour and a half, and the halfway point sits in the charming town of Ashburn, Virginia.

Top Five Things to Do

Visit Harpers Ferry National Historical Park

A trip to Harpers Ferry National Historical Park is a must for any history buff. This park is the site of John Brown's raid on the federal armory in 1859, which is considered one of the events that led to the Civil War. Visitors can take a guided tour of the historic town, visit several museums, hike the trails, and enjoy scenic views of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers that meet at the park.

Interesting fact: Harpers Ferry is also the site of the first successful American railroad and the location where Thomas Jefferson stood to observe the rivers below in 1783.

Stroll Along Old Town Alexandria’s Waterfront

Step back in time and visit the Old Town Alexandria's Waterfront, a hub for maritime activities since the 18th century. This picturesque setting is perfect for leisurely walks and opportunities to dine and shop. The boardwalk also offers views of neighboring states and monuments along the Potomac River.

Interesting fact: The area played a crucial role in early American history, serving as the primary port for the shipbuilding industry and the spot where some of the largest and most glorious ships were built.

Hike the Billy Goat Trail

Looking to add a bit of adventure to your road trip? The Billy Goat Trail at Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park offers a challenging, but rewarding, trek along the Potomac River. With an elevation gain of 1,148 feet and a length of 4.7-miles, the trail offers spectacular views of the river and a chance to see some of the wildlife that calls the area home.

Interesting fact: The trail is divided into three sections, making it ideal for all levels of hikers.

Tour George Washington’s Distillery & Gristmill

Take a step back in time and visit George Washington's Distillery & Gristmill at Mount Vernon, the estate of the first President of the United States. The restored distillery and gristmill are operational replicas, giving visitors a glimpse into life during Washington's time and the efforts that were made to create spirits and flour.

Interesting fact: The distillery is the largest reconstruction of a pre-Industrial Revolution facility in the country.

Explore the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum is a must-visit attraction for those who love aviation and the space program. This museum has an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits from the earliest days of flight to the latest space missions. With interactive displays and educational demonstrations, the museum will entertain visitors of all ages.

Interesting fact: The museum displays more than 50 aircraft, including the Wright Brothers' 1903 flyer, the Spirit of St. Louis, and the Apollo 11 command module.

Conclusion

The road trip from Charles Town, West Virginia to Alexandria, Virginia is a perfect blend of nature, history, and culture. From the stunning views of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers in Harpers Ferry to the interactive displays at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, there is something for everyone along this route. With five top-ranked attractions and a midpoint in Ashburn, the drive from Charles Town to Alexandria promises to be a memorable one that is worth taking.