Staying at Johns Hopkins for the summer for summer research, classes or a job? Same. Since we all know very well that there is a finite amount of things to do around campus, here are some ideas for road trips that require less than a three hour drive so you can get away on weekends.
1. Hershey Park, PA (87 miles; 1:30 hours)
13 roller coasters and 14 water rides, plus the nostalgia of childhood –– and also chocolate!
2. Philadelphia, PA (104 miles; 1:50 hours)
Liberty Bell, Independence Hall and Philly cheesesteak!
3. Harper's Ferry, WV (76 miles; 1:20 hours)
Dust off the history books before visiting the place where abolitionist John Brown historically tried to mobilize a slave revolt. But don't worry, there's also beautiful scenery!
4. Billy Goat Trail, MD (53 miles; 1:00 hour)
A rocky and exciting train with a great view (or so says a Maryland friend).
5. Gettysburg, PA (57 miles; 1:15 hours)
More history! The Battle of Gettysburg was the turning point of the Civil War and led to Lincoln's famed "Gettysburg Address."
6. Ocean City, MD (143 miles; 2:50 hours)
Complete with a boardwalk and most importantly, a beach (for when the Inner Harbor somehow doesn't cut it).
7. Calvert Cliffs State Park, MD (80 miles; 1:40 hours)
A little more quiet and modest, this is a secluded park with lots of wildlife and stunning cliffs.
8. Cape May, NJ (152 miles; 2:50 hours)
Who says there's nothing in Jersey? (speaking as a native Jerseyan, of course)
9. Rehoboth Beach, DE (123 miles; 2:30 hours)
Another possibility for a beach!
10. Shenandoah National Park, VA (113 miles; 2:00 hours)
Everyone's heard the song, so it's only fair that you should visit the place that it was based on.
11. Catoctin Mountain State Park, MD (75 miles; 1:20 hours)
Considered one of the best state parks in Maryland!
12. Tuckahoe State Park, MD (70 miles; 1:30 hours)
More hiking!
13. Patapsco Valley State Park, MD (22 miles; 0:30 hours)
This is actually close enough to be a day trip, tbh. But just because it's close doesn't mean it's not a road trip!
