Is there anything more gorgeous than driving the scenic route and seeing the fiery colors of autumn? Should you need recommendations on ideal places for a fall getaway, we’ve got several fantastic ideas up our sleeve. These are the best locales for families, couples, babymooners and anyone else looking for a quick pause from their day-to-day lives. Here is the list of our top weekend road trips that are just a car ride away from Towson, MD.

Fall Weekend Getaways from Towson, MD

St. Michaels, Maryland Weekend Getaway from Towson, MD© St. Michaels Maryland Business Association

St. Michaels, Maryland

Charming, quaint, beautiful. If you’re in search of a quiet and relaxing weekend with a stunning view, St. Michaels is the answer. Set between the Broad Creek River and the Miles River off the Chesapeake Bay, this picturesque town dates back to the mid-1600s. It is the perfect destination where you can shop in boutiques filled with eclectic collections from clothing to jewelry to home decor, admire artwork from local artists in galleries, enjoy delicious meals at restaurants with waterfront views, and explore with outdoor activities such as kayaking and bike riding. Be sure to stop by Oyster Fest—aww shucks! St. Michaels is a great choice for family fun or a romantic getaway for two.

Williamsburg, Virginia Weekend Getaway from Towson, MD© Visit Williamsburg

Williamsburg, Virginia

Located just over 3 miles from Baltimore, Williamsburg, Virginia offers a ton of entertainment for the family. Take a step back in time to the 18th-century and explore Colonial Williamsburg. Explore historic building, meander through beautiful gardens and try your hand at historic games and trades. Fast forward to present day and enjoy a crazy day of fun at Great Wolf Lodge indoor waterpark, bike the Burg, or take an adventure through the treetops on a zip line and ropes course at Go Ape. Feeling even more like a daredevil? Spend the day riding rollercoasters at Busch Gardens. Should the parents need some adult time, there are great venues for wine and beer tastings and a quiet, kid-free meal.

Washington, DC Fall Getaways from Towson, MD@iampoojatiwari

Washington, DC

The nation’s capital is at your doorstep and it is knocking with activities galore. Museum hop through the Smithsonians (don’t forget the zoo), tour the National Mall, visit the White House, Library of Congress, and the Capitol Building all for free! There are not many places in the country where you can experience such an abundance of history and culture at no charge. Other great ideas include a stroll through Georgetown with lots of great shopping and restaurants. Enjoy a show at the Kennedy Center or witness the legacy of President Lincoln at Ford’s Theater. If you need some relaxation, there is a great collection of spas in the area guaranteed to be the perfect escape for unwinding.

Skyline Drive Weekend Getaways from Towson, MD© NPS

Shenandoah Valley

If you’re looking for the perfect scenic drive to see the intensely colored leaves of fall, Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park takes the cake. Designated National Scenic Byway, Skyline Drive has 75 breathtaking overlooks across 105 miles of winding roads. Hop off the road and hike along the Appalachian Trail or rent a cabin for a weekend filled with nature and s’mores. Up for an adventure down below? Take a trip to Luray Caverns and meander through the magnificent underground maze of stalactites and stalagmites. Additionally, there is great shopping and eateries, and you can enjoy traditional fall activities at local orchards, wineries and markets.

Philadelphia, PA Weekend Getaways from Towson, MD© C. Smyth for Visit Philadelphia

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

The City of Brotherly Love is the place to stuff your face with cheesesteaks and then walk it off with a nice stroll through The Philadelphia Zoo or truck it up the steps a la Rocky at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Enjoy a night of fun with music and dancing in Old City after dining out at one of the city’s popular eats. Take the kids to the Adventure Aquarium for the afternoon and then shop til you drop with tax-free shopping at King of Prussia Mall. Don’t forget to stop and see the Liberty Bell and grab goodies in Reading Terminal Market. The ultimate fall Philly experience would not be complete without the Autumn’s Colors and Chrysanthemum Festival at Longwood Gardens.