Road trip! Explore 5 cities around Baltimore

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, residents of Baltimore enjoyed numerous options for long-distance travel, thanks to a port serving two cruise lines and direct and indirect international flights from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI). As Maryland, like many states, returns to normal this summer, you may feel the urge to escape — but with ships not an option and long-haul flights perhaps feeling daunting, what’s the ideal solution for a fantastic summer getaway? A road trip!

It’s tempting to just take road trips to cities like Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, or New York City and call it a day. The silver lining is that Baltimore's central location on the East Coast opens up a wealth of destinations to explore, from beaches and historical landmarks to wineries and beyond. Below are five of my favorite spots, along with suggestions for which credit cards to bring along to maximize your savings.

Top road trip credit cards

In April 2020, Citi announced updates to the Citi Premier® Card, including a revamped rewards structure and an added annual hotel credit. Originally scheduled for implementation on August 23, 2020, the changes were moved up to June 2, 2020. Cardholders now earn 3x points on air travel, hotels, gas stations, grocery stores, and restaurants (including takeout). This enhancement makes the Citi Premier an excellent choice for covering your travel expenses away from Baltimore.

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is another great choice. It offers 2x miles on every purchase, eliminating the hassle of tracking miles across different spending categories. Additionally, you can use the miles accumulated on the Venture card for future travel expenses incurred during your road trip.

At present, you can earn 75,000 bonus miles by spending $4,000 within the first three months of opening your account. Additionally, you’ll receive a fee rebate of up to $100 for Global Entry or $85 for TSA PreCheck every four years, along with no foreign transaction fees — all for a reasonable annual fee of $95.

Cambridge, Maryland

Travel time from Baltimore: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes

Founded in 1684, this city on the Choptank River—a significant tributary of the Chesapeake Bay—is among the oldest in the United States. Originally established as a seaport town, it boasts a rich maritime history. Notably, author James Michener drew inspiration from Cambridge while writing his novel "Chesapeake," basing his fictional city Patamoke on it.

Activities: Explore the newly established Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Monument and Scenic Byway, where you can learn about the remarkable woman who led nearly 70 enslaved people to freedom in the north through various exhibits, an audio-visual program, a museum shop, a research library, and seasonal events. You can also enjoy a cruise on the authentic skipjack, Nathan of Dorchester, an oyster-dredging vessel, or visit the Native American Chicone Village at Handsell, a faithful replica of a 1600s single-family homestead built using traditional materials and techniques.

Accommodations: The family-friendly Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Golf Resort, Spa & Marina is located on 342 picturesque acres near the Chesapeake Bay. Features include an 18-hole golf course, a 150-slip marina, and a full-service spa. Additionally, there’s an activity pool with a slide, outdoor movies, opportunities for kayaking or paddleboarding on the Choptank River, nature walks, games, and craft activities.

Culinary highlights: Seafood reigns supreme in Cambridge, thanks to its proximity to the rich waters of the Chesapeake Bay. Jimmie & Sook's, part of the Maryland Crab and Oyster Trail, is famed for its Maryland blue crab, Southern-style barbecue, and craft cocktails. Sample Maryland microbrews at RAR Brewing, recognized for its ales and upscale pub fare. Meanwhile, Portside Seafood serves up beloved Maryland dishes, featuring crab balls, rockfish bites, and fresh oysters from the Chesapeake Bay.

Lancaster, Pennsylvania

Distance from Baltimore: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes

Nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country, this city is home to a vibrant Amish community. It offers a variety of activities for all ages, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a more relaxed pace. Enjoy visits to farmers markets, picturesque covered bridges, museums, and delightful Amish buggy rides.

Activities: Visit the Wolf Sanctuary of PA, a refuge for displaced wolves and wolf-dogs where you can discover more about wolf conservation and biology. The Amish Experience serves as a cultural center showcasing heritage with a multimedia theater, tours of an Amish House & School, and guided bus tours of local farms. Families can also enjoy Dutch Wonderland Family Amusement Park, featuring over 35 rides, a water play area, and live shows.

Accommodations: For a touch of luxury in Lancaster, consider the Eden Resort & Suites, conveniently located near the city’s main attractions. The resort offers 301 guest rooms, including one-, two-, and three-bedroom suites, some equipped with full kitchens. Amenities include indoor and outdoor pools, two dining options, a lounge, a fitness center with a sauna, and courts for tennis, basketball, and shuffleboard. Alternatively, staying at an Amish bed and breakfast or guesthouse provides a unique experience in a more rustic setting.

Food and Beverages: As a dessert enthusiast, my first stop is Dutch Haven, renowned for its Shoo-Fly Pie, a delicious variation on pecan pie without the nuts. You'll also find a selection of cookies, fruit pies, jams, jellies, and canned goods, alongside Amish arts and crafts. For a taste of locally sourced cuisine from Amish farms and markets, visit Plough, an upscale bistro that showcases local microbrews and craft cocktails. If you're in the mood for something more laid-back, consider Lancaster Central Market, the oldest continually operating farmer's market in the U.S., where you can savor sandwiches, soups, baked goods, and a variety of ethnic dishes.

White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia

Distance from Baltimore: Approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes

Located in the southwestern part of the state, White Sulphur Springs is renowned for The Greenbrier, known as "America's Resort" since 1778. Additionally, it boasts over 80 local attractions, including premier golf courses, luxurious spas, museums, craft distilleries, and outdoor adventures.

Activities: Tee off at one of the local golf courses, including five located at the Greenbrier. Explore 13 miles of hiking and biking trails in Greenbrier State Forest or head to Greenbrier Valley Brewing Company for craft beers and Smooth Ambler Spirits to sample local bourbons. Alternatively, unwind at a nearby spa.

Accommodation: For a lavish experience, The Greenbrier resort is the obvious choice, offering rooms and legacy cottages along with amenities like the famous mineral spa. If the resort's prices are beyond your budget, consider options such as Greenbrier River Campground & Cabins, Old Victorian Inn B&B, or various chain hotels from Hampton Inn to Fairfield Inn & Suites.

Culinary Delights: If staying at the Greenbrier isn't feasible, dine at the resort's historic Main Dining Room, which serves upscale Southern cuisine made from ingredients sourced from the resort's 43-acre chef's garden. Other dining options include The French Goat, offering classic French cuisine, the Edgarton Cafe and Bakery, and the Washington Street Pub, known for local beers and casual bar fare.

Lambertville, New Jersey

Distance from Baltimore: Approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes

Founded in 1705, this enchanting town has been recognized by Forbes magazine as one of the top 15 prettiest in the U.S. Nestled beside the Delaware River, it is connected to historic New Hope, Pennsylvania, via a pedestrian bridge. Visitors can explore historic bars, restaurants, spas, vintage shops, and admire the exquisite Victorian architecture.

Activities: Dubbed "The Antiques Capital of New Jersey," explore the Golden Nugget Antique Flea Market, open three days a week, along with other local antique venues. Enjoy performances of new and classic plays at The Bucks County Playhouse. Alternatively, visit Peddler's Village, which features shopping, dining, lodging, and family entertainment, boasting over 60 retail shops, five restaurants, the Golden Plough Inn, and Giggleberry Fair, an indoor family fun center.

Where to stay: The Lambertville Station Restaurant and Inn is housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century train station, offering elegant accommodations with rooms and suites that boast river views. Just across the bridge in New Hope, Pennsylvania, the AAA three-diamond Aaron Burr House Inn provides a charming stay with eight antique-decorated guest rooms, breakfast in bed, and access to a pool and tennis courts. The Inn of The Hawke in Lambertville features six cozy rooms and an inviting on-site pub.

What to eat and drink: The restaurant at Lambertville Station serves up craft cocktails, local microbrews, and a curated wine cellar, with a menu that highlights New American cuisine. While exploring Peddler's Village, don't miss Peddler's Pub for sandwiches, salads, and appetizers, all complemented by a full bar. For something different, El Tule offers delicious authentic Mexican and Peruvian dishes with outdoor seating available.

Bethany Beach, Delaware

Distance from Baltimore: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes

For beach lovers in the Baltimore and Washington, D.C. area, the prime choices are Ocean City, Maryland, and Rehoboth, Delaware. Both spots feature lively boardwalks, expansive shorelines, restaurants, shops, amusements, and plenty of accommodation options. However, Bethany Beach stands out as a hidden treasure worth considering. Although it's more family-oriented, my college friends and I have made it our annual beach retreat. It's a tranquil haven that allows us to reconnect, whether on the beach or at our condo’s spacious pool and deck. When we crave more action, both Ocean City and Rehoboth Beach are just a short drive away.

What to do: A favorite pastime of ours is playing putt-putt at Captain Jack's Pirate Golf. Alternatively, you can challenge yourself on the 18 holes at Salt Pond Golf Club. Rent a bike from Ocean Cycles and cruise along the boardwalk or the bay side of Bethany, or hit a few balls at the Bethany Club Tennis. A highlight of my trips is renting a catamaran, Jet Ski, or paddleboard from Island Watersports in nearby Fenwick Island, Delaware, and taking a ride on the ocean or the Isle of Wight Bay side of Bethany.

Where to stay: Our go-to spot is Sea Colony, featuring a variety of two- or three-bedroom condominiums available for rent along the ocean or bayside. It boasts 12 pools, tennis courts, fitness centers, and the Beach Shoppe. For a more intimate experience, Addy Sea Bed & Breakfast, with 13 oceanfront rooms, treats guests to a full gourmet breakfast and afternoon tea. If you prefer the comfort of a hotel, the Fairfield Inn & Suites in nearby Rehoboth Beach is a solid choice.

What to eat and drink: A trip to Bethany isn’t complete without dining at Fager's Island Restaurant and Bar, where I can savor a delightful cocktail alongside a fusion of American and Pacific Rim dishes, all served on an outdoor deck with stunning views of the Isle of Wight Bay. You can’t visit the beach without indulging in Maryland blue crabs, and my top spot for that is Phillips Crab House in Ocean City. Don’t miss out on a hearty breakfast at the Bethany Diner — their crabmeat omelet is a must-try!

Final thoughts

Even if my family and I aren't boarding a plane, we can still have a fantastic, laid-back road trip summer vacation. Here are five of my top picks, though there are countless other destinations within a day’s drive from Baltimore. Consider visiting Charlottesville, Virginia, home to the University of Virginia and an emerging wine scene; Chautauqua, New York, a charming lakeside resort town that hosts the Chautauqua Institute; the picturesque Outer Banks of North Carolina for beach lovers; and Mystic, Connecticut, known for its renowned Mystic Seaport.

So make the most of these road trips and explore somewhere new this summer. You might uncover some hidden treasures that you would have otherwise overlooked on a traditional vacation involving a flight.