History from the past and present

Comprising Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia, the Capital Region boasts some of the nation's most cherished historic sites, spectacular national parks, and stunning beaches. Explore unforgettable museums, indulge in shopping experiences, and savour delicious dining options.

Museums 

Maritime Heritage 

Maryland, with its beautiful Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Coast beaches, offers a plethora of outdoor charms. From the picturesque towns like St. Michaels to the stunning beaches and the wild horses of Assateague Island, Maryland’s Eastern Shore is a treasure trove of surprises. Be sure to check out the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, an 18-acre interactive museum home to a collection of artefacts, exhibitions, and vessels. Annapolis, the capital of Maryland and ‘America’s Sailing Capital’, adds to the state's allure with its abundance of restaurants, museums, and opportunities for waterfront fun. Visitors can enjoy activities such as sailing, boating, and savouring the Old-Line State’s signature blue crabs. Dive into the city’s colonial scandals or discover the impactful stories of women who changed American history through themed Watermark walking tours. Learn more about the region’s maritime heritage on a tour of the US Naval Academy campus and museum or at the Annapolis Maritime Museum. 

Military History 

Virginia, home to historical luminaries like George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, witnessed intense battles during the Revolutionary and Civil wars. Today, historic sites and trails tell the tale of these significant events (see here). Explore Colonial Williamsburg to immerse yourself in 18th-century heritage through re-enactments, tours, and museum collections. Nearby, Jamestown and Yorktown offer insights into America’s origins and the Revolutionary War. At the American Aviation Museum in Virginia Beach, visitors can take flight over the Atlantic coastline in the museum’s World War II era aircraft. In northern Virginia, Arlington is home to Arlington National Cemetery and several military memorials including the iconic U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial. To embark on a fascinating journey through this historically rich region, consider a fly-drive adventure. Discover the stories and landscapes that shaped the nation.

Music and Movies 

For the music aficionados among you, seeking concerts and live theatre, Washington, DC offers the historic National Theatre and the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Both venues host traveling Broadway shows as well as performances by the National Symphony Orchestra and the Washington National Opera. Country music lovers will want to visit the Appalachian Mountains of southwest Virginia, home to The Birthplace of Country Music Museum, Carter Family Fold, and The Crooked Road Heritage Music Trail. 



The Capital Region, with its iconic landmarks such as the White House and the Lincoln Memorial, has been a popular location for numerous films due to its expansive and diverse settings. The National Mall in Washington, D.C., has served as the backdrop for classics like 'Mr. Smith Goes to Washington,' the Academy Award-winning 'Forrest Gump,' and the action-packed 'Independence Day.' Along the National Mall, the Smithsonian museums play a prominent role in film history. The second instalment of the Night at the Museum series, 'Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian,' features several artifacts from these museums. The Smithsonian also offers Night-time Adventures at the Natural History Museum, including occasional sleepovers where families can experience their own night at the museum. During the day, a must-visit is the nearby Smithsonian National Museum of American History, showcasing iconic film artifacts like Dorothy’s ruby red slippers from 'The Wizard of Oz,' the beloved Muppet character Kermit the Frog, and props from popular TV series such as 'M*A*S*H' and the film 'Hairspray' in Baltimore. 

Scenic Drives 

The Capital Region is the ideal destination for a fly-drive adventure, offering diverse activities to suit every holiday preference. Consider taking the family on a road trip of a lifetime in a motorhome, exploring and staying in beautiful and unique areas. Charlottesville, a dynamic and historic city in Virginia, stands out thanks to the amenities of its neighbouring Albemarle County. Voted as the Wine Enthusiast region of the year, Charlottesville boasts the estates of three former U.S. presidents, over 35 vineyards, a vibrant culinary scene, and a robust arts community. It also serves as a great home base for visiting Shenandoah National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway, ‘America’s Favourite Scenic Drive’. Surrounded by the rolling hills of the Catoctin Mountains, Frederick, Maryland features numerous scenic byways and three historic covered bridges. Steeped in American Civil War history, the city’s 50-block downtown area offers over 200 specialty shops and dozens of restaurants. Explore wineries, breweries, and distilleries—more than anywhere else in Maryland. The region promises a memorable and diverse getaway for all types of travellers. See here for a fantastic holiday idea.