Summer Activities in the Mid-Atlantic
1. See Washington, D.C., from above
National Harbor’s newest attraction is the Capital Wheel, an observation wheel that takes passengers 180 feet above the ground. From a glass-enclosed gondola, you’ll see panoramic views of the White House, National Mall, and more.
2. Visit Gettysburg National Military Park
Walk the scenic fields at a beautiful Pennsylvania park and explore the history of this pivotal Civil War battle.
3. Walk the Atlantic City Boardwalk
The country’s oldest boardwalk, open since 1870 in southern New Jersey, features more than five miles of attractions along the Atlantic Ocean. Make sure to sample saltwater taffy, first created here more than 100 years ago
4. View famous photographs in Washington, D.C.
The National Gallery, which holds one of the world’s most extensive photographic collections, presents three major photography exhibitions this year, including “The Memory of Time,” exploring the work of 26 contemporary artists.
5. Bicycle around Philadelphia
Travel the “City of Brotherly Love” on a rented bicycle provided by Indego, the city’s recently launched bike-share program. With more than 600 self-service bikes at 60 stations, you can hop on and off at destinations across the historic city.
6. Experience Fallingwater
It’s the most unique home in the world. Fallingwater was designed by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright, and built between 1936 and 1939. Today, it’s a National Landmark, and well worth the trip through the beautiful rolling hills of Pennsylvania.
7. View a special kind of art
At the American Visionary Art Museum in Baltimore, see original art made by nationally famous but untrained artists. Their work comes from personal visions, and the results of their creativity will amaze you.
8. Tube the Delaware River in Pennsylvania
In 1776, President George Washington famously crossed the Delaware at night during the winter. We think you’d prefer a relaxing floatdown the scenic river on a sunny summer afternoon.
9. Enjoy a bucket of Maryland blue crabs
Maryland is famous for its crabs, which are prepared in various ways. Steamed crabs come stacked on paper, with tools, towels, and a bucket for the shells – a messy but fun experience. Or try giant crab cakes at Lexington Market in Baltimore.
10. Volunteer in your local community
Whether you prefer to walk the dogs at an animal shelter, serve food at a soup kitchen, or plant a tree with a conservation group, there are many ways to volunteer in your local community. You’ll find plenty of other opportunities at networkforgood.org/volunteer/ or volunteermatch.org/. Be sure to tag #cieegivingback when you post your photos!
We’d love to see and hear about your adventures on Facebook.