About Perfect Saturdays
Looking for something to do this weekend? These great day trips are within a two-hour drive of DC.
You don’t need to travel to Fallingwater to see Frank Lloyd Wright’s Usonian designs. (Though architecture lovers should definitely spend a night in one of his houses in Polymath Park, also in Pennsylvania and a three-hour drive from DC.) For an easier trip, Wright’s Pope-Leighey House is near George Washington’s Mount Vernon. Originally a private residence in Falls Church before its relocation to Alexandria, the L-shaped abode features the architect’s signature cantilevered ceilings and natural elements. The midcentury interior can only be accessed on hourly guided tours from 10 AM to 3 PM. Woodlawn, a former plantation home turned free labor colony, shares the property and is also open to visitors. Tours are $15 for entry into one home and $25 to see both.
After touring the homes, find a quick meal 15 minutes away at the smash-burger spot Jon’s Joint. The relaxed eatery stacks halal patties onto potato buns; we recommend the jalapeño burger. You can also drive half an hour to Old Town to enjoy a lovely waterfront meal at restaurants such as Ada’s on the River and Barca Pier and Wine Bar. Afterward, spend some time exploring the charming streets, popping in and out of shops.
Looking for more day trip ideas? Check out our Perfect Saturdays series.
Daniella Byck joined Washingtonian in 2022. She was previously with Outside Magazine and lives in Takoma.
