2 nights between Washington and New York

Question

Hi We are travelling down from New York to Washington DC end of September for 4 nights then travelling back to New York to Spend a night before we take off back home to New Zealand. I am wondering if anyone has suggestions about where to stay those 2 nights-maybe somewhere a bit quieter and quaint as we have been in big cities for a while. Mindful that we havent got a car and relying on public transport. Some ideas are Lancester,Annopolis,Philly(which is another big city), Baltimore? Any ideas?

Answer

For your two nights between Washington DC and New York, seeking a quieter and quaint experience while relying on public transportation, there are several options to consider. Each destination has its own unique charm, but some may be more convenient than others without a car.

Potential destinations:

Annapolis, Maryland: A charming waterfront city with historic streets, boutique shops, and seafood restaurants. The historic district is very walkable. You can take the MARC train from DC to nearby Odenton and then a short local bus or rideshare, or take a combination of Amtrak and bus services, but it’s slightly less direct than other options.
Lancaster, Pennsylvania: Offers a quaint, small-town feel with Amish country nearby. You can explore local markets, farm-to-table dining, and scenic countryside. Accessible by Amtrak from DC or Philadelphia, though local transport options are limited, so consider staying within walking distance of attractions.
Baltimore, Maryland: Larger than Annapolis or Lancaster, but still more relaxed than DC. The Inner Harbor is scenic and walkable with shops, restaurants, and museums. Easy access via Amtrak or MARC trains from DC. Public transportation within the city is manageable, and you can enjoy waterfront strolls without needing a car.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: A larger city option, though more urban than the others. If you prefer cultural attractions, historic sites, and excellent food, Philly is convenient via Amtrak from DC or New York. Staying near the Old City district will give you a quaint feel despite being in a big city.

Recommendations:

If your priority is true small-town charm and a relaxed pace, Annapolis is the best bet for walking, dining, and scenic exploration.
If you enjoy scenic countryside with historic villages and a slower pace, Lancaster is ideal, but confirm convenient transport connections.
If you prefer a mix of urban amenities with waterfront charm and easy train access, Baltimore is a great compromise between quiet and convenience.

In summary, for ease of public transport and quaint atmosphere, Annapolis or Baltimore may be the most practical choices. Lancaster is charming but requires careful planning for train and local connections. Philadelphia is only recommended if you want more sightseeing and don’t mind a city vibe.