For a Half Day

Ellicott City: First settled in the 1700s and tucked up against steep hills, some 16km (10 miles) southwest of Baltimore, Ellicott City is an old mill town on the banks of the Patapsco River (website: www.ellicottcity.net). It's a popular excursion for Baltimorians, offering a taste of small-town Maryland. The self-guided Ellicott City Historic Walking Tour, including houses of worship, homes and museums is obtainable from the Howard County Tourism Visitor Information Center, 8267 Main Street, Ellicott City (tel: (410) 313 1900; website: www.howardcountymd.gov).

Frederick: In 2002, Frederick was designated as one of America's ‘Dozen Distinct Destinations' by The National Trust for Historic Preservation. Founded in 1745, it's famed for its well-preserved 18th- and 19th-century architecture (including famous clustered spires). Quaint boutiques, good restaurants and civil war battle sites ensure plenty to keep you occupied. One of its most fascinating attractions, the National Museum of Civil War Medicine, offers insight into 19th-century medicine and Civil War innovations. Frederick is located 59km (37 miles) northwest of Baltimore (tel: (301) 600 2888 or 1 800 999 3613; website: www.fredericktourism.org).

For a Full Day

Washington, DC: Travel the 56km (35 miles) to see the country's capital: the White House, Capitol Hill, the Smithsonian Institution Museums, the Washington Monument and the Lincoln and Jefferson Memorials. Sample the bohemian Adams Morgan district or wander through Georgetown, the best place for high-end shopping, pretty architecture and endless cafes. Pop over the river to visit Arlington Cemetery or take a cruise down the Potomac for a duck's eye view of the city. Washington, DC Convention and Tourism Corporation (tel: (202) 789 7000; website: www.washington.org) can provide further information.

Annapolis: Annapolis is the USA's sailing capital, home to the US Naval Academy. It has a multitude of museums, original colonial-style homes and a lovely waterfront. George Washington resigned his commission as Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army at the State House, set upon a hill overlooking the city. Annapolis and Anne Arundel County Convention & Visitors Bureau, 26 West Street, Annapolis (tel: (410) 280 0445 or 1 888 302 2852; website: www.visit-annapolis.org) can provide further information.