States #4, #5 & #6: North Carolina, Virginia and Maryland
Familiar Roads in North Carolina
As we continued our road trip, a wave of nostalgia washed over me as we passed through North Carolina, where I had spent many summer vacations exploring the scenic treasures of Calabash, Ocean Isle, Sunset Beach, and the Outer Banks in North Carolina.
These cherished memories came flooding back as I ventured through the familiar territory.
Returning to Virginia Beach
After our delightful sojourn in North Carolina, we arrived in Virginia Beach. It was a place I had once called home before embracing a nomadic lifestyle, selling all my belongings, and embarking on full-time travel.
As we settled into the laid-back beach town atmosphere, we indulged in delectable fresh seafood, with oysters being a particular favorite. The sun-kissed beach and carefree ambiance of Virginia Beach provided the perfect setting for us to unwind before resuming our coastal expedition.
Returning to Virginia
I lived most of my life in Virginia, just an hour away from the UNESCO World Heritage site of Monticello and the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, which I visited and toured several times.
Continuing our journey northward along the coast, we reached Northern Virginia, an area I had resided in for several years. In Arlington, we made a quick stop near the iconic Pentagon, a symbol of strength and power.
Our next destination was the DEA Museum, which held a special significance for Amanda, who passionately advocates for Fentanyl awareness, and where her deceased young son is featured on one of the displays.
While in the vicinity, we went to the Fashion Centre at Pentagon City. It was here, amidst the hustle and bustle of the food court, that Amanda was interviewed by an esteemed Associated Press reporter.
This very spot had witnessed history, as Monica Lewinsky once met with Linda Tripp before being swarmed by FBI agents and whisked away to the adjacent Ritz-Carlton for questioning, which led to the impeachment of President Bill Clinton.
Incidentally, I had previously stayed at this luxurious hotel during a visit to participate in a race. I used to be a runner! The entire Dallas Cowboys football team was also lodging there, preparing for an intense showdown with the Washington Redskins.
Back in Washington, DC
Our adventure continued as we crossed the bridge into the illustrious city of Washington, DC, where I had resided for two years in the past.
As a former sports junkie, I previously attended many pro football, basketball, baseball, and hockey games in DC. My former jobs also required infrequent travel, where I had stayed at many hotels throughout the city, and almost every hotel in National Harbor, including several stays at the famed Gaylord National, where I once enjoyed a New Year’s Eve weekend.
My familiarity with the capital allowed me to navigate the city with ease, providing my travel partner with a memorable driving tour of its most iconic landmarks.
We marveled at the grandeur of the Washington and Lincoln monuments, caught a glimpse of the White House and the US Capitol, and eventually made a stop in my old neighborhood nestled between Capitol Hill and Adams Morgan.
It was on U Street near DuPont Circle that I had once called home. The urban charm of this vibrant neighborhood greeted us warmly, and we reveled in exploring some of my cherished local haunts, including the Rakuya Asian fusion restaurant and the beloved Kramerbooks & Afterwords café on Connecticut Avenue.
Maryland Memories
Leaving the nation’s capital behind, our next stop was Prince Frederick, Maryland. Here, we found respite in the welcoming embrace of O’Gannigan’s Irish Pub, a local establishment offering authentic libations and delectable treats.
It was the perfect spot to unwind and reflect on the incredible journey we had undertaken thus far.
Maryland also brought back many memories as I recalled many trips to Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, weekend trips to Annapolis, Orioles baseball games, and wonderful seafood.
Six States Down
As our road trip through Virginia and North Carolina drew to a close, I couldn’t help but feel a profound sense of gratitude for the memories that had resurfaced and the new experiences we had forged.
The enchanting coastal landscapes, the historical landmarks, and the vibrant cityscapes had all left their marks on our hearts.
Our journey had been a testament to the beauty and diversity that these states have to offer, and I cherished every moment spent rekindling my connection with the places I once called home.
Where I Stayed:
Hilton, Glen Allen, Virginia
In Glen Allen, Virginia, we stayed at the Hilton in a Well Being Suite, which made this stop a little more special than an ordinary hotel stay. The suite provided a comfortable place to unwind and recharge during our travels. After spending so much time on the road, having a room designed around relaxation was a welcome change of pace.
Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront, Virginia Beach, Virginia
Our stay at the Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront put us right in the middle of the action along the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, with the Atlantic Ocean just outside our door. The hotel rises high above the beachfront and offers impressive ocean views from many of its rooms and public spaces.
One of the highlights is the rooftop infinity pool, which provides an especially memorable perspective over the beach and Atlantic. With its oceanfront location, restaurants, pools, and easy access to the boardwalk, it was a great place to enjoy the Virginia Beach atmosphere.
Residence Inn National Harbor Washington, D.C.
The Residence Inn National Harbor put me in the middle of the lively waterfront community just across the Potomac from Washington, D.C. National Harbor has restaurants, shops, entertainment, and a beautiful promenade along the river, giving the area a very different feel from staying in downtown Washington. I enjoyed being able to walk outside and immediately find plenty to see and do. It was also a convenient base for exploring both National Harbor and the nation’s capital.
SpringHill Suites Alexandria Old Town/Southwest
The SpringHill Suites Alexandria Old Town/Southwest gave me a convenient base just outside historic Old Town Alexandria. Located on Eisenhower Avenue, the hotel was close enough to enjoy Alexandria’s historic streets and waterfront while also providing easy access to Washington, D.C. The all-suite layout gave me more room to spread out than a typical hotel room. It was a comfortable and practical place to stay while exploring the Washington area.
Marriott Virginia Beach Oceanfront Resort
The Marriott Virginia Beach Oceanfront Resort was a memorable change of pace, putting me directly on the Atlantic and along the famous Virginia Beach Boardwalk. The resort features oceanfront rooms and suites, multiple pools, restaurants, and a full-service spa, making it easy to spend plenty of time without ever needing to leave the property. I particularly enjoyed being able to look out over the ocean and walk directly onto the beach. It was one of those stays where the location was as much a part of the experience as the hotel itself.
Sheraton Richmond North/Glen Allen
The Sheraton Richmond North/Glen Allen provided a convenient base just north of Richmond. Glen Allen has a quieter suburban character while still putting downtown Richmond and its historic attractions within easy reach. The hotel was a comfortable place to return to after exploring the Richmond area. It made a useful stop while traveling through central Virginia.
Courtyard Fredericksburg Historic District
The Courtyard Fredericksburg Historic District put me within easy walking distance of the historic heart of Fredericksburg. The city is filled with colonial-era buildings, Civil War history, independent shops, and restaurants along its charming downtown streets. Staying here meant I could explore much of the historic district without having to get back in the car. It was a particularly enjoyable location for experiencing the character of old Fredericksburg.
JW Marriott Washington, DC
The JW Marriott Washington, DC placed me right in the center of the nation’s capital, just a short walk from the White House and many of Washington’s most famous landmarks. Its Pennsylvania Avenue location made it possible to step outside and immediately find myself surrounded by the history and energy of downtown Washington. The hotel has been welcoming guests for decades and has become a familiar part of the city’s hotel landscape. For a visit to Washington, having such a central location made exploring the city especially easy.
Residence Inn Fredericksburg
The Residence Inn Fredericksburg was another comfortable stop in the Fredericksburg area. Its extended-stay design gave me more space and the conveniences of a residential-style accommodation rather than a traditional hotel room. Fredericksburg’s location between Washington, D.C., and Richmond made it a useful place to base myself while exploring central Virginia. It was a practical stop during my travels through the region.
Residence Inn Washington, DC/Dupont Circle
The Residence Inn Washington, DC/Dupont Circle gave me the chance to stay in one of Washington’s most recognizable neighborhoods. Dupont Circle is filled with restaurants, cafés, historic homes, galleries, and lively streets, making it a great area to explore on foot. The hotel’s residential-style accommodations were particularly convenient for a longer stay in the capital. I liked being able to walk out the door and immediately experience a very different side of Washington from the monumental National Mall.
Courtyard Baltimore Downtown/Inner Harbor
The Courtyard Baltimore Downtown/Inner Harbor put me close to one of Baltimore’s most recognizable waterfront districts. The Inner Harbor is surrounded by attractions, restaurants, museums, and historic ships, giving the area plenty of activity both day and night. I enjoyed being able to explore the waterfront on foot and take in Baltimore’s distinctive harbor atmosphere. It was a convenient base for discovering the city.
Fairfax Marriott at Fair Oaks
The Fairfax Marriott at Fair Oaks provided a comfortable base in Northern Virginia, west of Washington, D.C. Its location near Fair Oaks and the major Northern Virginia highways made it convenient for exploring both Fairfax and the greater Washington metropolitan area. Fairfax itself has grown into a busy community with plenty of restaurants, shopping, and historical connections. It was a useful place to stay when I wanted easy access to the capital without staying directly in Washington.
SpringHill Suites Prince Frederick
The SpringHill Suites in Frederick provided a comfortable and convenient base as we continued our journey through Maryland. The all-suite setup gave us more room to spread out than a typical hotel room, with separate areas for sleeping, working, and relaxing.
The location made it easy to get into historic Frederick while also keeping us well positioned for exploring the surrounding area. We were able to walk to dinner at a local Irish pub. I also appreciated the practical touches that make a road-trip stay easier, including complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, and plenty of space to unwind after a day on the road. We also took time to enjoy the onsite hot tub.
Fairfield Inn Columbia
The Fairfield Inn Columbia was a comfortable stop during my travels through South Carolina. Columbia’s location in the center of the state makes it a useful base for exploring the region, while the city itself has plenty of history and Southern character. I appreciated having the familiar Fairfield amenities after a day of traveling. It was another straightforward but enjoyable stop on the road.