Washington D.C.

( Mark Wilson, Getty Images / December 6, 2012 )

Distance from Baltimore: 41 miles, less than an hour's drive

Why it's cool: Washington is an international destination in Baltimore’s backyard. The city, named among the top travel destinations for 2013, is rich in museums, including the Smithsonian Institution, Disovery Theatre, National Building Museum, International Spy Museum, Newseum and Library of Congress, to name a few. You don’t have to miss out on D.C.’s iconic monuments just because it’s cold. Double Decker Tours allows you to explore the city from the warmth of a bus.

Don't miss: The holidays in Washington. Check out the White House Ellipse with the Pageant of Peace, which includes the nightly lighting of the National Tree, Menorah and Kwanzaa-related festivities. For New Years Eve, enjoy view of the White House and sparkling fireworks across the capital from the P.O.V Rooftop Lounge and Terrace on top of the W Hotel. Or try skating in the Art Sculptures Garden at the National Gallery of Art. Celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day on the National Mall, or spend Presidents Day in the city dedicated to our Founding Fathers. For a unique splurge, check-in to the historic Willard Intercontinental Hotel for a weekend stay.

Information: Go to washington.org.