I have to second Shenandoah and a lovely ramble down Skyline Drive, especially this time of year.

Pittsburgh is actually a great city, with so much to do (and an easy 4 hour drive away)

Gettysburg, PA

I've taken my DD to Chincoteague to see the ponies and play on the beach, Annapolis, Charlottesville and Luray Caverns.

Into history, then Williamsburg and you can even take a day at the Great Wolf Lodge if you like.

Philly would be great, you could also do NYC more affordably by staying in Seacaucus because there a number of good chain hotels there and an easy express bus into the city.

What did you do in Raleigh? I would love ideas!

Hershey, PA.

My daughter loves to visit Lancaster County PA - not too far away - she loves animals so we do farm stays when we are there. She gets to collect eggs, groom horses, etc.

Baltimore actually is a good city with kids. You can also go out to Shenandoah-- maybe stay at Skyland.

Greenbrier?

Myself and my eldest just had a terrific 3 day trip to the Raleigh area. Does anyone have any recommendations for other trips within about 5 hours of DC that would be good for us? Philadelphia is our next obvious choice but I am sure I am missing plenty of others. (For some reason not NYC - I think that may be a bit much for us and a little too pricey.) We are fairly laid back - we just enjoy our time away together without her younger siblings! Ideas would be much appreciated. TIA!