Fourth of July road trip

Washington to Gettysburg for Fourth of July

Distance

85 mi

Driving

1.75 hrs + traffic

Halfway

Frederick

The next Fourth of July lands on Sunday, July 4, 2027. On I-270 and US-15, the heaviest traffic usually hits the two days before the Fourth and the day after. Fireworks nights fill small-town rooms first, so lock your overnight early.

Book the halfway night early

Frederick sits about 49 miles from Washington and 36 miles from Gettysburg. Holiday weekends sell out the rooms near the highway first.

• Stays in Frederick
• Stays in Gettysburg

Along the way

• Gettysburg battlefield ghost tours
• Little Round Top
• Jennie Wade House

Full drive guide for this route