Part of the original design for the federal city, this massive park stretches from the US Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial and around the Tidal Basin to the Jefferson Memorial. It has played host to many momentous, world-changing events throughout history including the 1963 March on Washington, the Million Man March and several presidential inaugurations. Today, the National Mall serves as a place for reflection, a memorial to American heroes, a symbol of freedom and a forum for the exercise of democracy. The Smithsonian museums, the Vietnam Memorial, the Reflecting Pool and the iconic Washington Monument are some of the most well-known of the National Mall's many iconic sites. Certainly, any visit to Washington DC should start with a tour of the United States National Mall, aptly named "America's front yard."
The Hillwood Estate, Museum and Gardens is the legacy of Marjorie Merriweather Post, a famous socialite and founder of General Foods. Consisting of numerous rooms, this mansion dates back to the 1920s and houses an outstanding collection of art, jewelry and other decorative artifacts that belonged to her. View rare Faberge eggs, historic portraits, exquisite tapestries and priceless ceramics, among others, at this stunning museum. Visitors can also enjoy a leisurely stroll through the landscaped estate, which notably features a French parterre garden, a rose garden, and even a cemetery that inters many of Post's pet dogs.
Dating back to 1946, the National Air and Space Museum is home to quite a few aircraft that narrate fascinating stories. Everything from the iconic Wright Brothers' Flyer and Charles Lindbergh's Spirit of St. Louis to World War II planes and Apollo 11 is displayed here, attracting history aficionados, science buffs, and aviation fans alike. Visitors also have the option of using the audio-visual aid to understand the technical aspects of the marvelous exhibits. Moreover, the Lockheed Martin IMAX Theater located here screens aircraft and space films on a huge five-story screen. Apart from that, the National Air and Space Museum also has the original Star Trek model of the USS Enterprise on display, which is one of the popular attractions among the visiting crowds at this world-famous place.
Centennial Park is a lovely public park with verdant surroundings. It is a massive park spread over 300-acres (121 hectares) area, which is ideal for nature lovers. The Park is home to a pristine lake displaying fantastic sceneries surrounding the lake is a very well-maintained trail spanning over 2 miles (3 kilometers) loop paved trail. Ideal for a pleasant walk amid nature. The loop trail is often used by biking enthusiasts and dog-walkers too. The Park also features a huge playground for children, a Picnic pavilion, area for sports such as volleyball, soccer, and others. Birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts are in for a treat.
Owned by the Clark family since 1927, Clark's Elioak Farm is a fun place for people of all ages. This 540-acre (218.53 hectares) facility houses a petting zoo and attractions restored from a theme park that stood its ground in the past. Additionally, they offer pony rides, hay wagon rides, a cow train ride, play areas and picnic areas too. Visitors can also visit their vegetable farm and buy some fresh produce from the vegetable stand there. Visit their website for more information.
Brookside Gardens is a public garden located inside Wheaton Regional Park. It is open for public visits without any charge. Spread across 500 acres (202 hectares), major features of the garden include an aquatic park with ponds and a gazebo, a azalea garden, a butterfly garden and a children’s garden. Some of the other highlights include a dazzling fragrance garden, a Japanese tea house when visitors can sip on a variety of tea, a nature center, a lovely woodland walk, and much more.
Immerse yourself in rejuvenating natural surrounds during your visit to Patuxent River State Park. Hike along rolling pastures and open fields, or follow the trails winding past a meandering river. Densely wooded areas also form a part of the park's landscape, allowing visitors to cocoon themselves in nature's bounties. Fishing and horseback riding can also be enjoyed here. During fall, the park turns into a wonderland of colors, which can be witnessed on the trails that wind through the landscape.
The Great Falls Park, straddling both banks of the Potomac River, offers stunning views. The more attractive side of the park lies in Virginia. Rushing whitewater pours through steep, jagged crevices into a narrow gorge. Photographers, hikers, and nature lovers will find much to enjoy here. The park offers many trails, perfect for those looking for a day in nature. Fishing is allowed, but only with a valid permit. Kayaking is recommended for experienced individuals only due to the force of the water. So, plan a visit and view these majestic falls located just fifteen miles from the nation’s capital.
Part of the original design for the federal city, this massive park stretches from the US Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial and around the Tidal Basin to the Jefferson Memorial. It has played host to many momentous, world-changing events throughout history including the 1963 March on Washington, the Million Man March and several presidential inaugurations. Today, the National Mall serves as a place for reflection, a memorial to American heroes, a symbol of freedom and a forum for the exercise of democracy. The Smithsonian museums, the Vietnam Memorial, the Reflecting Pool and the iconic Washington Monument are some of the most well-known of the National Mall's many iconic sites. Certainly, any visit to Washington DC should start with a tour of the United States National Mall, aptly named "America's front yard."
Brookside Gardens is a public garden located inside Wheaton Regional Park. It is open for public visits without any charge. Spread across 500 acres (202 hectares), major features of the garden include an aquatic park with ponds and a gazebo, a azalea garden, a butterfly garden and a children’s garden. Some of the other highlights include a dazzling fragrance garden, a Japanese tea house when visitors can sip on a variety of tea, a nature center, a lovely woodland walk, and much more.
Named in honor of Vernon J. Walker, the first director of development in Reston, Walker Nature Center is a great place for those who enjoy the outdoors and nature. Sprawling at 72 acres (29.14 hectares) of wooded land, it comprises of an eco-friendly nature house, loop trails, picnic spots, a pond, interpretive signs, camping zones, gardens, a meadow and lake. Get to know about the natural bounty at the nature center. Bird walks, stargazing, hiking, wildlife counts, rangers camp and nature programs are a hit among the locals at this site.
Dating back to 1946, the National Air and Space Museum is home to quite a few aircraft that narrate fascinating stories. Everything from the iconic Wright Brothers' Flyer and Charles Lindbergh's Spirit of St. Louis to World War II planes and Apollo 11 is displayed here, attracting history aficionados, science buffs, and aviation fans alike. Visitors also have the option of using the audio-visual aid to understand the technical aspects of the marvelous exhibits. Moreover, the Lockheed Martin IMAX Theater located here screens aircraft and space films on a huge five-story screen. Apart from that, the National Air and Space Museum also has the original Star Trek model of the USS Enterprise on display, which is one of the popular attractions among the visiting crowds at this world-famous place.