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."
One of the most popular rail trails in the country and also the most used, the Capital Crescent Trail is a pleasant 11-mile (17.70 kilometers) stretch covering through Georgetown on Water Street till Silver Spring. Set on the once deserted Georgetown Branch rail line, it is a hotspot for rollerbladers, hikers, skateboarders, walkers, bikers and joggers. Most of the trail is asphalt and is also used for commuting. Winding through parks, wooded areas, water bodies and local attractions, it is indeed a landmark in the locality and the nearby areas. So if you're planning to spend a day outdoors without venturing far away from civilization, then Capital Crescent Trail is your destination.
Along the city's waterfront is the wonderful Yards Park, which opened in September 2010. A stunning example of how urban planning can play such a vital role in ensuring that city-dwellers enjoy their time in the city, this park comes replete with fountains, a pool, jogging tracks, biking trails, waterside lawns, shopping spots, cafes, bars and more. Also, a special platform has been constructed here to host outdoor events like concerts, community get-togethers, dog shows, and festivals.
Connu pour sa collection énorme des azalées (la fleur préféré de Washington), cet parque-jardin de 180 hectares propose beaucoup plus. Des fontaines, des piscines, et des espaces ouvertes sépare une série des jardins plus spécifiques au Arboretum National des États-Unis. La Collection National de Bonsaï, un cadeau du japon, est une expositions fascinante des arbres tout petits. Aussi à noter sont le jardin aquatique (rempli des lotus de toute variété) et le Jardin National des Herbes.
Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens is a national park that offers visitors a chance to experience the beauty and diversity of nature in an urban setting. The park is known for its unique aquatic gardens, which contain a variety of water lilies, lotus flowers, and other aquatic plants. Visitors can explore the gardens on a walking path or rent a canoe or kayak to explore the park's waterways. In addition to the aquatic gardens, Kenilworth Park offers a range of other recreational activities, including fishing, birdwatching, hiking, and picnicking. The park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including bald eagles, beavers, and a variety of fish species.
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.
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, and the towpath of the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal parallels the river. Fishing is allowed, but only with a valid permit. Kayaking, canoeing and rafting is recommended for experienced individuals only. The Maryland side also features Great Falls Tavern with displays of canal history. One-hour round trip barge excursions are offered on a restored stretch of the canal seasonally.