The Rock Creek Park contains a beautiful wild forest and serves as an oasis for city residents and tourists. Founded in 1890, the Rock Creek Park is a stunning haven for both people and wildlife. It features a multitude of attractions within which include picnic areas, winding trails and bike paths, a nature center, a public golf course, tennis courts, and stables. Rock Creek Parkway runs alongside the meandering creek. During winter, the park transforms into a popular spot for sledding and other outdoor winter activities.
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.
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.
Freed slaves first settled this area, once known as Uniontown, just after the Civil War. Today, this 1200-acre (485.62 hectares) setting, including Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens, is enjoyed by children and adults alike. The park offers a range of activities including tennis, basketball, roller-skating, an indoor pool and an ice skating rink. In addition, there is a recreation center, hiking trails and fishing and boating. Golf lovers will enjoy Langston Golf Course, an 18-hole course with a driving range.
The International Spy Museum provides a unique glimpse into the thrilling world of espionage and its impact throughout history and present day. The museum showcases espionage artifacts from the 21st century to as far back as the Greek Empire. Visitors get the chance to be a part of a movie setup and play the role of a heroic spy, who solves puzzles and overcomes obstacles. During your visit to the museum, you're made to adopt a cover identity and led into a briefing room, where you learn about the life of a spy. Highly interactive, informative and fun, a visit to this museum is well worth the price.
One of the largest cathedrals in the world, the National Cathedral is more than an Episcopal cathedral; it is a national shrine. Being the site of several significant memorial services, the cathedral lives up to its role of a ‘spiritual home for the nation’. The final Sunday sermon delivered by the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., is only one among the many notable historic moments that the cathedral has witnessed. The flying buttresses, gargoyles, crypts, an enormous vaulted ceiling and intimate chapels all contribute to this architectural marvel. Furthermore, the curving walkways, well-kept hedges and spacious lawns invite exploration. When in Washington, a visit to this national treasure simply cannot be missed.
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.
The Sandy Spring Friends Meeting House is one of the most historically significant structures in Maryland. It was constructed in 1817, and stands listed on the prominent National Register of Historic Places. It is a massive model depicting the Federal style of architecture,
If you want a nice break from civilization without venturing too deep into the wilderness, then Matthew Henson State Park is the place for you. Named after the famous Arctic explorer, the park mainly comprises of woods with one major trail running through it. This 4.5 miles (7.2 kilometres) paved trail, known as Matthew Henson Trail, blazes its way through the park. At certain sections where there were environmental concerns about making pavements, wooden boardwalks have been constructed in their stead. Walk, cycle, roller blade or ride a horse along this beautiful trail, as you're surrounded by tall trees and soothing greenery everywhere you see. Be sure to take your time and admire the serenity before heading back to civilization out the other end.
One of the largest cathedrals in the world, the National Cathedral is more than an Episcopal cathedral; it is a national shrine. Being the site of several significant memorial services, the cathedral lives up to its role of a ‘spiritual home for the nation’. The final Sunday sermon delivered by the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., is only one among the many notable historic moments that the cathedral has witnessed. The flying buttresses, gargoyles, crypts, an enormous vaulted ceiling and intimate chapels all contribute to this architectural marvel. Furthermore, the curving walkways, well-kept hedges and spacious lawns invite exploration. When in Washington, a visit to this national treasure simply cannot be missed.
The Air Force Memorial is a tribute and honor to the air force personnel of United States of America. It is was built in 2006 and is open to public visitation throughout the year, free of charge. The memorial also has a shop which houses items sold exclusively at the memorial. There are many concerts and events that take place at this memorial throughout the year. For more details, please see the website.