Washington, D.C. offers countless parks for recreational activities. Visitors and residents engage in walking, picnicking, and sports in both National Parks and smaller city parks. Below is an alphabetical guide to Washington, D.C. parks:
- Anacostia Park
- Bartholdi Park
- Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historic Park
- Constitution Gardens
- Dupont Circle
- East Potomac Park, Hains Points
- Fort Dupont Park
- Georgetown Waterfront Park
- Lafayette Park
- National Mall
- Pershing Park
- Rock Creek Park
- Theodore Roosevelt Island Park
- Tidal Basin
- West Potomac Park
Anacostia Park
Spanning over 1,200 acres, Anacostia Park follows the Anacostia River and stands as one of Washington, D.C.’s largest recreation areas. Nearby Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens offer stunning nature walks and exhibits. Facilities include an 18-hole golf course, a driving range, three marinas, and a public boat ramp.
1900 Anacostia Drive SE, Washington D.C.
Bartholdi Park
This park is part of the U.S. Botanic Garden, situated across from the conservatory. It features a beautifully landscaped flower garden centered around a classical-style fountain designed by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, the creator of the Statue of Liberty.
Independence Avenue & First Street SW, Washington, D.C.
Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historic Park
The historic park stretches from Georgetown to Great Falls, Virginia, offering abundant outdoor recreation opportunities, including picnicking, biking, fishing, boating, and more.
Constitution Gardens
Spanning 50 acres on the National Mall, these gardens include an island and a tranquil lake, providing a serene atmosphere perfect for picnics. Approximately 5,000 trees including oak, maple, dogwood, elm, and crabapple contribute to the landscape.
Dupont Circle
Dupont Circle is a vibrant neighborhood and park featuring a memorial fountain to Admiral Francis Dupont, a hero of the Civil War. This area also hosts a variety of ethnic restaurants and unique shops.
East Potomac Park, Hains Points
This 300+ acre peninsula lies between the Washington Channel and the Potomac River, featuring public facilities like a golf course, mini-golf, playground, tennis courts, picnic areas, and a recreation center.
Ohio Drive SW, Washington, D.C.
Fort Dupont Park
Covering 376 acres, this park offers various activities, including picnics, nature walks, Civil War programs, gardening, skating, and outdoor concerts.
Randle Circle SE, Washington, D.C.
Georgetown Waterfront Park
Providing a beautiful setting along the Potomac River, Georgetown Waterfront Park is ideal for walking, picnicking, bicycling, and skating.
Lafayette Park
This 7-acre park serves as a stage for public protests and special events. It features an equestrian statue of Andrew Jackson and statues of Revolutionary War heroes at its corners.
16th Street & Pennsylvania Avenue NW (across from the White House), Washington, D.C.
National Mall
The National Mall is a vibrant area filled with green spaces, perfect for picnics and gatherings. Children also enjoy the nearby carousel and exploring monuments such as the Washington Monument and the Capitol Building. Numerous events, including festivals and concerts, take place throughout the year.
Pershing Park
Situated next to Freedom Plaza and across from the Willard Intercontinental Hotel, this park is a popular location for relaxing and dining. It is set to be redesigned as the World War I Memorial.
14th Street & Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, D.C.
Rock Creek Park
This expansive urban park stretches 12 miles from the Potomac River to the border of Maryland. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, hiking, biking, and various recreational activities, including programs led by park rangers. Children can also partake in a variety of educational programs.
Rock Creek Parkway, Washington, D.C.
Theodore Roosevelt Island Park
This 91-acre wilderness preserve commemorates the contributions of the 26th president towards public land conservation. It features 2.5 miles of trails showcasing diverse flora and fauna, with a prominent statue of Roosevelt at its center.
George Washington Memorial Parkway, Washington, D.C.
Tidal Basin
The Tidal Basin is a scenic man-made inlet adjacent to the Potomac River. It provides stunning views of cherry trees and the Jefferson Memorial, making it an excellent place for picnics and peaceful moments.
West Potomac Park
Adjacent to the National Mall, this national park features various attractions including Constitution Gardens, the Reflecting Pool, and several prominent memorials such as the Lincoln, Jefferson, and World War II memorials.
