Cities gain environmental, aesthetic, and recreational benefits from parks. They also constructively contribute to the economy. They raise resale prices, boost city tax receipts, and attract new residents, including young families and seniors.
Parks are important because they encourage people to go outside and be active.
Compared to other major cities, Washington, D.C., has the most accessible public parks, with 98% of its population living within a 10-minute walk to a green space, Planet Ware revealed. Visitors can sightsee around the district's most well-known park while exploring the city's green spaces.
Suppose you're looking for a place to escape, whether to admire the well-cultivated plants or stroll around a green outdoor paradise. In that case, the DMV area is perfect for you.
These are the 10 best public parks for families in the DMV area you should visit soon:
Image: National Mall
- 1100 Ohio Dr. SW
- Contact details: (202) 426-6841 | Direct email
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It's only possible to look at the Washington Monument, the U.S. Capitol Building, and the Lincoln Memorial by considering the significance of these buildings in American history.
See awe-inspiring memorials and monuments, educational museums, and fun activities for the whole family in the area known as "America's front yard."
Image: Great Falls Park|Wikipedia
- 9200 Old Dominion Dr., McLean, Virginia
- Contact details: (703) 757-3101
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If you appreciate being outside and enjoying the beautiful scenery, a trip to Fairfax County should include Great Falls Park. Activities like hiking, horseback riding, fishing, and more are all available in this beautiful park.
The Patowmack Canal, one of the first in the country, once ran through this historic park, and its remnants are a popular attraction.
Image: Rock Creek Park|National Parks Conservation Association
The United States Congress established Rock Creek Park in 1890 to provide a place for citizens of the nation's capital to relax.
Washington.org shared that in Northwest D.C., these over 1,700 acres offer sanctuary to humans and animals. Hardwood trees, a rushing river, and rocky outcrops make up most of Rock Creek Park—a tranquil haven in the middle of the metropolis.
Image: Tidal Basin Loop Trail|National Park Service
- West Potomac Park
Beautiful cherry blossom trees line the shores of Washington, DC's Tidal Basin. A breathtaking display of nature's splendor, cherry blossom season, happens annually in the spring.
Planet Ware stated that although the basin's design is fascinating, it differs from what draws visitors, especially during the annual Cherry Blossom Festival. Rather, it is the many famous landmarks that surround the basin.
Image: Meridian Hill Park|Wikipedia
Rock Creek Park in Washington, D.C., spans 1,754 acres and includes Meridian Hill Park. It's a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some peace and quiet, some exercise, some beautiful scenery, some wildlife, and the remnants of human civilizations that date back thousands of years.
According to the National Park Service, many sculptures and monuments were donated to the city by its citizens and displayed in Meridian Hill Park.
Image: United States Botanic Garden|American Public Gardens Association
- 100 Maryland Ave. SW
- Contact details: (202) 225-8333 | usbg@aoc.gov
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The United States Botanic Garden, one of the oldest continuously functioning botanical gardens in the United States, is home to a wide variety of exotic species and interesting displays.
Hotels.com shared that a botanical garden is a wonderful place for people of all ages to learn about and appreciate nature.
There are more than one million annual guests in the garden. Plan on spending at least a few hours at the site to see the gardens and read up on its history.
Image: Georgetown Waterfront Park|National Park Service
- 3303 Water St. NW
- Contact details: (202) 895-6000
The 10-acre park is a popular D.C. retreat on hot summer days because of its sizable fountain. It hosts many outdoor activities, including Georgetown BID's annual Sunset Fitness and Sunset Cinema series.
Key Bridge Boathouse rents out kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards; three bicycling routes connect to the park, a labyrinth for meditation, and on the weekends, there are often impromptu musical performances.
Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
Image: Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine|Visit Baltimore
- 2400 E. Fort Ave., Baltimore, Maryland
- Contact details: (410) 962-4290
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Locust Point in Baltimore, Maryland, is home to the historic pentagonal fort known as Fort McHenry.
According to Vacation Idea, Fort McHenry welcomes visitors and hosts several events throughout the year to honor the fort's rich heritage.
Image: The Yards Park|Mommy Nearest
- 355 Water St. SE
- Contact details: (202) 465-7080 | events@capitolriverfront.org
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The Yards Park is popular for its proximity to the Anacostia River and its abundant greenery and water features.
For those living along the Capitol Riverfront, this park has won numerous awards. It is the perfect location for outdoor activities and special events.
Image: National Arbororetum| Wikipedia
- 3501 New York Ave. NE
- Contact details: (202) 245-4523 | USNA.Comments@usda.gov
One of North America's largest collections of bonsai trees can be found on the 440 acres of parkland of the United States National Arboretum.
Per Hotels.com, the nicest part about this park is that you can explore the paths or join a tram trip with a knowledgeable guide who can tell you all about the museums and gardens along the way.
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