Washington, D.C., Attractions

Although known for its famous monuments, historical sites and museums, Washington, D.C., has much more to offer than long days at a museum. In fact, our nation's capital is home to some of the best scenery for outdoor enthusiasts. Washington, D.C.'s, beautiful landscape, historical scenery and changing weather make for one great trip for outdoor lovers.

Rock Creek Park

Outdoor enthusiasts will want to stop by Rock Creek Park during their stay in the capital. This park is in the heart of Washington, D.C., and is a favorite for those who prefer the outdoors to a stuffy museum. Visitors to this park can take part in a nature tour through the woodlands or attend a Shakespeare production at an amphitheater. The park even offers downloadable self-guided tours of the park for hikers who want to enjoy the beauty of the park in solitude. Tour the Battleground National Cemetery to learn about our nation's history while getting exercise and fresh air.

Rock Creek Park
5200 Glover Road NW
Washington, D.C. 20015
(202) 895-6070
www.nps.gov/rocr/index.htm

National Zoo

Those that love the outdoors will appreciate the wildlife and beauty of the National Zoo. Take a walk through the zoo and approximately 2,000 animals and over 400 different species will be encountered along the path. The National Zoo covers 163 acres, so bring your walking shoes and enjoy a day outside with the animals.

National Zoo
3001 Connecticut Ave. NW
Washington, D.C. 20008
(202) 633-4800
www.nationalzoo.si.edu

Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens

The Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens are bound to produce a different show every time you visit. The foliage and wildlife are always changing depending upon the season, which makes a walk through the gardens an enjoyable and entertaining experience. Many outdoor activities such as hiking, birding, photography, painting, and even canoeing are practiced at the aquatic gardens, making them a perfect place for outdoor lovers.

Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens
1550 Anacostia Ave. NE
Washington, D.C. 20019
(202) 426-6905
www.nps.gov/keaq/index.htm

Great Falls Park

One of the most remarkable landmarks in Washington, D.C., Great Falls Park is the perfect stop for an outdoor enthusiast. The park consists of over 800 acres along the Potomac River. The park presents a multitude of activities to choose from, such as rock climbing, bicycling, kayaking and hiking. With the 20-foot waterfalls all around, a hike down the River Trail or a bicycle ride along the Potomac make for an enjoyable day that will make you forget the bustle of the city nearby.

Great Falls Park
9200 Old Dominion Drive
McLean, VA 22102
(703) 285-2965
www.nps.gov/grfa/index.htm

Article Written By Alisha Tynes

Alisha Tynes began her writing career as a literary critic from Florida. Though she received her Bachelor of Arts degree in English at the University of West Florida, Alisha currently resides in New York and enjoys writing about a variety of topics. Her work has been published on the University of West Florida's website and in local magazines.

Editor's Pick

5 Top North American Wildflower Hikes

Springtime brings a sense of new beginnings and new life as flowers begin to bloom and fill the air with their sweet and pleasant fragrance. Luckily we can see wildflowers all summer long, since spring hits at different times throughout North America. See flowering cactu...
More National Parks...
Popular Article

National Park Substitutes: Great Spots Without the Crowds

Coping with crowds at national parks can get tiresome, especially during the peak tourist season. If you want to escape from the herd, or just take a breather from the bustle of bigger attractions, the United States has plenty of less-visited but still worthwhile spots t...
More National Parks...
Featured Destination

Prevent Yourself from Getting Lost While Hiking

When you're hiking you're going to want to make sure you stay found. What I mean by that is that you've put an itinerary in the car, you know the area that you're hiking to, you know the route and the trail you plan on being on, you know what the trail markers are going ...
More Camping Basics...