Washington DC
National Parks


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Washington DC National Parks

Washington D.C.

Table of Contents

25 National Parks in Washington D.C.

Other NPS-Affiliated Sites in Washington D.C.

Adams Memorial

The Adams Memorial, created by American sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens, was commissioned in 1886 by author and historian Henry Adams in memory of his wife, Marian "Clover" Hooper Adams, who tragically took her own life in 1885. The sculpture is located in Rock Creek Cemetery in Washington, D.C., and is considered a masterpiece of American funerary art.

African American Civil War Memorial

The African American Civil War Memorial is testament to the courage and sacrifice of African American soldiers who fought for freedom and equality during the American Civil War. The memorial was dedicated on July 18, 1998, and it consists of three main components: The Spirit of Freedom, a sculpture depicting uniformed African American soldiers and a sailor, a Wall of Honor inscribed with the names of over 200,000 United States Colored Troops (USCT), and the African American Civil War Museum.

Anacostia Park

Anacostia Park is a sprawling urban oasis along the banks of the Anacostia River. The park was established in the early 20th century and has evolved into a vital green space for residents and visitors alike. Conceived as part of the McMillan Plan, the park's development began in the 1910s, and it has since grown to encompass over 1,200 acres of greenery, playing fields, and waterfront areas. 

Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality National Monument

The Belmont-Paul Women's Equality National Monument is a historic site that played a pivotal role in the fight for women's rights. Originally constructed in 1800 as a residence for Robert Sewall, the house was later acquired by suffragist Alice Paul and the National Woman's Party in 1929. The monument represents the epicenter of the women's suffrage movement, witnessing the strategic planning and activism that culminated in the passage of the 19th Amendment, granting women the right to vote in 1920. The house served as the headquarters for the National Woman's Party for many decades and is now a symbol of the ongoing struggle for gender equality. 

The site was designated a National Monument on April 12, 2016, by President Barack Obama.

Capitol Hill Parks

Capitol Hill Parks encompass a collection of green spaces and historic sites in the heart of the nation's capital. The parks include Stanton Park, Lincoln Park, and Folger Park, among others, and were established to enhance the aesthetics and recreational opportunities in the Capitol Hill neighborhood. Stanton Park features a statue of American statesman Nathanael Greene while Lincoln Park is notable for its large statue of Abraham Lincoln.

Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail - VA, MD, DE, DC, PA, NY

The Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail explores the stories, people, and landscapes documented by John Smith and his crew as they set out to map 3,000 miles of the Chesapeake area between 1607 and 1609. Today, you can still explore these areas, and popular activities include visiting Jamestown Island, boating, paddling, or canoeing the waters of the Chesapeake, sailing, learning about 17th-century America at a historical park, or just viewing the wildlife. There are literally hundreds of sites, hikes, and places to visit along the trail.

The Chesapeake National Historic Trail makes its way through parts of Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, Washington D.C., Pennsylvania, and New York. For more information about places to visit along the trail, visit the official website here. The trail is managed in partnership by the National Park Service and the Chesapeake Conservancy.

Carter G. Woodson Home National Historic Site

Established as a National Historic Site on December 19, 2006, the Carter G. Woodson Home National Historic Site preserves the home of Carter G. Woodson, often referred to as the "Father of Black History." Woodson, an influential historian, author, and journalist, lived in the residence from 1922 until his death in 1950. The historic site offers a glimpse into Woodson's life and the significant contributions he made to African American history and education.

Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park - DC, MD, WV

The Chesapeake & Ohio Canal runs for 185 miles, and for over 100 years has connected people and places along the Potomac River with goods and services. Today, visitors can see many of these historical places along the route, as well as hike, camp, fish, and tour along the canal. There are several Visitor Centers and Park Passport Stamp locations along the canal. The Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park also connects to three major trails that are part of the U.S. National Trails System:  The Potomac Heritage Trail, the Appalachian National Scenic Trail, and the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail.

Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park was established in 1961 by President Eisenhower as a National Monument and then later designated as a National Historical Park in 1971 by President Nixon. For a list of events and activities, be sure to check out the park calendar here.

Chesapeake Bay - Chesapeake Bay Watershed, DC, DE, MD, NY, PA, VA, WV

Chesapeake Bay and its watershed encompasses 64,000 square miles of area and is the largest estuary in the United States. In 2009 by Presidential Executive Order, a broad plan was put in place to protect Chesapeake Bay and to help preserve and restore the area for future generations. With the help of other organizations, along with the National Park Service, the strategy includes the addition of 300 new public access sites by 2025, while conserving an additional 2,000,000 acres.

Visitor Centers for the park are located at the Zimmerman Center for Heritage in Wrightsville, PA, Columbia Crossing in Columbia, PA, and Sultana Education Foundation in Chestertown, MD. See findyourchesapeake.com for information on things to do.

Civil War Defenses of Washington - Washington D.C., MD, VA

The Civil War Defenses of Washington highlights the extensive system of fortifications and defensive works built to protect the nation's capital during the American Civil War. These defenses encircled Washington, D.C. and played a critical role in safeguarding the capital from potential Confederate threats. 

The site features well-preserved remnants of the defensive works, including forts and earthworks, which offer insights into the challenges of defending the capital during the Civil War. The Civil War Defenses of Washington Heritage Trail, a self-guided driving tour, takes visitors to key points of interest within the defense system, allowing them to learn about the various fortifications and the role they played in the war.

The park offers numerous interpretive programs and a visitor center with informative exhibits and displays that provide historical context. The Park was designated on September 22, 1977 by President Jimmy Carter.

Constitution Gardens

Established in 1976 as part of the United States Bicentennial celebration, Constitution Gardens offers a serene and scenic escape in the heart of the National Mall. This 50-acre park is situated between the Reflecting Pool and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, providing visitors with a peaceful retreat from the city. The gardens were designed to commemorate the bicentennial of the signing of the United States Constitution and serve as a living testament to the principles enshrined therein.

Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial

Established and dedicated on September 17, 2020, the Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial pays tribute to the 34th President of the United States, Dwight D. Eisenhower. Designed by architect Frank Gehry, the memorial is located at the base of Capitol Hill features a series of bronze sculptures, statues, and a steel tapestry that depicts the landscape of Eisenhower's boyhood home in Kansas. The memorial honors Eisenhower's legacy as a five-star general during World War II and his two terms as President, emphasizing his dedication to peace, leadership, and public service.

Ford’s Theatre National Historic Site

Ford's Theatre National Historic Site is the site where President Abraham Lincoln was assassinated on April 14, 1865. Established as a National Historic Site on August 21, 1956, Ford's Theatre has been meticulously preserved to commemorate this pivotal moment and to provide visitors with insights into the events surrounding Lincoln's assassination. The historic site includes Ford's Theatre itself, the Petersen House where Lincoln was taken after being shot, and the Center for Education and Leadership, which offers exhibits and educational programs.

Fort Dupont Park

Fort Dupont Park is a 376-acre green space in Southeast Washington, D.C. named after Civil War fortifications that once stood on the site. Visitors to Fort Dupont Park can enjoy hiking, picnicking, and sports. The park features an extensive trail system that winds through wooded areas, providing opportunities for nature walks and birdwatching.

Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial

The Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial was established to honor the 32nd President of the United States, Franklin D. Roosevelt. Dedicated on May 2, 1997, the memorial is situated along the western edge of the Tidal Basin, near the National Mall. Designed by landscape architect Lawrence Halprin, the memorial is divided into four outdoor gallery rooms, each representing one of Roosevelt's four terms in office. The galleries are adorned with sculptures, water features, and quotes, capturing key moments in Roosevelt's presidency. The central feature of the memorial is a striking bronze statue of Roosevelt seated in a wheelchair, symbolizing his personal struggle with polio.

Frederick Douglass National Historic Site

Established on September 5, 1988, the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site preserves the former residence of the iconic African American abolitionist, writer, and statesman Frederick Douglass. Known as Cedar Hill, the historic site offers visitors a glimpse into the life and achievements of Douglass, who lived in the home from 1877 until his death in 1895. The site includes the restored Victorian-style home as well as the surrounding gardens and grounds.

George Washington Memorial Parkway - Washington D.C., MD, VA

The George Washington Memorial Parkway is a scenic and historic parkway that stretches along the Potomac River in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. This parkway serves as a tribute to the nation's first president, George Washington, and offers a blend of natural beauty, historic sites, and recreational opportunities. 

The parkway provides access to a number of iconic sites including Mount Vernon, the former home of George Washington.

Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens

The Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens was stablished in 1938 and is renowned for its vibrant water gardens, lily ponds, and expansive marshes. Located in the northeastern part of the city along the Anacostia River, the park provides a peaceful retreat allowing visitors to explore serene boardwalks and walking trails surrounded by flourishing aquatic plants and blooming water lilies. Be sure to visit in the summer when the water lilies are in full bloom, creating a stunning display of colors.

Korean War Veterans Memorial

The Korean War Veterans Memorial is located on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. and serves as a tribute to the sacrifices made by the men and women who served during the Korean War. Established on July 27, 1995, the memorial commemorates the three-year conflict that took place between 1950 and 1953, during which over 36,000 Americans lost their lives. The design features 19 stainless steel statues of soldiers representing a squad on patrol, each clad in the full combat gear of the era, accompanied by a Wall of Remembrance and a reflective Pool of Remembrance.

Lincoln Memorial

The Lincoln Memorial  is one of the most iconic landmarks in Washington, D.C., and is a majestic tribute to the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln. Established on May 30, 1922, the memorial was designed by architect Henry Bacon and is situated at the west end of the National Mall, overlooking the Reflecting Pool and the Washington Monument. The memorial's neoclassical design, featuring a massive seated sculpture of Abraham Lincoln, is flanked by 36 columns, each representing a state in the Union at the time of Lincoln's presidency, and inscriptions of two well-known speeches, the Gettysburg Address and his second inaugural address, adorn the interior.

LBJ Memorial Grove on the Potomac

The LBJ Memorial Grove on the Potomac, located on Columbia Island in Washington, D.C., serves as a serene tribute to the 36th President of the United States. This memorial grove is dedicated to the legacy of President Lyndon B. Johnson, known for his contributions to civil rights, the "War on Poverty," and the advancement of education and healthcare. The grove is a lush and peaceful retreat along the Potomac River, featuring walking paths that wind through a landscape of hardwood trees and native plants, providing visitors with a tranquil space for reflection.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial

Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial in Washington, D.C., stands as a powerful testament to the enduring legacy of the civil rights leader and Nobel Peace Prize laureate. Established on August 28, 2011, the memorial is strategically located on the National Mall, situated between the Lincoln and Jefferson Memorials. The centerpiece of the memorial is a towering granite statue of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., carved by sculptor Lei Yixin. The sculpture, known as the "Stone of Hope," depicts Dr. King emerging from a stone, symbolizing the transformative power of his leadership and vision.

To learn more about MLK Jr., consider visiting the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park in Atlanta, GA.

Mary McLeod Bethune Council House National Historic Site

The Mary McLeod Bethune Council House National Historic Site commemorates the life and achievements of Mary McLeod Bethune, a trailblazing African American educator, political leader, and civil rights activist. Established on October 15, 1982, the site includes the historic townhouse that once served as the headquarters of the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW), an organization founded by Bethune in 1935. Mary McLeod Bethune dedicated her life to advocating for racial and gender equality, education, and social justice.

National Capital Parks

The National Capital Parks collectively form a network of green spaces and historic sites managed by the National Park Service, enhancing the city's landscape and preserving its rich history. Established on June 28, 1965, these parks offer a diverse range of recreational opportunities, cultural experiences, and natural beauty within the nation's capital. The National Capital Parks include well-known areas such as Rock Creek Park, Meridian Hill Park, Anacostia Park, Fort Dupont Park, and Frederick Douglass National Historic Site.

National Mall and Memorial Parks

The National Mall and Memorial Parks constitute a sprawling and iconic landscape that serves as the symbolic heart of the nation. Established on July 14, 1965, this expansive park system encompasses the National Mall and is dotted with numerous memorials, monuments, and museums. The area is not only a central hub for civic and cultural events but also a place of reflection and remembrance, featuring some of the most significant monuments in the country.

Among the notable memorials on the National Mall are the Lincoln Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Korean War Veterans Memorial, and the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial. 

Pennsylvania Avenue

Pennsylvania Avenue is a National Historic Site of the NPS and encompasses a stretch of Pennsylvania Avenue between the U.S. Capitol and the White House, representing a significant corridor of political and cultural significance. The avenue has been witness to countless inaugural parades, historic protests, and pivotal moments in the nation's narrative, earning its distinction as "America's Main Street."

Iconic landmarks along Pennsylvania Avenue include the U.S. Navy Memorial, the Old Post Office Pavilion, and the John A. Wilson Building.

Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail - DC, MD, PA, VA

The Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail is part of the larger Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail Network that runs throughout the Potomac River Corridor. Popular activities here include hiking, cycling, paddling, and other regional activities. There is also plenty of American history to explore as well.

Other popular trails within the Potomac Heritage Network include the Laurel Highlands Trail, Great Allegheny Passage, Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Towpath, and the Civil War Defenses of Washington Trail. It also crosses the Appalachian Trail at Harper's Ferry, West Virginia. The trail is managed by the National Park Service with help from the Potomac Heritage Trail Association along with other supporters.

Rock Creek Park

Rock Creek Park, established on September 27, 1890, is one of the oldest and largest urban parks in the United States. Encompassing over 2,100 acres, the park follows the course of Rock Creek allowing visitors to enjoy hiking, biking, horseback riding, and picnicking. 

Other historical and cultural landmarks in the park include Peirce Mill, an 1820s gristmill, and the Old Stone House, one of the oldest structures in the city.

Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail - DC, MD, VA

The Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail traces the events and locations associated with the War of 1812, specifically the Chesapeake Campaign. This historic trail spans over 500 miles, from Virginia through Maryland to Washington, D.C., and serves as a living memorial to the events that inspired Francis Scott Key to write "The Star-Spangled Banner," which later became the national anthem of the United States. The trail connects a series of sites, battlefields, and landmarks that played crucial roles during this pivotal period in American history.

Theodore Roosevelt Island

Theodore Roosevelt Island, situated in the Potomac River, is a picturesque memorial to the 26th President of the United States. Established on October 27, 1967, this 88.5-acre island stands as a living tribute to Theodore Roosevelt's legacy as a conservationist and advocate for the environment. The central focal point of Theodore Roosevelt Island is a larger-than-life statue of the former president, surrounded by landscaped grounds that include stone causeways, boardwalks, and marsh areas. Visitors can explore the island's trails, which lead to quiet coves and offer stunning views of the cityscape across the river.

Thomas Jefferson Memorial

The Thomas Jefferson Memorial is an iconic tribute to the third President of the United States and principal author of the Declaration of Independence. Established on April 13, 1943, this neoclassical memorial was dedicated on the 200th anniversary of Thomas Jefferson's birth. Designed by architect John Russell Pope, the memorial is modeled after the Pantheon in Rome, featuring a striking white rotunda with a graceful dome supported by columns. The interior houses a bronze statue of Jefferson and inscriptions of some of his most profound writings, including excerpts from the Declaration of Independence.

Be sure to visit in spring as the memorial is particularly picturesque during the annual National Cherry Blossom Festival.

Vietnam Veterans Memorial

The Vietnam Veterans Memorial was established on November 13, 1982 to honor the men and women who served and sacrificed during the Vietnam War. Designed by Maya Lin, a then 21-year-old architecture student, the memorial is characterized by its stark simplicity. A black granite wall, known as the "Wall of Names," is inscribed with over 58,000 names of those who lost their lives or went missing during the conflict, arranged chronologically according to the date of their casualty. The adjacent Three Servicemen Statue and Vietnam Women's Memorial further acknowledge the contributions and sacrifices made by those who served. 

Washington Monument

An iconic obelisk towering over the National Mall, The Washington Monument stands as a tribute to the nation's first President, George Washington. Rising to a height of 555 feet and 5 inches, the monument remains one of the most prominent structures in the nation's capital. Its classic design, featuring white marble and granite, pays homage to ancient Egyptian obelisks, symbolizing the enduring legacy of George Washington and the principles of the American republic.

Visitors can ascend to the observation deck for panoramic views of the city, including landmarks such as the U.S. Capitol, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Jefferson Memorial. The monument is encircled by fifty American flags, one for each state in the Union.

Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail - MA, RI, CT, NY, NJ, PA, DE, MD, VA, DC

The The Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail denotes one of the most successful troop movements in the Revolutionary War - one that led to victory over the British in Yorktown, Virginia, and eventually led to America's independence. General Rochambeau of France combined his forces with General Washington's, moving 680 miles over land and water to secure victory for the allies.

The Washington-Rochambeau National Historic Trail was formally recognized by Congress and singed into law by President Obama in 2009. The trail spans Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, and what is now Washington D.C. It celebrates America's alliance with the French during our fight for independence and also highlights the historical and military significance that proved to be a pivotal moment in American history.

The White House and President's Park

The President's Park, commonly known as the White House grounds, represents a historic and iconic landscape at the heart of Washington, D.C. Established in 1800, the White House itself serves as the official residence and workplace of the President of the United States. The park, encompassing 18 acres, is a meticulously maintained area surrounding the White House featuring formal gardens, fountains, and various statues and monuments. 

Visitors to the White House can take guided tours to explore the exterior of the White House, view the South Lawn, and appreciate the lush landscaping designed by prominent figures such as Frederick Law Olmsted Jr. The Ellipse, a large grassy area within the park, hosts events and celebrations, including the National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony.

World War II Memorial

The World War II Memorial pays tribute to the 16 million men and women of the United States Armed Forces who served during World War II, as well as the countless civilians who supported the war effort on the home front. Established on May 29, 2004, the memorial's dedication coincided with the 60th anniversary of the Allies' victory in Europe and features a central plaza adorned with 56 granite pillars, representing each U.S. state and territory during the war, arranged in two semi-circles. The design also includes a large pool with water jets and a pair of arches, symbolizing the Atlantic and Pacific theaters of war.

The Freedom Wall, adorned with 4,048 gold stars, pays tribute to the 404,800 American service members who lost their lives in the war. The World War II Memorial serves as a solemn reminder of the courage and resilience of the "Greatest Generation" and commemorates a pivotal chapter in world history.