Washington, D.C. is home to some of the most beautiful parks in the country. Whether you’re looking for a place to take your family for a weekend outing or want to find a spot where you can let your dog run wild, Washington, D.C.’s parks have something for everyone.
In this guide, we’ll tell you about 15 of our favorite family-friendly parks and dog-friendly parks in Washington, D.C.
1. US National Arboretum
This park is a must-visit for nature lovers. The National Herb Garden, National Bonsai and Penjing Museum, and the Flowering Tree Collection are among the 440 acres of parks and gardens in Washington, D.C. which include one of the greatest collections of bonsai trees in North America. With more than 400 acres of gardens, trees, and walking trails to explore, the US National Arboretum is perfect for a day spent outdoors.
The park also offers rotating exhibitions and special events throughout the year, so there’s always something new to see!
2. Tidal Basin
This iconic park in the heart of Washington, D.C. is a must-see for visitors and locals alike. The Tidal Basin features stunning views of the Jefferson Memorial, Washington Monument, and Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, as well as a variety of plants and flowers that bloom throughout the year.
The Tidal Basin is also a great place for a picnic or to take a walk, and there’s always something going on in the area. In the spring, the Tidal Basin is home to the National Cherry Blossom Festival, and you can enjoy concerts, fireworks displays, and more at this popular event.
3. Rock Creek Park
Rock Creek Park is one of Washington, D.C.’s most popular parks, and it’s easy to see why. This park is home to more than 32 miles of trails, a golf course, an outdoor amphitheater, and so much more.
Rock Creek Park is also a great place to see wildlife. The park is home to deer, foxes, raccoons, and more, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled as you explore!
4. Dumbarton Oaks Park
Dumbarton Oaks Park is a beautiful spot in Washington, D.C. that’s perfect for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.
The park is located on the highest point in Georgetown and is equipped with hiking and running trails that run alongside many of the city’s embassies. You can also enjoy the gorgeous gardens, sculptures, and fountains, as well as a historic house museum.
5. Lincoln Park on Capitol Hill
The Lincoln Park features a statue of President Abraham Lincoln and another of civil rights champion Mary McLeod Bethune is a popular hangout for locals. The park also has a playground, basketball courts, and a bandstand.
Lincoln Park is a great place to take your family or your pet out for a day of fun. The park features a playground, wading pool, basketball courts, and more. They also offer free concerts in the park during summer.
6. The Yards Park
The Yards Park is a great place to spend an afternoon in Washington, D.C. The park features a variety of restaurants and bars, as well as a playground, dog park, and riverwalk.
This park is also home to many events throughout the year, including concerts and festivals. Be sure to check out their website to see what’s going on during your visit!
7. Meridian Hill Park
Meridian Hill Park is a beautiful spot in Washington, D.C. The park features a cascading waterfall, as well as an array of statues and monuments. Meridian Hill Park is also home to a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, performances, and workshops.
The park is also a great place to take your dog for a walk, as there is a designated dog park within the park.
8. Anacostia Park
Anacostia Park is a great spot for nature lovers. The park features more than 12 miles of trails, as well as a variety of birds and other wildlife. Anacostia Park is also home to a playground, picnic areas, and a swimming pool.
The best time to visit Anacostia Park is in the spring or fall when the weather is mild and the leaves are changing. However, the park is open year-round and there’s always something to see or do.
9. Chesapeake And Ohio Canal National Historic Park
Made in the 1800s and 1900s—the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historic Park is a great spot for history buffs. This historical site is a wonderful area to meet up with friends, organize family picnics, go for a bike ride, spend hours fishing, or simply enjoy the view.
The park features a variety of historic buildings, as well as a canal that you can take a boat ride on.
10. Kenilworth Park And Aquatic Garden
Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Garden is a unique park in Washington, D.C. that features a variety of gardens, as well as fish and plant life from all over the world. The park also has a playground, picnic areas, and a nature center.
The best time to visit Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Garden is in the spring when the flowers are in bloom. However, the park is open year-round and there’s always something to see or do.
11. Georgetown Waterfront Park
Georgetown Waterfront Park is a great place to spend an afternoon in Washington, D.C. With breathtaking vistas along the Potomac River and whimsical wandering, picnics, bike rides, and skating adventures, this park is a terrific site for whimsical wandering, picnics, bike rides, and skating adventures.
The park also features a variety of restaurants and bars, as well as a playground, dog park, and riverwalk.
12. Dupont Circle
Dupont Circle is a popular spot in Washington, D.C. for locals and tourists alike. The park features a fountain that is turned on every hour, as well as a variety of restaurants and bars.
The park is also home to many events throughout the year, including concerts and festivals.
13. East Potomac Park, Hains Points
East Potomac Park is a great place to spend an afternoon in Washington, D.C. With breathtaking vistas along the Potomac River and whimsical wandering, picnics, bike rides, and skating adventures, this park is a terrific site for family fun.
The park also features a playground, picnic areas, and a variety of sports fields.
14. Lafayette Park
The 7-acre park is a popular gathering spot for public protests, ranger programs, and special events. It was named after the French hero of the American Revolution, Marquis de Lafayette.
In the center is an equestrian statue of Andrew Jackson, with statues of Revolutionary War heroes in the four corners: France’s General Marquis Gilbert de Lafayette and Major General Comte Jean de Rochambeau; Poland’s General Thaddeus Kosciuszko; and Prussia’s Major General Baron Frederich Wilhelm von Steuben.
The White House, the Old Executive Office Building, the Department of the Treasury, Decatur House, Renwick Gallery, The White House Historical Association, Hay-Adams Hotel, and the Department of Veterans Affairs are among the buildings that surround the park.
15. Pershing Park
The Pershig Park, which is close to Freedom Plaza and across from the Willard Intercontinental Hotel, is a pleasant location to rest and eat. It contains a number of benches, a few flowers, and some bushes. A street musician or two is often found here performing for tips.
The park was named for World War I General John J. Pershing. It contains a large fountain and a small amphitheater used for concerts and other events.
Whether you’re looking for a place to take your family, your dog, or just yourself, Washington, D.C. has a park for you. With so many parks to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the day.
So what are you waiting for? Get out there and explore Washington, D.C.’s best parks!
