The 14 Most Incredible Natural Attractions In Washington DC That Everyone Should Visit

Bishop’s Garden is an absolutely gorgeous garden hidden behind the National Cathedral. The gardens were designed in the early 1900s by landscape designer Frederick Olmstead Law. It’s a beautiful place to find some peace and relaxation.
More information here

Deep Creek Lake is a stunning lake that is less than 200 miles outside of DC in Garrett County Maryland. It’s tucked away between gorgeous mountains and fantastic hiking spots.
More information here

It’s so shocking how few Washingtonians have visited Kenilworth Gardens. This outdoor attraction is the home of beautiful lilies, lotuses, plants and wildlife.
More information here

Constitution Gardens is such a hidden park right in the heart of DC! It’s the place that many downtown residents and workers love to step into for a quick breath of fresh air and beautiful views of weeping willows.
More information here

The coolest thing about the United States Botanic Garden is that it features plants and flowers from all over the world. You can explore inside the conservancy or outside in the surrounding gardens.
More information here

The views from Sugarloaf Mountain are worth the drive to it and the hike up it. White Rocks overlook will give you a perfect place to commune with nature and snap beautiful photos of the area below.
More information here

Kingman and Heritage Island Parks are two remote islands on the outskirts of DC. There are no cars allowed and you need to cross a boardwalk pedestrian bridge to get there. But once you do, there is nothing but trails, plants and wildlife to enjoy.
More information here

There are 20 acres of gardens, meadows and ponds hidden in Northwest DC at Tregaron Conservancy. The non-profit that manages the property is constantly working to restore it to its original beauty. But even as they work, it’s still a beautiful place to explore and it’s free to visit!
More information here

If you love to camp, then Granite Hill Camping Resort is the perfect place for you! This gorgeous campground is an hour and a half away from DC and is located on a 150-acre Civil War era farm.
More information here

Rock Creek Park really is the natural gem of Washington DC. From hiking, running, biking and horseback riding, there are so many ways to experience nature at DC’s beloved park.
More information here

Kilgore Falls is only a few hours north of DC in Rocks State Park. Take the Falling Branch Trail for a light 1.3 mile loop and it will take you past the breathtaking Kilgore Falls. This waterfall is the second highest free falling waterfall in Maryland.
More information here

If you are looking for a relatively easy hike with spectacular views, look no further than the Billy Goat Trail at Great Falls, just outside of DC. This is one of the most popular hiking trails in the region and for good reason! It’s fun, short and gives world class views of the iconic falls.
More information here

The National Arboretum is in Northeast DC and gives Washingtonians 446 acres of garden collections, rolling hills and nature to explore. Fan favorites include the Capitol Columns, The Bonsai Collection and the National Grove of State Trees.
More information here

East Potomac Park is one of those places you’ve probably passed but haven’t realized how beautiful of a spot it is. It’s popular among bikers and runners because it provides excellent views of the Potomac along the biking and jogging trail.
More information here