Here’s Washington DC’s Top Outdoor Attraction…And You’ll Definitely Want To Do It
Located right in the middle of DC, Rock Creek Park is the oasis every DC resident needs to visit. Rock Creek Park has peace and quiet, fantastic hiking trails, plenty of history, fun programs, wild animals and much, much more! Read on to find out why we think it’s DC’s top outdoor attraction.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
Washington DC is a 1,754 acre park right in the middle of the city. It became one of the first federally managed park in 1890 and has been a DC gem ever since.
There are over 32 miles of trails in Rock Creek Park. Many of these trails connect to one another so you can go in a loop or enjoy different experience each time by mixing and matching your trails.
In addition to the woodsy hiking areas, there are paved trails and roads running through Rock Creek Park that are open to bicyclists. Many joggers also enjoy running on these paved roads well.
You can also learn about the different nature at the Nature Center. The Nature Center is free to visitors and has exhibits on area plants and animals, as well as, hiking information and maps of the park.
The Nature Center is also home to the only planetarium in the National Park Service. You can find free tickets to every planetarium show at the Nature Center.
Rock Creek also offers many ranger-led tours and hikes. These educational and cultural tours are the perfect way to learn about the history of the park.
History lovers will also enjoy the many historic sites located in and near Rock Creek Park. You can take a tour of Pierce Mill, which operated in the late 1800s, as well as many other historic buildings and forts.
