In Washington, D.C., there are abundant outdoor activities. From the National Mall to parks and paths that you can spend hours exploring in the outdoors, you can find an excuse to get out for the day. We provide some of the best luxury apartments in Washington, D.C. but, here, we’re going to focus on some top outdoor attractions in the area.
Rock Creek Park
Established in 1890 by an Act of Congress, Rock Creek Park is run by the National Park Service. Its main section, plus a series of connected green areas, covers more than 2,000 acres. Winding trails, as well as Beach Drive, are popular for jogging, cycling, and skating. The park also has picnic areas, playgrounds, an outdoor concert venue, equestrian trails, and a nature center with a planetarium. You can go horseback riding at Rock Creek Park Horse Center or see Peirce Mill, the only one of eight local water-powered grist mills still standing.
National Mall
The National Mall stretches over 1,000 acres and includes some of the nation’s most iconic monuments and memorials. On its grounds are the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, and Thomas Jefferson Memorial.
Military- and veteran-related memorials include the Vietnam Veterans, Korean War Veterans, and World War II Memorials, as well as the American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial dedicated in 2014. “The Mall” provides ample walking and picnicking opportunities, as it stretches from the Potomac River to the foot of the United States Capitol Building.
C&O Canal Towpath
Cargo was hauled along the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal, today known as the C&O Canal, from 1831 to 1924. The towpath was used for mules that towed canal boats. Today, the 184.5-mile dirt and stone path is great for walking, running, and biking. The recreational trail starts at Rock Creek and runs along the Potomac near Georgetown and the western side of the district. If you’re determined to stay the course, it goes all the way to Cumberland, Maryland.
U.S. National Arboretum
Located in Northeast Washington, D.C., The Arboretum is administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. There are 9.5 miles of winding roadways on the 446-acre property. Although a research facility where technologies for floral and nursery industries are developed, the facility allows the public to explore its numerous collections and gardens. The Grass Roots Exhibit explores the science behind turfgrass used for landscaping. Various tours and events are offered across the park.
The Tidal Basin
Conveniently close to the National Mall, the Tidal Basin features a 1.8-mile loop and many different monuments to explore. It offers magnificent views of the water and some of the city’s iconic attractions. The man-made reservoir, located between the Washington Channel and the Potomac River, covers 107 acres. During the warmer months, paddleboats can be rented and, in April, the annual Cherry Blossom Festival takes place here.
Contact Us if You’re Moving to Washington, D.C.
These and many other Washington, D.C., outdoor activities give many people reason to move here. Are you ready to make the move? Contact Keener Management to learn about luxury apartments in Washington, D.C., in some of the city’s most popular neighborhoods. For more information, call 202-249-0894 today!