The Best Outdoor Activities in and Around Washington DC

A quick 15-mile drive from DC and you’ll find yourself at the Great Falls Park. Visitors are treated to stunning views of the Potomac River as it flows over the rocks into Mather Gorge. Head to the visitor center where you can take advantage of the three overlooks which give the best views. When you’re done, make use of the hiking and biking trails. Or you could go climbing, fishing or even enjoy a horseback ride.

Rock Creek Park is the third oldest national park in the US and runs through DC and Montgomery County. A haven for city dwellers, it’s also a must-do on any itinerary. You can take a picnic and immerse yourself in nature for an afternoon, or you can spend the whole day there, taking advantage of one of the 32 hiking trails on offer. There are a number of landmarks to see along the way, including Civil War strongholds and colonial houses. For those who are keen to enjoy some outdoor exercise, you can play a game of golf or tennis. And there’s also horseback riding.

This part of the city is perfect for exploring, especially because of the huge number of monuments on display. There’s the Jefferson Memorial, the MLK Memorial and the FDR memorial, all within the 1.8-mile (2.9km) Tidal Basin loop. The National Park Service also offers free walking tours on the Tidal Basin grounds, with one of the best known being a tour of the cherry blossoms during their annual festival.

Located in the Potomac River near the Key Bridge, this island was built as a tribute to the 26th American President, and is designed to mimic the look and feel of a natural forest. Again, the National Park Service hosts a number of guided tours by rangers that will help educate visitors on the history and the birds who inhabit the area. There are also hiking trails, jogging and the opportunity to hire a kayak or canoe to get on the water.