Washington, D.C., bordering the states of Maryland and Virginia, is easily accessible to many states on the east coast. Currently, as COVID-19 restrictions begin to loosen, people are increasingly turning their attention to dining out and going to museums. However, since many prefer to avoid close contact with others in closed spaces, and the weather is improving, we will focus on fun outdoor activities to do in the historic district. Here are three great ideas:
- Rock Creek Park – Just a hop, skip, and a jump from the city’s metropolitan life sits Rock Creek Park, an urban oasis with hiking trails, tennis, and golf, plus ranger-led wildlife programs and amphitheater. This 1,754-acre park was officially authorized in 1890 and is the third national park designated by the federal government. It is a peaceful setting with recreation, fresh air, beautiful trees, civil war fortifications, colonial houses, and more. Go for a hike or enjoy a picnic with the family in this tranquil environment. Biking, hiking, boating, and horseback riding are other popular activities associated with the park. As a kind reminder, face masks are currently required on NPS-administered lands where physical distancing cannot be maintained.
- The National Mall and Memorial Parks – The National Mall is a landscaped park located near the downtown area of Washington, D.C., and is administered by the National Park Service (NPS) of the United States Department of the Interior. The National Mall includes many landmarks, museums, and other features, as well as the White House, the Capitol building, and the Washington, Lincoln, and Jefferson memorials. Other memorable places to absorb history and pause to thank those who served include the Korean War Veterans Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and the World War II Memorial. The National Mall is one of America’s most visited parks and a great place to explore, walk, and enjoy the green space. It takes approximately one hour and five minutes to make a complete loop along the National Mall route, also nicknamed “America’s front yard.” National Mall may modify operations or temporarily close sites as part of COVID-19 response. Please check for changes or closures when planning your visit.
- The U.S. National Arboretum – If beautiful landscapes, ornamental plants and gardens, and a botanical atmosphere get you excited, this is the place to go! The grounds are located just 10 minutes from the U.S. Capitol Building and is best reached by car. The Arboretum was established in 1927 by an Act of Congress and is administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Research Service. Some of the many beautiful single-genus groupings to see include boxwoods, daffodils, dogwoods, holly, maple, magnolia, and more. Major garden features include aquatic plants, the flower Tree Collection, The National Bonsai & Penjing Museum, The National Grove of State Trees, the National Herb Garden, and more. As a reminder, some of the buildings may be temporarily closed to the public. For open exhibits, mask-wearing and social distancing measures are required in Federal buildings and on Federal land.