Top Things to do in National Mall
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The 5 Best Nature & Parks in National Mall, District of Columbia (DC)
Washington DC is a hub for American politics and history. Attracting as many school field trips as it does travelers the district offers a peek into the country’s democratic origin. There are plenty of free museums to take advantage of but the real draw here is the memorials and monuments dedicated to great American leaders. Spend some contemplative time at the Reflecting Pool within the National Mall, among the most patriotic places in the country.
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1. National Mall
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 8,259 reviews
Open area of gardens, fountains, trees and monuments stretching nearly two miles between the Capitol and the Lincoln Memorial.
Reviewed By gvr001 - Laurel, United States
Despite living in Maryland, it has been a few years since we had visited the Mall. It was a cool, sunny, 60 degree day, and the Cherry Blossoms had not yet bloomed. Despite all the Smithsonian museums being closed, we thought this would be a fun outing, and we were not disappointed. We arrived at the Lincoln Memorial around 10:30, and parked on 17th street. We had 2 hours of parking. We walked to the Lincoln Memorial, and then walked down to the Korean memorial, Martin Luther King, and then FDR. Each one is peaceful, beautiful, and powerful in its own way. We then walked around the tidal basin to the Jefferson Memorial, which was under construction. Bathrooms were open at MLK and Jefferson. We walked quickly back and retraced our steps before our parking expired. We then drove to 21st street (around F street) and parked again. We had lunch at one of the food trucks across from the Washington Monument. We walked to the Washington Monument, then WWII, and then walked back to our car (2:45). The total distance walked was around 6.5 miles, and it was a wonderful visit of almost all the monuments (we missed Vietnam). Our children (11&13) were old enough to appreciate the powerful history of these monuments, and had the energy for the walking. A great way to spend a day outside.
2. United States Botanic Garden
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,777 reviews
Steeped in history, rich with tradition, the United States Botanic Garden (USBG) is a living plant museum that informs visitors about the importance, and often irreplaceable value, of plants to the well-being of humans and to earth's fragile ecosystems. U.S. Botanic Garden campus includes the Conservatory, the National Garden, and Bartholdi Park.
Reviewed By dawnfromseattle - Vienna, United States
I went for a history/culinary presentation that was held right in the midst of the orchid exhibit. It was beautiful. The orchid displays are worth the trip. The garden isn't big but it is nicely done. I go at least twice each year. If you need a meal to top off your visit, check out the nearby Museum of the American Indian cafeteria. The Indian tacos are fantastic.
3. C & O Canal
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 86 reviews
A 185-mile canal which runs from D.C. to Cumberland, Maryland.
Reviewed By VickiA156
We LOVED our hike along this part of the C & O Canal Towpath. A little narrow at points and having to cross the bridge to continue on the path but we found our way. We loved it!
4. Potomac River
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 304 reviews
River separating Washington D.C. from Virginia.
Reviewed By tigerbox - San Jose, Costa Rica
Perhaps one of the best big city water features in the country. There are several parks, walking paths along the entire length of the river maybe 3 miles or more, incredible views, C&O canal, Kennedy center, Jefferson Memorial and of course the direct access to Georgetown itself. If you are visiting DC you need to get to the water front for a nice bike ride or walk to fully appreciate all that DC has to offer.
