WASHINGTON, D.C

WASHINGTON, D.C. | OUTDOORS

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Enjoy Nature in the Nation’s Capital

Vote for open-air fun in Washington, D.C.

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OU’RE NO DOUBT FAMILIAR with the mall that runs from the Washington Monument to the U.S. Capitol, but the District of Columbia has more public spaces to explore after you’ve enjoyed the Lincoln Memorial and the reflecting pool. Elect to explore some of USA TODAY’s 10Best candidates:

TASOS KATOPODIS/GETTY IMAGES BLACK LIVES MATTER PLAZA The section of 16th Street in front of Lafayette Square and across from the White House had been a gathering place in the nation’s capital long before it was officially named Black Lives Matter Plaza in 2020. While the space remains a site for political activism, it’s also used for numerous community events, including movie nights, yoga sessions and dance classes. POTOMAC RIVER Locals know you don’t have to leave the city to enjoy a day out on the water, at least not with this urban waterway. Rent a kayak from one of seven boathouses with access to the river and you can see the Washington Monument, John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and the beautiful Georgetown waterfront. Paddle to the Tidal Basin for even more sightseeing, including the Jefferson Memorial, or do as Washingtonians do, and paddle upriver to see a surprisingly wild section of the Potomac. You’d never guess you were smack in the seat of power.

CHESAPEAKE & OHIO CANAL Mules once pulled boats along this waterway. Now bikers, hikers and joggers can travel the dirt towpath for 184.5 miles to Cumberland, Md. The historic canal, commonly known as the C&O, begins in Georgetown and runs next to the Potomac. As you walk along the canal, houses fade from view, allowing you to feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

DESTINATION DC

NATIONAL PARK SERVICE ROCK CREEK PARK The 1,754-acre park was the third national park designated by the federal government. These days Rock Creek attracts locals and visitors to the northwest part of the city with a series of recreational trails, Smithsonian’s National Zoo, a working gristmill, nature center, planetarium, tennis courts and a golf course. Reserve a picnic spot online to cook out, or pick up sandwiches from local favorites Bread Furst or Little Red Fox .

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