West Potomac Park
From the towering Washington Monument to the iconic Lincoln Memorial, West Potomac Park is home to many of Washington DC’s top national monuments—but that’s not all the park has to offer. You can also enjoy a walk along the Tidal Basin, stroll the Constitution Gardens, and delight in the cherry blossoms that fill the park each spring.
The Basics
Located just blocks from the White House, the natural serenity of West Potomac Park is a pleasant break from the fast pace of the city. A journey through the park reveals memorials commemorating the veterans of the Vietnam, Korean, and World wars, as well as the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, and more. You can also enjoy recreational activities at sports fields and boating on the Tidal Basin. The best way to fit in all the top attractions in the park is on a guided tour. Options range from guided walking tours to biking or Segway excursions that enable you to see more of the park with less effort.
Things to Know Before You Go
- West Potomac Park is a must-see for DC visitors and a convenient place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
- The park and its memorials are free to visit.
- The park is large and the memorials are spread out so, if you want to see them all, allow ample time and wear good walking shoes.
- The area is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with paved walkways connecting the sites.
Trip ideas
How to Get There
Due to limited public parking, the best way to reach West Potomac Park is on a guided tour, by Metro (the closest stations are Smithsonian and Federal Triangle), or on a hop-on hop-off bus tour.
When to Get There
The most popular time to visit West Potomac Park is during the National Cherry Blossom Festival when the cherry trees, which surround the Tidal Basin, are blossoming—late March through April. If you would rather see the park when it is less crowded, visit in the summer or winter.
Where to Find Nature in Washington DC
Despite being a large metropolis, Washington DC is home to many natural oases. In addition to tree-lined paths and reflecting pools, the nation’s capital is also home to the US Botanic Garden, US National Arboretum, and a heritage Victory Garden—just to name a few of its nature-focused attractions. You can escape further into the outdoors at vast parks such as Rock Creek Park or the Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens.
- Watergate Complex
- Old Stone House
- Georgetown
- John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
- Lafayette Square
- Theodore Roosevelt Island
- Freedom Park
- U.S. Department of State
- Tudor Place
- Georgetown University
- National Academy of Sciences
- Albert Einstein Memorial
- Anderson House (Society of the Cincinnati)
- U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial
- Heurich House Museum