East Potomac Park in Washington, DC

Located between the Washington Channel and the Potomac River, the East Potomac Park is home to a meandering path used by runners, walkers, and bicyclists. Near parts of the park visitors can walk to monuments or the Mall (up to a half hour walk, depending on your location) to the downtown attractions such as museums or restaurants.

Washington DC received the gift of cherry trees from Japan, which were planted in three locations. One of these locations is the East Potomac Park. The cherry trees blossom each year in the spring into colorful displays of pink and white. This annual event is celebrated by the city with the "Cherry Tree Festival." This festival can go on for a series of weeks, with several events each weekend occurring around and about the metro area. The festival includes family activities, single oriented events, and musicians. About the time this festival is ending is the same time frame that the cherry trees of the East Potomac begin to bloom. This is due to the variety. The variety at the other two locations are different and bloom earlier in the spring.

Managed by the National Conservatory Association, the East Potomac Park is a large recreational area that encompasses 300 acres. There is a public golf course, a mini golf course, and a public pool. This span of lush and beautiful landscape also has some hidden dangers: hidden holes and eroding sidewalk. Visitors should be mindful of where they step while perusing the grounds.

• East Potomac Golf Course actually has three golf courses (on 18-hole and two 9-hole). Golfing lessons are available.
• The East Potomac Tennis Facility is an indoor tennis court with up to 24 courts available for play. Call 202-554-5962 for more information.
• The highly rated East Potomac Pool is relatively unknown to tourists, though locals rave about it. If a swim is what you need to beat the heat, this Olympic sized aquatic center fits the bill. Call 202-727-6523 for more information.
• Ample free parking is available and located south of the Jefferson Memorial. More parking can be found on Ohio Drive.
• The closest metro station is the Smithsonian stop.

Another family-focused activity which is leisurely and avoids physical exertion is the taking of a Duck Tour. The famed Duck Tour includes a water way tour of the East Potomac Park area. For more information, call the Duck Tour company at 855-323-8257.

The weather in this region demonstrates all the seasons, from snow to summer highs in the 100's. The best time of year to visit is in the spring or fall. However, note that it rains regularly throughout the year, even in warm periods. Washington DC receives more annual rainfall than Seattle, Washington.