DC has a unique height restriction limit on its building which can make it hard to get really great views of the city. However, right across the bridge in Arlington, VA there is a little known park that offers visitors absolutely spectacular views of DC. The Netherlands Carillon near DC is the perfect quiet park to get great views of the district.
The park and the bell tower in the park began as a gift of gratitude from the Dutch people to Americans following World War II.
In 1952, Queen Juliana presented a small bell to President Truman and two years later, 49 more bells arrived. Each bell includes an emblem signifying a group within Dutch society.
The permanent tower for the bells was built and dedicated in 1960. the tower is 127 feet high and there is a staircase visitors can take to an observatory platform. The bells ring every quarter hour.
The tower is guarded by two bronze lions that stand on the plaza steps and look out over the district.
The park surrounding the tower of bells is a gorgeous open spot that has park benches and thousands of flowers.
Netherlands Carillon is a popular spot to be during the spring time when thousands of tulip bulbs bloom creating a field of tulips.
But the park is a great place to visit anytime of year. There are live concerts held at the park throughout the summer and you can always find joggers, runners, walkers and visitors lounging on the grass.
No matter what time of year you visit, you’ll be treated to gorgeous views of DC including the Washington Monument, White House and Lincoln Memorial.
The Carillon is free to visit although there are parking fees if you drive. You can find The Carillon between the Arlington Cemetery and US Marine Corps Memorial.
You can learn more about visiting Netherlands Carillon on their website.
While we don't have many places with great overhead views of DC, there are many places you can take a great picture! Visit these 12 spots for the best photos of DC!
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