Every now and then, it’s good to reflect on the good old days and share in some nostalgia. Here in DC, things change on a regular basis and it can be hard to share in memories of the past. For this reason, Glen Echo Park is a special place for Washingtonians. It’s a beautiful historic park that will make you wish for the good old days.
Glen Echo Park is a historic park in Glen Echo Maryland. It was originally built in the 1890s as a retreat center.
Then it became Glen Echo Amusement Park, the premier amusement park in DC until 1968.
Washingtonians flocked to Glen Echo to enjoy rides like the Whip, the Coaster Dip and the carousel. In 1931, the park opened the Crystal Pool and an adjacent sand beach making it an ideal summer destination.
In 2002, Glen Echo became a community center focused on the arts. It is home to 13 resident artists and arts organizations.
Today, Glen Echo hosts theater performances, art shows and classes in the visual and performing arts.
While it’s a fantastic cultural destination, the park is also a great place for nostalgia as many of the original buildings and features are still intact.
A local favorite is the 1921 Dentzel Carousel which has been running for 97 years.
You can also see the remnants of the Crystal Pool, the old Bumper Car Pavilion and the Chautauqua Tower.
The park is a wonderful mix of the old and the new. You can wander the grounds exploring and photograph the old buildings or enjoy a show or take a class from one of the local residents.
Glen Echo Park is the perfect place for a good dose of nostalgia and a whole lot of fun. You can visit the park year round but the carousel only runs from April through October. The Park is located at 7300 MacArthur Blvd in Glen Echo, Maryland.
What other places in DC make you nostalgic for the good old days? For more history in DC, enjoy these amazing historical landmarks
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