Most people don’t equate roads in DC with rejuvenation and relaxation. But there is one exception to that rule and it’s the George Washington Memorial Parkway. This roads offers travelers beautiful views and scenic overlooks and connects a number of fascinating and beautiful historic sites. When you need to escape, the George Washington Memorial Parkway will take you away from it all.
The George Washington Memorial Parkway is more commonly referred to as the GW Parkway. It’s a 25 mile long park that stretches along the Potomac River, along Northern Virginia and into DC.
The Parkway was built to be for recreational driving and it’s managed by the National Park Service.
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The parkway is a particular favorite among Washingtonians because of its spectacular views and scenic overlooks.
The Parkway also connects important episodes in American history and natural habitats for local wildlife.
You can access historically significant places like Fort Marcy and Fort Hunt Park.
Or take a visit to the gorgeous Netherlands Carillon and relax among the rows of flowers and listen to the music of the bells.
Or get a closer look of the Potomac River at Turkey Run Park. There are several trails in Turkey Run Park, as well as, wildlife and wildflowers.
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Continue along the parkway to the US Marine Corps War Memorial, which is based on the iconic image of the second flag-raising on Iwo Jima.
When you are ready to turn back home, take the Parkway to Arlington Memorial Bridge and cross back into the district.
So whether you are looking to just relax and unwind with some fantastic views or explore the different attractions around DC, take the George Washington Memorial Parkway and get away from it all!
There is no shortage of things to do in Washington DC. Although small, DC is full of history, culture, art, sports, delicious restaurants, fun bars, and plenty of shopping. You can have any type of adventure you want in Washington DC and if you live here, or even if you are just visiting for a few days, we came up with 21 things for your Washington DC bucket list. Don’t miss out on everything DC has to offer!
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1. Visit the monuments and memorials at night.
Everyone needs to experience the majestic beauty of the glowing light of monuments around the Mall at night.
2. Relax on the National Mall.
Play in DC’s front yard! Relax, picnic, people watch, and soak in the culture and history of the surrounding memorials, monuments, and political buildings.
3. Walk and shop through Georgetown.
The charming streets of Georgetown provide tons of shopping and elegant row homes that are Instagram-worthy. This is one of the best Washington DC vacation ideas.
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4. Holocaust Memorial Museum.
This moving museum offers a powerful look at one of the darkest times in the country’s history. It’s a must-see tribute.
5. Visit the National Gallery of Art.
The National Gallery of Art has a diverse collection of historical art as well as a beautiful sculpture garden.
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6. Go around the world at the embassies.
Explore the world without ever leaving DC every May at Passport DC, a month-long event that highlights DC’s diplomatic community and international scene.
7. Head to the Air and Space Museum.
The Air and Space Museum gives visitors a look at the past and future of air and spacecraft in the country and it has the largest collection of aircraft and spacecraft in the world.
8. Taste a DC brew at one of the local breweries.
DC craft beer scene has exploded over the last few years and you can find unique, flavorful, and satisfying local brews all over the district.
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9. Get a half-smoke at Ben’s Chili Bowl.
Everyone from former President Obama to Bono has enjoyed a half-smoke at this iconic DC restaurant.
10. Try your culinary tastes at minibar by José Andrés.
José Andrés unique dining experience is unlike anything else there is in this world! You will be talking about it for years to come!
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11. Try out Capital Bikeshare.
Getting around DC has never been easier than hopping on and off one of the 3,500 bicycles situated around the district.
12. Tour the Arboretum.
The National Arboretum is a true hidden gem where you can wander for hours enjoying peaceful nature.
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13. Get fresh fish at Municipal Fish Market at the Wharf on Maine Avenue.
You can find fresh fish, prepared seafood, and a one-of-a-kind experience in the oldest operating open-air fish market in the country.
14. Kayak, boat, or paddle board the Potomac.
The Potomac provides the perfect place for enjoying water sports in the city.
15. Visit the International Spy Museum.
The International Spy Museum is truly one of the coolest museums in the entire city. Learn about the secret history of spies and go on a mission of your own! In my opinion, this is one of the best things to add to your list of things to do in Washington DC.
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16. Shop at Eastern Market.
Experience the hustle and bustle of the thriving market where you can find fresh produce, prepared meals, and handmade crafts.
17. Enjoy a food truck meal.
The food truck scene is huge in DC and every truck has delicious meals at great prices.
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18. Tour the three houses of government: the White House, the Capitol, and the US Supreme Court.
You can’t experience DC without experiencing the government. You can schedule tours and visits of each of the three branches of government for free.
19. Watch a Nats game at Nationals Park.
There’s nothing quite like watching America’s game in America’s capital on a hot summer night. It doesn’t hurt when Bryce Harper is hitting home runs.
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20. Get a cupcake at Baked & Wired.
Skip the lines at Georgetown Cupcake and get the best baked goods in the city at Baked & Wired.
21. Take a hike in Rock Creek Park.
Rock Creek is Washington’s prominent park that gives all Washingtonians a perfect place to experience nature right in the heart of the city.
DC is known for its traffic so most people don’t associate driving with relaxation around here. But if you travel farther outside the city, you will enjoy peaceful winding back roads that will provide you with incredible views and an enjoyable trip! If you are looking for the best driving route around Washington DC these are the seven best back roads around DC.
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1. GW Parkway
The George Washington Memorial Parkway is one of the most gorgeous drives around the area. You can hop on the parkway just across the bridge from the District in Arlington and take it past gorgeous views of the Potomac to Great Falls.
Learn more about the George Washington Memorial Parkway in this video from Through My Lens:
2. Route 50 West
The Route 50 West in Northern Virginia will take you out to the rolling hills of Middleburg. You’ll drive by stretches and stretches of countryside dotted by wineries and farms. Stop in at one of the many small towns along the way for shopping or a bite to eat.
3. Snickersville Turnpike
Out in Loudoun County, VA, Snickersville is a rural scenic byway that offers drivers a relaxing road set against beautiful scenery.
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Take one of the best backroads near you from Aldie to Bluemont, VA in this virtual drive on the Snickersville Turnpike from Jason is Over Here!:
4. Beach Drive
Located in Rock Creek Park, Beach Drive is a spectacularly beautiful drive. Whether you go in the fall when the leaves are turning colors or in the spring when you are surrounded by green, Washingtonians can escape the hustle of the city without going far.
5. Route 15
Another Virginia byway that is ideal for a country drive. This route will take you through the open and uncluttered Virginia landscape. In the fall, the views are breathtaking. There is even a hidden castle to spot along the way.
6. Route 673
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This ride, which you can get to by Route 15, takes you south toward the Appalachian Trail. You’ll pass cute towns, past farms, and vineyards with the outline of the mountain ranges in the distance.
7. Route 7
Route 7 in Northern Virginia drives out to Loudoun County. Once out there, you can cruise by charming towns like Purcellville, gorgeous open land, miles of trees, hills, and endless countryside.
There are many scenic drives near Washington DC like this early fall drive along Route 7 in Northern Virginia that you'll see in this video from Trekker in USA:
The best driving route around Washington DC doesn't have to be a boring interstate loop. These backroads are both beautiful and peaceful. What is your favorite scenic drive around Washington DC?