Top Parks in Washington D.C.

Bring a blanket and snag a spot on the grass. I totally wish I had done this to relax by the water with a snack I brought from home!

I recommend checking out the food trucks that set up around the park. They have awesome eats, and you can grab something delicious without breaking the bank. My taco was under 10 bucks!

Plan for some time to explore the surrounding area. I almost missed the cute little shops and cafes just off the main path—totally worth wandering a bit!

I suggest wearing comfortable shoes. The paths can be uneven and you'll want to explore as much as you can without your feet killing you.

Bring a water bottle and snacks. There’s limited food availability on-site, and you don’t want to waste time looking for something to eat when you could be enjoying the gardens.

I recommend visiting on a weekday if you can. It’s way less crowded, and you can spend more time taking in the beauty without bumping into lots of people. Just be prepared to do a bit of walking!

My advice is to bring a picnic. There are so many lovely spots to relax by the water. I spent less on food and enjoyed a great afternoon.

If you like historical stuff don’t miss the visitor center! I almost skipped it but it's full of cool info. Just don’t forget to check their hours before heading there.

I think the best views are during sunset. Head to the waterfront around 6 PM to catch some amazing colors in the sky. Totally worth it!

I recommend starting your day early, around 8 AM, to enjoy a peaceful morning walk and avoid the crowds. It's a lot more serene and you can take some beautiful photos.

My advice is to check out the trails suited for your activity preference—whether it's hiking or biking. I got a bit lost trying to follow a random path that led nowhere!

Be sure to pack a picnic! There are lots of great spots to stop for a bite, and it’ll save you money since the park is pretty remote from nearby restaurants.

If you're driving, use the park’s visitor center as your entry point. Parking is limited, so get there early to snag a spot—especially on weekends when it gets busy!

Watch out for parking! It can be tricky and expensive. I recommend using public transport or ride-sharing to save some cash and time.

Check out the drum circle on Sundays around 3 PM. The vibe is amazing! I loved it, but it gets crowded so arrive early if you want a good spot!

I think the best views are from the upper levels. Don't just stick to the entrance, explore the paths up to the terraces for stunning sights that I nearly missed.

I recommend arriving right when the park opens at 8 AM. You’ll beat the crowds and get the best pics of the gardens when the light is perfect.

Don't forget your bug spray! I didn’t bring any and had a lot of mosquito bites afterwards. Trust me, you'll enjoy your visit much more without them buzzing around you!