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Fairmont Washington D.C. Georgetown

Parks & Recreation

Explore Washington D.C. Beyond the Monuments

With over 8,000 acres of parkland, iconic waterfront trails, and some of the most beautiful green spaces in the country, Washington D.C. is a city made for outdoor exploration. Here's where to start.

The Best Parks & Outdoor Experiences in Washington D.C.

Washington D.C. is far more than its monuments. Beneath the grand facades and historic boulevards lies one of the most rewarding outdoor cities in America — a place where 8,000 acres of parkland, miles of riverside trails, and some of the country's most beautiful green spaces sit within easy reach of the city center. Whether you're hiking through the woodland trails of Rock Creek Park, cycling the C&O; Canal Towpath in Georgetown, or discovering the quiet magic of Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens, Washington D.C.'s parks and outdoor experiences offer something for every kind of explorer. And with Fairmont Washington D.C., Georgetown as your base, every adventure starts right at your door

  • Explore Rock Creek Park

    One of the best parks in Washington D.C., Rock Creek Park is the city's ultimate outdoor escape. Spanning 4.4 square miles in the heart of the capital, this expansive green space offers 32 miles of hiking and walking trails, paved roads closed to cars for cycling and exploring, and a wealth of recreational facilities — including a nature center, picnic areas, riding stables, and tennis courts.

     

    History lovers will appreciate the Boulder Bridge and Peirce Mill historic site, two of D.C.'s most charming hidden landmarks. Whether you're running, cycling, or simply wandering, Rock Creek Park is the kind of outdoor experience in Washington D.C. that keeps drawing you back. 

     

    Northwest D.C. |  15-minute walk from Fairmont Washington D.C., Georgetown

  • Walk or Run the C&O; Canal Towpath in Georgetown

    For one of the most scenic outdoor walks in Washington D.C., look no further than the C&O; Canal Towpath in Georgetown. Tracing the Potomac River from Georgetown all the way to Cumberland, Maryland — a remarkable 184.5 miles — this iconic trail is a favorite among walkers, runners, and cyclists alike.

     

    Expect sweeping river views, lush woodland stretches, and a peaceful pace that feels a world away from the city. Whether you cover a mile or many, the C&O; Canal Towpath is one of D.C.'s great outdoor experiences — and it starts right in the heart of Georgetown. 

     

    Georgetown, D.C. |  5-minute walk from Fairmont Washington D.C., Georgetown

  • Discover the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail

    One of Washington D.C.'s most exciting recent additions to its outdoor recreation scene, the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail offers a continuous 20-mile path running along both banks of the Anacostia River through the Capitol Riverfront and Anacostia neighborhoods. Wide, well-maintained, and fully accessible, the trail is ideal for running, cycling, or a leisurely stroll alongside a beautifully revitalized waterway.

     

    This corner of southeast D.C. has undergone remarkable transformation in recent years — and the Riverwalk is its crown jewel.

     

    Capitol Riverfront & Anacostia, D.C. |  15-minute drive from Fairmont Washington D.C., Georgetown 

  • Visit Roosevelt Island on the Potomac

    Accessible via footbridge off the George Washington Memorial Parkway, Theodore Roosevelt Island is one of Washington D.C.'s most unexpected outdoor escapes. This peaceful nature reserve in the middle of the Potomac River features nearly two miles of trails winding through forest and wetland, a striking 17-foot statue honoring the great conservationist, and sweeping views of the river and the D.C. skyline.

     

    A short distance from the city yet worlds apart — Roosevelt Island is one of the most rewarding green spaces in Washington D.C. for those who know to seek it out.

     

    Potomac River, D.C. | 10-minute drive, 25-minute walk from Fairmont Washington D.C., Georgetown

  • Discover the U.S. National Arboretum

    Open daily from 8:00am to 5:00pm., the U.S. National Arboretum is one of Washington D.C.'s most breathtaking and undervisited outdoor destinations. Spanning 446 stunning acres, this living museum of plants and trees offers year-round beauty — from ancient bonsai trees and vibrant azaleas to flowering cherry trees and the iconic Capitol Columns, a beloved and highly Instagrammable landmark.

     

    Designated picnic areas make it a perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon. Whether you visit in spring bloom or autumn color, the National Arboretum is one of the most visually rewarding green spaces in D.C. — a true hidden gem.

     

    Northeast D.C. | 25-minute drive from Fairmont Washington D.C., Georgetown Open Monday–Sunday, 8:00am to 5:00pm | Free admission

  • Explore Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens

    Tucked away approximately five miles northeast of Anacostia, Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens is one of Washington D.C.'s most enchanting and little-known natural attractions. The only national park dedicated to aquatic plants in the United States, Kenilworth is a haven for photographers, birders, and nature lovers alike.

     

    Visit between late May and September to see spectacular summer blooms — water lilies and lotuses at their most vivid in the morning hours. From October through March, the absence of foliage makes it one of the best spots in D.C. for bald eagle sightings. Accessible by bike, rideshare, or the Orange Line to Deanwood Metro station — a rewarding detour well off the beaten path.

     

    Anacostia, Northeast D.C. | 30-minute drive from Fairmont Washington D.C., Georgetown

Seasonal Highlights

Washington D.C.'s outdoor scene changes beautifully with the seasons. Here's what to look forward to, whenever you visit.

 

Spring: Cherry blossoms in full bloom

Summer: Jazz in the Garden 

Autumn: Peak foliage trail runs

Winter: Outdoor ice skating

 

Know Before You Go

Getting Around

Washington D.C. is one of the most walkable and transit-friendly cities in the United States. Most of the parks and green spaces featured on this page are easily accessible on foot, by bike, or via the Washington Metro. For more remote destinations like Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens, a rideshare app or the Orange Line to Deanwood Metro station is recommended. The Fairmont Washington D.C., Georgetown concierge team is always on hand to help plan the best route for your outdoor adventure.

 

Bike Rentals & Cycling

Washington D.C.'s Capital Bikeshare program offers hundreds of docking stations across the city — including several within walking distance of the hotel. It's one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to explore the city's trail network, particularly the C&O Canal Towpath in Georgetown, the Capital Crescent Trail, and the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail. Electric bike options are also available for longer rides.

Explore More of Washington D.C.

Parks are just the beginning. Discover everything the Capital has to offer.

Learn More