This is the Anacostia river just outside the city line. It is a substantial built-up place with…read moreboating and picnic facilities, paved paths, and a footprint across the river. I think the river gets better as you go downstream, but those looking for a quiet walk or to use some of the amble facilities here will be well served.

We stumbled upon this wonderful PG county park while biking on the Anacostia River Trail. 100% -…read moreAdd it to your to do list: Join a short cruise down the Anacostia River to see the wildlife such as turtles, eagles, herons, and egrets; Rent kayaks from the friendly and professional Park Manager Quinn Mathewson; and interact with his experienced staff such as Brittany. Well done.

When I lived in Maryland, we came to this park often just to walk. We no longer live in Maryland…read morebut when I come back to visit, I still come to this park to walk and just enjoy the scenic walk and be outdoors. There is a house on the backside of the path that decorates for Halloween so it makes it a lot of fun for the kids on the path.

My daughter (10) and I came to this park for the first time. There was a good amount of parking. It…read morewas a beautifully summer day in the 90s and the great thing about this park is that there is lots of shade. There was a large picnic space as you enter the park area along with an area with play structures to the right for the little ones. The lake is the centerpiece of the park and the trail goes around it. There were a good number of benches and sitting areas where you could sit and enjoy the view. There were a number of people biking on the trail. The trail was a loop and it was enough distance to get some exercise but not too long that you will get worn out. Everything was green and there were lots of beautiful views. I definitely can see myself coming back here with the entire family.

Seems a chill, quiet park. Plenty of parking. Gazebos present for hosting cookouts, etc. Check it…read moreout!

University Hills Park is a neighborhood park in Hyattsville, Maryland. Here's why it's worth a…read morevisit: 1) Space: It's a large park with trails, including one that goes around a small pond full of ducks, turtles and beavers. There are two playgrounds and picnic areas. 2) Parking: You can always find a space in the lot. However, note that no parking spots are in the shade so plan accordingly. 3) Free mulch: They have an area with free mulch for Hyattsville residents. Bring your own shovel, bags and truck and have at it!

Hyatt Park is a small, yet mighty park in Hyattsville's Queens Chapel Manor neighborhood. The park…read moreitself has a community garden, picnic tables with lights hanging from the trees, and a large playground with slides, swings, etc. There's an area to get some shade. Across the street is Bestway Supermarket.

Amazing trails, gorgeous giant lotus blossoms, bullfrogs, birds, dragonflies... oh my! This park is…read morea hidden gem right within DC limits and an absolute dream for photographers. It's peaceful and beautifully maintained by the National Park Service, with benches tucked along the trails so you can pause and take it all in. Whether you're there for the wildlife, the lotus and lily ponds, or just a quiet nature walk, it's worth the trip. A rare blend of serenity and stunning photo opportunities in the heart of the city.

It's in a sketchy area with no public parking (only street parking). The entrance was confusing…read more I had high hopes for this place and for the longest time wanting to visit, but it was just one giant swamp. Very buggy but that's par for the course! The paths aren't clearly marked so you end up wandering aimlessly. There are sunken spots and areas where you can't tell if the ground is stable. There were random groups of people chanting right when we entered. The boardwalk toward the far end goes nowhere and there's nothing memorable or worth the walk to see. We saw a few lotus flowers and many lilies and a great blue heron made my day! Apart from that, a flop! I would probably never come back.

Dear reader, It is…read moreonly fair that I report the National Arboretum remains one of the coolest places in DC. It is massive, gorgeous, and the kind of place that makes you feel like you have briefly escaped the city without actually going very far. There is so much space to walk, relax, and just be outside for a while, and it never really feels crowded. Every time you turn a corner there is something new to look at, which makes the whole place feel like a very peaceful little adventure. The bonsai museum is easily one of the crown jewels. It kind of blows my mind every time that there are so many bonsai there, and some of them are up to or over 400 years old, including the famous Yamaki Pine. It is one of those places that really makes you slow down and pay attention because the amount of care, history, and detail in everything is just incredible. A very quiet flex, if you will. I also love that the Arboretum is not just about plants, although those alone would be enough. We saw bald eagles, there are beavers on the grounds, and it always feels like some kind of wildlife cameo could happen at any moment. Between the trees and plants from all over the country and the world, the Capitol Columns, the bonsai, the gardens, and all the open space, there is so much to take in without it ever feeling overwhelming. Dogs are welcome too, which feels very civilized, though they cannot go into the bonsai museum. Overall, this place is just such a gem. Beautiful, relaxing, and full of little surprises. I will absolutely keep going back, and frankly, I think society should too.

According to their website, this is a collections-based research facility and public garden of the…read moreUS Dept of Agriculture. The Arboretum is home to the world's first museum dedicated to the art of bonsai, and that's where we started. These bonsai trees are between 30 to 100-200 years old. There is one that is 400! This section alone is impressive. We also walked over to the columns that were once a part of the State Capitol building. With 451 acres the collections are based on categories which is nice. You want to look at conifers all day? Go right ahead. Azaleas and magnolias? Knock yourself out. Pick your spot. Don't feel like you can see everything AND enjoy it in one day...because you can't. Pick 1-3 things and enjoy the day. Stop by the the visitor center for a map and events for the day. Today there were Ikebana classes. Do a restroom call with the gang there before you venture out. There are portables throughout if you need to go. Read the website for areas that are wheelchair accessible or you could drive through to assess your beginning and endpoints.

I first learnt of this place through a coworker, someone who is from the area, went to school at…read moreUniversity of Maryland, and someone that has a little more knowledge of the history of the area as well. Also, I had not clue how extremely close I have been to this area on so many occasion and never discovered this until recently. Well hidden gem. If I hadn't done any type of research on this place, I would have assumed that this had always been here in the state that it is. When you see 'Natural Area' in the title of a place, you usually think that it was always wilderness. But not the case here. How Lake Artemesia is currently is due to the construction of the College Park and Greenbelt Metro stations. Locally sourcing materials from this area aiding in the construction. Once the metro stations were completed the lake as it is now was constructed. Fun fact: there are no naturally occurring lakes in Maryland, they are all manmade. But well before the Metro made its way through the area, the lake was created after stone was quarried in the area in the 1800s. Obviously a bit smaller than what you see today, but it was still there. Another fun fact, the smaller lake was originally used to raise goldfish. The history here also should be know that where the lake is was part of the Lakeland community. An African American community before being absorbed by College Park. This is the one thing I wish they focused on with the park. There are informative signs around the lake, touching on the wildlife you might stumble upon. I wish they would put some in with the history of the land. (I was also a little sad that I didn't get to see an otter) also, if there were some on the history, I just didn't see them or they were some that need some TLC)) This is a great park overall. It can be accessed by so many directions. I came in from the Berwyn Heights area, got a little dizzy on the pedestrian bridge that crosses the Green Line. The paths are ample for walking/bicycling. Sometimes, not everyone observes the fact that there are other people here and may take up the whole path, even though it is set up as a road essentially. Tons of seating throughout if you want to take a break. Great view of the ever changing skyline of College Park. I am sure this is better to visit when it is warmer, not on a cold, blustery winter day.

My thankful Thursday goes to Lake Artemisia. This place is beautiful. When they say some of the…read morebest things in life are free! I agree. The loop is roughly 2.4 miles, it's paved and clean; I've never seen litter or trash lying around. The lake was also home to a historical African American community called Lakeland established in 1890. Walking the park you'll see a few plaques and markers with brief history. Many years ago the citizens of this segregated society, developed their own institutions and cultural traditions, including the area's only high school for African Americans, built in 1928. There is a Lakeland Community Heritage Project that was created to preserve its history and the stories of its people through photographic archives and now the Lakeland College Park Community Center. Thankful that this is a peaceful place to run, walk, ride my bike, or simply sit and reflect. Greenery unique to the area is the mimosa trees that bloom in the summer and the giant reed grass surrounding the lake. Parks & Planning along with other organizations also hosts activities like birdwatching and community walks . In addition to this, there is a small playground and ergonomic gym. Lovely in every season and rich in American history, Lake Artemisia is the beating heart to lots of people in the Greenbelt community. Let's love, honor, and cherish Her for generations to come! #ThankfulThursdays

I've never seen this many people at the park ever. There were families, friends gathered and…read morepeople camped out on blankets listening to the R & B mascot playing on a small stage at one end of the park. In as much I wasn't really fan of the music, ot was nice to see some life back in DC again. This park used to be so ghetto 15 years ago, and it looks like the city did some remodeling and they fixed up the park grounds. My guess would be probably around 200 - 300 people here today on this late Sunday afternoon. There were no dogs or kids flying kites, but I did see a few yoga mats, while other people were dancing in the background. Summertime madness is here in DC.

I love this park. From 5-7 there are a or of dogs/owners that hang out. I wish they would get the…read morefountain working but it'll be years apparently.

Didn't know this actually had a name. Who knew! Skip the banter, the answer is YES! VISIT! Everyone…read moredoes! It's a staple landmark in DC! Story Time! I came to the Georgetown Waterfront in my Season of YES, which apparently includes saying yes to waterfront views, questionable boat dynamics, and accidental raccoon contour. My friend wanted to show me all things water for a memorable Holiday weekend, so Georgetown Waterfront was the obvious meet‑up, because this girl was NOT driving to Potomac, MD. Boats, docks... I was getting the full tour of our brown waters of the DMV. And honestly, this area is perfect: lively, scenic, and full of characters to watch. The park area has no tie‑ups, so if you want to have a picnic off your boat, the park grassy area is a short walk away. I grew up in DC and if you did too, you already know the rule: You do NOT get in the Potomac. We were raised on stories about what's in that water; dead bodies, secrets, evidence, probably a missing chapter of DC history. And no, it's not saltwater. It's Potomac, MD water: a very specific shade of brown that politely tells you to mind your business. Fast forward 25 years... Potomac still looks brown, still looks suspicious, still looks like it has a backstory it refuses to share. But here I am, floating on top of it like I'm not fully aware of its reputation. Now let's talk about the people‑watching, because THAT is the real attraction when you come to the Georgetown Waterfront. You've got the oldies but goodies, seasoned gentlemen with boats, confidence, and clearly the budget to sponsor a whole afternoon. And then you've got the young women they're "hosting," who look like they were born after the iPhone. The dynamic is... noticeable. The math is mathing. If I feel out of place with someone who is 16 years older, I can only imagine how these college girls felt. But let me give it to these girls, they laughed at the jokes and listened to stories from these men's "good ole college days"... 45 years ago. It made for GREAT entertainment. I found myself staring like, "Should I ask their ages or just assume this is a mentorship program?" I chose silence. Once a woman can be your daughter... I don't know. It's a little off‑putting. But here I am, on a boat, sharing space with someone's grandpa and someone's young college daughter. Seasoned men taking younger women out is a thing, and here I am watching the circle of life. Very interesting. I realize in this moment older men just want companionship and they will treat women to dinner and fun for the exchange. Eeeek. At one point I caught my reflection and realized the "charcoal contour" on my face. I looked like I'd done a charcoal face mask and forgot to rinse, nope, just hair dye from a hopeful silver fox. Not sure why men do this to stop the aging. Grey is in! Stop putting in dye on your beards gentlemen! It's not cool. Suddenly the college girls' side‑eyes made sense. They were trying to figure out if I was okay or if I'd just escaped from a fight. Nope ladies, it was beard paint all over my face calling me out, like, "Let's give you more attention and Racoon Eyes." Overall, the Georgetown Waterfront is beautiful, entertaining, and full of life. Great views, great energy, and always something to look at, even when you're trying not to. Best place to come, relax, picnic, tie up (if you have a boat), and enjoy the restaurants all along the water. Tip: Use the DC Wharf or National Harbor for gassing up! Georgetown lets you tie up without a fee, chaos in the best way.

Georgetown Waterfront Park is a beautiful park along the Potomac River in the heart of Georgetown…read more It stretches along the banks of the Potomac River on K Street from 31st Street NW to the Key Bridge. It is adjacent to the restaurant district, Washington Harbor, and Lowes movie theater. There are beautiful gardens, sculptures, fountains, greenspace, and pavilions throughout. The park has long walkways for cyclists, skaters, and pedestrians. Over the years, street parking has reduced as the city has prioritized bike lanes, however, there is ample paid underground parking. Street parking is easier to come by during early morning hours and late evenings. On weekends, driving and parking a long K Street is difficult due to pedestrian traffic, so be careful. The views across the river are beautiful as you can see the Rosslyn, VA skyline, Washington D.C. Mall, The Watergate Hotel, and Key Bridge. During warm months, boaters, kayakers, and competitive sports teams use the Potomac River as their recreational space. CONS: Parking - sometimes it can feel like a disappointment not being able to park on the street. The garages don't have the best ingress and egress and seem inconveniently situated. For such a large park, the limited street parking is a concern. At one point the street parking was ample, but the reconfiguration and reduction of street parking to construct bike lanes hasn't seemed like the best use of street space considering cyclists also ride on the mixed-used paths. Rats - at night, the rats run rampant. Trashcans often overflow onto the ground, making an ideal environment for rats to thrive. Narrow sidewalks - sidewalks along K Street are unbelievably narrow. Leading up to Washington Harbor, the mixed-use pathways are incredibly narrow. It wouldn't be an issue if the paths were for walking only, but they also accommodate cyclist, runners, and skaters. Not to mention groups, strollers, and people often casually strolling. Overall, a great space for strolling and leisure.

The seminary (or "castle" as I called it in high school, for apparently no reason, because castle…read moreis maybe the one type of building that the campus doesn't have) lived rent free in my mind when I was younger. It's just a crazy place, especially tucked right by Silver Spring, right by 16th and Georgia, and yet few people know it exists. Starting out as an inn and then a finishing school for girls, there's a Japanese pagoda, a Dutch windmill, a Parthenon looking building, and so many beautiful statues. After WWII it got taken over by the army. And then it slowly decayed. Save the Seminary, the organization whose mission is to restore the seminary, did a pretty damn good job at restoring the buildings, the ballroom, and the statutes. They do free walk tours, and most insane, the structures are now homes, where actual human beings live. I can't quite wrap my head around it, but if you have an extra mil lying around one of these places could be yours (if any of them happen to be up for sale).

Forest Glen, Maryland: Do you know where Forest Glen Maryland is?…read more Take a look at this map (This is the point of the presentation where I wish I could embed a map into my review) Well, imagine an isosceles triangle. Those are the ones that have a corner with 70 degrees- another corner with 70 degrees- and the third corner with 40 degrees. But make it stand straight up... like a pyramid. Ok, just think of a pyramid... but just one side, not like an actual 3D Pyramid. Ok... ya know what, think of a Yield Sign. There we go, just think of a Yield sign. The bottom left corner is Bethesda, the bottom right corner is Silver Spring and the top of the Yield sign is Forest Glen. See, that was so much easier than just showing you a map. In that time, I hope that you've just googled Forest Glen and seen exactly where it is. So in Forest Glen there is an enormous building on Linden Lane and you'll see a Japanese Pagoda right in front of it. Yes, a true to form, authentic color paint, bamboo what not Japanese Freakin' Pagoda. That'll make you say something like "This Is the FR*&*in' Catalina Wine Mixer!".. of buildings. And then you'll say, "Why have I never seen this before." Here's some real short history. I did the research for you. The building was built as a Hotel/ Vacation Resort in 1887 for DC vacationers: Ye Old Forest Inn. But that didn't work out. Apparently the people who ran it were less than savvy. Then in 1894 it became an all girls school. And it remained that way until 1942. But, as you remember, we were dragged into WW2 in 1942 after Pearl Harbor happened December 7th 1941 "A Day Which Will Live In Infamy". Quick side note. In addition to Pearl Harbor the Japanese on that day also attacked the following: American ships the high seas between San Francisco and Honolulu, Malaya, Hong Kong, Guam, the Philippine Islands,Wake Island. And the next morning, the Japanese attacked Midway Island. Something I didn't know because everything is really ethnocentric here in America. And now back to National Park Seminary So the building in 1942 became sort of an Annex for Walter Reed and was controlled by the army. But in 1977 most of the buildings were left abandoned. Which essentially became a playground ( a very expensive and beautiful playground) for vandals. After years of neglect and vandalism a company called The Alexander Company helped in it's rehabilitation for the purpose of preserving this listing on the "National Register of Historic Places." For a very long time an organization called SOS (Save Our Seminary) has been working to raise money to preserve and repair so many of the historic buildings, structures, and intricate details that make this place so G-D Da*n Magical! The building used to face railroad tracks where people would travel off the railroad and right onto the campus. Now, that railroad is 495 so the front faces a non accessible point. Coming up from Linden, you're actually coming from the back and don't get to see the entire majesty of what the Seminary is. Quick info: National Park Seminary- the name After Ye Old Forest Inn the school took notice of Rock Creek Park which was constructed and opened during that time ( an attraction that many people were coming to see), the spot was named "National Park" in reference to being so close to that site. The Seminary comes from the older meaning of seminary which is: "a school of secondary or higher level for young women." So the campus is big 23 acres. And on that campus lives several sorority houses done in an international theme ( I KNOW! Awesome!) Which explains the Japanese Pagoda- some of the others include a : "Dutch windmill, a Swiss chalet, an Italian villa, An American Bungalow and an English castle" Quick note- In 1936 the National Park Seminary was renamed National Park College and served as a very prestigious woman's college for a while. The name was changed back to National Park Seminary after it was reacquired from the army. The campus is brilliant and beautiful. Large sculptures decorate the beautiful buildings at almost every turn. A mix of styles inside the buildings. Especially the wonderful ballroom. The site is just something to behold. They do tours on Every 4th Saturday at 1PM Here are the rest for 2014 - They start at 1PM and are 5 bucks per person Saturday, June 28 Saturday, July 26 Sunday, August 3 Saturday, August 23 Saturday, September 27 Saturday, October 25 Saturday, November 22