Washington, DC Parks and Playgrounds

Use this guide to find parks and playgrounds in Washington, DC where parents and kids can play and spend time outside together. Browse practical details to help you choose a place for your next outing.

Parks and playgrounds

  1. Waterfront paths + fountainGeorgetown Waterfront ParkGeorgetown · Flat waterfront paths + seasonal fountain
  2. Pirate play + picnicAnacostia Park Pirate Ship PlaygroundFairlawn picnic area · Pirate-ship play + first-come picnic
  3. Enclosed play + splashKennedy Recreation Center PlaygroundWard 2 · Two age zones + fully enclosed play
  4. Formal gardens + cascadeMeridian Hill Park16th Street NW · Terraced garden + 13-basin cascade
  5. Downtown play + lawnFranklin ParkDowntown · Children's garden + fountain plaza
  6. Play + spray + picnicTurkey Thicket Recreation Center PlaygroundBrookland · Playground + seasonal spray park
  7. Inclusive play + sprayReservoir Park Recreation Center PlaygroundWard 5 · Three age bands + accessible play equipment
  8. Shaded enclosed playPalisades Community Center PlaygroundPalisades · Enclosed nature play + sensory panels
  9. Wooded trails + picnicFort Dupont ParkSoutheast Washington · Family trail loops + picnic choices
  10. Lotus ponds + boardwalkKenilworth Aquatic GardensKenilworth · Aquatic gardens + marsh boardwalk
  11. Living collections + bonsaiU.S. National ArboretumNortheast Washington · Bonsai + Capitol Columns + gardens
  12. Inclusive landmark playRosedale PlaygroundRosedale · Two-wheelchair ramps + inclusive motion play
  13. Waterfall overlooks + visitor centerGreat Falls ParkMcLean, Virginia · about 15 miles from Washington, DC · Three waterfall overlooks within about a ten-minute walk of the visitor center

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