DC Gentrification

That’s all you have to do to get a feel for the beauty and prestige of this city. Everything in the nation’s capitol emanates a sense of class and splendor from the well-known monuments and theaters to its recreational parks. A cheap and relaxing way to get acquainted with this city’s exquisite landscape can be done by spending a little time in one of its many well-manicured parks.

1. Anacostia Park: Covering over 1200 acres of land, this park also encompasses Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens. Access to the Anacostia River makes this a popular destination for local boat owners. A golf course, skating pavilion and ball fields attract visitors of every interest.
2. The National Arboretum: Maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, this 446 acre park is a center for botanical research. Rare and foreign plants and trees can be observed in this garden, which is one of the city’s most aesthetically pleasing sites.
3. Georgetown Waterfront Park: Curving along the Potomac River, located within the historic Georgetown district, this park has been under construction since its inception in 1968. Having only recently opened, the park has become a Mecca for cyclists and skaters looking for a quiet, car-free area to enjoy the outdoors on two wheels.
4. The National Mall: Located between the Lincoln Memorial and the Capitol building, this is the site for presidential inaugurations, annual Earth Day celebrations, and various festivals throughout the year. However, even on an average day, when there is no pomp and circumstance of a huge ceremony, this park creates a natural feeling of regality and splendor. The monuments, reflecting pool, and millions of diverse visitors make this a truly unique site.
5. Rock Creek Park: Stretching over 2,000 acres, this park is home to Carter Barron Amphitheatre, Thompson Boat Center, Fort Stevens and Fort DeRussy. The many trails of Rock Creek Park invite joggers, cyclists and skaters to spend the day enjoying the fresh air.