Spring in DC means soaring temps, blooming florals, and plenty of opportunities to get outside and enjoy the season’s light. One of our favorite ways to spend a quintessential spring day? Packing a picnic to enjoy at any of the inviting public parks the city has to offer. From wooded trails to idyllic gardens and beyond, here are the outdoor havens that deserve a trip this May.

Craving more inspiration for things to do this spring? Check out our latest post on the season’s top festivals and events!

#1 Rock Creek Park: Rock Creek Park is truly a gem in our nation’s capital. This 1,754 acre city park was officially authorized in 1890, making it the third national park to be designated by the federal government. It gives visitors the opportunity to escape the bustle of the city and find a peaceful refuge, recreation, fresh air, majestic trees, wild animals, and thousands of years of human history.

#2 Meridian Hill Park: Also known as Malcolm X Park, Meridian is a neoclassical-style, 12-acre, landscaped urban park established in 1912. Designated as a National Historic Landmark, the multi-tiered park has a cascading waterfall in its lower area that makes the perfect setting for a lunch with friends and loved ones. Don’t forget to grab food and drinks from the Columbia Heights neighborhood nearby!

#3 Lincoln Park: Capitol Hill’s Lincoln Park is the largest in the neighborhood and features statues of President Abraham Lincoln and educator and Civil Rights activist Mary McLeod Bethune. The park is popular for dog-walking and contains plenty of room for kids to stretch their legs. Grab a bench in the park to enjoy the sounds of nature and some primetime people-watching.

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Looking for more ways to spend time outdoors this spring? Explore these blog posts for fresh ideas.

• Where To See The Cherry Blossoms In And Around DC
• DC’s Best Rooftop Bars 
• Why Spring Is The Best Time For Runners In DC

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#4 Constitution Gardens: Situated between the Vietnam Memorial and the World War II Memorial on the National Mall, Constitution Gardens and its peaceful pond have been described as a hidden oasis in the middle of the city. This is the perfect spot to rest and re-group after a long day of sightseeing, or when you want to grab a quick view of the monuments while you’re in the neighborhood.

#5 Yards Park: Looking to cool off and splash around? Head down to Yards Park in the Capitol Riverfront neighborhood. Located near Nationals Park and Navy Yard, this park is built around green space and water features set against the backdrop of the Anacostia River. At night, visitors can marvel at the illuminated dancing fountain. If you’re feeling adventurous, take your group through the Canal Basin and Waterwall, where you can wade together while holding hands. And if you bring your furry friend along, don’t forget to check out the dog run area. Meanwhile, for anyone simply hoping to catch up with friends, the Great Lawn is the place to be.

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Searching for inspiration on getting outside this spring and summer? Check out these other great activities around DC.

• Top Public Golf Courses in the DMV
• How to Explore Your Own City Like a Tourist
• Where To Play Pickleball In DC

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#6 Montrose Park: In northwest DC, green space converges with views in Montrose Park, a sixteen-acre oasis located on the heights overlooking Georgetown. You can trot along the Rope Walk among the Osage orange trees, or sit and enjoy the sounds of nature at one of the many picnic tables. Bring the kids for a day at the playground, or perfect your pickleball/tennis swing at the onsite courts.

#7 Georgetown Waterfront Park:  Located along the Potomac River, this 10 acre park is a haven for boating, walking, biking, and more. You can rent a kayak, canoe or paddleboard from Key Bridge Boathouse, enjoy a picturesque picnic, connect to multiple biking trails or enjoy the many waterfront restaurants at the nearby Washington Harbour. 

Thinking about making real estate moves in DC? We’d be happy to help! Give us a call at 202.280.2060 or email us directly at jsmira@jennsmira.com.