Welcome to the Great Urban Outdoors
If it’s an active outdoor lifestyle you’re after, then you’ve come to the right place. National Landing offers the best of the urban outdoors in greater Washington, DC. Vibrant parks, peaceful greens, and a vast network of trails link to the scenic banks of the Potomac River and center of the District. National Landing parks are neighborhood favorites for relaxing, picnicking, strolling, biking, and enjoying community and cultural events. The creation of an even greener future is well underway, offering residents, workers and visitors more trees, improved parks, and expanded recreational spaces.
Long Bridge Park
Long Bridge Park offers more than 30 acres of open space and recreational options. Stroll along the popular esplanade overlooking the Potomac River, a waterfowl sanctuary, and playing fields. The north end of the park features views of the capital monuments, and you’ll find walkways, multi-sport playing fields, and playgrounds throughout. A state-of-the-art aquatic center is coming soon.
Mount Vernon Trail
Historic Mount Vernon Trail is an 18-mile paved multi-use trail stretching from George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate to Theodore Roosevelt Island. Winding alongside the Potomac River, it offers uninterrupted views of the DC skyline and gorgeous nature preserves.
Four Mile Run
Don’t let the name fool you; Four Mile Run is actually a 9.4-mile-long stream surrounded by two acres of greenery and parallel paths.
Gravelly Point Park
Airplane enthusiasts, this one’s for you. Located a few hundred feet from the north end of the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport runway, Gravelly Point Park is one of the best spots in the nation for plane-watching. Weekend boaters and cyclists converge here as well.
Crystal City Courtyard Green
Secret’s out: this relaxing urban oasis nestled between office buildings features a shaded pergola, tree canopies, conversational Adirondack chairs, and sculptures.
National Landing Water Park
Peaceful sounds of rushing water and beautiful sculptures make National Landing Water Park a perfect place to bring your lunch and laptop or find a moment of zen. After dark, mood lighting sets the scene for an evening outing. Each Friday throughout the spring and summer, the National Landing BID presents Fridays at the Fountain, with music, beverages and fun.
Virginia Highlands Park, Eads Park, and Fort Scott Park
Just outside of National Landing are several family friendly parks, including Virginia Highlands Park, with its nearly 20 acres of fields, courts, and a sprayground; child-friendly Eads Park; and Fort Scott Park, lined with nature trails and paths.
Center Park
Center Park lies, well, at the center of Potomac Yard, with its arresting sculpture of eyes, shaded benches, and water components.
Metropolitan Park
Metropolitan Park includes a 2.5-acre series of public spaces developed in conjunction with Amazon's new headquarters campus that feature a central lawn, gardens and a dog run.
National Landing Open Space Framework
Beginning in June 2020, the National Landing BID in collaboration with JBG SMITH hosted a series of community conversations about programming and activities in future Crystal City open spaces. The resulting Open Spaces Framework provides a comprehensive vision for five of the most important future spaces throughout the downtown district that reflects current community priorities. This vision will provide important contextual and holistic guidance as these spaces are delivered over the course of the next decade.