If you are taking a trip to or around our nation’s Capital, the George Washington Memorial Parkway is the perfect road to take on your journey. Only 25 miles long, this road was designated as an All-American Road for its national significance. Visitors can view the beautiful monuments within Washington, D.C. from across the Potomac River in Virginia on this scenic road.
The north end of this Parkway is located right at the Potomac Gorge and then travels south to see the historic monuments in the Capital. While Washington, D.C. is located across the river, there are also plenty of locations to stop by on the Virginia side as well. The history of the area combined with the area’s natural beauty makes this road a must visit if you are travelling to Washington, D.C.
When it comes to the history that can be found along this Byway, it does not get much more patriotic than this. With monuments visible across the Potomac in the Capital, to memorials and statues on the Virginia side as well, this area is absolutely bursting with American history and pride. Visitors can stop by the US Marine Cops Memorial in Arlington at the start of the Byway and view one of the most iconic images in the entire nation. Seeing that picture of US Marines holding up the flag in Iwo Jima in the form of a statue form is breathtaking and a beautiful sight to see. Since this is the George Washington Memorial Parkway, there is also a lot of history regarding our nation’s first President. Mount Vernon can be found along the Byway, and visitors can experience multiple significant spots to learn about Washington’s former home.
Fort Hunt is a spot that you can stop by and learn about this farmland that was turned into a Fort as tensions were heating up with Spain in 1897. Before that, it was originally a part of Washington’s estate at Mount Vernon and used as farmland.
The natural beauty of this area cannot be overlooked as well. The views of the monuments in Washington, D.C. can only be described as breathtaking and there are multiple parks along the road as well to see the views outside of your car. This includes Lady Bird Johnson Park, which gives visitors an absolutely beautiful view of the nation’s Capital and Memorial Bridge which is the connector to Virginia. There is also an opportunity to view the Great Falls of the Potomac and the end of this Byway, and the views of the flowing water are incredibly relaxing while also breathtaking.
The George Washington Memorial Parkway is a true gem right outside of Washington, D.C. and it should be a part of your trip if you are headed over there. Just outside of the city, this Byway provides visitors with a quick trip with great views of the monuments while also providing some great history along the way. These 25 miles will enhance your trip to the Capital without a doubt and it will be absolutely worth it.