George Washington Memorial Parkway

The George Washington Memorial Parkway (GWMP) preserves the natural scenery along the Potomac River. It connects the historic sites from Mount Vernon, where Washington lived, past the nation's capital, which he founded, and to the Great Falls of the Potomac where the President demonstrated his skill as an engineer. Developed as a memorial to George Washington, the Parkway may be used on any day to travel to exciting historical, natural, and recreational areas. These places are all linked by this planned and landscaped road, the first section of which was completed in 1932 to commemorate the bicentennial of George Washington's birth.
Considered a commuter route by many local residents, the GWMP offers the traveler much more than convenience. It is a route to scenic, historic and recreational settings offering respite from the urban pressures of metropolitan Washington. It also protects the Potomac River shoreline and watershed. The parkway provides a pleasant day from Mount Vernon to Great Falls, passing through the same lands George Washington frequently traveled by horse. The Parkway links a group of parks that provide a variety of experiences to millions of people each year.

George Washington Memorial Parkway Headquarters
Turkey Run Park
McLean, VA 22101
703-289-2500 - Headquarters

By Plane
The Reagan National Airport is located directly off of the Parkway. The Parkway is also accessible by Baltimore Washington International Airport to the North and Dulles International Airport to the West.

By Car
The Parkway is adjacent to the Potomac River North and South of Washington, D.C. and is accessible from all major travel routes from the South and West of Washington, including I-495, I-95, and I-66.

By Plane
Washington Metro Area Transit Authority provides local bus and rail (METRO) service to several points on the George Washington Memorial Parkway. Please visit their website www.wmata.com for maps and locations.

Summers are generally hot and humid. Winters are generally cold with variable precipitation. Recommend layers of clothing especially in Spring and Fall, and along the river.

Here are some of the activities that are offered at Mount Rainier National Park.

• Auto Touring
• Biking
• Boating
• Climbing
• Educational Programs
• Fishing
• Hiking
• Wildlife Viewing
• Bird Watching
• Nature Walks
• Kayaking

Recommended Activities
One of the best ways to visit the Parkway is to go for a scenic drive. Stop along the Parkway and visit one or several of the memorials or natural areas. Take stroll along the paved Mount Vernon Trail or take a hike in the woods on Theodore Roosevelt Island. You may even enjoy a talk given by a Park Ranger at Arlington House, Clara Barton National Historic Site or Great Falls Park. There are countless of activities to do while on the Parkway, just remember to have fun and always be safe.