Riverdale Park MarylandBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Riverdale Park, Maryland.
1. Bladensburg Waterfront Park
RIVERSIDE RECREATION AND HISTORY
Bladensburg Waterfront Park offers diverse waterfront activities along the Anacostia River with boat tours, kayaking, and paddle events for all ages. The park features beautiful riverside trails perfect for hiking and biking, providing a natural escape near the city. Visitors can enjoy both recreational activities and historical experiences with special themed boat tours like the Golden Hour Kayak Tour and History Boat Tours.
2. Riversdale House Museum
HISTORIC WATERSIDE ESTATE
Riversdale House Museum is one of the top attractions in Riverdale Park, offering visitors a glimpse into the area's rich history. The historic estate is situated near the water, providing beautiful grounds to explore after touring the preserved mansion. Visitors can experience the cultural heritage of the region while enjoying the picturesque setting.
3. Rock Creek Park
NATURAL URBAN WATERWAY
Rock Creek Park spans 1,754 acres and features a beautiful creek winding through the landscape, offering multiple swimming holes and waterside relaxation spots. This national park provides a natural escape from city life with numerous trails following alongside the creek's path. Visitors can enjoy wildlife viewing, historic landmarks like Peirce Mill built in 1829, and refreshing water features throughout this urban oasis.
4. National Mall Reflecting Pool
ICONIC CAPITAL WATERFRONT
The National Mall Reflecting Pool offers one of the most iconic waterfront experiences in the region with its expansive reflecting surface mirroring the surrounding monuments. Visitors can stroll along the edges of this magnificent water feature while taking in views of the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial. The area provides a peaceful waterside retreat amid the inspiring architecture and magnificent museums of America's famous two-mile strip.
5. Tidal Basin
CHERRY BLOSSOM WATERFRONT PARADISE
The Tidal Basin is a picturesque man-made reservoir that offers stunning waterfront views especially during cherry blossom season when thousands of trees bloom around its perimeter. Visitors can rent paddle boats to explore the water or stroll along the waterside paths that offer spectacular views of the Jefferson Memorial and other monuments. This tranquil body of water provides a refreshing escape within the heart of the capital city.
6. Anacostia River Trail
SCENIC RIVERSIDE PATHWAY
The Anacostia River Trail provides miles of scenic pathways along the waterfront of the Anacostia River, connecting Riverdale Park to multiple waterside destinations. Visitors can bike, jog, or walk along the trail while enjoying views of the river and accessing various parks and recreational areas. The trail serves as an important connector to numerous waterfront escapes in the region, including Bladensburg Waterfront Park.
7. Lake Artemesia
URBAN LAKESIDE HAVEN
Lake Artemesia features a beautiful 38-acre freshwater lake with sandy areas and fishing spots just minutes from Riverdale Park. The park surrounding the lake offers paved trails, picnic areas, and excellent bird watching opportunities along the shoreline. Visitors can enjoy peaceful water views while being conveniently located near the University of Maryland, College Park campus.
8. Greenbelt Lake
PEACEFUL WOODLAND WATERS
Greenbelt Lake offers a serene waterfront experience with a 1.3-mile walking path encircling the picturesque body of water. Visitors can enjoy fishing from designated areas, picnicking along the shore, or simply relaxing by the peaceful waters. The lake is surrounded by mature trees that provide shade during summer months, making it a perfect waterside retreat in the region.
9. Kingman Island
HIDDEN RIVER SANCTUARY
Kingman Island is a hidden gem situated in the Anacostia River, offering a natural riverside escape with hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities. Visitors can explore this man-made island that has become an important ecological restoration site with multiple water access points along its shores. The island hosts regular environmental education programs and events while providing peaceful waterfront views just a short distance from Riverdale Park.
10. Yards Park
MODERN WATERFRONT EXPERIENCE
Yards Park features an award-winning waterfront design along the Anacostia River with a unique canal basin and waterfall feature perfect for cooling off on hot days. Children and adults alike enjoy wading in the shallow water features while the park also offers grassy areas for picnicking with river views. The park hosts numerous waterfront events and concerts throughout the year, making it a vibrant destination in the Navy Yard neighborhood.