It's a lovely spot to spend 1-2 hours. The walking path around the island is really nice and kid friendly. There are nice views of Georgetown. Parking is easy depending on what time you go. On weekends, the parking lot can fill up quickly. If that happens, I'm not sure what the backup would be... There are no bathrooms that were open when we went. We walked by a bathroom building but it was closed/locked. They do have 2 porter potties in the parking lot. I highly recommend it! I have been living in the area for 8 years before I finally went, and I wish we would have gone sooner! read more

Theodore Roosevelt Island is a wonderful spot to visit. Me and my girl enjoyed walking and jogging through the paths of the park. It kind of has that green swampy look to it. Lots of room and space to observe everything. Parking is not so bad. I mean, we didn't have a hard time getting here by car, but it is a wonderful experience. read more

A very nice walking trail that is very close to DC/Rosslyn. A bit of a walk to get there from the Rosslyn Metro station, but definitely worth it. Wish that there were more walking routes with a better view of the water, but it was pleasant and easy to walk--not at all strenuous. read more

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Thedore Roosevelt Island is filled with trails and it's a little dilapidated now. The fountains aren't running and it's not in such good shape, which is a real shame. The trails are overgrown & there wasn't much to see or do here. The view of DC from the island was disappointing. read more

Theodore Roosevelt Island - Parks Near Me

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A beautiful park. There's a loop that goes around the island with a boardwalk that goes through some marshy areas. It's impressive that such a small island can have a diverse ecosystem like this. The boardwalk could be better maintained, as some panels can feel loose and weak. The parking lot can also risk filling up on good days since it shares the lot with a starting point for the very popular Mt. Vernon trail read more

Theodore Roosevelt Island - this is my favorite place and the best kept secret in DC. You would never know this secret island was there. It's a 88-acre island is a fitting tribute to the conservationist legacy of President Theodore Roosevelt. Accessible only by a footbridge from Arlington, it's easy to overlook Theodore Roosevelt Island, but that's what makes it so special. It's rarely crowded, maybe a few runners. Another walking opportunity in DC. read more

Theodore Roosevelt Island - Parks Near Me

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Family in the area recommended we come to the island for some nice activity outdoors and it was awesome! Solid trails the whole way. I couldn't get over how green everything is! So pretty and lush. I loved admiring the different plants growing around. For a Friday morning, there were a fair amount of people doing the exact same as us. I noticed a few people running. Such a cool surprise to see the Theodore statue and monument right in the center of the island. Parking is super easy with spaces available right out front of the bridge to enter. We saw a lot of dogs, which was so fun. The park is really well maintained. This would be a regular spot for me if I lived in the area! So many great photo opportunities. read more

Theodore Roosevelt Island - Graffiti art - Parks Near Me

It's a great place for a walk. You can see a statue of Theodore Roosevelt inside. If you live in the area, this place is definitely worth checking out. read more

Theodore Roosevelt Island - Parks Near Me

I finally visited Roosevelt Island. It's a beautiful walk. The views are immaculate as well. I'm definitely coming back and bringing my pup with me! read more

Theodore Roosevelt Island - Parks Near Me

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Maybe this isn't such an onerous trek if I had gone without a beagle or two. Even with free parking and other beagles to mingle with, I can't say I'd love to return again. If I had a say, I'd just do a pack walk elsewhere. Why? For one, there's just so many darn runners and bikers to dodge and some of the trails or walking paths are narrow. I'd have to step right into the bushes with the dogs to give the right of way for certain spots and it's hard when you have 4 other hounds in the group with 3 extra humans. After awhile, it just gets plain old annoying. Although there are some spots you can find doggie bags for droppings and trash receptacle for that specific purposes, there wasn't enough of them. So I constantly had to be on the lookout to not step on dog poop or my dogs tampering with them. And ya know what? After seeing so many nice parks out in New Jersey, it's just disappointing and gross seeing so many dog sh1t everywhere. read more

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I rode my bike from Washington DC to Roosevelt island and it was a very nice bike ride. They have a couple of walking paths that are nice and very visible. There are some bathrooms on the island but they were locked when I was there. I recommend going to the middle of the island they have a statue of Theodore Roosevelt. I recommend getting there early because the parking lot does fill up. A great place to spend time outside and enjoy nature. read more

Theodore Roosevelt Island - Parks Near Me

There is no water on the island and no bathrooms. Only some pretty gross ports-potties in the parking lot before you walk across the bridge. It's also a lot of walking and some uneven surfaces so might be an issue for those with mobility issues. read more

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Beautiful wood walk on paved bike trails. Lovely monument with thought provoking quotes. read more

Theodore Roosevelt Island - Parks Near Me

Roosevelt Island is one of my favorite spots for morning walks. If you go early enough, you can have the place practically to yourself, especially in the cooler months. You walk the trails and feel like it is just you and nature, even though you can see the city. The parking can fill up fast, but on a Sunday, it's easy to park in Rosslyn or Georgetown and walk over, or walk to from public transit. I do appreciate how close of a walk it is to Georgetown, so that I can pop over for coffee or food after. The island has info posts about Teddy Roosevelt, the wildlife, etc., which is really nice. There is also a big statue of him in the middle. I don't know much about birds but there are always a ton and it seems like it would be great place to birdwatch. Though it's next to D.C., you'll feel miles away at this little nature oasis. read more

Theodore Roosevelt Island - Parks Near Me

This spot is one that I can't imagine many tourists getting to, as we visited solely because my friend lived in DC and had a car to take us all the way out here. This little island is the site of the Roosevelt memorial and while there isn't a ton over here, it's incredibly peaceful and majestic. Compared to the hustle and bustle of the city, this place is quiet, introspective, spacious and interesting. We only stayed for about 15 minutes, but it was a fun "off the beaten path" place to stop and discover. Roosevelt was big on conservation and national parks, so it's only fitting that his monument be in the woods on a big plot of land. Go check it out if you have time! read more

Although there may not be much to see in terms of sightseeing (essentially just the Memorial Plaza in the center), it's a very nice nature walk that is pet and kid friendly. Pretty accessible via car, bike, or walking. I personally got here by taking the Metro to the Rosslyn stop and walking to the island. Recommend taking the Swamp Trail at least once, which is their longest trail. There are some rocky area, but overall it's flat and you're walking on a walkway built over marshlands. It takes about an hour to navigate, but time will fly by. read more

It's ok. Just be sure to be on the correct side of the GW Parkway. Have been here several times, but it's nothing extraordinary. If you have a hour to be free, it's not a bad spot to walk a bit around. There's of course the large statue of Teddy, and marble columns with quotes of his. Walking across the Potomac on the bridge is picturesque. There are a surprising variety of bird species to observe. Parking can be a challenge. Also getting in and out of here, I wish you both safety and success. There are better monuments close by. It's an alright destination, but won't be in my favorites list. read more

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I go to this island every now and then. I like that it's peaceful. And I like that it's quiet. 5 stars! read more

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If you can get over the fact that you may find a body or two at Theodore Roosevelt Island (check the news cycle as of this week!), this little slice of nature in Arlington is pretty idyllic. I love the way the sun hits the leaves, leaving a filtered light that is absolutely dreamy. Even the Potomac sparkles a little bit more when you're breathing in all that fresh air. You'll see tadpoles, fish, deer, badgers, and dragonflies! And if you step on the outer ends of the island, you'll get a great unfiltered view of Georgetown and the Kennedy Center as well. To quote the great Donny and Marie Osmond: "I'm a little bit country. I'm a little bit rock n' roll!" Parking is fairly easy if you go during the week and it's a fabulous picnic spot as well. I have hiked this area in flip flops, while pregnant, and with multiple toddlers in tow. Whether you're super fit or ... just struggling to get some Vitamin D, Teddy Roosevelt has got your back! read more

Only the best and greenest for our beloved president known for his conservation work, Theodore Roosevelt. This is an awesome memorial, which celebrates Teddy, as its name indicates, on an island. No, it's not near the main National Mall and you'll likely have to drive to get here. But do not leave D.C. without seeing this memorial. There's a a parking lot right off of the highway and over the bridge is where you can see the memorial with a huge Teddy statue and stone walls with his quotes. Afterwards, you can stroll through the easy, flat trail and go as far as 18 miles. In one part of the trail was a nice boardwalk area where you could look out to the marsh. We came here right in time for when the fall colors began. This memorial really honors a president who loved the outdoors and made it his mission to preserve our lands. This is what makes this island so special. read more

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This is a nice bit of nature near the city. It has a parking lot and it is accessible from the nearby biking trail. It's nice to cross the bridge to the island and enjoy the views of the river. The woods share their space with the Theodore Roosevelt memorial, which is a quite impressive set up of stone tablets and a towering statue of President Roosevelt. There are benches nearby, making it a nice space to relax too. It is pretty peaceful, with wildlife to be seen. There's a Junior Ranger program available for the island, which can be mailed in to submit. read more

Great spot for a short hike near Teddy Roosevelt Bridge and along Potomac River accessible on GWU Hwy, and which path by parking lot is part of the Mt. Vernon Trail near Arlington VA. It's great for dog walking and bird watching! Ample parking but lot gets full though if you are patient, spaces become available all day long as visitors come and go any given time. read more

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Little hidden gem in Nova! Usually crowded on the weekend mornings but mostly for the actual monument and less on the trails. Great 1.5/2 mile loop safe for kids and dogs! read more

Theodore Roosevelt Island - Parks Near Me

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Theodore Roosevelt Island is a hidden gem in Washington, D.C. It's an island in the Potomac River in between Rosslyn and Georgetown. It used to be privately owned, used by the Union troops during the Civil War, and now the site of the Theodore Roosevelt Memorial. The only access point by land is in Virginia in Rosslyn. There's a parking lot off the highway with a footbridge going to the island. Once on the island, a map will guide visitors toward different hikes on the island. The swamp trail is the longest being over 1.2 miles long and takes you along the edge of the island, near overpasses, and a nature preserve. Along the way, there are benches to enjoy the nature (don't mind the loud airplanes taking off from DCA over your head). There's a great path on the north end of the island with a log to sit and watch the hustle and bustle of Georgetown across the water. At the end of the trail and toward the footbridge to Rosslyn is the actual Theodore Roosevelt Memorial. After being out in the nature, you feel like you just stumbled upon the arena from Hunger Games. It's a simple arena with a moat around it and pillars. On one edge is the actual memorial to Teddy with benches to sit and reflect. Two fountains are in the arena/plaza. If you haven't been to Roosevelt Island, you must go. It's free and the perfect way to spend a good summer day. read more

The island itself is somewhat underwhelming but the concept is definitely a good idea. Until, transversing to this isle I had never really thought about DC bring a swamp (despite the politics). But after hitting up this island, I can definitely see it. Basically the island is of pretty good size so you can spend at least an hour or so here. I would recommend maybe coming in mid October because I imagine after the leaves change it would be significantly prettier. Wildlife wise, you can see herons & ducks. The isle is somewhat near Georgetown so you can see the campus peeking over the tree border and people kayaking on the Potomac. The island contains both board walks and dirt trails. It's easy terrain and basically anyone could do the "hike." Overall, the scenery isn't epic, but it's worth a trip out here one time. Also, it's free to access. read more

Theodore Roosevelt Island - The monument - Parks Near Me

Not to be confused with The-Adore Roosevelt Island, which is a very adorable island if you know what I mean. Of course Roosevelt Island is famously a New York thing. But what you might not know is that Roosevelt Island is also a DC thing. It's completely secluded from DC and Virginia, which it's sandwiched between. You can see right across to the Kennedy Center and you can see Georgetown and you can see the Key Bridge and you can see the Watergate. It's just amazing in every regard. It's next to the George Washington Parkway so it's easy to get to, especially if you're already on the Virginia side. I love it here and it's easily a five-star place for me. read more

Oasis from DC - one of the best kept local secrets with stunning views and beautiful memorial. The former deserted Mason's island was transformed into a magnificent memorial to pay tribute to the conservationist Theodore Roosevelt. It perfectly encapsulates his achievements of protecting 230 million acres of national parks, monuments, and forests. Hidden in the thickets, you'll see a large bronze statue of Roosevelt and 4 monolithic walls inscribed with his quotes. The small island has many intertwined trails and is roughly a 3 mile loop around the outer trail. It can be a bit muddy after its rains, so bring boots or be prepared to trek in some mud! The inner trails tend to be more dry. Keep your eyes and hear open and you might spot deer and beautiful wild flowers. Almost missed these - until my hubby pointed out a family of deer! You can always find interesting wildlife here. Great spot for a picnic or to watch the sunset! On the other side of the island, you can usually find a log to sit on and listen to the tranquil water flowing in the Potomac while enjoying the stunning views of Georgetown. Very romantic and memorable. There are some nice views of the Rosslyn skyline as well from the bridge. The restrooms are tucked on the side, it's a bit of hike from the bridge on the right. As you can imagine - the Portapotty is quite dirty. Keep walking - the restrooms are open and clean (most people get fooled into thinking Portapotty is the only option). One of my favorite low-key spots in DC. My husband fell in love with me on our 3rd date here and every year we come back and enjoy a wonderful stroll and sunset. read more

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Located in the middle of the Potomac between Virginia and the District, is Theodore Roosevelt Island. Free Parking is off the GW Parkway and you have to cross a pedestrian bridge to get to the island. There is not much on the island other than the Theodore Roosevelt memorial, the only memorial in the District for our 26 president. The memorial has a statute of the president and is surrounded by four monoliths with quotes from Teddy. The island was returned to its natural state to honor Roosevelt's life long mission of conservation. The memorial was authorized in the 30s but funds were not allocated until 1960 and the Memorial was not completed until 1967. Views of the Kennedy center, Rosslyn, and Georgetown are spectacular. There are two main trails upland and woodlands. Both are paved with gravel. The woodlands trail is short 1/3 of a mile and passes through the memorial. The upland is 3/4 of a mile and loops on the southern end around the former Mason mansion grounds of the island. There is a third trail, running through the swamp portion. I took the upland and woodlands. Going to the island was on the local bucket list since I lived in the District in the 90s. Glad to have crossed it off. read more

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Situated off of the GW Parkway, this grandiose island dedicated to our 26th President is a fitting tribute. It is pretty and feels like something he would thoroughly enjoy if he were alive today. Plenty of options to walk around and it almost feels as if you are away from the major city. Almost adjacent to the island is the bridge that also bears his name. The only noise you will hear other than the sounds of birds and other wildlife is the overhead planes as they make their way to or from Ronald Reagan airport. Definitely stop by here if you are on the Mount Vernon trail. Especially if you are fond of history. It really "speaks softly, but carries a big stick." read more

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I love Teddy Roosevelt Island, it's just a really cool little nature spot hidden in the middle of the DC area that's not too crowded and different from a lot of what's around it. There's the memorial, which is different from most memorials. It has more of the feel of the FDR memorial than others. It's a bit odd in the current moment because of how it reveres somebody who was, frankly, a racist, but still pretty and interesting architecture. That's really just the tip of the iceberg though. There's a few great trails around the island and a huge boardwalk that goes through the swampier parts of the island giving you lots of amazing opportunities to experience nature and see wildlife. You can also see the juxtaposition of the Kennedy Center across the water and the fact that a freeway bridge crosses the island in one place, which reminds you that you're just enjoying a cool space in the middle of a big city. It's very New York City in that way, which appeals to my soul on a deep level. read more

A great place to enjoy nature and scenic views. It has several walk/hiking trails. The paths are clear and can't get lost. Parking can get crowded but with patience you'll find one. We had a picnic in our suv back seat looking at the scenic view. They had trash bins by the parking lot. The area is kept clean, so please don't leave you trash behind. read more

This is one of my favorite locations in the DMV. The island has the feel of a wilderness escape in the middle of the urban landscape. I was there on one of the last really nice weekends of the year and sadly for me, many other people had the same idea of making it to the Island on the sunny and nearly-warm morning. Already at 10am the parking lot was nearly full and many cyclists and families were on the Mt Vernon Trail passing through the lot or headed across the bridge to the island. I would expect more congestion when there isn't a pandemic. On this particular occasion, I met up with a friend to run a few laps around the island. Because we were going to the farther reaches, we had quite a few meters without any tourist congestion, though it wasn't sparse enough to hear birds. There are a few connecting trails that loop around the island, so it is a good place for some gentle trail running (watch for roots and rocks). When I was training for the MCM in 2016, I would loop the island in the morning and often crossed paths with military trainees running in their branded sweatshirts and tired faces. Because of the bathrooms and water fountains, the island is also a strategic stop for those on longer runs. Note to drivers: There is one way in and one way out, which means you should take the first open parking spot you find. Drivers have to Y-turn to go back the way they came if they can't find a parking spot. Watch for pedestrians and cyclists everywhere. read more

When I first moved to DC, I struggled to find a place where I could be one with nature, to find a place where I could escape the hustle of DC life. Low and behold, I stumbled onto Theodore Roosevelt Island. Five words to describe Theodore Roosevelt Island: 1) mysterious 2) quiet 3) secluded 4) active 5) relaxing I would highly recommend here and trying the trails. read more

My wife and I visited Theodore Roosevelt Island last weekend for our normal Saturday morning walk. We normally walk the National Mall, but decided to give TR Island a try this time. We're glad we did! We got there at about 7am, so there was still plenty of parking and there weren't too many people at the park. After crossing the bridge, there are several trail options to choose from. We essentially walked the perimeter of the island first. It's just over a mile all the way around. After that, we explored the Theodore Roosevelt monument and took a few pictures...Amazing!! This is a great monument! We walked around some more. The trails seem to be well-marked, and fairly well maintained. There are some spots where there has been some significant erosion on the North side of the island, but nothing too crazy. The island is a great escape from the city and I definitely recommend it! read more

Theodore Roosevelt Island - Parks Near Me

A Really pretty area. A nice little conserved part of nature right outside of DC. Good for biking, running or if you just want to take a nature walk. read more

Theodore Roosevelt Island - Parks Near Me

Underrated spot to "get away" from the hustle and bustle of the busy city and escape to what feels like a secluded woodsy oasis. It takes me just 20 minutes to run from my NW DC apartment to Roosevelt Island, and it is always a refreshing experience. I would recommend this to tourists and locals alike! Pros: Super convenient: As mentioned, the convenience factor cannot be stressed enough! This Island is so close to Arlington and DC, you simply must visit if you are in the area. There is parking, but it seems like most people tend to bike or walk on over. Though this is in a great location, I feel that many folks miss it-- do be on the lookout for it!(Signs to guide you to the Island are found right around the Virginia side of the Key Bridge, which connects Virginia to Georgetown, DC) Dog friendly: I love how dog-friendly this Island is, and love to bring my pups over. Just be sure to bring a doggy poop bag along to pick up after them! Interesting Monuments: The Monument to Teddy Roosevelt is pretty majestic, and is underrated. It is found in the center of the Island, making the whole Island kind of seem to be an extension of the tribute to him and to his mission. The central statue of Roosevelt is surrounded by quotes which reflect his values and dedication to nature and youth-work. Not super crowded: Compared to other monuments and memorials, I do not feel that this Island gets super crowded, even on weekends or sunny spring days (when other parts of DC are mobbed). You can easily walk along the trails of this surprisingly large island and not see anyone for a good 5-10 minutes, which is really a breath of fresh air for locals or for crowd-avoiding introverts like me (haha)! Cool Views of DC: Roosevelt Island provides a unique perspective of DC from the Virginia side, as well as some beautiful views of the Rosslyn/Arlington skyline, as well! I saw lots of families, millennial, and tourists snapping pictures along their journey here-- if you are into photography or blogging (or Yelping!), be sure to bring along a camera to get some cool shots. Cons: No huge cons really-- not necessarily a wow-ing experience, however very peaceful, easy to navigate, and a relaxing spot for sure. I would say that I think that the trails can perhaps be a little bit better marked, and I think that some of the shrubbery by the water can perhaps be maintained just a little for better views facing towards the River, however I also think that the lack of intense maintenance does provide a certain level of charm here. Getting really picky here, but I also would perhaps like a few more trash cans, to dispose of doggy poop- filled-bags :) read more

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This was probably the most interesting experience I got to do while in Washington DC. My best friend simply heard of it since she's lived there for how many years and we looked it up since we had time before I had to go to the airport. It is really a hidden gem! It literally is an island that is in the middle of the city. It is a very beautiful little hike that many different levels of hikers can do. The scenery is beautiful and there are signs everywhere that will tell you the history of the island. I really enjoyed the hike and learning about the history of it. If you are in the area, you should definitely check it out. read more

Theodore Roosevelt Island - Parks Near Me

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The ideal spot for a little picnic, a little hike, a little sightseeing, especially during COVID-times. You see, the reason I give TRI four stars is also the reason it's perfect for a socially-distanced walkabout: there's limited parking, which means limited people, which means limited COVID stress. The place is lovely. You feel very far away from any sort of city, even though you're most definitely in one. It's a teensy, out-of-the-way island in the Potomac, tucked behind the Kennedy Center and not at all far from the Mall. But it feels worlds away. It's quiet, wooded, has beautiful waterfront spots, and a lovely area with the Roosevelt Memorial itself which is perfect for a picnic. Because it's so close to the city, it's a great spot to pop on over to for a few hours, especially with kids. My daughter loves to run around on the trails, pose like Teddy in front of his statue, and then toss pebbles into the water to see how far she can throw. It really makes for a perfect midday getaway, and it's totally free. As I mentioned, the parking can be a mess because there's a small lot and no real organization. However, if you go during the week or are willing to wait for a spot, it's well worth it. read more

Nice little island hike full of marshlands and forest with a nice little statue tribute of Teddy in the center. It's right off of GW parkway (you have to be going North for the exit) with a parking lot and bridge over to the island. There are some good views of the Potomac and Georgetown, especially on the DC side of the island. There is a nice boardwalk that goes through the marshlands/wetlands area on one side of the island and you may see some wildlife here. The trail around the whole island is probably just a mile plus and nice for a short hike/walk. It is also dog friendly so expect to see some fur balls. It is usually not that crowded whenever I go either, which is sort of surprising since it is so close to DC/Arlington. read more

Theodore Roosevelt Island - Boardwalk before the wetlands start - Parks Near Me

Love it! We have been trying to visit here for about a year, and every time the parking lot has been too full. We got the family moving earlier today so that we could try to snag a spot and were met with success! We loved the island and all of its nature, and also loved that bicycles are not allowed, so we didn't have to worry about our little kids who don't fully understand "walk on the right" getting mowed down from behind by a cyclist. We did the full Swamp Trail around the island, purposefully going left once we got across the foot bridge so that we would end the walk with a trip to the restroom if needed. The trail is about 1.8 miles and I was impressed that both kids made it on foot without whining or complaining. The trail was easy and mostly flat and graveled. The views of Georgetown are great on the side trails, and we spotted some large turtles and schools of hundreds of little minnows in the tidal area. Lots of little skinks or salamanders running around too--always too quick to identify. And also two deer! We are adding this to the top of our park rotation list! read more

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