This little notched area is cool to bring a date or a family. There is a nice playground for kids and an observation area with benches facing a busy runway/traffic landing lane for airplanes into BWI airport. People love to watch the landings, and there are lots of them to view. It's not an official picnic space, but on a sunny day you'll see couples or families sitting on blankets eating their packed lunches. We came to park and get our bikes onto the BWI Bike Trail. The trail passes right by here, so it's a good starting point. We did see a Snowball and Ice Cream truck parked there on a Saturday afternoon, but there is no snack bar or rest room (at least I didn't see it). What can be frustrating is the parking. It is a small lot and gets packed in the afternoon, so you might have to circle around awhile waiting for a car to back out of a space. Other than that, it's worth a visit! read more

See all

This is a great place to watch planes arrive and depart from Baltimore-Washington International Airport. This is also a great place to park to run, walk, or ride the BWI Airport Loop Trail or the B&A trail. Which is my reason for coming here. If you're a family with kids, you can bring them here to watch the planes, set up a picnic on the grass, and take them to the playground. Sometimes, when I'm here on the weekend, there will be a man selling snow cones. I've never had a problem finding someplace to park. On the weekends it does get pretty packed, though, and I assume at some point the parking lot may be full. I've also noticed there are 2 port a potties, but I've never had to use them. I usually use the bathroom on the B&A trail closer to Severna Park. It's nice out here. Check it out! read more

See all

This is a really cool "no-cost plane-spotting" location to bring your toddlers. The Maryland Aviation Administration needs to expand the available parking, and maybe even have the bike and running paths that surround the airport routed through it. "Plane spotting" isn't like grandma and grandpa used to do. The internet tells you everything coming your way. read more

This is a must-see for families--it's absolutely free! Watching planes land is amazing. The area also features a trail, a small playground for kids, and a snow cone stand offering frozen treats and water, along with two portable bathrooms. It's a great day out for everyone! The parking lot gets full quickly, so plan to come early or late. read more

See all

This place is always a cool spot. You have Free Parking, play ground, seating area to watch airplanes flying in. The bike trail goes thru. Lots of trash cans. Beautiful plants. Says it has Punic tables but it does not... They should put some picnic tables around lots of people stopped my with lunch today including us. No tables just some benches. Bring a picnic blanket to sit and enjoy. Be really cool if they built an in closed box with a fit screen of the flights coming in /going out really bring the Aviation area to life. It was a beautiful day out today. Been coming here for a few years. We are In Florida now and I still come back to visit this spot. Love it. Please get some up dates for the park. Enjoy it when you go. read more

See all

Always nice and relaxing here. Nice to unwind or eat lunch and watch the planes come in and take off. read more

See all

I really enjoyed this place it is well maintained and is a nice easy walk however it is heavily traveled by bikes and scooters so its best not to leave headphones in walking around and not paying attention. Decent walk before you hit street and need to turn around. There are portapottys if needed but we didnt check. This is a path only and not great for picnics as every so many feet there is a no trespassing sign. Still it's nice and was a good trip. NOTE: parking is very limited so carpool and expect to wait for a spot if it's a weekend or busy time. Planes were not too loud and though we didn't see many due to the virus our family still enjoyed 3 or so. read more

See all

Awesome trail!! So happy we came out here!! Regardless of seeing a snake crossing the trail I still think this place is an awesome place to go to either bike ride run or walk with your family. The trail goes for miles and it's mostly shaded. My daughter and my stepson thought the playground was pretty cool too! They decided to play on that for a while before joining us on our walk. Having a snowcone truck at the end of the trail is very smart! My family definitely had some of the snowcones. There were a lot of people out here however everyone was very courteous of one another on and off the trail. I will definitely be back. Not to mention it was pretty cool seeing planes so close, and watching them land. read more

No matter what season you go, the Thomas A Dixon Jr Observation Park is a win. I go in every season and see something different each time. Nature always changes and so does the park. This park is a must see if you live in or visit Anne Arundel County or any of the surrounding areas. If you have kids, they can play on the playground, run around in open space, or be fascinated with the landing and take-off of planes from BWI Airport (across the street). Bring a lunch, a good book (there is seating under the open pavilion) or lounge on a blanket in the open spaces. For those who want to be indulged in nature, this park is a segment of the BWI Trail. This is a mycologist dream in the spring and summer. Bring a pair of comfortable shoes and enjoy the paved trail. If you feel very adventurous, follow the trail which connects to the neighboring Sawmill Creek Park. The trail is handicapped friendly. Enjoy! read more

See all

The playground is pretty basic, there are no swings and just a few slides but it is pretty neat that you are able to see the planes take off and come in which the kids enjoy watching. There are shaded benches where you can sit and observe the planes. There is a trail that starts at the playground. We have road our bikes to the end of the trail where you hit the street. The bike trail isn't difficult at all, My 6 year old who is still a beginner bike rider did not have any issues. Parking gets packed on the weekends. There are port a potties. Check out my Instagram page to see a one minute video and other local spots. @_austinfamilyadventures read more

Thomas A Dixon Jr Aircraft Observation Park - Plane taking off over playground. - Parks Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

Awesome park....lots of people here all the time. It's not just a park, it's a kids playground, a walking path and an observation deck for planes landing and taking off from BWI. The only problem I have is the planes at BWI are usually only 737s and A320s...not too big! But if you happen to be here when the new 787 or a 747 lands, you're going to see a beautiful site! I went on a chilly Saturday afternoon on my way back from errands - the place was packed! read more

See all

This park and I go back 20 years so its nostalgic to me. When I started coming here in the 90s it was to watch the planes and let my now grown adults play as children. Now I come as a starting point for my cycle rides. Pros -The park is clean and well maintained with plenty to do for little children. -Nice views of planes taking off and landing -Great trails to walk or bike -Picnic area and shaded pavilion CONS NO RESTROOMS LIMITED PARKING read more

I couldn't love a park any more than I love this place. Not only is this an observation area for incoming flights to BWI, but there is a playground, an extensive trail system, including a 10+ mile paved trail for biking, running, walking. I biked the BWI trail several years ago and it was challenging with unexpected sights along the way (horses, emu sighting, lots of nature). I have , though, always been fascinated by watching airplanes take off and land, so for anyone like me, you will really enjoy seeing planes from a pretty close distance. You see a lot of Southwest planes here, BWI is a major hub for them, but if you spend a little time here, you will see a variety of other airliners. As far as amenities are concerned, there is a nice sized parking lot, but it can get tight on weekends. There is a seating area covered by a pergola, trash cans, but no "facilities " that I am aware of. It is dog friendly and very clean and nicely maintained. You may find a food truck or ice cream truck parked there on weekends. There are many other attractions fairly close, so you can easily make this part of a day trip to Baltimore, or to Arundel Mills and or Live Casino, in Hanover. read more

Neat parking area under one of the BWI runways. It's likely best when the planes are landing over the park, as they start the take off over a small bunker and you can't see the plane coming until it's already in the air. Still, it's a place to take the kids or really, anyone who's in to planes. In addition to the aircraft passing overhead every couple of minutes, there are some benches and a place to sit that's out of direct sunlight. A parking lot capable of holding maybe 30 cars. And there's a playground. Plus it's a spot to park your car to access the BWI Trail. read more

See all

Nice little playground. I only gave four stars because the playground's a little on the small side and it can get pretty crowded. It's a fun spot for the little ones. They can play and rest on the benches while eating a snow ball and watch the airplanes come in to BWI for a landing! Nice read more

Being that I love watching airplanes, I knew I had to come check out this park. There is a small playground, a small observation area, and a biking/walking trail. I usually come here for the trail. I'll begin my visit by standing near the fence to watch a few planes make a landing and then hit the trail for some exercise. Unfortunately, there were no planes landing in this direction during my visit today but I did get a nice walk in. The trail is paved but surrounded by woods so most of it is pretty shaded which is good on hot weather days. I don't have any children so I don't have any interest in the playground aspect of the park. However, if I did have children, this isn't a park I'd bring my kids to often because the playground is so small. When the weather is nice, EVERYONE is at this park and depending on the time of day, parking can be a hassle. read more

Thomas A Dixon Jr Aircraft Observation Park - Parks Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

Other reviews complaining about the playground not being big enough (or at one point, unavailable) baffles me. This is not a playground. The playground just happens to be a nice little bonus. As the name of the location states, this is an AIRCRAFT OBSERVATION park. In other words, the entire point of this location is to go and admire aircraft coming in for a landing. Having got that annoyance ranted out of my system, I give this place a proper 5-star rating. It's peaceful. It provides a fantastic view of planes coming in and you can even start to notice their approach path and see them "lining up" off in the distance. If you love planes or are at least fascinated by them, this is a wonderful place to stop in for a visit. Simply sit, relax, and watch. Or perhaps bring a little picnic basket and snack while enjoying the "show"! Don't forget though, you're not supposed to be there during non-daylight hours. read more

Nice and quite area. Nice walking path, shady and cool in the summer time. I went with my boyfriend and dog. There is a ice truck there you can buy flavored ice, I didn't but thought about it. Watching the airplanes fly so close when taking off is cool. Good to chill at for about an 1 hour. read more

I have been meaning to make it to this park since I moved to the area but I've always been told it's a great place for kids. The day I went I was looking for a place that had nice scenery but would allow me to get lost in my thoughts. Parking is a pain but after circling a few times I found a good spot facing the landing field so I didn't even have to get out of my car to watch the planes come in.. I can't speak much for the actual park but this was the perfect spot to do some self reflection and not have to deal with people.. read more

Thomas A Dixon Jr Aircraft Observation Park - Parks Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

See all

Been to this park a few times with my family. and after the novelty of watching planes land dies off, you realize that if you aren't walking/biking the trails there is not much else to do here. The playground is small and crowded, and full of snotty over protective stay at home moms. Who probably shouldn't bring their precious bundles of joy to such crowded playgrounds if they are worried about their little ones getting hurt. There are a lot of other pars in the area that are bigger and less crowded, but this one has the best view of the planes. A one time trip isn't a bad thing, but I wouldn't recommend it as a place to go on the regular. Try Kinder Farm, Elvaton, or Quiet waters. read more

See all

Went here for the first time yesterday; with my two year old. He loves planes so I knew he would enjoy being able to observe them. Nice little spot with decent parking. Nice size playground for the area, can definitely see it getting crowded depending on the time of day. Saw families having picnics in the grassy area. Kids brought their bikes and scooters to ride in the walking paths. I did like the little snowball truck, that was a nice surprise a d we shared an egg custard snowball. The only downfall I can think of was there was no restroom/porta potty. I feel like any where there's a playground their should be something. read more

See all

This is a great little park where you can literally stand under the planes as they land! It is on the BWI bike trail so easy to walk or bike from here. My dog loves it. My only complaint is that the parking lot is small, so it can be really challenging to find parking if the weather is nice. read more

Small playground with great view to watch planes fly in. Had two port a potty's to use. Also next to bike path so we'll make sure to bring the kids bikes next time! read more

An absolutely great bike trail. This was our first time going and it was quite the adventure. The only reason it got 4 stars is because parking sucks! Other than that they had nice little playground for the kids and we had a nice ride on a beautiful day! read more

Great playground and viewing area to watch planes land at BWI! My kids love going to this park! There is a parking lot and there is access to the B & A trail. read more

See all

My in laws took me and the kids out today for a surprise trip to see the Airplanes! You have to understand my son loves airplanes, and it is an absolute joy to see his face light up at the sight of a massive vehicle gracing the sky. It was quite a nice surprise to even see this place. Families were having picnics on the 'lawn'. There's a park, that actually needs a bit of an update....or maybe just a good scrub down. Even the kids decided to simply sit on a 'bench' outside the park and take in the airplanes (instead of running to play with the other kids on the jungle gym). Hmmm. It was cool to see the planes take off. I must be honest in saying that I think I prefer watching them come in. ;) Reagan International Airport spoiled me. BUT BWI was really fun! There's a long bike trail that a lot of people were on. My God-sister in law (rolling my eyes at all these titles) told me her husband took her there once in their dating days for wine on the hood. ;) Good times. read more

Hate to update them so quick, but I just discovered that they'd removed the play area. I've contacted BWI (who is in charge of it), and they could only say that it was removed to be replaced... but they have no idea ~when~ it will return. That's a huge disappointment, as bringing children to play and see the planes was a huge draw to the location. Without that playground, small children probably won't be content for long just staring at the occasional landing airplane. Thus, this place only warrants 3-stars and is no longer suitable for small children until BWI replaces the play area. Parents, please be warned! read more

The Dixon Aviation Park is perfect for the weekend warrior in me. It's convenient from my home, it's safe from traffic and its just the right distance to allow for me to adjust my riding. The parking lot can get over crowded at peak times and there aren't any benches or tables but this hasn't really been a problem to date. Plan a few extra minutes if you're riding on Saturday or Sunday, that's all. Now if only I could get more of my friends to join me. read more

It is mid spring with great weather and still no playground. Just a sign that it is under renovati on. Not sure what could take this long. The playground has been down for at least 5 months. Other than that, it is cool to watch the planes land. It seems pretty clean. Lastly, parking can be problematic. read more

Plane spotting is one of my favorite things to do. I had always wanted to go to BWI to see the park and see if I could catch some SWA special schemes. I finally got out to Baltimore and spent a good part of a day at the Observation Park. It was quite busy with bikers, and the bike trails are a unique feature around BWI. As for the observation area, there are several benches, a decent amount of parking, and a lot of planes--correction, a lot of Southwest. You'll see about 75% Southwest, and a mix of US Airways, Delta, airTrain, and American among others. Look out for ATI DC-8's arriving as well. Definitely give this place a shot! PS. There was even an ice cream truck sitting there when I went. Nice :). read more

Awesome place to spot all kinds of planes landing hourly throughout the day. Theirs is a playground for your little ones. Area appeared to be well-kept and regularly patrolled by state police. Plenty of parking when I came through but it is known to fill up quick in late spring summer months. read more

Thomas A Dixon Jr Aircraft Observation Park - Cloudy day to spot but still great views! - Parks Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

A nice place to visit at dusk on a weekend night and watch the planes land. Many people use this area to park their cars and head down the path around the airport. Requests - build a bigger parking lot and please expand the playground. It is quite small for all of the kids who use this area. read more

Definitely a cool experience. I love to come here because you don't have to be into airplanes to enjoy this. There is a trail, playground for kids, and a really cool aircraft viewing area! read more

Thomas A Dixon Jr Aircraft Observation Park - Parks Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

Very cool park great for family's or couples. The planes land right above your head so if you have noise sensitive kid bring headphones that cancel noise! They have picnic tables, and and bike / walking path. The play equipment is small but kids can all manage to play well in it. They have have descent parking but try to get here early for optimal time. read more

A Great park for families, couples, singles, children, seniors, cyclists , runners, photographers, etc. There is a bike trail that leads to an intersection and back, a playground, a sitting area, and a parking lot. I had great photos of airplanes landing. It more beautiful during sunset and it's less congested with people. It's open from sunrise to sunset. Come check it out If you don't mind loud noises from airplanes landing to the airport. The airport runway is across the street from the park and its gated, if you're wondering. read more

Three stars for watching the planes land right in front of you, but the playground leaves much to be desired for kids. My 4 and 5 year old step kids were so excited when we told them we were coming here but once they got to the playground, the looks of disappointment were written all over their faces (it's suitability for enjoyment ranges from 1-maybe 4 years old depending on the caliber of playgrounds your kids are used to). 1 star for the playground. I did notice quite a few bicyclists riding the paved trails and they seemed to be enjoying themselves. There was also a little food truck/trailer selling sno-cones and water which was nice. I know the kids wouldn't want to return (other to sit in the car and watch the planes), so we probably won't be back. (Didn't see any bathrooms there either). read more

Tired of your average park or playground? The planes taking off make this park area extra special for children and adults.

Watching the planes come in is a unique and fun experience for kids of all ages. The playground is small, but mostly clean. The trails nearby seem popular with bike riders or a long walk/jog. My biggest complaint is the nasty dirty porta-potties. Thankfully, my child is still in diapers and the adults just held it. Yuck! read more

Nice little park, but it always seems to be crowded. It seems a lot of people drop their cars off and head to one of the many nearby trails. No big deal, except that it can make parking difficult. Watching the planes is nice and relaxing, especially with them flying so close. My major problem with this place is the playground. Tons of metal and potential for injuries. Don't get me wrong, I appreciate the use of rubber mulch material in case of a spill. But why in the world would you put metal bars in and around a movable bridge? Talk about dangerous. Unfortunately, my son found out first hand how unsafe this can be when another kid (older and larger) anxious to get across caused it to shake tremendously, giving him a bloody nose thanks to these bars. They definitely need to add some added layer of protection to keep kids safe. I submitted a suggestion to the park and rec division after this incident happened, but more than 2 months later the issue has still not been addressed. How do you tell a kid that they can't go on the playset because it is unsafe? It can be done, but will lead to a huge case of disappointment. read more

Love this place. Has a fun little playground for kids to play while watching the planes. Also has a seating area.