interesting place hidden and nestled in what felt like a secret pathway and maybe even a secret…read moregarden in the forest when I went here with my ex-husband Leo Mejia in 2013! Ill never forget how charming it was but how it hauntingly left something to be desired

Amazing park at the site of a former chataqua. The adjacent Clara Barton House as part of the park…read moreas well. The Clara Barton House tours are free and very informative. The galleries are free as well. They also have a ballroom, an aquarium, a playground, and a puppet theater as well. Last time we went to the Irish Inn, the only onsite restaurant for dinner, which both amazing and very old school yet accessible for my friend's wheelchair.

I have wonderful memories of this place. What not to love?!…read more Countless of BBQ with my family and friends. My littles would love coming here and love going on the trains or carousel or the picnics we would have when I was a sahm. So many nice comminuty events held here etc. The parks been through a lot of renovations. One section has really clean bathrooms and there's an exercise stations which is geared for most ages. There's a part here that will connect you to Brookside Gardens. The park is very well maintained.

This park was so much fun. Great play equipment, lot of pavilions, and plenty of places for adults…read moreto hang out in the shade. There was not a lot of shade on the actual park and my kids got hot, but Kona ice was in the parking lot so they were happy about it. We also rode the carousel which was fun. $4 a rider and adults have to pay to assist their little under the 42 inch height requirement. The train was the same, but it was closed for repair the day I was there. The biggest downfall was I could only find portapotties. However, this park was a lot of fun to visit for a day.

Had a great time attending our Grandson's Saturday Soccer game…read more The park was wonderful and even had RV camping sites and a water park!! Great fun!!

5 stars for ambiance 1 star for fishing no bites just tons of seaweed try somewhere else ‍read more

Watkins Regional Park is truly a hidden gem! I recently took my 4-year-old niece, and she…read moreabsolutely loved every minute of it. The Wizard of Oz-themed playground made such an impression on her that we've been watching The Wizard of Oz on repeat ever since our visit. It was so much fun seeing her imagination come to life as she explored all the themed play areas. One thing I really appreciated was that there's something for kids of all ages. There are plenty of play structures and activities to keep everyone entertained. The park is also very family-friendly, with lots of shaded benches and picnic shelters where I could comfortably sit, relax, and keep an eye on her while she played. After the playground, we walked across the street to ride the carousel, which she absolutely adored. They also have a train ride, but unfortunately it wasn't operating during our visit. That just gives us another reason to come back! Next time, we're planning to visit the farm and meet all the animals. I can't believe such a special place is just a few miles from home. If you're looking for a fun, affordable outing with children, Watkins Regional Park is definitely worth the visit. We can't wait to go back!

The local park is great for those into fitness. What helps is that it is merely nice and shady…read moreeven on a humid day which makes the walks and runs enjoyable.

My 4.5 year old niece really enjoyed riding on this Carousel as you get unlimited rides for one low…read moreentry price. This was probably the best value of anything in National Harbor I experienced during my time there. They have quite a selection of fine mounts to ride with multiple size horses, ponies, an eagle, a sea dragon, a panda, tigers, polar bears and likely several other creatures I've left out.

My 2 year old daughter LOVED this area of the National Harbor. I never knew this area existed…read more Behind the carousel it's a tot lot & In front of the carousel there are tables and chairs to Sit and eat your food. I'm going to see if they allow people to have birthday parties here. I would love to do that. Also the price is amazing. I paid $3 for unlimited rides on the carousel. You can't beat that price. As we all know how many times your kiddies want to go on the same ride a million times.

I love the history of this carousel but it doesn't compare to the one at the zoo! Most of the…read morehorses need some serious cosmetic help - it's just so sad to see this bit of history on the Mall lacking the maintenance it seems to need. I don't know if or when the policy changed (as one of the photos here shows credit card signs for payment at the ticket booth), but when we were here after the Smithsonian Kite Festival last month, we were (rather rudely) told that it was strictly cash only. That is not listed anywhere, and much to our daughters' relief, we had enough cash to cover one ride ($3.50 per ride but littles need to be accompanied by an adult). This carousel also has an unfortunate policy of letting riders with multiple tickets just stay on instead of getting off and giving the next round of people first pick at the horses (as they make you do at the Zoo). This caused a fair amount of anguish for one of my daughters who had her heart set on the dragon - we were the first in line, but because a boy the turn before us had another ticket, he just stayed on and stayed on the dragon. Small potatoes in the long run, I know, but kind of an annoying policy.

If I were to collect something creepy it wouldn't be dolls, or clowns, or Precious Moments…read morefigurines...it would be carousel horses. But, I would not collect one from the Carousel on the National Mall. These poor phillies have seen better days. The only super cool one isn't even a horse, it's a dragon and it's pretty awesome. Despite the wear and tear, it's a carousel and it's on the National Mall so it wins on location, location, location! I had a grand ole time riding in a tea cup with one of my boys while the other rode the cool dragon. It only costs $3.50 per person and we walked away with cute pictures that are worth much more than that.

What a fun place! I went with my partner and it was very enjoyable. We greatly enjoyed seeing all…read moreof the animals, especially the baby goats. They were so adorable! The Fairfax county parks system does an incredible job making experiences all ages can enjoy. Will return!

What an amazing place to explore!! It was great to see farm animals and a peacock around this farm!…read moreIt is beautifully maintained and has artifacts of old farming equipment with the history posted. There are pigs, goats, cows, chickens, roosters, and a magnificent peacock!! Definitely a must see for kids and adults alike! Highly recommend this gem!!

Catoctin Mountain Park Visitor Center -- A Quiet Gateway to the Mountains…read more Tucked into the scenic hills of Frederick County near Thurmont, the Catoctin Mountain Park Visitor Center is a great starting point for exploring one of Maryland's more serene outdoor escapes. It's part of Catoctin Mountain Park, a federally managed park offering about 25 miles of hiking trails, plus camping and trout fishing. Worth noting: it's separate from nearby Cunningham Falls State Park, so plan accordingly if you're trying to hit both. We stopped by on a brisk, sunny weekday and were rewarded with light crowds and a peaceful atmosphere. There was some noticeable truck traffic passing through the area--turns out much needed road improvements are underway--but it didn't take away from the overall experience. The visitor center itself is on the smaller side but well maintained and thoughtfully curated. Informational displays, posters, and plaques highlight the region's history--from its Native inhabitants to the communities that later shaped life in these mountains. It's a nice touch that adds depth before you hit the trails. Inside, you can find maps, books, and a modest gift shop selection. The park rangers were approachable and knowledgeable, offering helpful updates on trail conditions and access points. Bonus points for clean restrooms and a convenient place to refill your water bottle before heading out. For the youngsters in your group. Don't forget to join the Junior Ranger program and get your booklet stamped! Fun way to get kids excited to visit and appreciate the many beautiful National Parks in our country throughout their lifetime! Whether you're gearing up for a hike or just passing through, this is a solid place to get oriented, learn a bit of history, and soak in the surrounding natural beauty.

I've been here twice and have hiked the same loop, but both times it has been enjoyable!…read more On this occasion I brought a friend. We parked at the visitors center and went inside to use the facilities prior to our hike. It's a cute visitors center with historical information about the area, the wildlife, and trees. They also sell trinkets, magnets, bug spray, etc. The rangers are always cordial and will answer any questions you may have. They have a charging station!!!! This was clutch as I drove my EV this time. It's free and had me charged and ready to go by the end of my hike. We hiked up to Wolf Rock, Chimney Rock, and back. The trails are rated (if you have the All Trails app and/or based on the map). I'd say this hike was moderate. It's mostly shaded which is nice. There weren't too many insects, but you should apply insect repellent nontheless. They have several other trails. This one was a bit over 3 miles, but the full loop connects all the trails. I would like to make it to Cunningham Falls. This is a great option for me as I live in Maryland. The trails are clean, litter free so take your trash with you. Come check it out!