The Best Places for Fall Foliage in Washington, DC
1// The Tidal Basin
In DC, there is simply no better place. The water, memorials, and trees come together for a magical combination.
2// Boulder Bridge
Boulder bridge is one of those iconic DC landmarks that’s a bit off the beaten path. Standing on a rock in the middle of Rock Creek gives you a beautiful view of the bridge and the surrounding trees as a backdrop
3// West Potomac Park
The walk along the Potomac River is beautiful in the fall. Walk from the Kennedy Center to Hain’s Point for amazing vistas across the river. Rosslyn, Arlington House, the Air Force Memorial and multiple bridges are among the highlights that you see along the way.
4// Dumbarton Oaks
Despite being the only place on this list requiring admission, the gardens at Dumbarton Oaks in Georgetown are simply amazing in the fall. The outdoor rooms feature immaculately maintained flora that will leave you wishing for fall all year round.
5// Constitution Gardens
The various varieties of trees that ring Constitution Gardens create dramatic colors in the fall. Views of the Washington Monument frames through the willows make this one of my favorite places in the Capitol.
6// DC Neighborhoods
The neighborhoods of DC feature some of the greenest spaces for any major US city. Between Casey Trees and DDOT’s Urban Foresters, fall takes over the neighborhoods. Among the favorites are Georgetown and Capitol Hill, but Adams Morgan, Shaw, and Columbia Heights feature beautiful architecture that creates the perfect backdrop to fall Foliage.
7// Beach Drive
As its closed to traffic, Beach Drive is the perfect location to take in fall. Each bend gives you beautiful vistas and the sound of Rock Creek bubbling nearby transport you out of the city.
8//Oak Hill Cemetery
Nestled on the hillside overlooking Rock Creek Park, Oak Hill Cemetery is one of the best Hidden Gems in the Nationals Capitol. Its numerous famous residents take you on a journey through DC’s History. The staff is incredibly kind and knowledgeable about the history of this unique place.
9// Bridges over Rock Creek Parkway
The numerous bridges spanning Rock Creek Parkway give you some of the best long views over one of the largest parks in the region. M Street, Q Street, and Calvert Street are the highlights here. The bridges themselves are also architectural wonders. Their Art Deco designs bridges add a lot to your journey.
