Georgetown Waterfront Park is a peaceful green haven along the banks of the Potomac River in Washington, D.C. Spanning ten scenic acres between 34th and 30th Streets NW, the park provides a stunning backdrop to one of the city’s most historic neighborhoods. With panoramic views of Roosevelt Island, the Key Bridge, and the Kennedy Center, this urban park is perfect for strolling, sightseeing, or simply relaxing by the water.

Recommended For

Whether you’re a local or a first-time visitor, this riverside park offers something for everyone:

  • Nature Lovers: Enjoy peaceful walking paths, lush lawns, and waterfront views.
  • Families with Kids: Splash in the interactive fountain and relax on stadium steps by the river.
  • Fitness Enthusiasts: Jog, bike, or paddle along the Potomac’s vibrant edge.
  • Picnickers & Bird Watchers: Settle in with lunch and watch the boats and wildlife drift by.

Park Layout & Features

The park’s design, by Wallace, Roberts, and Todd, embraces a natural, flowing layout that highlights the Potomac River and celebrates its rowing heritage.

  • Western Section (34th St NW to Wisconsin Ave):
    • Expansive lawns, shaded benches, and winding paths
    • A tranquil labyrinth and granite overlook slabs etched with local maritime history
    • Wide promenade ideal for walking and people-watching
  • Eastern Section (Wisconsin Ave to 31st St NW):
    • Watch a video tour of this vibrant area
    • Features a large fountain (popular with kids in summer), a pergola, a broad overlook, and stadium-like steps leading to the water
    • Great for picnics, paddling views, and riverside relaxation

History & Development

Transforming Georgetown’s waterfront into a national park took decades of dedication:

  • 1978: Local leaders including Ann Satterthwaite, Katharine Sullivan, and Judy Bonderman formed the Committee for Washington’s Riverfront Parks to advocate for public use.
  • 1985: The city transferred ten acres of waterfront to the National Park Service—but lacked funds for development.
  • 2005: The non-profit Friends of Georgetown Waterfront Park was founded to secure support.
  • After collaborative fundraising from private donors, the city, and the NPS, the park was completed with a total investment of $23 million.

Views & Surroundings

Georgetown Waterfront Park offers unbeatable vistas across the Potomac River:

  • To the West: Enjoy views of the Key Bridge and rowing teams gliding by.
  • To the East: Look toward the Memorial Bridge, Roosevelt Island, and the Kennedy Center.
  • Diagonal paths and open sightlines enhance these views from several access points throughout Georgetown.

Contact & Location

Tip: Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds—especially if you're bringing a camera or picnic.

Map:


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