Looking for river views, military history, and quiet escapes just outside D.C.? Head to Fort Washington, Maryland! Nestled along the Potomac River, this suburban gem blends nature, historic forts, and easy access to the capital region. Whether you’re exploring centuries-old battlements, biking scenic trails, or watching bald eagles fly over the water, Fort Washington offers a peaceful slice of Maryland’s past and present.

Fort Washington, MD Highlights:

  • Tour Fort Washington Park: Walk the grounds of this 19th-century fort with cannon-lined ramparts and sweeping river views.
  • Enjoy the Potomac River waterfront: Fish, picnic, or spot wildlife from piers and shoreline trails.
  • Bike the Oxon Hill Farm and Riverwalk Trail: Explore National Park land and scenic routes with views of D.C. and Alexandria.
  • Visit Harmony Hall Regional Center: Explore cultural programming, fitness classes, and live performances in a local community hub.
  • Spend a day at National Harbor: Just minutes away, this lively waterfront destination features shops, restaurants, a giant Ferris wheel, and seasonal events.

Best Time to Visit Fort Washington, MD

The best time to visit Fort Washington is in the spring and fall (April–June and September–October), when the weather is ideal for walking trails and outdoor sightseeing. Summer is great for river recreation, while winters are mild and quiet, perfect for exploring historic sites without the crowds.

How to Get to Fort Washington, MD

  • By Car: Fort Washington is located off MD-210, about 25–30 minutes south of Washington, D.C., and 20 minutes from Alexandria, VA.
  • By Metro: The nearest Metro station is Branch Avenue (Green Line), followed by a taxi or rideshare to the area.
  • By Air: Reagan National Airport (DCA) is about 25 minutes away, with Baltimore-Washington International (BWI) about 1 hour north.

Where to Stay in Fort Washington, MD

  • Harborside Hotels at National Harbor – Stylish stay with shuttle service and quick access to shops and restaurants.
  • MGM National Harbor – Upscale casino resort with luxury rooms, dining, spa, and entertainment.
  • Airbnbs and local guesthouses – Quiet, residential rentals ideal for families and extended stays.

Best Things to Do in Fort Washington, MD

Step into History with a View at Fort Washington Park


Civil War-era ramparts and stunning Potomac River vistas make this a top stop for heritage and hiking

Step into History with a View at Fort Washington Park

© Zack Frank/stock.adobe.com

Fort Washington was built in 1809 as a defensive fort protecting Washington D.C. The fort, located near the city of Fort Washington, overlooking the Potomac River, was originally called Fort Warburton, but was renamed in 1808. The fort was destroyed by its own garrison during the War of 1812, during a British advance. The current historic fort is a stone structure constructed in 1824. In 1946, after all military personnel left, the fort was turned over to the US Department of the Interior. Fort Washington Park, developed around the fort, has a network of hiking and biking paths and has a wonderful view of the river. It is a popular venue for picnicking, fishing, and recreation.

Occasionally, the fort organizes historical re-enactments. There is also a small museum at the fort. The Fort Washington Light, established in 1857, is located below the fort.

13551 Fort Washington Rd, Fort Washington, MD 20744, Phone: 301-763-4600

Feel the Rush at Rosecroft Raceway


Harness racing action and local excitement bring a lively twist to your evening

Feel the Rush at Rosecroft Raceway

© Rosecroft Raceway

Rosecroft Raceway, better known as the Raceway by the Beltway is a harness racing track opened in 1949 in Fort Washington, Maryland. It first originally owned by William E. Miller, a horse trainer and breeder. Rosecroft became political and social center of Prince George's County, drawing more than 7,000 per day on the racing day in the early 50s. After a turbulent history and changing owners many times, Rosecroft Raceway closed down in 2010.

The next year, Penn National Gaming purchased the racetrack with the hope to make it a racing again. Throughout its history, Rosecroft featured many notable races including segments of the Breeders Crown, the Messenger Stakes from 1990 to 1995, the second leg of the Triple Crown of Harness Racing for Pacers. Rosecroft also hosted the Potomac Stakes, Maryland's most famous harness race.

6336 Rosecroft Dr, Fort Washington, MD 20744

Activities and Attractions for Couples:

Wander the Woods and Earthworks at Fort Foote Park


Quiet trails, river views, and historic artillery await at this peaceful hilltop fort

Wander the Woods and Earthworks at Fort Foote Park

© digitalwhiz/stock.adobe.com

Fort Foote was an American Civil War-era fort made of wood and earthwork that was a part of the wartime defenses of Washington, D.C. Fort Foote was constructed in 1863 high up on Rozier's Bluff to enforce the ring of fortifications around Washington, D.C. There were 68 forts around the Nation's Capital.

Its role was to help defend the Potomac River approach to the city. It worked from 1863 to 1878, when it was abandoned. It was used briefly during the First and Second World Wars. Today, the fort is part of Fort Foote Park, largely forested, although some of the original fort bastions have been preserved.

There are two 15-inch guns sitting on carriages overlooking the Potomac. One was used at Fort Foote and the other comes from Battery Rodgers, which was located on the other side of the river during the Civil War.

8915 Fort Foote Rd, Fort Washington, MD 20744, Phone: 301-763-4600

Time Travel Through Black History with KB Tours


Powerful storytelling and expert-led journeys reveal the soul of D.C. and beyond

Time Travel Through Black History with KB Tours

© Syda Productions/stock.adobe.com

To truly explore Washington D.C. in a short time and not miss any of the important sites requires planning and a bit of help. KB Tours has extensive experience with tours of the city. Their tour guides provide interesting facts, unknown stories, and take you to less visited places. KB Tours are perfect if you wish to learn about the nation capital’s history. One of the most popular tours is a four-hour tour of African American history in D.C. The tour starts at the Navy Memorial, then makes stops at the Lincoln Memorial, King Memorial, Frederick Douglass house, Capitol, and the African American Civil War Memorial. At the end of the tour all guests are given tickets to visit the Museum of African American History and Culture.

KB Tours, 2312 Thornknoll Dr, Fort Washington, MD 20744, Phone: 202-355-5579

Taste the Flavor at Silvestre Chicken


Peruvian-style rotisserie chicken and bold Latin spices that locals crave

Taste the Flavor at Silvestre Chicken

© rabbitti/stock.adobe.com

Silvestre Chicken is a small Maryland chain of eateries that offer an interesting blend of Mexican, Salvadorian and Peruvian cuisine. Made with fresh ingredients, with authentic recipes, all dishes are bursting with flavors and colors. There are everyone’s favorites such as tacos and enchiladas, but also pupusas, steaks with shrimps, soups and thick, delicious stews. While the dishes are Mexican or Salvadorean, the star of the menu and the main reason folks flock to the Silvestre restaurants are their rotisserie chickens done Peruvian way. Their Fort Washington location is a small unassuming counter-serve place popular for their rotisserie chicken with a range of sides, super subs, super salads and platters.

954 Swan Creek Rd E B, Fort Washington, MD 20744, Phone: 301-203-6500

Step Back to Simpler Times at the National Colonial Farm


Costumed interpreters, heritage farming, and sweeping waterfront meadows transport you to 1770

Step Back to Simpler Times at the National Colonial Farm

© Mr. Music/stock.adobe.com

The National Colonial Farm at Piscataway Park is managed by the Accokeek Foundation, a nonprofit organization founded in 1957 and one of the first land trusts in the country. Piscataway National Park itself encompasses approximately 200 acres of Accokeek, Maryland and features a trail network that winds its way through wetlands. In addition to taking a nature hike, visitors to the park view the award-winning forest restoration project and visit the native tree arboretum. A living history museum, the National Colonial Farm depicts what a middle-class family farm was like in Maryland around the time of the American Revolution.

3400 Bryan Point Rd, Accokeek, MD 20607, 301-283-2113

More Places to Eat in Fort Washington, MD

  • The Brass Tap – Craft beer bar with pub fare, outdoor seating, and live entertainment at National Harbor.
  • MGM National Harbor restaurants – Choose from high-end options like Voltaggio Brothers Steak House or casual choices like TAP Sports Bar.
  • Sardi’s Pollo a la Brasa – Local favorite for Peruvian rotisserie chicken and Latin American sides.

If you are interested in local events:

  • War of 1812 Reenactments at Fort Washington (Spring/Fall) – Historical demonstrations and living history days.
  • Summer Concerts at National Harbor – Outdoor live music and movies on the waterfront lawn.
  • Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Market (December) – Festive seasonal celebration at National Harbor with vendors and light shows.

If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes to 2 Hours of Fort Washington, MD:

  • Washington, D.C. (30 min) – Explore monuments, Smithsonian museums, and historic neighborhoods.
  • Alexandria, VA (20 min) – Stroll Old Town’s cobblestone streets, boutiques, and waterfront dining spots.
  • Mount Vernon (30 min) – Tour George Washington’s estate and gardens along the Potomac River.
  • Southern Maryland Wine Trail (1 hr) – Sip your way through rural vineyards and scenic countryside.
  • Annapolis, MD (1.5 hrs) – Visit the U.S. Naval Academy, enjoy Chesapeake Bay views, and explore colonial charm.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • Q: Where is Fort Washington located?
  • A: Fort Washington is an unincorporated area in Prince George's County, Maryland, a day trip just south of the Washington D.C. downtown district.
  • Q: How did Fort Washington get its name?
  • A: The place is named for Fort Washington, completed in 1809 and at the time the only fort protecting Washington, D.C.
  • Q: What surrounds the remnants of Fort Washington?
  • A: The remnants of the fort are surrounded by the forested Fort Washington Park.

Plan Your Trip


In Summary, We Highly Recommend:

Why Trust Us

  • 25+ Years of Experience
    Helping travelers find the best destinations, hotels, and attractions.
  • Trusted Travel Content
    Expert articles, vacation tips, and exclusive offers.
  • Easy Planning Tools
    User-friendly features for trip ideas, reviews, and bookings.
  • Safe & Verified Booking
    Secure bookings and verified business listings.