Parks, conservatories, memorials and squares throughout Washington and the adjacent areas are a draw for local citizens as well as tourists. From the splendid spring arrival of the cherry blossoms to the colorful cacophony of autumn, there is always a special venue to explore in the outdoors of Washington and the surrounding environs.

Maryland Outdoor Venues

Brookside Gardens - Two conservatories and 50 acres of gardens provide delights all year long. A horticultural library and educational programs along with guided tours are given. / 1800 Glenallan Ave. / Wheaton MD / 301-949-8230 / Free

Brookside Nature Center - Hiking trails and a primitive weather station as well as a replica of a pioneer homestead are part of the mix at this interesting nature area. Picnic facilities are also available / 1400 Glenallan Ave. / Wheaton MD / 301-946-9071 / Free

C & O Canal Boat Trips - Mule-drawn boats trips take place from mid-April through October 31st and travel along the old canal as they did in the 19th century. The one hour excursion leaves from either the Great falls Tavern or from the Georgetown location in D.C. / Great Falls Tavern / Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park / 301-299-3613 / Modest Fee

National Wildlife Visitor Center - A large 12,000 acre plus research refuge hosts this visitor center. Migratory bird routes, wildlife habitats and recovery efforts for endangered species are explained and explored through interactive exhibits in the center. Walking trails and tram tours through the area are available. / Powder Mill Rd. / Patuxent Research Refuge / Laurel MD / 301-497-5760 / Free / Tram tours - Modest Fee

Rock Creek Regional Park - Surrounding Lake Needwood, the park offers boat rentals, fishing, picnic facilities, hiking and bike trails. There is also golf, 20-minute boat cruises and the Meadowside Nature Center. / Avery Rd. / Rockville MD / 301-948-5053 / Park access is Free / Modest Rental Fees for extra activities

Virginia Outdoor Venues

Great Falls Park - A great view of the falls in the Mather Gorge, the 800-acre park contains the remnants of the 1785 Patowmack Co. canal of which George Washington was president. The canal locks enabled boats to re-enter the river above and below the falls. Caution must be followed when entering this natural area, there are slippery rocks, hazardous drops, also river levels can rise quickly. Please follow warning precautions. / Old Dominion Dr. / Great Falls VA / 703-285-2966 / Modest vehicle fee

Prince William Forest Park - Over 18,000 acres of forest watershed runs along Quantico Creek, the park is open with more than 35 miles of hiking trails, 16 miles of mountain bike roads and nature exhibits at the Pine Grove Nature Center. / Triangle VA / 703-221-7181

Reston Animal Park - Get up close and personal with a variety of animals, from llamas, parrots and monkeys, to a petting area full of domesticated farm animals. / 1228 Hunter Mill Rd. / Reston VA / 703-759-3637 / Fee

Sky Meadows State Park - The park contains Bleak House, an 1835 structure that was the home to one of aides to John Singleton Mosby of Mosby's Rangers, a Confederate partisan force who stayed on the grounds. Access to the Appalachian Trail, scenic views, picnic areas and visitor center are park of the park. / SR 17 / Paris VA / 540-592-3556

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