Highlight • Parking
Constitution Gardens
Hiking
4.8
(20)
Cycling
5.0
(5)
Constitution Gardens is a sprawling 50-acre park nestled within the iconic National Mall in Washington, D.C. This significant green space offers a tranquil escape from the city's bustle, featuring a picturesque artificial lake, open meadows, and shaded pathways. Situated near sea level, it is bordered by the historic Vietnam Veterans Memorial to the west, 17th Street NW to the east, Constitution Avenue to the north, and the Reflecting Pool to the south, placing it at the heart of the nation's…
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National Mall
Tips
October 23, 2023
Hiking
•October 26, 2023
Cycling
•Nearby routes
Best routes near Constitution Gardens
5.0
(1)
103
hikers
8.48km
02:11
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
67
hikers
15.4km
03:59
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(7)
97
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation -30 m
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Wednesday 11 March
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18 %
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Max wind speed: 21.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best ways to get to Constitution Gardens using public transportation?
Constitution Gardens is easily accessible via public transportation. The nearest Metro stations are Foggy Bottom-GWU (Blue, Orange, Silver lines) and Farragut West (Blue, Orange, Silver lines). Additionally, the National Mall Circulator Loop bus has stops conveniently located near the park, offering a direct and scenic route.
Are there specific running paths or routes within Constitution Gardens?
While Constitution Gardens features flat, easy walking trails, it is not specifically designed with dedicated running paths. However, its paved and gravel pathways, combined with its central location on the National Mall, make it a popular spot for runners looking for a scenic and relatively flat route. Many runners incorporate the park into longer loops around the National Mall monuments.
What are the parking options and costs near Constitution Gardens?
Limited general parking is available on Constitution Avenue, but visitors should be aware that these spots are often metered and have time limits. Free parking is generally scarce in the immediate vicinity. For more reliable parking, consider commercial parking garages in nearby downtown D.C., though these will incur a cost. Always check signs carefully for restrictions and rates.
Is accessible parking available at Constitution Gardens?
While general parking on Constitution Avenue is limited, there are typically a few designated accessible parking spots available. However, due to high demand, these can fill up quickly. It is advisable to arrive early or consider dropping off passengers with mobility needs near an entrance if accessible parking is unavailable.
How busy does Constitution Gardens get, especially regarding parking?
Constitution Gardens, being part of the National Mall, can get quite busy, especially during peak tourist seasons (spring and fall), weekends, and holidays. Parking, in particular, fills up very quickly. Arriving early in the morning or utilizing public transportation are highly recommended strategies to avoid congestion and parking difficulties.
Are dogs allowed in Constitution Gardens?
Yes, dogs are generally allowed in Constitution Gardens, provided they are kept on a leash. It's a popular spot for dog walkers due to its open spaces and pathways. Please remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the park enjoyable for everyone.
What family-friendly activities can we do at Constitution Gardens?
Constitution Gardens is an excellent spot for families. Children can enjoy strolling along the pathways, observing ducks and geese on the lake, and having a picnic on the grassy areas. The flat terrain makes it suitable for strollers, and the open spaces provide room for kids to explore safely. The nearby Memorial to the 56 Signers of the Declaration of Independence offers an educational element.
Is Constitution Gardens suitable for a winter visit?
While spring and fall are often recommended for their mild weather and vibrant colors, Constitution Gardens can still be a peaceful place to visit in winter. The park's pathways remain accessible, offering a quiet stroll amidst the bare trees and potentially a dusting of snow. However, amenities like restrooms or food vendors might have reduced hours, and the lake may be frozen. Dress warmly!
Are there restrooms or visitor facilities available at Constitution Gardens?
As a large outdoor park, Constitution Gardens has limited dedicated facilities within its immediate boundaries. Restrooms are typically available at nearby National Mall visitor centers or museums. It's advisable to check the National Park Service website for the most current information on facility availability and hours.
What historical landmarks are located within or directly adjacent to Constitution Gardens?
Constitution Gardens is rich in historical significance. Within the park, you'll find the Memorial to the 56 Signers of the Declaration of Independence on an island in the lake, accessible by a pedestrian bridge. The iconic Vietnam Veterans Memorial is also located within the park's western boundary. Additionally, the historic Lockkeeper's House, the oldest building on the National Mall, stands at the edge of the gardens.
Are there any viewpoints within Constitution Gardens that offer scenic vistas?
Constitution Gardens itself offers serene views of its artificial lake, the island memorial, and the surrounding tree-lined meadows. While it doesn't feature elevated viewpoints, its strategic location provides picturesque perspectives of the Washington Monument and the Reflecting Pool, especially from its southern edge. The park's design emphasizes a tranquil, natural escape rather than panoramic cityscapes.
What is the history behind the creation of Constitution Gardens?
The land where Constitution Gardens now sits was originally submerged beneath the Potomac River. After being dredged, it housed 'temporary' office buildings during World War I. Following their demolition in the early 1970s, President Richard Nixon mandated the creation of a park. It was dedicated in 1976 as a 'living legacy American Revolution Bicentennial tribute' and later proclaimed a 'living legacy tribute' to the U.S. Constitution in 1986.