George Washington Memorial Parkway
Photo: NPS
About
The George Washington Memorial Parkway was designed for recreational driving. It links sites that commemorate important episodes in American history and preserve habitat for local wildlife. The parkway and its associated trails provide a scenic place to play and rest in the busy Washington, DC metropolitan area.
Activities
Arts and CultureLive MusicBikingRoad BikingFoodPicnickingWildlife WatchingBirdwatching
Directions
Directions to Parkway Headquarters From the south, take the George Washington Memorial Parkway north. Just past the CIA exit turn right into the parking lot for the US Park Police and parkway headquarters. Go through the chain link fence and take an immediate right. Follow the road down to a stop sign and turn right into the parking lot for the headquarters building.
Get directions →Weather
Summers on the parkway are generally hot and humid, with daytime highs frequently above 90 degrees Fahrenheit and scattered afternoon thunderstorms. Please carry water while participating in physical activity and be prepared to take shelter from lightning. Winters on the parkway are generally cold, with nighttime lows frequently near freezing and occasional snowfall. Please be alert for snowplows and icy spots on roadways. Weather during spring and fall is generally moderate, but can change quickly.
News
Feb 12, 2026
National Park Service Invites Public Comment on the Glen Echo Park Management Plan Amendment/Environmental Assessment
The George Washington Memorial Parkway invites the public to comment on a management plan amendment and environmental assessment for Glen Echo Park in Montgomery County, Maryland.
Jan 27, 2026
Multiple park areas and facilities managed by the George Washington Memorial Parkway will remain closed due to winter weather impacts
Due to winter weather impacts, multiple park areas and facilities managed by the George Washington Memorial Parkway will remain closed to ensure visitor safety and allow crews to address hazardous conditions, including snow and ice. Areas will reopen as soon as conditions are safe. For the latest updates, visitors should check www.nps.gov/gwmp and GWMP social media channels.
Jan 26, 2026
Multiple park areas and facilities managed by the George Washington Memorial Parkway will remain closed Tuesday, January 27, 2026 due to winter weather impacts