Greetings, fellow concerned Route One Fun-ers:
We had our weekend guides all set to go. We really did. You know we love this stuff! Given the need, however, for all of us to collectively do what we can to help flatten the curve and slow the spread of the coronavirus, we’re not publishing the guides this weekend. Or next weekend. Pretty much not until it’s safe and responsible to return to doing so.
Don’t think we’ll leave you high and dry though! We’ll have Radiohead on repeat (interspersed begrudgingly with the Frozen 2 soundtrack) as we create and share helpful, fun and interesting Route 1-relevant content for you and yours during these extraordinary times.
Speaking of, check out this list of local, uncrowded, outdoor, open spaces where you can go for a break from the indoors. As always, please check the websites to confirm a site’s status. Know of other fun, uncrowded, outdoor places? Share the good word in the comments below and we’ll update with your knowledge!
Outdoor Fun Near Route 1 Corridor
Bladensburg Waterfront Park
Bladensburg Waterfront Park in Bladensburg is one of our go-tos for outdoor fun. Located on the Anacostia River and with the Anacostia River Trail running through it, it’s perfect for walking, running, biking, scootering, mambo-ing, whatever-ing along for some fresh air. On lovely days, you’ll find more than yourself there but always enough space to keep a healthy distance. Our kids love climbing the hills off the path as you make your way towards DC.
Just a boy and his dog chillin’ at Bladensburg Waterfront Park. <3
Brookside Gardens
Brookside Gardens in Wheaton is about a 20-minute or so drive from Hyattsville and is a beautiful place to explore. Admission to the gardens is free. Paths, sculptures, trees, plants, fountains. There’s also a fun, outdoor kid’s place area with dirt kitchen. Use your best judgment. As of today, the official note is “Outdoor areas of the parks will remain open to the public from sunrise to sunset.”
Yes, this picture is real. Breathtakingly beautiful scenery at the Brookside Gardens.
Franciscan Monastery Grounds
Been to the Franciscan Monastery yet? You should as we’ve written about it! 😉 It’s grounds are absolutely beautiful for exploring this time of year! Only about a 10-12 minute drive from Riverdale Park area. Free access and free parking at lot across the street.
Plenty of room to run and roam on the grounds of the Franciscan Monastery!
Greenbelt Park
With nine miles of trails and three picnic areas, Greenbelt Park is a great place to explore the Great Outdoors! There are four different trails you can take to explore the park: Blueberry Trail is 0.8 miles; Dogwood Trail is 1.5 miles; Azalea Trail is 1.2 miles and Perimeter Trail is 5.3 miles. (Word of caution: These trails are not paved; they’re packed dirt/gravel; pointing this out for folks like my mom, who loves the outdoors but needs a flat surface on which to enjoy such.)
Go on an insect expedition at Greenbelt Park!
Lake Artemesia
Go for a stroll or a bike ride or a slow but enjoyable crawl along lovely Lake Artemesia! Last time we went, spotted some turtles, frogs, ducks & birds of all stripes, beautiful lilipads & more!
Dogs welcome at Lake Artemesia!
National Arboretum
Another one of our local faves to visit. The National Arboretum‘s only about a 15-minute drive from the Gateway Arts District. With trees starting to bloom and perfect temps for strolling its trails, it’s a great destination when you just want to go and enjoy the great outdoors. And it’s free! Note: No scooters or bikes allowed at this one; just your precious feet!
Patuxent Research Refuge
Enjoy a spring bicycle ride, walk, stroll while experiencing the beauty of the Patuxent Research Refuge’s North Tract in Laurel. Full of local wildlife, plants and sticks for little explorers to collect and ask you to hold for them. 😉
Additional Resources
As local folks and parents, we’re soaking up as much info as we can about resources to help during these atypical times. We’ll create a post soon sharing what we’ve learned to date. In the meantime, if you have info to share, please do so in the comments and we’ll include that in the post.
- Please note that ALL SMITHSONIAN MUSEUMS & THE ZOO WILL CLOSE starting March 14th.
- Here’s a GREAT list of free, online educational resources to use while school’s are closed.
- Know a neighbor who could do with some help? The Little Free Community Cupboard in University Park was well-stocked as of yesterday!
- Check out our Kids Eat Free Guide for a list of the obvious! Always call ahead to confirm offer availability.
Read & Share Please!
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Are these stroller/ baby friendly sites?
Hi Dorothy – definitely baby-friendly, as for stroller – Greenbelt Park is unpaved, so not so much. Bladenburg’s trails are paved and awesome. Ditto with Brookside Gardens. Monastery I’d probably wear a carrier. Anyhoo – check ’em all out and let us know your thoughts!
Awesome list! Thank you R1F!! <3 <3 <3
Thanks for the feedback, Kate! 🙂