Attractions and places to see around Forestville include a variety of natural and historical sites, primarily centered around the Anacostia River and its surrounding parklands. This area offers extensive trails for walking, cycling, and exploring diverse ecosystems. Visitors can also find significant historical landmarks, providing a blend of outdoor activity and cultural exploration. The region features more than 17 notable places to explore.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
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Watkins Regional Park in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, spans over 850 acres and offers a diverse range of attractions for visitors of all ages. One of its standout features is the Wizard of Oz-themed playground, where children can follow the Yellow Brick Road through imaginative play structures like Dorothy’s house, the Emerald City, and ruby slipper slides. This playground not only provides entertainment but also incorporates educational elements to promote literacy and learning through play.
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The Anacostia Riverwalk Trail follows along the Anacostia River from Bladensburg to the Navy Yard, covering 21.5 miles through forests, fields, marshes, and river ecosystems. Ideal for walking, jogging, biking, or dog walking, the paved trail offers scenic views of the Anacostia River and its wildlife. It passes through Anacostia Park and Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens and connects to five bridges and several city bike routes. The trail features asphalt, boardwalk, brick, and concrete surfaces, with access points at Hyattsville, MD, and The Wharf in D.C.
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The National Capitol Columns at Washington, D.C.'s National Arboretum are a striking monument set amid the expansive 20-acre Ellipse Meadow. The 22 Corinthian columns were originally part of the U.S. Capitol's east portico from 1828 to 1958. They were relocated to the Arboretum in the 1980s after being removed from the Capitol due to an architectural mismatch with the new, larger dome completed in 1866. Today, they stand prominently against the open sky in the meadow with and a reflecting pool, making this a scenic, unique spot to visit.
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there's rarely alot of car traffic, so the streets are recommended
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A well paved cycle path running through the marsh near the Kenilworth Park Aquatic Gardens. Some boardwalk and a few bridges. It feels like you're in a wilderness.
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Great spot to relax, or do some quick hiking/walking along the length of the 2 islands. Great location in the Anacostia River- right off the Anacostia River Trail or a 10-15 min walk from the Stadium/Armory stop on the Blue/Silver lines.
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The Forestville area, particularly along the Anacostia River, offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy walking, jogging, and biking along extensive trails like the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail. The region is also great for exploring diverse ecosystems, bird watching, and relaxing in natural settings like Kingman and Heritage Islands. For more structured activities, there are numerous routes available for hiking and running.
Yes, Forestville is known for its extensive network of trails. The Anacostia Riverwalk Trail offers 21.5 miles of paved paths ideal for walking and jogging, passing through forests, fields, and marshes. You can find various hiking routes, including easy options like the Loop Trail and Wetland Trail, as well as moderate trails such as the longer sections of the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail.
The Anacostia Riverwalk Trail is an excellent choice for cycling, offering a well-paved path that runs along the Anacostia River. It connects to various city bike routes and features scenic views. The Anacostia Riverwalk Trail at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens also provides a well-paved cycle path with boardwalk sections, giving a wilderness-like experience.
Along the Anacostia River, you can explore diverse natural features. The Anacostia Riverwalk Trail itself winds through forests, fields, marshes, and river ecosystems. Kingman and Heritage Islands offer a great spot to relax and enjoy quick hikes or walks amidst the river's natural beauty. The area is also known for its opportunities for birding and observing river wildlife.
Yes, many attractions around Forestville are family-friendly. The Anacostia Riverwalk Trail and the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens are suitable for families, offering easy paths for walking and cycling. Kingman and Heritage Islands are also a great spot for families to explore and relax outdoors.
Many trails in the Forestville area are dog-friendly, making it a great place to explore with your canine companion. The Anacostia Riverwalk Trail is ideal for dog walking, and Kingman and Heritage Islands are also noted as dog-friendly. Always remember to keep your dog on a leash and clean up after them.
Yes, the area offers significant historical landmarks. The National Capitol Columns are a striking man-made monument featuring 22 Corinthian columns that once supported the U.S. Capitol. They are now set in the expansive Ellipse Meadow at Washington, D.C.'s National Arboretum, offering a unique historical and scenic spot.
Visitors particularly enjoy the blend of outdoor activity and natural beauty. The well-paved trails, especially the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail, are highly appreciated for their scenic views of the river and wildlife. The feeling of being in a wilderness, even close to urban areas, is a common highlight, along with the unique historical significance of sites like the National Capitol Columns.
Absolutely. The Forestville area offers several easy hiking routes, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a quick outdoor escape. You can find options like the Loop Trail, Wetland Trail, and Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens loop, which are generally flat and well-maintained. For more details and route options, refer to the easy hikes around Forestville guide.
The best time to visit Forestville for outdoor activities generally depends on personal preference, but spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for exploring trails. Spring brings wildflowers, while fall showcases beautiful foliage. Summer is also popular for river-based activities, though it can be warmer. Winter allows for snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and winter hiking in some nearby state parks, though the primary attractions around the Anacostia River are accessible year-round.
Yes, the attractions around Forestville offer several scenic viewpoints. The Anacostia Riverwalk Trail provides continuous scenic views of the Anacostia River and its wildlife. The setting of the National Capitol Columns in the expansive Ellipse Meadow with a reflecting pool is also considered a unique and scenic spot.
While specific public transport details for every attraction are not provided, the Kingman and Heritage Islands are noted as being a 10-15 minute walk from the Stadium/Armory stop on the Blue/Silver metro lines, indicating that some attractions are accessible via public transportation.


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