Established on September 27, 1890, Rock Creek Park is one of the oldest national parks in the National Park Service. It is also one of the largest forested urban parks in the United States, containing a wide variety of natural, historical, and recreational features in the midst of Washington, DC. There are opportunities for picnicking, hiking, biking, skating, horseback riding, tennis and golf in this 1,754-acre forest located within 5 miles of the White House.

The picturesque valley of Rock Creek is especially beautiful in the spring. The area's cultural history can be studied through the Old Stone House (the oldest house in Washington), Pierce Mill (a gristmill where corn and wheat were ground into flour using water power from Rock Creek), and the remains of Civil War earthen fortifications, including Fort Stevens, the site of the only battle within the District of Columbia during the Civil War. An extensive system of trails and paths covers Rock Creek Park and outlying areas such as Glover-Archbold Park. For the horse rider, 13 miles of wide dirt and gravel bridle trails crisscross the northern section of the park. Visit the Rock Creek Nature Center for activities related to the park's natural and cultural history.

• Visit the Nature Center and take a hike on one of the many peaceful trails through this 1,754-acre forest.
• Learn about the stars and other celestial objects at a Planetarium presentation.
• Visit Pierce Mill for a glimpse into early milling technologies and other local history or the Old Stone House for early 18th-century history of the District of Columbia area.