Park Unit 147-149: Fort McHenry National Monument; Greenbelt Park; Rock Creek Park

 We left today for a trip to Washington, DC as I am giving a presentation at NAEYC on Thursday. On our way, we were able to visit three parks - two in Maryland and one in Washington, DC.

The first park was Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine. O! say can you see,...by the dawn's early light, a large red, white and blue banner? Whose broad stripes and bright stars... were so gallantly streaming...over Fort McHenry! The valiant defense of the fort during the Battle of Baltimore on September 13-14, 1814 inspired Francis Scott Key to write the words that became the U.S. national anthem. The fort's history holds many other stories too, from the Civil War to WWII. 

 

 

 

We toured the fort, noting the similarities to Castillo de San Marco in Florida which is also a star fort. We enjoyed watching the school children who were there on a field trip, and the views of the river. The monument includes a beautiful park and walking path, that was being well used.

Next we drove to Green belt park in Maryland. The NPS website says, "Greenbelt Park is a hidden jewel located just outside of Washington, DC. It provides a sylvan escape from the busy city life where you can camp, hike, and enjoy time with friends and family." We drove through the park and enjoyed the acres and acres of woods, and the peace and calm. It felt like home and looked like much of NJ, but it was indeed an escape in the midst of the city. The park stamps were at the little ranger station where Libby enjoyed the taxidermied animals. She used her "cat" squeal to show her excitement. We loved the little smart car they use in the park.

We then entered DC and drove to Rock Creek Park. "This 1,754 acre city park was officially authorized in 1890, making it the third national park to be designated by the federal government. It offers visitors the opportunity to escape the bustle of the city and find a peaceful refuge, recreation, fresh air, majestic trees, wild animals, and thousands of years of human history." I was impressed by the many locations within the park and many things to do. We went on a short hike with Libby in the carrier and enjoyed the woods. We also toured the visitor center displays that we great because they showed simply and boldly the wildlife and plant life in the area. We hope to return and do more activities here in the future, but for now we are on to our hotel in D.C.!