Discover the Natural Majesty of Great Falls Park
Great Falls Park: A breathtaking natural wonder in Virginia, perfect for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying stunning waterfall views.
Great Falls Park, a stunning natural wonder, offers breathtaking views and a plethora of outdoor activities for tourists. Whether you're hiking along scenic trails or enjoying a picnic by the roaring waterfalls, this park is a must-visit destination in Virginia.
A brief summary to Great Falls Park
- 9200 Old Dominion Dr, McLean, Virginia, 22102, US
- +1703-757-3101
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquility of the falls.
- Wear sturdy footwear for hiking, as some trails can be rocky and uneven.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views from various overlooks around the park.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic spots by the river.
- Check for any special events or ranger-led programs during your visit for a more enriching experience.
Getting There
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Bus
To get to Great Falls Park from downtown Bethesda, head to the Bethesda Metro Station. Take the Red Line train towards Glenmont and get off at the Silver Spring station. From there, transfer to the Ride On bus #46 towards Tysons Corner. Stay on the bus for about 30-35 minutes until you reach the stop at Old Dominion Drive & Great Falls Park Entrance. Walk approximately 0.5 miles along Old Dominion Drive, and you'll arrive at the park entrance.
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Metro and Bus
Start at the Bethesda Metro Station and take the Red Line train towards Glenmont. Get off at the Grosvenor-Strathmore station. From there, transfer to the Metrobus #34 towards North Bethesda. Ride the bus for about 20 minutes and get off at the Great Falls Park stop. It’s a short walk from the bus stop to the park entrance.
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Bicycle
If you're feeling adventurous, you can rent a bicycle in Bethesda. Start your ride by heading north on Wisconsin Ave. After about 1.5 miles, turn left onto Old Georgetown Road and continue for another mile. Then, turn right onto Tuckerman Lane, which will take you toward Great Falls Park. Follow the signs to the park entrance. The ride should take about 30 minutes, depending on your pace.
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Walking
If you are up for a long walk, you can set out on foot from downtown Bethesda. Head northwest on Wisconsin Ave, then turn left onto Old Georgetown Road. Continue walking until you reach Tuckerman Lane, where you'll turn right. Follow Tuckerman Lane until you reach Great Falls Park. This route is approximately 5 miles and will take around 1.5 to 2 hours, so wear comfortable shoes!
Discover more about Great Falls Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Maryland Gold Mine National Historic Landmark
2.0 km
Explore the historic Maryland Gold Mine National Landmark, a significant site showcasing the rich history of gold mining in the United States.
Great Falls Parking(BillyGoat)
2.8 km
Discover breathtaking views and outdoor adventures at Great Falls Park with convenient access from Great Falls Parking in Potomac, MD.
Colvin Run Mill
4.4 km
Explore Colvin Run Mill, a historical landmark in Great Falls, VA, where history meets nature, and local culture flourishes in a captivating setting.
Burling Cabin Site
5.8 km
Explore the Burling Cabin Site in McLean, VA, a historical landmark embodying early American settler life amidst serene natural beauty.
Historic Pleasant Grove
6.2 km
Discover the hidden stories and rich heritage of Virginia at Historic Pleasant Grove, a charming local history museum in McLean.
Chesapeake and Ohio Canal
7.5 km
Discover the beauty and history of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, a scenic waterway perfect for outdoor activities and exploration.
Dranesville Tavern Historic
9.2 km
Explore the rich history of Dranesville Tavern Historic, a charming landmark in Herndon, Virginia, that brings the past to life.
Samuel Wade Magruder House Historic Site
9.9 km
Explore the Samuel Wade Magruder House Historic Site in Bethesda, Maryland, a captivating glimpse into the region's architectural and historical heritage.
C&O Canal Lock 23
10.2 km
Discover C&O Canal Lock 23, a historical landmark offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into America's canal history along the Potomac River.
Freeman Store & Museum
10.2 km
Explore the rich history and unique local charm of Vienna, Virginia at the Freeman Store & Museum—your gateway to the town's fascinating past.
Clara Barton National Historic Site
10.4 km
Explore Clara Barton's National Historic Site: A Journey Through American History and Humanitarian Legacy in Glen Echo, Maryland.
Bethesda Historical Society
11.9 km
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C&O Canal Lock 6
12.8 km
Discover the rich history and natural beauty at C&O Canal Lock 6 in Washington, Maryland—an iconic landmark of America's canal system.
West Montgomery Avenue Historic District
12.8 km
Experience the rich heritage of Rockville at West Montgomery Avenue Historic District, where historic homes and charming streets await your discovery.
Lanesville Heritage Area
13.0 km
Explore the Lanesville Heritage Area, a historical landmark in Sterling, Virginia, rich in culture, natural beauty, and captivating stories from the past.
Unmissable attractions to see
Baby Sister Falls
0.5 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Baby Sister Falls, a scenic park in Potomac, MD, where nature and serenity come together in perfect harmony.
Little Sister Falls
0.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Little Sister Falls in Maryland, a serene destination perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Great Falls Overlook Trailhead
0.6 km
Discover the breathtaking views and trails at Great Falls Overlook Trailhead, a premier hiking destination in Maryland's scenic landscapes.
C&O Canal Lock 19
0.7 km
Explore the historical significance and scenic beauty of C&O Canal Lock 19, a key landmark along the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal in Maryland.
C&O Canal Lock 20
0.8 km
Explore the historic C&O Canal Lock 20, a serene landmark where rich history meets stunning natural beauty along the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal.
Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center
0.8 km
Explore the Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center, where history meets nature along the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal in Maryland.
Great Falls
0.9 km
Experience the stunning natural beauty of Great Falls, Maryland, with breathtaking waterfalls, lush trails, and endless outdoor adventures.
C&O Canal Lock 16
1.0 km
Discover C&O Canal Lock 16, a historical gem along the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, where nature and history intertwine beautifully.
Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historic Park, Great Falls Maryland
1.0 km
Discover the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historic Park, where history blends seamlessly with nature, perfect for exploration and relaxation.
Matildaville Trail
1.1 km
Explore the tranquil Matildaville Trail in Great Falls, VA, where nature meets history, offering breathtaking views and a peaceful escape into the outdoors.
Potomac River Dam
1.3 km
Explore the Potomac River Dam, a serene park in Maryland offering stunning views, recreational activities, and a peaceful escape into nature.
The Rooftop at the Potomac River
1.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of The Rooftop at the Potomac River, a premier hiking area offering stunning views and outdoor adventure.
Great Falls Hiking
1.4 km
Discover the beauty of Great Falls Hiking, where scenic trails and stunning waterfalls create the perfect outdoor adventure in Maryland.
Ford Mine Trail
1.5 km
Explore the enchanting Ford Mine Trail in Potomac, MD, where stunning landscapes and wildlife abound, perfect for every hiking enthusiast.
Gold Mine Trail
1.6 km
Explore the breathtaking Gold Mine Trail in Potomac, MD, where scenic hiking paths lead you through lush forests and rich history.
Essential places to dine
CAVA
9.8 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine at CAVA in Potomac—fresh ingredients and customizable dishes await!
Cava Mezze Rockville
11.6 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Cava Mezze Rockville - where every meal is a celebration of Mediterranean flavors.
Not Your Average Joe's - Bethesda
11.6 km
Discover Not Your Average Joe's in Bethesda for delicious American cuisine in a warm atmosphere - perfect for tourists seeking comfort food.
Flower Child
11.8 km
Experience vibrant dining at Flower Child in Bethesda - where healthy meets delicious with options for every dietary need.
Glenwood's (formerly Stanford Grill - Rockville)
11.9 km
Experience the finest steak and seafood at Glenwood's in Rockville - where culinary excellence meets inviting ambiance.
Clyde's Tower Oaks Lodge
12.0 km
Discover Clyde's Tower Oaks Lodge in Rockville for an unforgettable taste of classic American cuisine amidst rustic charm.
Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant- Rockville
12.5 km
Experience exceptional American cuisine and fine wines at Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant in Rockville—where every meal is a celebration.
Chef Tony's Fresh Seafood Restaurant
13.1 km
Experience the freshest seafood in Bethesda at Chef Tony's Fresh Seafood Restaurant—where quality meets flavor in every dish.
Bombay Bistro
13.2 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of India at Bombay Bistro in Rockville, offering authentic dishes for every palate, including vegan and vegetarian delights.
Nosh Grill House
13.3 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Asia at Nosh Grill House - where culinary creativity meets fun dining experiences in Rockville.
Cooper's Mill
13.4 km
Discover Cooper's Mill: A culinary haven in Bethesda offering exquisite American cuisine with fresh seafood delights.
Mykonos Grill
13.4 km
Discover authentic Greek flavors at Mykonos Grill in Rockville – where every dish tells a story from the Mediterranean.
Lilit Café Beer & Wine
13.4 km
Experience a unique blend of gluten-free delights and exceptional beverages at Lilit Café Beer & Wine in Bethesda's Woodmont Triangle.
Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse
13.4 km
Indulge in an authentic Brazilian dining experience at Fogo de Chão Steakhouse featuring endless grilled meats and vibrant flavors.
Om Indian Restaurant
13.4 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors at Om Indian Restaurant in Rockville; where tradition meets taste in every delightful dish.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Billy Goat Trail
2.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Billy Goat Trail, a premier hiking destination along the Potomac River, perfect for all adventure seekers.
Old Anglers Inn
2.9 km
Discover Old Anglers Inn, a historic dining destination offering exquisite American cuisine and stunning Potomac River views for an unforgettable experience.
Potomac French Market
5.1 km
Explore the charm of Potomac French Market, a treasure trove of unique gifts, antiques, and artistic creations in Potomac, Maryland.
Tysons Galleria
8.3 km
Discover high-end shopping, exquisite dining, and a vibrant atmosphere at Tysons Galleria in McLean, Virginia.
Cabin John Village
9.8 km
Experience the best of shopping and dining at Cabin John Village, a charming destination in Potomac, Maryland.
Occasions
9.9 km
Explore Occasions Gift Shop in Potomac, MD for unique gifts and local treasures that beautifully capture your visit.
White House Black Market
9.9 km
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Urban Outfitters
10.0 km
Discover the latest fashion, beauty, and home goods at Urban Outfitters in Bethesda's Montgomery Mall, your ultimate shopping destination.
francesca's
10.0 km
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Westfield Montgomery
10.0 km
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2 the 9s
10.0 km
Shop the latest trends at 2 the 9s, Bethesda's premier women's clothing boutique offering stylish and contemporary fashion choices.
Lillie and Eve
10.3 km
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On Cloud 9
11.1 km
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Georgetown Square
11.6 km
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Irresistibles
11.8 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Old Brogue Irish Pub
3.0 km
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Moby Dick House of Kabob
4.6 km
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Hunter’s Bar and Grill
4.8 km
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En Bistro & Sushi
4.9 km
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High Point Pub
8.1 km
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Wild Tomato
8.3 km
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Gregorio's Trattoria
10.0 km
Experience the essence of Italy at Gregorio's Trattoria, where every meal is a celebration of authentic flavors and warm hospitality.
The Grove
10.0 km
Experience the unique charm of The Grove in Potomac, Maryland, where delicious cuisine meets a stunning cherry blossom theme.
Velocity Wings - Potomac Falls
10.2 km
Experience the ultimate chicken wing adventure at Velocity Wings in Potomac Falls, where flavor meets sports in a vibrant atmosphere.
Darcy's Bar + Kitchen
10.6 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delicious offerings at Darcy's Bar + Kitchen, the perfect blend of bar and restaurant in Bethesda, MD.
Quincy’s Potomac Bar & Grille
11.1 km
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MoCo's Founding Farmers
11.2 km
Experience the essence of American cuisine at MoCo's Founding Farmers, where farm-fresh ingredients meet hearty flavors in a welcoming atmosphere.
Sports & Social Bethesda
13.4 km
Experience the best of sports, food, and fun at Sports & Social Bethesda, the ultimate sports bar destination in North Bethesda.
City Perch Kitchen + Bar
13.4 km
Discover exquisite New American cuisine and craft cocktails at City Perch Kitchen + Bar, a true culinary gem in North Bethesda, Maryland.
World of Beer
13.4 km
Experience a world of flavors at World of Beer, Rockville's go-to gastropub for craft beer and gourmet dining.
