Explore the Rich Heritage of the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park
Experience the scenic beauty and historical significance of the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts.
Discover the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park, a stunning tribute to America's industrial past, offering scenic views, trails, and historical insights. Perfect for nature lovers and history buffs alike.
A brief summary to Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park
- Washington, Northwest Washington, District of Columbia, 20016, US
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-10 pm
- Thursday 6 am-10 pm
- Friday 6 am-10 pm
- Saturday 6 am-10 pm
- Sunday 6 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Bring a bike to explore the extensive towpath and cover more ground.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy along the scenic riverbanks.
- Check the park's website for special events and ranger-led programs.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the trails can be uneven and rustic.
Getting There
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Car
To reach the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park by car, start from downtown Washington, DC. Head northwest on 14th St NW toward Pennsylvania Ave NW. Merge onto I-66 W via the ramp to US-50/I-495. Take exit 73 for George Washington Parkway toward the C&O Canal. Continue on the George Washington Parkway, and follow signs for the C&O Canal. The park has multiple access points, but one of the most popular is at Great Falls, where you can find parking. Note that parking may incur a fee of around $10 for the day.
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Public Transportation
To reach the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park using public transportation, take the Washington Metro to the Foggy Bottom-GWU station on the Blue, Orange, or Silver lines. From there, transfer to the Metrobus G2 or G9 at the Foggy Bottom Metro station heading towards the Bethesda area. Get off at the ‘C&O Canal’ stop, which is near one of the park entrances. Be sure to check the WMATA website for the latest bus schedules, as they can vary. The bus fare is typically around $2.00.
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Biking
If you're feeling adventurous and would like to bike to the park, you can use the Capital Crescent Trail. Start from downtown Washington, DC, and follow the trail northwest. The trail connects to the C&O Canal Towpath, which runs alongside the canal. This route is approximately 11 miles long and features scenic views along the way. Make sure to wear a helmet and follow local biking regulations. No extra costs apply unless you need to rent a bike, which can range from $30-$50 per day.
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Walking
For those who are already in the vicinity of the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park, walking is a great option. If you're near Georgetown, you can walk along the C&O Canal Towpath directly into the park. This scenic walk provides beautiful views and historical insights along the way. Simply follow the canal path, which is well-maintained and marked. There are no costs associated with walking, making it a budget-friendly way to explore.
Discover more about Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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3051 M St NW
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Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Lock 4
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Chesapeake And Ohio Canal Historical Park In Georgetown
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Unmissable attractions to see
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The Kreeger Museum
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Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park’s Towpath
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Lee Heights Shops
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