Washington DC is an amazing city; ask any Hoya and they’ll agree! But sometimes, we all need a break from the hustle of everyday life on the Hilltop. You don’t need to travel far to find some refreshing getaways right here in DC.
1. Roosevelt Island & Potomac River
You can recognize Roosevelt Island as that tuft of trees in the middle of the Potomac River across from the Waterfront. Once you enter that tuft of trees, however, you would never know that our Nation’s Capital sits on the other side of the river. The island is full of running, hiking, and biking trails as well as beautiful views of the city. Personally, taking a kayak to the island and parking it on the shore is my favorite way to get there and lets you really explore.
4. The US Botanical Garden
Who doesn’t love colorful & exotic flowers? The United States Botanical Garden is hidden right behind the Capitol. The first room is filled with flowers of every color, complete with alcoves and benches on which to sit and enjoy the smells and views. Every room of the greenhouse introduces a different environment, so it really does feel like you’re out of the city, and even the country.
3. Archibald-Glover Park
This one is even closer to the Hilltop! Archibald-Glover Park is just north of Reservoir Road, and is an escape from the moment you step off the sidewalk onto the dirt trail. The sounds of the city fade into the background and are replaced by birds chirping and wind blowing through the trees. This park is especially beautiful in the fall, when the leaves are changing colors.
4. Snow in D.C.
Okay so this one is a bit of a cheat. But there is nothing like the silence of snow to escape the clamor of DC. This year we were lucky enough to get feet of snow on the Hilltop, and let me tell you, it was pure magic! Streets that are normally loud and busy became empty and silent. I couldn’t help but wander campus day and night admiring the blanket of snow, which created a real-life winter wonderland.
5. National Arboretum
This one has to take the cake. It may be a little farther from campus, but across DC lies the best escape a Hoya could ask for. The National Arboretum is divided into multiple sections with different trees, flowers, and museums. Just grab some food to go from Dean & Deluca and take the Metro to the National Arboretum for a picnic you won’t forget. And don’t forget to check out the Capital Columns for a mix of nature and history.
These may be the five best ways to escape the city as far as I’m concerned, but they aren’t the only ways. DC is a pretty amazing place, and us Hoyas are lucky to call it home.