Central Park McLean
A vibrant community park featuring a new playground, peaceful wooded trails, and lively summer concerts and art festivals.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Free concerts and lively vibes
Central Park McLean
Best Time
Free concerts and lively vibes
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant community park featuring a new playground, peaceful wooded trails, and lively summer concerts and art festivals.
"Best park in the center of McLean. Kids enjoy the playground."
🎯 Playground Parking Hack
Use Dolley Madison Library address for main parking, or Ingleside Ave for handicapped spots.
🧺 Picnic for Concerts
Bring a blanket and snacks for the free Thursday summer concerts – it's a perfect family outing!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
New Playground Paradise
Near Dolley Madison Library
A recently upgraded playground with modern equipment, perfect for kids to explore and burn energy.
Wooded Walking Trails
Throughout the park
Enjoy peaceful strolls through beautiful trees, listening to the sounds of nature and birds.
Alden Summer Concerts
Gazebo area
Free live music every Thursday evening, creating a lively and family-friendly atmosphere.
MPAartfest
Central Park grounds
An annual art festival in early October showcasing local artists and transforming the park into an outdoor gallery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Playground Perks & Parking Pointers
+1Concert Series & Artful Events
It also transforms into a vibrant art festival space in early October. Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Playground Parking Hack
Use Dolley Madison Library address for main parking, or Ingleside Ave for handicapped spots.
🧺 Picnic for Concerts
Bring a blanket and snacks for the free Thursday summer concerts – it's a perfect family outing!
👟 Trail Shoes Recommended
Some wooded trails can get narrow and a bit challenging, so wear comfortable walking shoes.
🎶 Check Concert Lineup
The Alden Theatre website lists performers for the summer concert series.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Playground Parking Hack
Use Dolley Madison Library address for main parking, or Ingleside Ave for handicapped spots.
🧺 Picnic for Concerts
Bring a blanket and snacks for the free Thursday summer concerts – it's a perfect family outing!
👟 Trail Shoes Recommended
Some wooded trails can get narrow and a bit challenging, so wear comfortable walking shoes.
🎶 Check Concert Lineup
The Alden Theatre website lists performers for the summer concert series.
🎨 Art Fest Info
MPAartfest is typically the first Sunday in October. Check their website for exact dates.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors love the newly renovated playground and the peaceful wooded trails, making it a great spot for families and nature lovers alike. The park also shines during its summer concert series and the annual art festival, though some reviews mention past project delays and tree removal concerns.
"In the middle of the town you can have a good 'forest' trail. Beautiful trees. Full of birds. You are invited to walk."
Maitreya Maitreyan
"Beautiful park, the trail is gorgeous but it gets really narrow and difficult at some points. Going towards great falls the whole way there is water view. Bathroom always clean. There is a nice and small gift shop. There is a boat ramp as well."
Zara Khoshnaw
"Closed all spring summer and fall. This appears to be a lesson on how not to run a project
March 15 update: They are now cutting down around a dozen mature trees. This is shameful"
Mike Sz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
McLean Central Park is located at 1468 Dolley Madison Blvd, McLean, VA 22101. For parking, it's recommended to use the address for the Dolley Madison Library (1244 Oak Ridge Ave.) or the specific handicapped lot address (1312 Ingleside Ave.).
Yes, parking is available. The main lot is accessible via the Dolley Madison Library address, and there's a separate handicapped lot.
Depending on your starting point in McLean, walking might be an option. The park is centrally located within the town.
Using GPS with the Dolley Madison Library address is often the most accurate way to navigate to the main parking area for the playground.
Information on public transport accessibility is limited, but it's advisable to check local Fairfax County transit schedules for routes serving the McLean area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
McLean Central Park is a public park and generally free to enter. There are no admission fees for general park access.
No, the Alden Summer Concerts held at McLean Central Park are free and open to the public.
MPAartfest is typically a free event for attendees, though artists will be selling their work.
Park hours are generally from dawn to dusk, but specific facility hours (like restrooms) may vary. Event times are clearly advertised.
Information on reserving specific areas like the gazebo or picnic spots is not readily available online; it's best to contact local park authorities for details.
🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience
The park features a new playground, wooded walking trails, a gazebo for concerts, and tennis courts. +1
The new playground is designed to be engaging for a range of ages, with modern equipment for children to enjoy.
Yes, the park offers wooded trails that are great for quiet walks and enjoying nature. Some can be narrow.
Amenities include restrooms (reported as clean), a gift shop, and a boat ramp.
Yes, McLean Central Park features a disc golf course for enthusiasts.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dedicated food vendors within the park itself, but there is a small gift shop.
Absolutely! Bringing a picnic is highly encouraged, especially for the summer concerts.
Being in the center of McLean, there are numerous restaurants and cafes within a short driving distance.
A small gift shop is mentioned as being available, which might offer some snacks.
While not explicitly detailed, picnic tables are common in parks of this size and are ideal for enjoying meals.
📸 📸 Photography
The new playground offers colorful backdrops, while the wooded trails provide natural beauty. The gazebo is also a picturesque spot, especially during concerts.
Yes, the park is full of beautiful trees and birds, making it a great location for nature photography.
Generally, personal photography is allowed during events, but professional photography might require permits. Always check event guidelines.
No specific restrictions are mentioned for personal photography, but always be mindful of other visitors' privacy.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light, ideal for capturing the park's natural beauty without harsh shadows.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 This modern play area is designed for fun and safety, ensuring kids have a blast. Parking is made easy with clear directions to the main lot via the Dolley Madison Library address. +1Beyond the playground, the park offers gentle wooded trails perfect for short, exploratory walks with little ones.
It’s a well-rounded destination that caters to active play and relaxed enjoyment for all ages.🚶♀️ Nature Walkers & Peace Seekers
While the trails are generally serene, be aware that some can be narrow.
🎨 Art & Music Enthusiasts
+1In early October, the park transforms for MPAartfest, a vibrant art festival that showcases local artists and their creations.
This event turns the park into an outdoor gallery, offering a fantastic opportunity to discover and purchase unique artwork. Both events are free to attend, making them accessible and enjoyable experiences for all.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Revitalized Playground Experience
+1 The playground area is conveniently located, with specific parking instructions available to make your visit smoother. It's a vibrant space where children can climb, slide, and play, making it a highlight for any family visiting the park. Parents often praise the playground's design and safety features. The surrounding area is well-maintained, offering a pleasant environment for both kids and supervising adults. It's a testament to community effort, transforming a beloved local spot into an even better destination for recreation.
Tips for Playground Visits
* Parking: Utilize the Dolley Madison Library address for the primary parking lot.
* Timing: Weekday mornings tend to be less crowded, offering more space for children to play freely.
* Essentials: Bring water and snacks, as you might spend a good amount of time enjoying the new facilities.
Embracing Nature: Trails and Wildlife
While the trails are generally well-maintained, some sections can become narrow and a bit more challenging, so wearing comfortable footwear is recommended.
Trail Etiquette & Enjoyment
* Footwear: Opt for sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots for comfort on the trails.
* Respect Wildlife: Observe birds and other small creatures from a distance and avoid disturbing their habitats.
* Leave No Trace: Pack out everything you pack in to help preserve the park's natural beauty.
Summer Concerts and Artful Gatherings
These events are a fantastic opportunity for the community to gather, relax, and enjoy diverse musical performances in a family-friendly setting. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets and picnic baskets, transforming the park into a vibrant outdoor venue. Beyond the summer concerts, the park also hosts the annual MPAartfest in early October. This popular event transforms Central Park into a lively landscape filled with mini art galleries, showcasing the talent of local artists.
It's a wonderful occasion to appreciate art, support creators, and experience the park in a festive atmosphere. Event Tips
* Concert Seating: Arrive early to secure a good spot on the lawn for the summer concerts.
* Art Festival: Explore the various art booths and consider purchasing a unique piece.
* Check Schedules: Always verify the latest event dates and times on The Alden Theatre or MPAartfest websites.
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Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit