LBJ Memorial Grove on the Potomac
A serene riverside memorial grove offering peaceful reflection, natural beauty, and scenic views of the Potomac.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quieter atmosphere
LBJ Memorial Grove on the Potomac
Best Time
Quieter atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene riverside memorial grove offering peaceful reflection, natural beauty, and scenic views of the Potomac.
"Found it to be quite peaceful, surprisingly beautiful and very helpful with clearing my mind."
Free Parking Available
Park for free nearby, but steer clear of the Pentagon parking lot. :car:
Check Trail Conditions
Paths can be overgrown or blocked by fallen branches after storms. :evergreen_tree:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Riverside Views
Sweeping vistas of the Potomac River, Key Bridge, and Washington Monument. A serene backdrop for reflection.
Presidential Memorial
A granite statue honoring President Lyndon B. Johnson, set within a peaceful grove.
Nature and Wildlife
Explore a natural grove with pine trees, meadows, and abundant aquatic and land animals.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Peaceful Riverside Escape
Trail Conditions & Wildlife
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Parking Available
Park for free nearby, but steer clear of the Pentagon parking lot. :car:
Check Trail Conditions
Paths can be overgrown or blocked by fallen branches after storms. :evergreen_tree:
Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for various land and aquatic animals along the river. :duck:
Picnic Potential
Enjoy the grassy areas and scenic views for a peaceful picnic. :sandwich:
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Parking Available
Park for free nearby, but steer clear of the Pentagon parking lot. :car:
Check Trail Conditions
Paths can be overgrown or blocked by fallen branches after storms. :evergreen_tree:
Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for various land and aquatic animals along the river. :duck:
Picnic Potential
Enjoy the grassy areas and scenic views for a peaceful picnic. :sandwich:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the LBJ Memorial Grove a surprisingly peaceful and beautiful spot, offering a tranquil escape with lovely riverside views. While the walking trails can sometimes be affected by storm debris, the natural setting and wildlife make it a worthwhile visit for those seeking a quiet moment away from the city's intensity. It's a great free option for reflection and enjoying nature.
"Before today I had driven by this place many times and never really stopped and explored. I decided to come here on a whim and found it to be quite peaceful. Even with the usual Washington DC ambient noise. The water, the trees, the wildlife, all surprisingly beautiful and very helpful with clearing my mind in these frustrating times. I wholeheartedly recommend coming down here and looking around if you can find parking."
willku9000
"It had a short walking trail that led to the memorial and a loop around the area. There were many tree branches down, some blocking the path, from a storm from a week ago. Not as much hiking as I expected."
Sonja Amundson
"This grove is a lovely spot in what first seems to be a desolate field between the Pentagon and the Potomac River. The parking is free (but do not park in the Pentagon parking lot). The walk is slightly overgrown with vegetation, but it has a refreshing natural feel. The view across the Potomac opens up when you approach the granite statue. It also appears as though the park is open past dusk."
Kale
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The LBJ Memorial Grove is located along the George Washington Memorial Parkway. While specific public transport options are limited, driving is the most common method. Free parking is available nearby, but be sure to avoid the Pentagon parking lot.
Yes, there is free parking available near the grove. Just ensure you do not park in the Pentagon's designated parking areas.
The grove is accessible via the Mount Vernon Trail, making it a great destination for cyclists.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the LBJ Memorial Grove on the Potomac is free. It's an open public space.
The park appears to be open past dusk, offering opportunities for evening visits and enjoying the city lights across the river.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk along the trail, admire the granite statue of President Lyndon B. Johnson, and take in the scenic views of the Potomac River, Key Bridge, and Washington Monument. It's also a spot for wildlife viewing and picnicking.
The walking trail is described as slightly overgrown with vegetation and may have fallen branches blocking the path after storms, so it might not be fully accessible for all.
Yes, many people gather here to watch the July 4th fireworks display over the city.
One review mentioned boat rentals being available, suggesting it might be an option for enjoying the river.
The area is noted for abundant wildlife, including aquatic and land animals, making it a potential spot for birdwatching.
📸 📸 Photography
The sweeping views of the Potomac River, Key Bridge, and Washington Monument offer fantastic photographic opportunities, especially during sunrise or sunset. The granite statue itself also makes for a striking subject.
The riverside location provides excellent vantage points for capturing sunset over the Potomac, with the DC skyline as a backdrop.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the main walking trail might have occasional obstructions from fallen branches, it's generally manageable for families. The peaceful atmosphere is a great contrast to more crowded D.C. attractions, allowing for a more laid-back family outing. Just be mindful of the river's edge and supervise children closely.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
Reviews consistently mention the peaceful and mind-clearing qualities of the grove, even with the ambient city noise. It's a place to escape the hustle and bustle, enjoy a solitary walk, and appreciate the natural beauty and scenic views of the Potomac. The free admission and parking make it an accessible and low-cost option for a solo excursion.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Moment of Reflection by the Potomac
Despite its proximity to major landmarks, the grove maintains a natural feel. You'll find pine trees, grassy areas, and meadows, creating a habitat for various wildlife. Reviews often highlight the presence of both aquatic and land animals, making it an interesting place for nature enthusiasts. While the walking trail provides a loop around the area, it's worth noting that it can sometimes be affected by weather, with fallen branches occasionally obstructing the path. This adds to the untamed charm but means visitors should be prepared for a slightly rugged experience at times.
For those looking for a unique perspective on Washington D.C., the LBJ Memorial Grove is also known as a prime spot for watching the July 4th fireworks. The unobstructed views across the Potomac make it a popular, albeit crowded, destination on this particular evening. Beyond the holiday, the grove offers a tranquil setting for a leisurely stroll, a quiet picnic, or simply to sit and enjoy the calming presence of the river.
Navigating Your Visit: Parking and Trails
The walking trail within the grove is a key feature, offering a loop that allows exploration of the area. It's described as having a refreshing natural feel, with vegetation and trees contributing to the ambiance. However, travelers have noted that storm debris can sometimes impact the trail's condition, with branches occasionally blocking the path. While this doesn't typically deter visitors, it's advisable to wear appropriate footwear and be prepared for potentially uneven terrain. The trail provides access to the memorial and opens up to the stunning river views.
For those who prefer to arrive on two wheels, the grove is easily accessible via the Mount Vernon Trail. This popular cycling route runs along the Potomac, making the LBJ Memorial Grove a scenic and convenient stop for cyclists looking to enjoy the outdoors and a bit of history. The combination of accessible parking and trail networks makes it a welcoming destination for various modes of transport.
![Library of Congress (Jefferson Building) - Great Hall at the Library of Congress's Thomas Jefferson Building, Washington, D.C. Color transparency by Carol M. Highsmith, [between 1980 and 2006]. Library of Congress Prints & Photographs Division.
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Social
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