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Meridian Hill Park
Historical Landmark in Washington, District of Columbia
Meridian Hill Park
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1550 W St., N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20009
202-661-7581
Good-for-Kids Rating
BabiesToddlers & Pre-KSchool-Age KidsPre-Teens & Teens
Meridian Hill Park Description
There's no need to cross the Atlantic next time you're looking for a European park. Just head over to Meridian Hill Park (unofficially called Malcolm X Park), which, completed in 1936, was modeled on the grand parks of Europe. At the top of the 12 acres are two long, grassy fields bordered by a concrete path. Kids love to run around this wide open space, dodging frisbee and soccer players. Dogs abound, as do joggers and bicyclists. On summer Sunday afternoons, drummers gather for a longstanding tradition of jamming and dancing. Sometimes a tightrope walker is there, too. There's also a stage, a terrace overlook, and a bronze statue of Joan of Arc — the only equestrian statue of a woman in D.C., and one of four statues in the park. Leading to the lower level is a stunning cascading fountain, flanked by two staircases with a series of bowls, each overflowing to the next and ending at a large reflecting pool. Be sure to check out our other U Street vacation ideas.
Historical Landmark
Park
Kid Tips
Toddlers & Pre-K: Young kids will love the wide open spaces for running around.
School-Age Kids: Older children will love the cascading fountain.
Planning Notes
- Time your trip.The best time to go is on the weekend during the warm weather when the fountain is turned on. This park has no playground.
- From Downtown D.C. (National Mall) Go north on 14th Street, turn left onto M St. go two blocks and turn right onto 16th Street. At W Street turn right, go one block and turn left onto 15th Street. There is a small off street parking lot on the left of 15th.
- From Maryland Take 16th Street south to Euclid Street and turn left. Turn right onto 15th Street. There is a small off street parking lot on the right of 15th Street.
Just the Facts
Hours: This park is open during daylight hours.
Fees: Free.
Recommended Time: 1 - 2 hours
