Bladensburg MarylandATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Bladensburg, Maryland.
1. Bladensburg Waterfront Park
SCENIC RIVERFRONT RECREATION
Bladensburg Waterfront Park is located on the scenic Anacostia River, one of the most historic waterways in America. The park offers diverse activities including boat tours, hiking trails, bike rides, and paddle events suitable for all ages. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful setting with trails along the river, boat rentals, and guided historical tours, making it a perfect weekend destination.
2. Peace Cross
HISTORIC WAR MEMORIAL
Peace Cross is a significant monument and statue in Bladensburg honoring those who served in World War I. The memorial stands as a testament to the sacrifice of local soldiers and has been a landmark in the community for generations. Its historical significance extends beyond Bladensburg, making it an important site for history enthusiasts and those paying respects.
3. Go-Kart Track
THRILLING RACING EXPERIENCE
The Go-Kart Track in Bladensburg offers an exciting auto racing experience for visitors of all ages. The facility is known for its diligence to safety and attentiveness to what happens on the course, ensuring a fun yet secure environment. Racing enthusiasts can enjoy the thrill of competition while families can bond over shared excitement on the tracks.
4. Mexico Lindo Restaurant
AUTHENTIC MEXICAN CUISINE
Mexico Lindo Restaurant serves as both a dining establishment and social venue in Bladensburg, offering authentic Mexican cuisine. The restaurant provides a vibrant atmosphere where patrons can enjoy traditional dishes and cultural experiences. Its designation as a bar and club suggests it also offers evening entertainment and a lively social scene for visitors.
5. Riversdale House Museum
HISTORIC COLONIAL MANSION
Riversdale House Museum is a beautifully preserved historic mansion located just a few miles from Bladensburg. The estate offers visitors a glimpse into Maryland's colonial past through its meticulously maintained rooms and gardens. History enthusiasts appreciate this hidden gem for its authentic representation of early Maryland life and architecture.
6. Prince George's Sports & Learning Complex
MODERN FITNESS FACILITY
Prince George's Sports & Learning Complex is a state-of-the-art facility near Bladensburg offering a comprehensive range of athletic activities. Visitors can access fitness centers, swimming pools, and track events all within one convenient location. The complex caters to all fitness levels, from professional athletes to beginners just starting their fitness journey.
7. Battle of Bladensburg Site
WAR OF 1812 LANDMARK
The Battle of Bladensburg Site commemorates an important conflict during the War of 1812 that took place in Bladensburg. This historic battlefield offers visitors insights into a pivotal moment in American history when British forces defeated American troops before marching on to Washington D.C. The site includes interpretive displays that help visitors understand the significance of this battle in shaping the nation's capital region.
8. U.S. Capitol
ICONIC NATIONAL MONUMENT
The U.S. Capitol is an impressive government building and national symbol located a short distance from Bladensburg. Visitors can explore the underground visitor center and admire the architectural grandeur of this iconic structure. Its proximity to other important institutions such as the National Library and the Supreme Court makes it an essential destination for those interested in American governance and history.
9. Rock Creek Park
URBAN NATURAL OASIS
Rock Creek Park offers a natural escape just a short drive from Bladensburg, spanning over 1,754 acres of diverse landscapes. The park features miles of hiking and cycling trails, picnic areas, and historic sites like Peirce Mill. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy the contrast between urban Washington and this verdant woodland setting that provides habitat for numerous wildlife species.
10. National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden
OUTDOOR ART EXHIBITION
The National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden is a 6-acre outdoor museum space featuring both manmade art and natural beauty. Visitors can wander among impressive sculptures while enjoying the meticulously landscaped grounds near the National Mall. The garden provides a perfect blend of culture and natural space, offering a refreshing artistic experience in the open air.
11. Peirce Mill
HISTORIC WATER-POWERED MILL
Peirce Mill, built in 1829 by Isaac Peirce on Rock Creek, is a historic structure that once used water power to process grains. The mill processed corn, wheat, and rye until its turbine shaft broke, offering visitors today a glimpse into 19th-century agricultural processing. This well-preserved site serves as an educational resource about early American industry and engineering.
12. National Air and Space Museum
AVIATION HISTORY SHOWCASE
The National Air and Space Museum houses an extraordinary collection of aircraft, spacecraft, missiles, rockets, and flight-related artifacts near Bladensburg. Visitors can explore the evolution of flight from early aviation to space exploration through interactive exhibits and historic vehicles. The museum's comprehensive displays make complex aerospace concepts accessible to audiences of all ages and knowledge levels.
13. Anacostia River Trail
SCENIC WATERSIDE PATH
The Anacostia River Trail connects Bladensburg Waterfront Park to a network of hiker/biker trails along one of America's most historic waterways. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy miles of paved pathways perfect for walking, running, or cycling with scenic river views. The trail system provides access to multiple parks and green spaces while showcasing the natural beauty of the Anacostia watershed.
14. Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens
LOTUS AND WATER LILIES
Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens is a unique national park site featuring numerous ponds filled with water lilies and lotus flowers near Bladensburg. The gardens burst with stunning blooms during summer months, creating an otherworldly landscape of floating flowers and aquatic plants. Visitors can stroll along paths between the ponds and observe diverse wildlife including herons, turtles, and frogs in this urban wetland sanctuary.
15. National Arboretum
DIVERSE BOTANICAL COLLECTION
The National Arboretum spans 446 acres and showcases an impressive collection of plants, trees, and gardens a short drive from Bladensburg. Highlights include the iconic National Capitol Columns, extensive azalea collections, and the National Bonsai & Penjing Museum. The arboretum combines scientific research with public education while providing a peaceful retreat featuring diverse botanical specimens from around the world.