Taking in the view at Gravelly Point Park. Photo by Logan Botts/The Connection
Located just along the George Washington Memorial Highway, lies a local gem. Gravelly Point is a destination for cyclists, picnickers, sightseers and boaters. Adjacent to Reagan National’s north runway, Gravelly Point is a great place to watch airplanes and enjoy a day in the sun.
Gravelly Point was the location of the Abingdon estate, which was at one point the residence of John Parke Custis and his daughter Nelly, the stepson and granddaughter of George Washington. The home itself was destroyed by fire in the 1930s, though the stabilized remains have been preserved and commemorated. Today’s visitors can enjoy the same views and landscapes that made the land along the Potomac River such coveted real estate for members of the Washington family.
The Gray family from Waldorf, Md. brought their grandson to Gravelly Point because he loves to see the airplanes and Gravelly Point’s location at the end of the runway is the perfect place to watch them go by. A mother daughter duo from Maryland was in the shade watching planes fly by overhead. The two recommend Gravelly Point to other families looking to have a great time in the outdoors.
If planning to visit Gravelly Point be sure to pack sunscreen and bug spray, chairs and/or a picnic blanket, Frisbee, kite, bike, ball, and snacks and food.
Gravelly Point is a public park within the National Park Service. It offers free parking, trail access and is open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.