Glen Echo Park

"Very nice ambience though the structures look quite old. Some of them may need some maintenance. History of the park is fascinating and is well organized in presentation for visitors. Periodic events at the park provide excellent recreation and entertainment opportunities for the whole family."

"The community is very, very fortunate that this park / land was saved from being turned into a housing development. Once the amusement park closed in the late 1960's, the park lay dormant for many, many years. The fact that we have the Ballroom, built in the 1930's, still operating as a place for dancing is amazing - though it would be nice to have SOME HVAC for the ballroom. The 'back ballroom' (about 1/4 the size of the Ballroom) DOES have HVAC. While the Bumper Car place is used for events (no bumper cars), the Building looks as it did in the 1930's. Of course, the roller coaster, pool, and midway are long gone. It took an active group of citizens to save the carousel (also original from the 19030's). Most artists work out of yurts, adding a bit of whimsey. Often, you can see the artists at work; often this art is for sale. I am NOT a fan of the Aquarium, as it CHARGES to access the grounds; to me, ALL outdoor space at Glen Echo Park should be open to the public. The puppet theatre puts on shows for kids. Classes across many different genres are offered in the park. Weekends, the Praline snack bar is open, carrying wine, beer, snacks."

"I had read about this place but never gone until now. It's like going back in time! Like time stood still. You have to check this place out. It's a hidden gem of history! Make the stop! They scenery driving there was beautiful."

"Fantastic NPS site that used to be a theme park. NPS conserved it and now there is a small aquarium, dance groups, and different types of artisans, as well as a bakery. So with the artisans and the dance groups - you can actually take classes, and in the case of the different artisans, you can also buy their expertly made wares. This place was also known as one of the famous Chataquas - bastions of liberal thought and education. It was also the site of some major civil rights desegregation activity in the early 60s. Tons of history and cultural learning are here at your fingertips in a venue that has significant historical and cultural meaning - it’s awesome - definitely check this out! Check their website first (nps)and learn what is going on and the programs you can get involved in before you venture out to get the most out of this enriching experience."

"This is the perfect little park with a merry-go-round, playground, glass blowing studios, pretty gardens and woodland trails. Looks like they put on theatre productions and other functions in a ballroom dancing building. Plenty of parking in a lot across the stream. Walk through the woods on the paved pathway to all the buildings & play areas."