National Mall and Memorial Parks

The path to a cohesive, multi-use paved trail network in and around Washington, D.C., is long and complex but can be completed with the coordination and partnership of multiple parks, agencies, and governments, according to a report released this week by the National Park Service.

A visit to Washington, D.C., yields a glimpse into the nation’s history, much of it preserved by the National Park Service at the National Mall and Memorial Parks. Park lovers will have extra incentive to visit through next August, as the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History will honor the Park Service’s centennial with a new photography exhibit.

The final draft of the National Mall Historic District nomination for the National Register of Historic Places is now available for public review. The National Register is the official list of the nation’s historic places worthy of preservation, and the National Mall nomination provides basic information about the physical appearance and the significance embodied in the 110 historic buildings, structures, and sites located within the district.

The National Park Service will offer a number of special programs and services during the 2016 National Cherry Blossom Festival, including festival-related lantern walks, ranger talks, and tours around the Tidal Basin and National Mall. National Park Service festival events will be held through April 3 and are free of charge.