traveldk.com

From Van Ness Street to the Potomac River, this 3-mile (5-km) trail in the northwest of the city passes beneath 200-year-old trees that host an abundance of birds, in keeping with its designation as a bird sanctuary in 1924. The trail hooks up with the C&O Canal towpath, and other routes.

There are over 100 golf courses in the vicinity. The famed Congressional Country Club private course in Bethesda is one of the most historic in the world. The East Potomac Park course is public, as is the Rock Creek Park Golf Course. Langston Golf Course was among the first African-American courses in the US.

The 4-mile (7-km) Western Ridge Trail and the 5-mile (8-km) Valley Trail, both in Rock Creek Park, are scenic and gentle. The 11.5-mile (18.5-km) Capital Crescent Trail follows the old B&O Railroad route through Georgetown north to Bethesda. Trail information is available at www.washdc.org/trail.html.

The Rock Creek Park Horse Center provides scheduled trail rides and riding lessons for all levels. No experience is necessary for the guided rides, and the center provides the required helmet and other necessary equipment.

Rock Creek Park has been named one of the top 10 sites in the nation for in-line skating, but most bike trails allow skaters as well. The Ski Chalet rents skates and protective gear.

Volleyball, dodge ball, rugby, softball, team Frisbee, and even polo are played on various fields at the western end of the Mall.

The 14-acre Aquatic Gardens began as a hobby for W.B. Shaw in 1882, then became a commercial water garden, where Shaw and his daughter developed many varieties of water lilies. Now a national park, the gardens are home to water lilies and lotuses, plus many varieties of birds, frogs, turtles, and butterflies. Adjacent is Kenilworth Park, with acres of recreational areas and tended meadows.

The spectacle and tradition at these games is unmatched. Schedule and ticket info: 800-US4-NAVY or 410-293-2700.