Around DC: Heritage Trails

Written By Hannah Powell

Want to learn more about the history of DC's neighborhoods? As the weather warms up, take advantage of the DC Neighborhood Heritage Trails located around the city. Sponsored by Cultural Tourism DC, the heritage trails take visitors and residents alike past the traditional stories of Presidents, Congress and government office buildings and tell the stories of the many people who make DC a great place to visit, work and live.

Some of our favorites:

  • Learn about the downtown church that was used as a hospital during the Civil War

  • Imagine yourself at Deanwood's Suburban Gardens, the first (and only) amusement park located within DC, and read more about DC's history of racial segregation

  • Stop by the birthplace of John Philip Sousa, the composer of "Stars and Stripes Forever" on Capitol Hill

  • Linger around the grounds of Fort Stevens, the Brightwood neighborhood's Civil War fort

And when you get home from your heritage trail walk, make sure to check out local artist Dana Ellyn's Heritage Trail paintings. Ellyn's bright colors and imaginative scenes give a beautiful visual representation of the momentous people and occasions that are an important part of the history of the city we love.

Hannah Powell http://www.districtroots.com
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