Dedicated to America's naturalist president, Theodore Roosevelt Island is an oasis of greenery and wildlife sitting in the middle of the Potomac River. A smaller landmark only accessible via a pedestrian bridge, Roosevelt island is a fun stop for anyone looking to inject a little bit of outdoors time into their city sightseeing trip.
Must see and do at Roosevelt Island
The pull of Roosevelt Island is that it's small enough to thoroughly explore in one morning or afternoon, but big enough to offer some compelling hikes. The best visit will combine a stopover on the island with trips to neighboring sights (such as Gravelly Point or Arlington National Cemetery). The island is also a great jumping-off point for numerous bike trails including the Mt. Vernon Trail, the Chesapeake & Ohio Towpath, and the Capital Crescent Trail. Access to most trails (except Mt. Vernon) is via Key Bridge.
Best and worst times to go to Roosevelt Island
Although Roosevelt Island is open year-round, you might want to avoid visiting during the winter, unless you happen to love the sight of bare trees in the snow. Conversely, the island (like much of D.C.) is not at it's most pleasant at the height of summer. Unless you are a fan of extreme humidity, try to avoid the island during the hotter times of the day (12-2) during the summer. If you do visit, make sure to bring plenty of water.
Admission to Roosevelt Island
Admission to the island is free. Visitors with limited mobility, or who are in need of any assistance or special accommodations are invited to call island rangers at 703-289-2553. Many times they can organize inclusive ranger-led programs that enable those with differing needs to enjoy the island.
Wildlife at Roosevelt Island
The biggest wildlife attraction at Roosevelt Island is the birds. Because of the varied ecosystems that exist in the park (forest, river, swamp) the island attracts a variety of feathered flyers. Avian enthusiasts will enjoy the chance to expand their life list while in the city. Less obsessed individuals still might enjoy ticking species off the free checklist provided by the park.
Insider tip for Roosevelt Island
The island is one of the VERY few sights in Washington, D.C. that has a free parking lot. The lot is small, but rarely fills (be careful during particularly nice weekends though). With Rosslyn Metro station a roughly ten-minute walk away, and several bike trails nearby, Roosevelt Island is a great place to stash the car for the day while you tour.
Margaret Sessa-Hawkins has been living in D.C. since she was born, with the exception of a few brief residential stints in Malawi, South Africa, and the UK. When not writing, she spends her time working on aerial acrobatics and fostering kittens, both of which are really fun facts to bring up at D.C. cocktail parties.