• Great Falls of the Potomac in summer

    Great Falls

    Park Virginia

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  • Trash Free Park

    Great Falls Park is now a trash free park. Trash cans have been removed. Please come prepared to carry your trash out with you. More »

  • River Safety

    Learn more about how to stay safe around the Potomac. Please remember swimming and wading are strictly prohibited. More »

Indoor Activities

The Visitor Center is open from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. daily. Stop by for trail maps, brochures, and information.

The museum, slide show, and children's room are located in the Visitor Center. Throughout the year, programs may be offered in the auditorium. Contact the park for more information, or view the Calendar of Events online to see this month's programs.

Videos:
Shown on request. Ask at the visitor center desk.

The History of Great Falls

This presentation introduces you to approximately 11,000 years of history here at Great Falls Park. The video is approximately eight minutes long.

George Washington

This fifteen minute movie covers the history of the Patowmack Canal and how George Washington's interest in the Potomac helped to shape the United States.


Children's Room

Games and puzzles are available here. The highlight of the room is the please-touch table, where children can explore items they may encounter in the park.

The Junior Ranger program is a great way for kids to explore the park, while earning their own Junior Ranger badge. This program is designed for children ages 5 and up. Two books are available at the Visitor Center desk.

Did You Know?

Ice in the Potomac and Falls

Water temperatures in the Potomac can drop to freezing and ice will form along the banks. However, the water is moving too quickly through the Great Falls to completely freeze over.