Lady Bird Johnson Park

Lady Bird Johnson earned many awards, including a Presidential Medal of Freedom for her work to transform the American landscape and preserve its natural beauty as a national treasure. In 1968 Columbia Island was renamed in her honor. Graceful plantings and picturesque views recall her conviction that beauty can make the world less grim and tense.

 

 

Things to Do

Landscape architects have acted subtly on most sections of the parkway, but their work in Lady Bird Johnson Park is a bit like the finale of a fireworks display. Thousands of daffodils and hundreds of tulips trumpet the arrival of each spring; careful compositions of bright hardwood trees highlight the best of fall foliage. Photography, picnicking, and quiet contemplation are ways to enjoy the show.

Two memorials are located inside Lady Bird Johnson Park: the Lyndon Baines Johnson Memorial Grove on the Potomac and the Navy and Marine Memorial.

To request a ranger program at Lady Bird Johnson Park call 703‑235-1530.

Hours & Seasons

The grounds at Lady Bird Johnson Park are open year-round from 6 am to 10 pm.

Directions

Lady Bird Johnson Park is on an island in the Potomac River near the Pentagon. While it is part of the District of Columbia, it is located much closer to the Virginia side of the river.

By Car

The entrance to Lady Bird Johnson Park can only be reached from the southbound lanes of the George Washington Memorial Parkway.

From the southbound lanes of the George Washington Memorial Parkway, follow the sign to the Columbia Island Marina to turn right to enter the parking lot.

From I 395 south (the 14th Street Bridge), take exit 10C and merge onto the George Washington Memorial Parkway north. Exit left toward US 50 west/Memorial Bridge/Arlington Cemetery. Exit Memorial Circle onto VA 27 south (Washington Boulevard). Exit left and merge onto the George Washington Memorial Parkway south. Follow the sign to the Columbia Island Marina to turn right to enter the parking lot.

Parking is available at the Columbia Island Marina. A paved multi-use trail leads from the parking lot, through a tunnel under the parkway, to the Potomac River side of the park.

On Foot or by Bicycle

The Mount Vernon Trail passes through the park. Follow signs on the trail to pass underneath the parkway at the Humpback Bridge and into the parking lot.

Facilities

Restrooms, water fountains, and trash cans are located in the parking lot near the Columbia Island Marina.

Meals and snacks are available at the Columbia Island Marina.

Rules and Regulations

Commercial activities and activities by organized groups, including commercial photography/filming and weddings, require a permit. For information about permits please call 703‑289‑2513.

For a complete list of rules, please read the Laws & Policies.