The purpose of Theodore Roosevelt Island Park is to maintain the area in its original natural beauty, featuring only indigenous plants and trees. This wasn’t always the case, as the island had begun to have foreign species introduced before the National Parks Service acquired it. Visit the Theodore Roosevelt Island Park and walk along about 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) of mostly flat gravel paths and raised walkways over wetlands to discover an area that’s a fitting memorial to this highly respected president.
Theodore Roosevelt’s conservational principles are mirrored in the park. Until the 1930s, the island lying in the Potomac River was then known as Mason’s Island and was mostly overgrown farmland. The Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Association purchased the land and transferred it to the government for the purpose of making it a memorial park. Join a staff-led guided tour on a weekend so you can fully appreciate the area. Look for the 17-foot (5.2-meter) bronze statue of the president, along with a number of information panels.
Park for free on the southern side of the river and walk across a pedestrian bridge to the island or rent a kayak and cross the river. Deer reside in the park so don’t be surprised if one wanders across your path.
The island has three main paths you may want to wear hiking shoes, as portions can get muddy after rain. Views of Washington, D.C. from the island are spectacular both day and night.
Across the river from the eastern shore of the island is Georgetown. On this side of the Potomac you may want to visit the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument. Arlington National Cemetery and the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial are to the west. Get to Theodore Roosevelt Island Park by parking off the George Washington Memorial Parkway or take the Metro to Rosslyn station. Time spent on the island is a peaceful retreat from the bustling city just a short distance away.
