Glen Echo Park
Glen Echo Park began in 1891 as a National Chautauqua Assembly "to promote liberal and practical education." By 1911, it transformed into DC's premier amusement park until it closed in 1968. Since 1971, the National Park Service has owned and operated the site and today, with the help of the Glen Echo Park Partnership for Arts and Culture, offers year-round cultural and recreational activities.
By Car: Capital Beltway (I-495), Maryland outer loop exit 40 Cabin John Parkway to Clara Barton Parkway; Virginia inner loop exit 41 Clara Barton Parkway East; follow Clara Barton Parkway to MacArthur Boulevard and Glen Echo exit, left onto MacArthur Boulevard, straight across traffic circle at Goldsboro Road, next left onto Oxford Road, end of street, parking lots on the left. By Metro: Red Line to Bethesda or Friendship Heights Station, transfer to Montgomery County Ride-On Bus # 29, Glen Echo stop.
- Arts and Culture
- Craft Demonstrations
- Cultural Demonstrations
- Live Music
- Theater
- Guided Tours
- African American Heritage
- Music
- Social Movements
- Civil Rights
Busy Day outside Carousel
Glen Echo Park and the Dentzel Carousel are enjoyed by children and adults.
Dancing in the Bumper Car Pavilion
Evening Dance in the Bumper Car Pavilion
Labor Day Art Show in Spanish Ballroom
Visitors enjoy the Labor Day Art Show which highlights pieces created by students from the Glen Echo Park art programs.
Glen Echo Park Junior Rangers working on booklet.
Completing the Glen Echo Park Junior Ranger Booklet to earn the Junior Ranger Badge.
Glen Echo Picnic area
Glen Echo Park has a large picnic area with many tables, restrooms and a playground.