Photo of series of waterfalls in Meridian Hill Park in northwest Washington D.C.  This park is an example of neoclassicist park design and has some of the most beautiful architecture in the city.
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Architecture, Famous Place, Fountain, Park, Steps, Stone, Washington DC, Waterfall, neoclassicist

© Coast-to-Coast / Getty Images


This is an incredible bit of urban green space. The grounds are terraced like a hanging garden replete with waterfalls, sandstone terraces and assorted embellishments that feel almost Tuscan. The prettiest bits reside in the park's south end, including DC's only memorial to James Buchanan (the USA's 15th president). Many locals still call this Malcolm X Park from its days of hosting political rallies. The Sunday drum circle (from 3pm to 9pm) has been going on since the 1960s.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Silent George Mural

0.19 MILES

This mural of George Washington with a gag over his mouth symbolizes DC's lack of representation in Congress. It was painted by Aniekan Udofia in 2011.

2. District of Columbia Arts Center

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The grassroots DCAC offers emerging artists a space to showcase their work. The 800-sq-ft gallery features rotating visual-arts exhibits, while plays,…

3. Scottish Rite Temple

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The regional headquarters of the Scottish Rite Freemasons, also known as the House of the Temple, is one of the most eye-catching buildings in the…

4. Mexican Cultural Institute

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The Mexican Cultural Institute looks locked up and imposing, but don't be deterred. The gilded beaux-arts mansion is open to the public and hosts…

6. African American Civil War Memorial

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Standing at the center of a granite plaza, this bronze memorial, Spirit of Freedom, depicting rifle-bearing troops is DC’s first major art piece by black…

7. African American Civil War Museum

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Set in an old schoolhouse behind the African American Civil War Memorial, the museum makes the point that for some, the Civil War was about secession…

8. Foundry Gallery

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A nonprofit member-run organization, this small gallery features a diverse range of super-contemporary art – mediums include painting, sculpture and…