Sports and Recreation Tour: East and West Potomac Parks: The East and West Potomac Parks are iconic green spaces for sports and recreation in DC.

The East and West Potomac Parks are iconic green spaces for sports and recreation in DC. Many tourists also visit these parks, due to their proximity to the National Mall. East Potomac Park is the home of Hains Point, which is an artificial island created from the dredging of the Potomac River. The park was established in 1912 and shortly thereafter baseball diamonds and horseback riding paths were added. Throughout the 20th century, the park continued to grow, with the addition of tennis courts, baseball and football fields, and a swimming pool. The artificial island is most notable for the East Potomac Golf Links. Founded in 1931, it is the oldest miniature golf course in the United States that is still in use. This park is, however, at risk due to climate change and an increase in flooding in the area. 

West Potomac Park is located adjacent to the National Mall, extending south past the Lincoln Memorial, and includes the world famous Tidal Basin. Cyclists, walkers, and runners can often be spotted on its paths, especially during the spring when the cherry blossom trees are in full bloom. Other recreational activities in the park include the swan and paddle boats on the Tidal Basin, as well as fishing. West Potomac Park is also home of the West Potomac Rugby Club and many of the athletic activities associated with the Volo Sports League, a foundation that runs free, recreational sporting events.

This site is a stop on the Sports and Recreation in DC tour. These parks are historically designated and more information can be found here: East and West Potomac Parks Historic District.