Don't miss the Anacostia Riverwalk Playground when taking a run or bike ride along the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail.

One of the best lesser-known playgrounds East of the River is the Anacostia Riverwalk Playground within a large park in a neighborhood called River Terrace. When you go, there are two places you can park for free. The first is free street parking along Anacostia Avenue NE bordering the park. The other option is parking at the large lot outside the Anacostia Skating Pavilion, the only outdoor skating rink in the city, just south of the playground. If you park there, walk along the well-paved Anacostia Riverwalk Trail north to the playground. It's about a fifteen-minute walk. 

The Anacostia Riverwalk Playground is just past East Capitol Street NE. It's by several trees providing shade. The playground itself has a swing set and a playground set with seven slides, making it a wonderland for any child. The playground is kept clean and you're bound to meet locals while visiting. It's a friendly neighborhood! 

Once you're done at the playground, walk along the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail along the Anacostia River spotting wildlife in and along the river. Just north of the playground are a recreation center, courts, public art and manholes painted with murals of turtles, fish, birds and other wildlife found in the area. Take the trail past Benning Road NE to watch the Metro whiz over the Anacostia River.

Along Benning is a corner store with water and snacks. If you're adventurous, continue down Benning Road NE to 3621 Benning Rd NE to see one of the city's oldest murals along the highway. 

The park doesn't have restrooms so make sure you use them before you visit.