Windmill Hill Park in Old Town, Alexandria, is conveniently located along the Mount Vernon Trail.

What's not to love about this Old Town park with its lovely view of the Potomac River and expansive space for picnics or to let your dog play fetch! It is common to see people lying on blankets and catching the sun on the park’s central lawn. There are also different picnic spots and a dog area. If you are looking for a spot to meet up with friends to play recreational sports, check out the various athletics courts, including a sand volleyball court!

Kids of all ages will enjoy Windmill Hill Park's offerings too. The sandbox is great, and the different age-appropriate play areas are separate but close. In the center, there is a rope climbing wall where kids can get some great exercise while mastering it, but stay close when the little ones are curious...they can handle it with some assistance and will pick it up quickly. Still, there is the potential for a painful tumble if you are not monitoring the situation closely.

Windmill Hill is also located along the Mount Vernon Trail, so break out your jogging stroller at nap time and wander south along the riverfront. As an alternative, head toward Old Town and grab a meal at Sweetgreen or Chadwicks. Follow up with ice cream at Pop's or create a well-rounded day by exploring Kate Waller Barrett Library in the neighborhood.

***Following a good snowfall, Windmill Hill is the neighborhood hotspot for sledding and it's a blast for adults and kids with different launching points for a variety of levels.