Nature Center and Planetarium Closure
The Nature Center and Planetarium building is closed until further notice due to continued remediation. Check the park's calendar for changes to ranger programs and locations.
Rock Creek Park
Alerts
Part of Fort Totten Park remains closed for public safety
Out of an abundance of caution, Fort Totten Park will remain closed east of Fort Totten Drive, south of Gallatin Street/Metropolitan Branch Trail and north of Brookland Ave NE/Farragut St. due to the investigation involving two WWI-era munitions found.
Partial Closure of Meridian Hill Park Upper-Level
The upper-level grass panels at Meridian Hill Park will be temporarily closed to the public from October 13 through November 9, 2026, to facilitate restoration work and protect public safety. Fencing and signage will mark the closure. The upper plaza, other portions of Meridian Hill Park, and nearby park areas will remain open to the public, though access to the turf areas will be restricted.
Temporary Closure of Rock Creek and Potomac Pkwy for Marine Corps Marathon
On Sunday, October 25 from 5 a.m. to 1 p.m. the Rock Creek and Potomac Parkway will be temporarily closed between Virginia Avenue and Shoreham Drive to accommodate the Marine Corps Marathon. Motorists should plan accordingly and use alternate routes during the closure.
Waterside Drive NW Road Closure Temporarily Delayed
The planned roadway closure has been temporarily postponed after crews discovered a large early‑1900s utility line during preliminary excavation. The construction team is evaluating the line to determine necessary steps before work can safely proceed. This precaution will help minimize disruptions and avoid unnecessarily extending the roadway closure. We will share an update as soon as more information is available.
Operating hours
Rock Creek Park lands
Unless otherwise designated, all park land is open sunrise to sunset. Roads are open 24 hours unless posted otherwise.