George Washington Memorial Parkway was originally designed as a gateway to our nation's capital in Washington, D.C., and still serves as a living memorial to President George Washington. It runs for 25 miles in Virginia from Mount Vernon along the Potomac River to the Washington Beltway. It also runs 16 miles in Maryland, northwest of Washington, D.C.

Approximately 7,600 acres comprise the surrounding property, featuring various parks and wildlife habitats with nearby historic sites. The road also runs through the charming colonial town of Alexandria.

Entrances to the Parkway: Accessible from all major travel routes from south of Washington, D.C., including I-495, I-95 and I-66.

Speed Limit: This narrow, winding road's speed limits vary from 25-50 mph. Wildlife lives in wooded areas adjacent to the road. Watch for deer, wild turkeys and other small animals that may run out into traffic.

Driving Time: Try to plan your trip on weekends, which has light to moderate traffic. During the work week, avoid the rush-hour traffic between the hours of 6-9:30 a.m. and 2-6 p.m. Also, traffic can be slow going through Alexandria on Washington St. .

Tour Highlights: Mount Vernon, the most popular tourist attraction in Virginia. See the mansion and gardens as well as the new museum featuring 25 galleries and theaters, more than 700 artifacts, and fun, interactive displays.
Great Falls National Park is where a rugged series of falls occurs on the Potomac River. A Visitor Center is here along with picnic facilities, a snack bar and hiking trails.
Old Town Alexandria features numerous historical sites associated with colonial America, including River Farm, one of Washington's properties; the George Washington Masonic National Memorial; and many colonial shops. Old Town Alexandria is a dog-friendly town, where your dog on a leash is welcome just about everywhere!
Arlington House was the home of Robert E. Lee and is surrounded by Arlington National Cemetery, where various memorials are located, such as The Women in Military Service for America at its entrance. Also see the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial and the grave of President John F. Kennedy marked with the eternal flame.