THE LEAFLET

Summer is in full swing and if you haven’t been switching to the shady side of the street on your morning commutes already, you’ll surely soon be searching the skies for sun-blocking tree canopy. But don’t let the sweltering summer temps keep you indoors!

Pack a lunch and know that your potato salad will be protected from the sun’s strong rays at these pretty, tree-filled picnic spots, all of which have increased canopy thanks to one or more Casey Trees Community Tree Plantings!

Hains Point
A 300+ acre peninsula situated between the Washington Channel and the Potomac River on the south side of the Tidal Basin, Hains Point is a tucked-away sanctuary that many locals flock to for cherry blossom sightings but don’t consider when they plan their summer lunch getaways. Picnic area reservations are required year-round.

Congressional Cemetery
Featuring self-guided walking tours, the cemetary, spanning over 35 acres of land, is home to both many Americans who have shaped the country over the past centuries and lush tree groves.

Kingman and Heritage Islands Park
Newly renovated, Kingman and Heritage Islands Park is once again welcoming visitors for the season. These man-made islands, built from material dredged from the Anacostia River, play host to unique wildlife not easily spotted elsewhere in the District.

Rock Creek Park
With over 30 picnic areas (those marked by blue circles require a reservation, while those marked with black circles are first-come, first-serve), Rock Creek Park is an urban oasis that provides both shelter from the sun with its lush forest and an adventure away from the city which it sits in the center of.