Constitution Gardens

The gardens are part of the National Mall—the country's most-visited national park. Despite that, few people even know it's there. Veer off the beaten path to find this hidden treasure. The 14-acre natural space is a quiet respite in the heart of bustling Washington DC.

Roughly 29 million people visit the National Mall and Memorial Park annually. Constitution Gardens is considerably less flashy, which explains why it's so overlooked. Created in 1976, this little park features winding paths for walking or biking. The focal point is a man-made pond that hosts ducks, Canada geese, and other waterfowl.

Take some time to explore Signers Island, a memorial for the signers of the Declaration of Independence. The small pond island is accessible via a footbridge. While enjoying a picnic, try to spot squirrels scurrying up the park's 5,000 trees. A few varieties include Elm, dogwood, and crab apple (If you visit in the fall, sample one of the tangy fruits!)

Washington Monument looms over the gardens, making this a great place for snapping photos. For a unique experience, visit in the evening for a moonlight stroll—the park is open 24 hours a day. Just keep in mind there are no Rangers stationed here, though you can find them at the surrounding parks.

This humble park is fairly rustic. However, the Trust for the National Mall is set to improve the gardens in the coming years. Plazas, pavilions, and additional trees are all in the plans. For now, Constitution Gardens remains a natural spot to escape the crowds for the afternoon.