Even though Earth Day is officially celebrated on April 22nd, we like to honor Mother Nature all year long!
Montgomery County, Maryland is no stranger to parks, nature, scenic views, and outdoor activities, making it the best place to relax and reconnect with nature.
Glenstone Museum: Known for its beautiful architecture and art pieces, Glenstone Museum is also home to beautiful landscape design and an informative Environmental Center. Explore the grounds of the museum where you see first-hand how art, nature, and design come together to create a visual masterpiece. The Environmental Center highlights the museum’s sustainability efforts such as composting, water management, recycling, and organic landscaping and offers information on how to replicate these practices at home.
C&O Canal: One of Montgomery County’s most beloved and 8th most visited National Park in the country, the C&O Canal National Historical Park is the go-to destination for picture-perfect moments in nature. Hike the Billy Goat Trail along the Potomac River, view the iconic Great Falls waterfalls or explore the park to see what native creatures call the area home.
Brookside Gardens: Immerse yourself in a rainbow of blooms at Brookside Gardens, a 50-acre public display garden located within Wheaton Regional Park. The garden offers 10 different areas to explore including the Butterfly Garden and the Japanese Style Garden. The Conservatory features tropical and flowering plants from around the world.
Black Hill Regional Park: If you’re looking for educational recreation, Black Hill Nature Programs and Visitor Center is certified by the Maryland Association of Environmental and Outdoor Educators as a Maryland Green Center. Black Hill Nature Programs hosts festivals and events throughout the year. Register for guided hikes, and therapeutic gardening lessons, or head out onto the lake for kayaking tours.
Croydon Creek Nature Center: Just a short distance from downtown Rockville, The Croydon Creek Nature Center is nestled on 120 acres of forest preserve. Enter a world of discovery through exhibits, in-person and virtual programs, and self-guided exploration. With a beautiful Monarch butterfly garden and winding creek bustling with wildlife, the center makes for a perfect day of wandering.
Share your Earth Day adventures with us by using #MontgomeryMoment or tagging @VisitMoCo in your photo.
Want more ways to get outdoors in Montgomery County, Maryland? Celebrate Maryland Wine Month with a MoCo Wine Tour and use the MoCo Trail Guide to find the perfect hiking or biking trails.